Top 10 Best Things to Do and See in Utah

This is just a tiny list of what you can do here in Utah.  I feel like 10 is not enough but if it was not 10, it would be 100.  So, without further-a-do here is the top 10 of things to do/see while in Utah.



courtesy of edwardburtynsky.com

10.  VISIT KENNECOTT COPPER MINE - This mine is one of the biggest copper mines in the world.  Let me check that, in the WORLD.  This place is huge and worth seeing.  The massive trucks that are used are simply stunning in themselves.

courtesy of usatourist.com

9. HIKING IN ZION NATIONAL PARK - Zion National Park is one of the hottest places to visit (literally in the summer).  I highly suggest visiting any time other than Summer when it gets into the 100s daily.  If you MUST go in summer please carry lots of water, at least 2 quarts, and do everything that you plan in the morning and early evening.  Also, get a hotel with a pool.  Winter can be sketchy as well because the trails can get snow/ice covered.  While in Zion you should hike Angel's Landing and the Narrows.  I have also heard the Subway is awesome but never had the opportunity.  Angel's Landing is a 5 mile hike that takes about 3.5 to 5 hours.  The hike is strenuous but on a well-maintained trail.  I did not think it was that bad but I am a young lad.  We saw people in their 60s doing this hike though, so it is enjoyed by all ages.  If you are deathly afraid of heights I might not want to go on this.  There certain spots where you have to grabs chains that are put up for hand holds.  The Narrows can be done as a half hike (about 8 miles) or full hike (16 miles).  This is a strenuous hike that is definitely strenuous!  Believe me, I am in my 20s and was struggling with this one.  This is a tough hike because you are hiking in the river the whole time with slippery rocks and at times a rough current.  Make sure to get some water shoes with heavy soles and a walking stick.  You will need it!  It's a great hike that you have to actually think about where to navigate and sometimes are forced to swim.  The scenery is amazing in the slot canyons.  It will look something like this.  You will enjoy it!

courtesy of travelwest.net

8.  HIKING IN THE ARCHES NATIONAL PARK - The first arch that you will hike upon is the Delicate Arch, a must see.  To see the other arches you are forced to hike Devil's Garden.  Be careful not to stray too from the trail because you could "bottom out".  It almost happened to my brother and I but we lucked out and found a foot tall trail markers which look like this.  These trail markers are what you should look for when hiking to not get lost.  Along the Devil's Garden trail, you will see the Tunnel, Pine Tree, Wall, Landscape, Partition, Navajo, Private, and Double 'O' Arches.  You will also see Dark Angel that will mark the end of Devil's Garden.  A nice site to end the arches. 

courtesy of Utah-travel-secret.com

7.  SEEING TEMPLE SQUARE - I am not even religious, but I think this is quite a sight to see!  I love the gothic-style design of the LDS church there.  It is very castle-esc and has a beautiful garden around it.  Also, I have never done it, but people seem to love the Mormon Tabernacle Choir that is world-renowned.  Every Friday and Saturday you can witness the choir for free.  Note: Only those 8 years old and up are admitted to the concerts.

courtesy of blog.forelinksters.com


6.  GOLFING IN ST. GEORGE, UTAH - With 10 public and 2 private courses, St George is a prime place for any golfer to experience a wide range of courses.  St George is like the San Diego of Utah, always nice weather (except it is deathly hot in the summer like all other places in southern Utah).  In my opinion, nicer than San Diego, how can you not love the mountain backdrop!

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5.  MOUNTAIN BIKING IN MOAB, UTAH - Well, Moab has just about everything, including mountain biking.  Moab has mountain biking for any level of rider from beginner to "you're insane".  There are many local guide services that will take you to areas that fit your style and skill level.

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4.  ROCK CLIMBING IN MOAB, UTAH - Moab is great to see when just hiking around but I think it is best witnessed while rock climbing.  Moab has mostly traditional, world-class crack climbing.  I personally have never lead any climbs there but friends love it there, especially Indian Creek.

courtesy of whitewater.net

3.  KAYAKING/WHITE WATER RAFTING IN GREEN RIVER, UTAH - Green River is known for its kayaking and white water rafting.  It is a great place to learn with great guides and the whole family can go!  You will see some amazing scenery on your trip down the river.  Bring a camera!  While in Green River or near it (Moab) you have to check out Ray's Tavern.  They have great burgers and an odd atmosphere.  They have cafeteria seating, so get comfortable!  Honestly, it might be the only place to eat in the whole city.

courtesy of utahoutside.com

2.  ROCK CLIMBING IN BCC, LCC, AND AMERICAN FORK - With Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood Canyons just 35 minutes maximum from Salt Lake City, Utah is one of the mecca's of rock climbing.  Also, American Fork is just an hour south. With such short approaches, these are the places to be.

In BCC, you will find quartzite with 50+ sport route areas, each area having about 10 routes on average.  BCC is rated from 5.4 to 5.13 so there is something for everyone.

In LCC, you will find granite.  It is all traditional climbing and bouldering.  To learn the differences check back on my last post Basic Climbing Terminology.  If you are checking the past post, please go with someone who climbs a lot or a guide.  Also, pick up the Wasatch Range Rock Climbing Guidebook.  It is basically the bible for the area and the only guide you really need for the Wasatch.

As for American Fork, you will find Limestone.  American Fork is generally a more difficult place to climb but the scenery is ridiculously beautiful with the road covered by trees going into the canyon.  Definitely pick up the American Fork Canyon Rock Canyon Guidebook.  It covers the area well for an older guide.

These three areas CAN be climbed year round.  I suggest climbing either in the fall or spring.  Fall especially for American Fork when the leaves change.



And the number 1 thing to do and see in Utah...

courtesy of travel-babel.com

1. SKIING/SNOWBOARDING With 14 resorts of the steepest terrain, sickest parks, and softest powder in the world you can not go wrong.  Here are those said resorts and short descriptions of each...

courtesy of utah.com



Honorable mentions:  Bonneville Salt Flats, Driving through Bryce Canyon, Seeing the Utah Jazz, Seeing Real Salt Lake Soccer team, visiting the Great Salt Lake

After you do everything you have planned I suggest sitting down to a good beer from either Epic Brewing or Wasatch Brewing found at many restaurants here in Salt Lake City.  Also, check my Yelp to see what I think about a few restaurants in the Salt Lake City area.

Check this post as a guest post @ Gotsaga.com


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