A Sculptor’s Dream

Arches National Park, located just outside Moab, is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, making it one of the most iconic landscapes in the world. These otherworldly formations have been shaped by millions of years of erosion, and the park’s easy-to-navigate trails lead visitors through this surreal landscape. Highlights include Delicate Arch, a 52-foot-tall freestanding arch that is perhaps the most famous in the park, and Landscape Arch, one of the longest arches in the world. With its fiery red rock vistas and sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky, Arches is a photographer’s paradise.

A Fairytale of Hoodoos

While not technically a canyon, Bryce Canyon offers one of the most stunning and unique landscapes you’ll ever encounter. The park’s famed hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock formed through erosion—create a breathtakingly intricate forest of stone. The color palette of the canyon is like no other, with brilliant reds, pinks, oranges, and purples contrasting with the crisp blue skies above. The Bryce Amphitheater, viewed from spots like Sunset Point or Bryce Point, offers one of the best panoramic views. Bryce Canyon is also known for its dark skies, making it a top destination for stargazing enthusiasts.

A Land of Endless Horizons

Canyonlands is a park of grand scale, with vast canyons, mesas, and rock formations stretching as far as the eye can see. Located near Moab, Canyonlands is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and The Rivers. Each area offers a unique experience, from the easy-access Mesa Arch in Island in the Sky to the rugged, remote adventures in The Maze. Canyonlands is a park for those who seek solitude and wonder. The panoramic views at Grand View Point and Green River Overlook are among the best in the park.

A Hidden Gem

Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Capitol Reef is a hidden gem located in south-central Utah. The park is named for the white domes and rock formations that resemble the dome-shaped structure of the U.S. Capitol building. Capitol Reef is a place where history and nature collide. The Fruita Historic District gives visitors a glimpse into the park's agricultural history, with apple orchards still in operation today. Don’t miss the Waterpocket Fold, a massive, 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust that gives the park its dramatic topography. Hiking trails like Hickman Bridge and Grand Wash offer incredible views without the crowds.

The Crown Jewel of the Desert

Zion is arguably Utah's most famous national park, and for good reason. Known for its towering sandstone cliffs, canyons, and lush greenery, Zion is a land where desert meets oasis. The Zion Canyon is the park’s main draw, with its towering red and cream-colored cliffs creating a jaw-dropping backdrop for visitors. The Angels Landing hike, which involves scrambling up a narrow ridge with drop-offs on both sides, is one of the most iconic—and thrilling—trails in the U.S. For a more serene experience, take the scenic Kolob Canyons drive, which offers panoramic views and fewer crowds. Zion’s diverse ecosystem makes it an exceptional place for both hiking and wildlife viewing.