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Authored by Guest Blogger Will Tang.

If you’re looking for a place to go to this summer, don’t forget about Utah. You’re probably thinking, “wait a second…isn’t that the place with all the Mormons?” Well, yes, though there is so much more to this incredible US state!

What most people don’t know is that Utah is home to 5 incredible National Parks; Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion. There are 59 national parks in the USA, and with Utah playing host to 5, this ranks 3rd in the country next to Alaska and California.

All of the “Mighty Five” are world-class, completely unique, and honestly mind-blowing. Last month, I had the opportunity to visit Zion and was impressed with how well the park was managed, the sheer beauty of the rock formations, and lastly, its unfathomable scale.

Zion National Park, The Narrows

Jaw dropping Utah. Yes, this is from this world. Zion National Park, The Narrows.

Here are 3 reasons why you should consider Utah for your next trip.

 

1. Incredible beauty in unique rock formations of magnificent scale and out worldliness.

 

Mesa Arch, Moab, USA

Mesa Arch, Moab, USA.

The main draw for me to Utah has always been it’s crazy rock formations, for lack of better word. My first introduction to the national parks of Utah was Arches and Canyonlands, and I was just blown away by what I saw.

From arches to mesas, canyons and cliffs, there’s an endless number of “oh damn” moments.

2. The epic outdoors

 

Soaking it in, literally.

If you love the outdoors, Utah is hands down one of the best US states to be in. I always wondered why all the outdoor adventure gear companies were based out of Utah. Now I know why.

There’s such a huge variety of activities on offer across Utah’s 5 National Parks that range in difficulty, and are suited to any traveler. Activities are available for families as well as the solo traveler, and range from slow-paced to downright crazy.

With my visit to Zion National Park this year, my vertigo, my wits and my endurance were all put to the test, as was my ability hike through waist-high waters. The top-down Narrows hike is famed around the world and it definitely lived up to its reputation.

We spent two days winding through a trail which saw us wading through water and zig-zagging through river crossings, all the while being completely surrounded by canyon walls which looked down on us like tiny ants.

So get your butt out the door and do something active and memorable in Utah.

3. Take photos which will make everyone jealous

 

Zion National Park

Zion National Park.

If you’re like me and love dramatic landscapes, you’ll have your fingers glued to your shutter here. Every corner brings in new surprises and inspiration, poster worthy shots.

The beauty of it all is that Utah practically shoots itself. Instagram any photo you like to make all your friends jealous.

Need a little more inspiration?

 

 

Will is a travel blogger writing for Going Awesome Places. Since quitting his consulting job in 2012 he’s been travelling the world and along the way writing about his epic adventures and taking amazing photos. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring others to travel, writing detailed trip itineraries for others to follow and providing helpful tips and tricks to travel better.

You can follow him on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, YouTube & Instagram.

    14 Comments

  1. Check, check and check! All great things. I loved driving through Utah. The Arches are still my favorite spot though. Would love to visit them while there’s still a little snow on the ground; the pictures I’ve seen are quite literally unreal!

    • I can’t wait to relocate to Arizona at the end of the year just so I can be within weekend trip proximity of Utah! Going to be a reoccuring travel destination I can already tell!

  2. We went to Zion and Bryce Canyon for our honeymoon and can’t recommend it enough. We had an unforgettable trip and came back with priceless photos that we’ll treasure forever!

    • SOunds like such a great spot for a honeymoon!! We’re moving to Arizona at the end of the year and I can’t wait to start taking long weekend trips out to Utah. My husband has been but I’m yet to get there and so many people absolutely rave about it – which I can completely understand from Will’s photos!!

  3. I grew up in Wyoming but haven’t been back to Utah in ages…since high school. It’s definitely deserving of a trip! Gorgeous pictures.

    • Sounds like a great excuse to get back! I really prefer nature and national parks over cities, so Utah is so high on my list! Can’t wait to get there!

  4. Thanks again Megan for the opportunity to share this story with your readers!

    • Thanks for the great post!

  5. Wow, I should really get myself to that side of the world too! :)

    • Lol that’s my problem as well – there are too many amazing places in the world to get to!

  6. Awesome post, really want to visit there someday. Love ur blog!

    • Thanks Zoly! Hope you have the opportunity to hit Utah some time soon!

  7. Great post with stunning photos! Looking forward to our Go West Tour to take in a few of these sites.

    • Thanks Missy! Have a wonderful trip!

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