Top Nature Spots in Utah

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.

Watch out for the crowds during peak season! If you can, visit in the shoulder months (April or October) to avoid long wait times for parking and trails.

If you want to catch sunrise or sunset at Delicate Arch, aim to be there around 6:00 AM or 7:30 PM; it’s totally worth it for the stunning views.

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.

For some stunning views without much hiking, drive to the viewpoints. Sunset Point was my favorite, and you can easily walk a short distance for epic photos!

Make sure to check out the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center first for maps and tips from the rangers. They gave us some great trail recommendations that made our visit much smoother.

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!

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.

Consider getting a national park pass if you plan to visit multiple parks. It saves you money in the long run! I bought one and definitely got my money’s worth after visiting a few parks.

Don't underestimate the power of good footwear! I wore sneakers instead of hiking boots and regretted it halfway up the trails. Your feet will thank you later, trust me!

Pack plenty of snacks and water! The park’s pretty remote, so once you're in, you won’t find many stores. I ended up wishing I had brought more munchies for the hikes.

If you can swing it, aim to visit in spring or fall. The weather's way cooler and the crowds are lighter. Trust me, sweating it out in the summer can really take the fun out of hiking.

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.

Bring a picnic. The benches are nice, and I think eating outside really adds to the vibe. Plus, it saves you some cash instead of hitting nearby cafes.

Check out the local events calendar before you go. I stumbled upon a fun farmers market, which was a nice surprise! But I kinda wish I'd planned better.

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!

I recommend checkin the weather beforehand. It can change fast in Salt Lake, and I got caught in a rain shower without an umbrella! Bring a light jacket just in case.

Definitely bring your camera! The gardens are super photogenic, especially during golden hour. I wish I had planned for that instead of just mid-afternoon.

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!

Try to start your day by 8 AM. The morning light is beautiful, and you'll beat the crowds! By noon, it got super busy, and it felt like a line instead of a hike.

My advice is to grab lunch at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center beforehand. It’s cheaper than restaurants near the entrance, plus you can picnic while enjoying the view!

I recommend packing a waterproof bag for your phone and snacks. I got caught in a splash zone and learned the hard way when my phone got wet!

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!

I recommend bringing a packed lunch! The picnic spots are lovely and save you money on food. The cafe is a bit pricey and can get crowded during lunchtime.

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!