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Zion National Park
Bring plenty of water and some snacks. Some trails can be longer than expected, and having extra supplies makes it so much easier.
I recommend starting your day around 7 AM. The park gets crowded quickly, and the sunrise views are stunning!
Don't underestimate the trails! I thought I'd breeze through them, but some are tougher than they look. Wear good shoes and know your limits.
Arches National Park
Check the weather before you go; it can change quickly. I went on a sunny day, but the wind picked up in the afternoon, and it got chilly! Dress in layers to stay comfy.
Bring your own snacks and water. The park has limited facilities, and trust me, those granola bars on the trail taste much better than overpriced park food.
I suggest starting with the Windows Section and then doing the short hike to Turret Arch. It’s not far and great for getting those iconic photos without overexerting yourself early on.
Bryce Canyon
The park entrance fee is a bit pricey, so consider getting a National Parks pass if you plan to visit more parks. It pays off quickly!
Don't skip the stargazing at night if you're staying nearby. Bryce Canyon has some of the darkest skies in the country, and it's truly breathtaking!
I recommend getting to Bryce Canyon around 8 AM to avoid the big crowds and snag that perfect sunrise. The early light on the hoodoos is something else!
Liberty Park
If you like to walk or jog, I think the park is great for that. But some paths might not be clearly marked, so a map on your phone can really help you not get lost.
If you're planning to visit, I suggest going on a weekday morning around 9 AM. It's way less crowded and you can really enjoy the peace of the park!
Make sure to bring some snacks or a picnic! The food options are limited and pricey, so it’s nice to have your own stuff to munch on.
Canyonlands National Parks
Make sure to check the visitor center hours before heading out. I showed up and found out they closed earlier than I expected, which was a bummer since I missed out on some great ranger talks
Utah's Hogle Zoo
If you can, try to go on a weekday. The weekend crowds can be a nightmare and I found it so much easier to enjoy the exhibits without bumping into people.
Check out the schedule for animal feedings and talks. Those are super cool and it's a great way to learn about the animals up close, I nearly missed one!
Get there right when they open at 9 AM! The animals are more active and it's less crowded. I felt like I got to see a lot more without the rush.
I reccommend bringing a refillable water bottle. There are water fountains around, so it's easy to stay hydrated without spending a ton on drinks.
Park Sugar House
If you're into morning walks, I recommend going around 8 AM. It's super peaceful and you can catch some great sunrise photos without the crowds.
Make sure to wear comfy shoes. There are some lovely paths, but I didn't expect them to be so long. I was pretty tired by the end of my stroll!
Red Butte Garden
If you’re tight on budget, look into their free admission days. I saved some bucks visiting on a special event day and got to enjoy more than I expected!
I suggest packing a picnic. There are some lovely spots to sit and enjoy lunch, and it beats overpriced snacks in the café. I wish I'd done that!
Tracy Avari & Botanical Gardens
I think visiting on a weekday around 2 PM is best. The crowds are much smaller then, and you can really enjoy the peace and beauty of the gardens.
If you can, try to plan your visit during the spring or summer for the best blooms. I went in early fall and some areas were starting to wilt, which was a bummer!
The Narrows
I suggest bringing a walking stick; it really helps with balance on the rocky areas. I saw a few folks struggle without one, and it made my hike way more enjoyable!