Utah
Red rock canyons, five national parks, and slot canyon country.
About this area
Utah's “Mighty 5” national parks anchor a landscape of red rock canyons, natural arches, and high desert mesas found nowhere else in the country. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the parks, while summer suits the state's alpine campgrounds.
Size
84,899 sq mi
Elevation
2,180 ft to 13,528 ft (Kings Peak)
Best Time to Visit
Apr – Jun, Sep – Oct
Places to stay
Find your perfect campsite in Utah
Things to do
Lake Powell Houseboating
Rent a houseboat and camp along one of the largest reservoirs in the country, with red rock canyon walls rising straight from the water.
The Wave
Hike to the swirling sandstone formations of Coyote Buttes North, one of the most photographed spots in the Southwest. It's reached from Kanab, and access is limited by a permit lottery.
Moab Mountain Biking and 4x4 Trails
Ride slickrock trails or take a Jeep tour over the rock-crawling routes that made Moab a destination for off-road enthusiasts.
Colorado River Rafting
Float the whitewater near Moab, from relaxed half-day trips to multi-day runs through Cataract Canyon.
Good to know (FAQ)
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for the desert parks; summer can be extremely hot at lower elevations.
Yes, especially for in-park campgrounds and popular trailheads like Zion's Angels Landing, which requires a permit.
Yes, though some scenic byways and slot canyon access roads aren't suited to larger rigs — check restrictions before you go.
Extra water, sun protection, and layers for cold desert nights, even in summer.
Good Sam members save 10% off the nightly rate at Good Sam Campgrounds across Utah. Look for the Good Sam badge on each listing.
Stories & guides
The Best Hikes in Every U.S. Region, Backed by AllTrails
From Maine’s fog-kissed coast to Big Bend’s desert ridges, AllTrails recommends the best routes to hit in America.
Road Trips That Reveal America’s Darkest Skies
We sought out the corners of the map where human-made light doesn't dominate. Follow the stars with us.
Road-trip recs for an epic Southwestern journey
Ancient heritage, geological grandeur and adventure await.