As the holiday season approaches, many people plan a trip away to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives and relax and recharge for the new year. But with the United States being home to so many beautiful tourist destinations, it can be difficult to choose a vacation spot.
If you’ve had your fill of Disneyland and Hollywood and are looking to try something different, Utah is a great option for you. The Beehive State is truly a nature lovers’ paradise. Boasting some incredible state and national parks, wonderful ski resorts, and breathtaking scenic drives, Utah offers something for just about everyone.
Once you land in Utah, there are numerous incredible destinations to discover and make your trip a memorable one. So whether you’re traveling solo or with family and friends, here are five reasons to visit the Beehive State this holiday season.
- Zion National Park and Its Jaw-Dropping Beauty
One and a half miles above the lush canyon floors, Zion National Park offers majestic views to travelers. Once you reach there, you would want to sightsee the minute details and stay past sunset. From walking near the enormous cliffs to discovering the wonders of nature, Zion certainly has a way of enticing its visitors. You will see a myriad of exotic plant species that’ll keep you fascinated for hours.
In addition, a beautiful river flows smoothly between intricate wooden trails and cottonwood trees. One cannot simply ignore the charisma of how it all comes together, painting a stunning picture of something truly extraordinary. Also, no need to worry about where you will have to stay, as there are plenty of Utah vacation rentals on offer.
- Exotic Oasis of the Lake Powell
Lake Powell is the second-largest artificial lake in the US, situated near the Colorado River.
You can just relax by the lakeside and soak in the ethereal beauty of the lake. If you’re a thrill-seeker, there’s plenty on offer for you as well. You can try a vast array of water activities here, like scuba diving, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, and even water skiing.
The vibrant colors of the lake with crystal clear water say everything and more about how much you will enjoy this place.
Once you’re offshore, you will feel at peace, almost reunited with nature in harmony. Just the view will encapsulate all the reasons you should visit this lake and keep coming back to absorb more of it.
- The Stunning Arches National Park
Another magnificent reason to visit Utah is its Arches National Park. The world-renowned natural reserve boasts some stunning panoramic views. The minute you get there, you will understand why this national park is all over the internet. Its specialty lies in the magnificent stone arches and rippling dunes outlined by the La Sal Mountains. The whole landscape is just a marvel of nature, with arches expanding over a large area, making it a place of unique beauty.
Moreover, with its dozens of natural sandstone arches, striking red rocks, and landforms in astounding forms, this park is everyone’s favorite. Photographers are drawn to the park at dawn and twilight because of the captivating scenery and how the shadows play along the arches. This place is unique and fascinating at the same time.
Some other amazing attractions in the park include Devil’s Garden, Fiery Furnace, The Windows Broken Arch, Balanced Rock, and Park Avenue. As it is a popular tourist site, most people come here to hike.
- Monument Valley
The Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is another great place to visit in Utah. It is also known as the Valley of the Rocks, located on the Navajo Indian Reservation on the Utah-Arizona border. Consisting of naturally formed rocks, this valley is the park’s centerpiece. Moreover, the sight from the Monument Valley Visitor Center is magical. It’s a must-visit for honeymooners.
The special part about this valley is that it offers yet another stunning sight to explore, “The Eye of the Sun”. When you get there, the mesmeric views will captivate your attention. Booking a tour guide on your trip will benefit you, but you can also drive through the valley.
- Canyonlands National Park
Located in southeastern Utah near the Moab, this amazing park is a must-visit place with your loved ones. If you eliminate the crowd, the Canyonlands National Park looks like the Grand Canyon.
Three different areas make up the park: The Island in the Sky, The Mazes, and The Needles. However, The Island in the Sky is the one that draws the most attention of everyone. The park opens to stellar views of the shaped canyons and snow-capped mountains. Coming here is more like opening a portal to a wonderful landscape you have never seen before.
The Needles and The Mazes give off a completely different vibe from The Island in the Sky, but both are equally magnificent. If you want to hike, then The Needles is your best option. For road adventures, visit The Maze.
The Bottom line:
Visiting Utah means you are taking the sweet time to treat yourself. It is the ideal getaway to relax and cherish your life while visiting the famous places discussed above. Also, it does not matter if you are traveling solo or with your loved ones; the Beehive State will offer an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Happy travels!
