Tales from the Road: Utah

Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager for USA specialist Journeyscape, reports back on her trip to Utah, where she experienced the very best of what the state has to offer – from jaw-dropping canyons and epic outdoor adventure, to scenic drives and unforgettable hikes through some of America’s most iconic national parks.

Her journey began with hiking the world-famous Narrows in Zion National Park, wading through the cool waters of the Virgin River surrounded by towering canyon walls – a true Utah highlight for any lover of nature and exploration. From there, she continued to Bryce Canyon National Park, marvelling at the dramatic hoodoos and enjoying peaceful hiking trails that showcased the park’s surreal beauty.

Next came Capitol Reef National Park, a lesser-known gem that offered a quieter but equally stunning experience of Utah’s red rock country. Here, Rebecca explored winding trails through sandstone domes, hidden canyons and orchards – a paradise for hiking and anyone wanting to truly explore the untouched side of nature in Utah.

Driving along the spectacular Scenic Byway 12, often hailed as one of the most beautiful roads in America, Rebecca was able to explore remote corners of Utah’s rugged landscape, connecting the dots between one striking national park and the next.

Her trip finished in Park City, where the mountains transform into a summer playground filled with outdoor adventure. Whether mountain biking, taking in alpine views or simply relaxing in the fresh mountain air, Park City provided the perfect end to an exhilarating Utah holiday.

For anyone looking to explore awe-inspiring nature, delve into red rock canyons or enjoy some of the best hiking and outdoor adventure in North America, Utah – with its five stunning national parks including Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef – is an unbeatable choice.

Which country and region did you visit in North America?

I visited Utah, USA.

How did you get to Utah?

I flew from London Heathrow to Las Vegas, and then drove on to Springdale, a small town on the outskirts of Zion National Park in southern Utah. We drove from south to north Utah during the week.

Where did you go in Utah?

I visited three of the incredible national parks in Utah – Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park. We then drove north to Park City, known for hosting the Sundance Film Festival. Before flying home from Utah’s state capital, Salt Lake City.

When did you go to Utah and how long for?

I went in mid-September for eight nights. September is a fantastic time to visit Utah, when cooler temperatures and golden light make the landscapes even more breathtaking. It’s the perfect season for Utah holidays focused on outdoor adventure, with ideal conditions for hiking through national parks and taking in the sweeping vistas of red rock canyons and the Rocky Mountains. In Park City, summer activities linger while autumn colours begin to appear, adding a magical touch to mountain trails and scenic drives. For those looking to explore the American West at its most vibrant and comfortable, September offers the perfect balance of adventure and natural beauty.

Have you visited Utah before?

No, as it was my first time to visit Utah, I was excited to finally see what makes this part of the West so special. From the world-famous ski resorts of Park City in the north to the dramatic landscapes of the national parks in the south, it felt like the perfect setting for a dream holiday. I couldn’t wait to get out into the great outdoors, explore new trails and experience the kind of unforgettable hiking and scenery I’d always imagined the American West would deliver.

Which was your favourite…?

Place in Utah:

Park City, located just 40 minutes from Salt Lake City, is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy skiing in the winter and activities such as e-biking, mountain biking, fishing, hiking and golf in the summer. It’s a great destination to end your Utah holiday after exploring the national parks as it’s very close to the International airport in Salt Lake City for your return flight to the UK as well.

Hotel in Utah:

Clear Sky Resorts: Bryce Canyon is a really unique hotel experience. Guests are assigned secluded glass domes spread out over the 80-acre canyon. This is the perfect location for star-gazing whether that’s from the comfort of your dome or alongside a guide. I recommend dining or enjoying a drink in the on-site restaurant where they often have live music, as well as playing the outdoor games and finishing your day by roasting S’mores around the campfire. Bryce Canyon National Park is only a 20 minute drive away making this an ideal base.

Excursion in Utah:

The Cathedral Valley Jeep Tour with Sleeping Rainbow Adventures was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. We spent six hours driving around the towering cliffs of the remote northern district of Capitol Reef National Park which is rarely ever seen by visitors. The landscape is spectacular, and we got to enjoy it all to ourselves. We had a picnic in the park and then enjoyed a beautiful sunset before being dropped back at our hotel.

What was your most memorable moment in Utah?

Hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park was fabulous. This is a hike unlike any I have done before. It was challenging in places, but I felt a real sense of achievement afterwards and would recommend anyone visiting Zion to give it a go.

Were there any surprises along the way?

Road trips in the UK aren’t always the most exciting thing, but in Utah the journey becomes an experience in itself. Scenic Byway 12 which links Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef is stunning with lots of wonderful stops, photo opportunities and quaint towns to visit along the way. I highly recommend a stop at Burr Trail Grill in Boulder after you’ve visited the Singing Canyon, the food and atmosphere are lovely with a mix of locals and visitors who are making their own way through Utah.

What tips do you have for travellers planning to visit Utah?

Take your time with the trip, you really want to be spending at least two days in each park as there are so many hikes you can enjoy. If you take Scenic Byway 12 make sure you make lots of stops along the way – this is all about the journey and not just getting from A to B.

I highly recommend hiring water socks, shoes and a hiking stick prior to navigating the Narrows in Zion. It will make for a more enjoyable and safer experience. There are lots of hire shops conveniently located just a short distance from the park.

Is there anything indispensable to pack or prepare for when visiting Utah?

Utah is a very dry State, so pack a good moisturiser and lip balm. You will want a comfortable pair of walking shoes and sun protection for your hikes. The altitude increased substantially during our trip, carrying a reusable water bottle will help keep you hydrated and ward off any negative side effects. Finally, you’ll want to pack layers as the temperature can vary drastically across the State.

Any local snacks, dishes or drinks that should be sampled when in Utah?

We were asked on several occasions if we’d tried “Utah Fry Sauce”, which turned out to be pre-mixed ketchup and mayonnaise originally created by a Utah-based fast-food chain in the 40s.

Any restaurant or bar recommendations in Utah?

We enjoyed the wonderful Gourmand Food Tour in Park City, which allowed us to sample lots of delicious food and drink. I can personally recommend Bangkok Thai, Handle and Grappa which are all dotted along historic Main Street.

Sum up your trip to Utah?

A good starting point to what the state has to offer and I can’t wait to start planning my next Utah holiday. I would like to complete the Mighty Five and visit Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. I would also like to explore some other destinations including Salt Lake City, as we only passed through on the way to the airport, and Lake Powell and Monument Valley.

Dreaming of a Utah holiday? Here are some quick tips:

Can I fly direct from the UK to Utah?

Yes, you can! If you’re planning to visit Utah from the UK, the easiest and most convenient option is to fly direct to Salt Lake City, a great gateway to the state’s national parks, ski resorts and stunning landscapes. The flight time is approximately 10.5 hours from the UK.

What other USA destinations combine well with a holiday in Utah?

If you’re planning a multi-centre holiday that includes Utah, there are several major airports in the western USA that make excellent starting point for your trip. Las Vegas is a popular choice, with direct flights from the UK and a reasonable 2.5 hour drive to Zion National Park and other highlights in southern Utah. Denver is another excellent option, offering easy access to eastern Utah and the dramatic red rock landscapes around Moab, including Arches National Park and Canyonland National Park. For those looking to combine Utah with Arizona, flying into Phoenix puts you within reach of the Grand Canyon and the scenic drive north into Monument Valley and Bryce Canyon National Park. You can also consider Los Angeles, which is ideal if you’re planning a wider West Coast road trip that ends in Utah. All of these cities have regular direct flights from the UK and connect seamlessly to Utah.

What is the best month to visit Utah?

Utah is a stunning year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:

Spring (Mar–May): Great for hiking in the national parks, with mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Trails are quieter than in summer.

Summer (Jun–Aug): Perfect for Park City’s mountain activities and high-altitude escapes. The south can be very hot, so plan hikes early.

Autumn (Sep–Nov): Often the best time for a Utah holiday. Cooler days, fewer crowds and amazing colours in the mountains. Ideal for road trips and exploring the great outdoors.

Winter (Dec–Feb): A paradise for skiers, especially in Salt Lake City and Park City in the north. The national parks are peaceful and striking with snow, though some trails may be limited.

When is ski season in Utah?

Utah’s ski season typically runs from late November to mid-April, depending on snow fall. The best conditions are usually between December and March, with Park City, Deer Valley and other resorts offering world-class skiing and snowboarding during this time.

How many days are needed to visit Utah?

To see the best of Utah, you’ll want 7 to 10 days. This gives you time to visit a mix of the state’s famous national parks, state parks, enjoy scenic drives and discover the vibrant cities in the north. If you’re short on time, then 4 to 5 days will allow you to cover a few highlights, especially in southern Utah. But for a full Utah holiday, a week or more lets you truly explore.

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Ready to book your Utah holiday?

Are you ready to start planning your trip to Utah and experience all that the state has to offer? Have a look at our itineraries or speak to one of our USA specialists today to plan your tailor made trip to Utah.

Explore our Utah itineraries here.