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Moderate crowds and temperatures in April–May and September–October make these months the best time to visit Utah and its national parks. Spring boasts active wildlife and blooming flowers. Pleasant fall wraps Utah in colorful foliage along the scenic drives. June to August is the season of spectacular activities like Bonneville Speed Week or stargazing, but these months are the hottest and most touristic. December to February can be snowy and freezing up north, and you have a chance to explore ice castles, warm up in the Mystic Hot Springs or ski in dramatic mountains.

117 things to do in Utah

Dry Bonneville Salt Flats

late July–October Nature

The safest time to explore white infinity and the only time when you can drive

Homestead Crater

all year round Activity

The Homestead Caldera is one of the unique hot springs in the world. It should be on your wishlist while touring around Utah

Fishing

all year round Activity

Utah can be easily called a fisherman's paradise, due to its variety of fishing opportunities and scenic spots

Twilight Concert Series

June 21–August 21, 2024 Event

Summertime is always more pleasant to spend outdoors with friends and good music

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

all year round Activity

Grab your favourite board and a tent, and discover the beauty of Utah in your own way

St. George Marathon

October 5, 2024 Event

Rated in the top 20 marathons in the U.S. and among the fastest and most scenic marathons in the world

Utah State Fair

September 5–15, 2024 Event

One of the largest and most loved events in the state. Join the 11-day wild celebration with open-hearted locals

Pioneer Day

July 24 Event

Mormons all over Utah celebrate Pioneer Day, but the greatest and most spectacular celebrations are held in Salt Lake City

Brigham City Peach Days

September 4–7, 2024 Event

The perfect sweet taste and smell of freshly harvested peaches attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually to Brigham City

Hike the Narrows

late May–September Activity

This hike is at the top of every adventurous hiker's list. Be amazed at the beauty of this canyon, the height of its walls, and breathtaking scenery all around

Skiing and Snowboarding

mid-December–early April Activity

Best ski resorts, located in the northern part of Utah, offer varied terrain and facilities for every level

Rock Climbing

mid-March–April | October–mid-November Nature

Experience all known types of climbing at the most diverse terrain in the country

Wildcat Trail & Monument Valley

April–June | September–October Activity

One of those places in Utah that make your heart beat faster due to its breathtaking scenery

Stargazing

April–September (all year round) Activity

A perfect way to spend a lovely evening, especially if you are in the right place

Lavender Days

late June 2023 Event

A great occasion to enjoy fragrant purple fields along with other entertainments that include rodeo, a scenic run, and a plenty of farm activities

Great Salt Lake

April–May | September–October (all year round) Nature

This famous lake is like the Dead Sea of the Western Hemisphere

Mystic Hot Springs

December–February Activity

Feel free to bathe in a hot tub filled with rich mineral waters from a natural spring and enjoy the captivating scenery

Cathedral Valley Scenic Drive

April–June | September–October Activity

Travelling in the gorgeous wilderness, complete remoteness, and inspiring beauty of sandstone and basalt formations, you'll be rewarded with great views and unforgettable emotions

Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square Christmas Concert

December 19–21, 2024 Event

One of the most famous choirs in the world is performing in its hometown. Don't lose your chance to hear them live

Potash Evaporation Ponds

May–September (all year round) Nature

Anything you see in Utah is striking, and these bright ponds in the desert totally blow up your imagination

Zion National Park Hiking

April–November Activity

If you are a serious hiker, this park can offer thousands of unforgettable trails, views, and backpacking opportunities

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

mid-April–May | September–October Nature

Endless adventure, amazing scenic drives, breathtaking landscapes, and star-filled night skies. Discover the eternal beauty and wilderness of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Sailing

late April–September Activity

Catch some wind and share the sailing passion with other enthusiasts among the beautiful scenery of Utah's lakes

Cedar Breaks National Monument

late May–mid-October Nature

The amazing colors of Cedar Breaks Amphitheater, the short and easy hiking trails, and beautiful nature of the park attract thousands of visitors annually

Biking in Zion National Park

April–October Activity

Biking is a nice way to explore the landscape around. Utah’s parks are great places to enjoy this activity

Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive

June–October Nature

Discover breathtaking canyons while driving

Pando, the Trembling Giant

September–October Nature

You've probably never thought that a forest can be a fake. Could you imagine the largest and the oldest root system in the world that creates clones of trees? This is not a fiction. It's a real living organism and it is found in Utah

The Maze, Canyonlands National Park

April–May | October–November Nature

Most remote and difficult trail can become a true adventure for hikers

American Discovery Trail

all year round Activity

You'll find no better way to discover America than this lengthy hike across 15 states, from the Atlantic to the Pacific. For such a long journey, one needs at least a year of time reserved

Snow Rollers

mid-January–mid-March Nature

These huge white 'doughnuts' surely raise questions. Like, what is a 'snow roller' and where does it come from?

Wildflowers of Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

April–August Nature

During spring this area is filled with amazing colorful wildflowers that make your visit even more memorable

Bonneville Speed Week

August 3–9, 2024 | August 28–September 1, 2024 Event

Racing events have been held among these beautiful landscapes since 1912

Alpine Coaster

all year round (most popular in June–September) Activity

The largest coaster in the state offers a fun and exciting ride through great mountainous scenery

Rafting Season

April–October (best mid-May–mid-June) Activity

Whitewater rafting is a synonym of Utah. Choose the season that suits you the best and have fun on water

Alpine Loop Scenic Byway

late May–October Nature

Just a one-hour drive along this amazing scenic road will bring you the pleasure of seeing some of Utah's most stunning views

Capitol Reef Orchards

April (bloom) | mid-June–mid-October (harvest) Food

Enjoy the best fresh fruits for free among one of the most beautiful sceneries in the state

Notom-Bullfrog Road

April–June | September–October Activity

This gravel road will take you along the most fascinating scenery in the state. Grab your camera and start an unforgettable road trip

Natural Bridges National Monument

all year round Nature

These bridges are real magnets for visitors. They are striking during the day, perfect during the sunset, and create fascinating views of the night sky

Devil’s Slide

April–October Nature

The most fascinating of Devil's Toys found in the area and one of the most unusual geologic features in Utah

Flooded Bonneville Salt Flats

November–May Nature

This unique and stunning landscape attracts visitors from all over the world to experience the unforgettable 'mirror effect'

Ballooning over Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

all year round Activity

Utah’s stunning landscape is one of the perfect places to enjoy air ballooning

Canyoneering in Zion National Park

April–July | September–October Activity

Zion National Park offers a wide range of activities for everyone. Canyoneering is popular among those with experience, but beginners won't be bored either

Antelope Island Bison Roundup

October 26, 2024 Event

This annual event draws crowds to the largest island on the Great Salt Lake. It's a unique experience for both the spectators and participants

Fantasy Canyon

April–May | September–October (all year round) Nature

Millions of years of formation created this amazing spot

Ice Castles

December–February Activity

One of the best ways to spend a winter day is to visit a magical ice castle

Snowshoeing

November–March Activity

One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to explore the beauty of winter landscapes

Emerald Pools

March–May | September–November (all year round) Nature

Gorgeous cliffs and rocks together with powerful waterfalls will mark your way to the emerald pools

Dixie National Forest

April–October Nature

This large and beautiful national forest welcomes visitors

Sundance Film Festival

January 23-February 2, 2025 Event

The United States' biggest independent film festival is not to be missed by true cinema lovers

Snowmobiling

December–March Activity

Snowmobiling in Utah is a great way to explore the beauty of this state with even more impressive winter views

Angels Landing

March–November Activity

This hiking trail was created to awe with excitement. It's breathtaking, thrilling, and definitely worth a try

Island in the Sky

mid-March–late December Nature

At a place like this, you feel like floating on a huge island over the grand canyon and rivers beneath

Migratory Bird Watching

late March–May | July–September Nature

Birding is becoming more and more popular and is often one of the main reasons people travel around the world. If you are a fan of birds, Utah has to be in your list!

Winter Hiking

mid-November–mid-March Activity

Some lower trails are so hot during the warm season, that it is recommended to hike in the winter

Arches National Park

April–May | September–October Activity

Utah's landscape is charming and attracts tourists from all over to come and amaze themselves with everything they see. The Arches National Park is one of such stunning places

Sunrise Over Monument Valley

May–September Nature

Marveling at the sunrise is beautiful almost in any place, but when the scenery around is breathtaking itself, the view is majestic

Bison Watching

all year round Nature

Watching wild herds of bisons, walking around in large numbers attracts visitors to Antelope Island and the Henry Mountains

Dinosaur National Monument

all year round Nature

The beautiful natural scenery of this area could be the main reason to visit it, but it's also historical importance that makes this place even more attractive

Zion Rock Climbing

March–June | September–November Activity

Observing the marvellous landscapes from the peak of a mountain can’t be compared with anything else in the world, especially when you’ve climbed to the summit

Utah Shakespeare Festival

June 17-October 5, 2024 Event

What if you could peep into the heart of the Shakespeare play?

Utah Arts Festival

June 28-30, 2024 Event

Are you ready for the art overdose at the largest outdoor multi-disciplinary arts festival in Utah?

Utah Pride Festival in Salt Lake City

June 1–2, 2024 Event

Join the colorful celebration in downtown Salt Lake City

Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point

April 10-May 18, 2024 Event

Celebrate spring and beauty at beautiful Ashton Gardens, a desert oasis

Parade of Homes

February 16–25, 2024 Event

Be privy to the newest trends in home decorating

Utah Valley Marathon

June 1, 2024 Event

Admire the unforgettable views during the run among green natural beauty

Wahweap Hoodoos Trail

March–May | September–November Activity

The capped white columns is a strange geological phenomenon, formed over millions of years

Salt Lake City Christmas Lights

mid-November–early January Event

Shimmering light displays, and tunnels attract thousands during the holidays

Red Canyon (Peek-a-Boo Canyon)

March–May | September–November Activity

A rare slot canyon is perfect for photography and adventures

Reflection Canyon

March–May | September–November Activity

S-shaped canyon is a stunning natural wonder

Mount Superior & Monte Cristo

June–September Activity

Conquer the iconic peaks in upper Little Cottonwood Canyon

Kings Peak

June–September Activity

A prominent Utah mountain ranks 19th highest in the U.S.

White Pine Lake

July–October Activity

A classical easy hike not far from Salt Lake City

Grand to Grand Ultra

September 22-28, 2024 Event

Are you up for a seven-day race in one of the remotest parts of America?

Red Castle

July–October Activity

Observe gorgeous Red Castle Peak and surrounding lakes in the light of the setting sun

Brighton Lakes Trail

July–October Activity

One-way trail connects four scenic lakes surrounded by Alpine meadows

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

June–August (all year round) Activity

A scenic drive with plenty of switchbacks and hairpin bends

Mount Nebo Scenic Byway (Nebo Loop)

late May–October Activity

A mountain road with spectacular views of the Wasatch Range

Shafer Trail

May–November Activity

An iconic road is a must do while visiting the Canyonlands, but not for the faint-hearted

Guardsman Pass

June–October Activity

One of the Park City's most beautiful drives

Mirror Lake Highway

late May–October Activity

A scenic high-altitude drive is the highest paved highway of Utah

Utah 4th of July Fireworks & Events

July 1–July 6 Event

Fireworks over amazing scenery of the American West

Lake Powell Camping

all year round (best in September–October) Activity

A perfect summer getaway in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Stewart Falls

mid-April–October Nature

One of the most scenic waterfalls in northern Utah

Adams Canyon

mid–May–mid-October Activity

A scenic canyon with a waterfall in Northern Wasatch forest

Toquerville Falls

March–November Nature

A desert oasis in Southern Utah

Cataract Canyon Rafting

May–August Activity

Utah's greatest rapids in a geological paradise

Zebra Slot Canyon

April–June | September–November Nature

An exciting adventure in Grand Staircase—Escalante National Monument

Mt Olympus

March–October Activity

A prominent peak along the Wasatch Front in Salt Lake Valley

Amethyst Lake

July–October Nature

A beautiful lake not far from Salt Lake City

Bloomington Lake

July–September Activity

A short hike to a beautiful series of lakes

Halloween in Utah

late September–early November Event

Celebrate, get scared and have fun in the Beehive State

The Wave (Coyote Buttes)

September–May (avoid summer months) Nature

Apply for a lottery and be one of the lucky few to hike this gorgeous red sandstone formation at the Arizona/Utah border

Panguitch Valley Balloon Rally

June 28-30, 2024 Event

Dozens of colorful hot air balloons launch each morning over Panguitch City

Sandy Balloon Festival

August 9–10, 2024 Event

A fun ballooning event not far from Salt Lake City

Kanab Balloons & Tunes Roundup

February 16–18, 2024 Event

Balloons over magnificent southern Utah scenery

Springville Art City Days Balloon Fest

June 7–8, 2024 Event

Colorful balloons in Utah's Art City

Utah Fall Foliage

mid-September–early October Nature

Immerse yourself in the colorful fall vibes of the Beehive State

Heliskiing

late November–mid-April (best in February) Activity

Ride down untouched backcountry with tons of powder at one of Utah's snowiest spots

Bryce Canyon Winter Festival

February 15-17, 2025 Event

Explore all possible ways to enjoy the cold season, both indoors and outdoors

New Year's Eve in Salt Lake City

December 31 Event

Give one last hurray before the end of the year in the heart of Salt Lake City

Sound and Light Show Jet Boat Tours

March–October Activity

The evening dinner and boat tour will become the highlight of your vacation in Canyonlands National Park

Lower Calf Creek Falls

all year round (best in March–November) Nature

The hike is well worth the beautiful sight of a cascading waterfall and some refreshing diving afterward

Zion National Park Fall Colors

mid-October–mid-November Nature

A perfect leaf-peeping spot in the middle of a desert

Eyes to the Sky Balloon Festival

June 21–23, 2024 Event

Enjoy colorful hot air balloons in Salina's skies

Provo Freedom Festival

July 2–4, 2024 Event

America's Freedom Festival at Provo impresses and makes you want to visit it again

LYTE Sky Lantern Festival

September 14, 2024 Event

Step into the magic of this eco-friendly lantern festival alongside a sea of fellow enthusiasts

Night Lights Lantern Festival

May 24 | May 25 | September 21, 2024 Event

Watch 13,500 lanterns illuminate the sky in Utah

Hummingbirds in Utah

March 16–August 31 Nature

Enjoy tiny hummingbirds, flying all over Utah

FanX Salt Lake Comic Convention

September 26-28, 2024 Event

Join Utah's most attended comic con!

Snowbird Oktoberfest

August 10-October 13, 2024 Event

One of the largest Oktoberfests in Utah offers fun activities, food, and, of course, plenty of beer

Utah Beer Festival

August 17-18, 2024 Event

Utah Beer Festival showcases over 60 breweries and 200 different beers and cider to sample

Salt Lake City 4th of July Fireworks & Events

June 29–July 4 Event

Lots of festivities in the parks throughout the Salt Lake City metropolitan area

Fall Colors

late September–early October Nature

Believe it or not, Park City is also a terrific fall foliage destination

Salt Lake City Fall Colors

mid-September–early October Nature

Enjoy wonderful colors in and near Salt Lake City

Utah Renaissance Festival and Fantasy Faire

May 11–12, 18–19 & 25–27, 2024 Event

3 themed weekends with food, vendors, and live music

Utah Midsummer Renaissance Faire

July 17-20, 2024 Event

This amazing Renaissance festival in Cedar City has a lot to offer

Rockies To The Red Rocks Colorado

April 25–October 17, 2024 (selected dates) Activity

A scenic two-day railway route through stunning landscapes between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado

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