Utah is a state that has been blessed with natural beauty and stunning landmarks. From the towering hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the iconic Delicate Arch in Arches National Park to Angel's Landing in Zion National Park, Utah boasts an abundance of awe-inspiring sites at its many national parks for visitors to explore.

With so many landmarks and national parks to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to start your journey. That's why we've put together a guide to some of Utah's most famous and beloved landmarks: Iconic Utah.

In this guide, you'll find information on everything from world-renowned national parks like Zion National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park to lesser-known but equally impressive destinations such as Goblin Valley State Park and Monument Valley. Lake Powell is another popular destination in southeastern Utah for those that love water sports and incredible views of the night sky.

Some of Utah's best known landmarks aren't just in it's incredible national parks. Salt Lake City and Park City are popular destinations with plenty of historic landmarks. Salt Lake City was the first settlement in Utah when the pioneers settled the valley in 1847, while Park City is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world!

Whether you're looking to visit the national parks with their breathtaking views, unique geological formations, or a glimpse into the history of the American West, there's something here for everyone. So grab your camera and get ready to discover what makes Utah truly iconic!

National Parks

Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking and iconic national parks in the United States, each offering its own unique natural wonders and outdoor experiences. Here's an overview of Utah's "Mighty Five" national parks:

  • Zion National Park: Located in southwestern Utah, Zion is known for its towering red rock cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and the Virgin River that flows through the heart of the park. Some of the park's popular attractions include Angel's Landing, The Narrows, and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Zion is also home to a diverse range of plant and animal species.
  • Bryce Canyon National Park: Known for its otherworldly landscapes, Bryce Canyon is famous for its amphitheaters filled with thousands of hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires. The park's rim provides excellent viewpoints, while numerous trails take visitors down into the canyon for a closer look at these stunning formations.
  • Arches National Park: Located near Moab in eastern Utah, Arches National Park is renowned for its thousands of natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. The park's unique geological formations, including balanced rocks and towering spires, make it a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
  • Capitol Reef National Park: Capitol Reef is a hidden gem in south-central Utah, characterized by its striking rock formations, colorful canyons, and the Waterpocket Fold—a nearly 100-mile-long warp in the Earth's crust. Visitors can explore orchards, hike along scenic trails, and view ancient petroglyphs.
  • Canyonlands National Park: Canyonlands is a vast and rugged park located near Moab, Utah. It's known for its dramatic canyons carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The park is divided into four districts, each offering its own unique scenery and outdoor activities. Highlights include Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze.

Each of these national parks offers a distinct and awe-inspiring natural beauty, making Utah a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to connect with the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest. It's often recommended to plan a visit to explore all or some of the "Mighty Five" parks in Utah, as they collectively offer an unforgettable journey through some of the most remarkable scenery in the United States.

Let's take a closer look at each of Utah's National Parks:

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a natural wonderland that beckons to travelers from all corners of the globe. Zion National Park's majestic rock formations, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls are like a symphony in nature's orchestra.

The hiking trails at Zion National Park are nothing short of extraordinary, offering breathtaking views at every turn. And if you're lucky enough, you might even spot some of the park's resident wildlife along the way. From mule deer to bighorn sheep, there's no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to see.

Zion Canyon is a popular destination of the park and runs through the western part of the park. Zion Canyon was forged by the North Fork Virgin River and is a stunning natural formation in the park.

A popular stretch of road that runs through Zion Canyon is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is a 25-mile stretch of road that passes through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. It is designated as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

But it's not just about the scenery, Zion National Park also boasts an incredible array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you want to go rock climbing, backpacking, or canyoneering, there's something here for everyone.

Angels Landing is one of the most popular destinations and the views of the park from Angels Landing are unmatched.

And if you're looking for a more leisurely experience, simply take a stroll along one of the many paved paths that wind through this stunning landscape. Zion National Park has no shortage of stunning views that you can enjoy.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination in Utah, known for its stunning geological formations and breathtaking hiking trails. The park boasts an array of unique red rock spires called hoodoos, which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion.

Visitors can explore these towering structures on foot via the numerous hiking trails that wind their way through the park's rugged terrain. One of the most popular hikes within Bryce Canyon National Park is the Navajo Loop Trail, which takes hikers down into the amphitheater to get up close with some of the most impressive hoodoo formations.

For those seeking a longer trek, the Fairyland Loop Trail offers 8 miles of stunning scenery and varied terrain, including views of Boat Mesa and China Wall. On top of hiking, visitors can also take scenic drives along the park's rim or attend ranger-led programs to learn more about Bryce Canyon's history and geology.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll amidst incredible natural beauty, Bryce Canyon National Park has something for everyone.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a geological wonder located in southeastern Utah. The park is known for its unique rock formations, including over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and other stunning red rock structures.

Visitors can explore the park's beauty on several hiking trails that offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic views. One popular trail is the Delicate Arch Trail, which takes hikers on a three-mile round trip journey to see one of the most iconic arches in the world.

Aside from hiking, visitors can also enjoy camping, stargazing, and guided ranger programs at Arches National Park. The park offers a range of camping options, including primitive backcountry sites and developed campgrounds with amenities like showers and electrical hookups.

At night, visitors can marvel at some of the darkest skies in America by taking part in stargazing programs or simply admiring the stars on their own.

Arches National Park is truly a breathtaking destination that should not be missed when visiting Utah. From exploring its many hiking trails to witnessing some of nature's most magnificent rock formations up close, there are endless opportunities for adventure and awe-inspiring moments within this incredible park.

Capitol Reef National Park

As luck would have it, Capitol Reef National Park is one of the most underrated landmarks in Utah. The park's scenic drives take visitors through stunning geological formations that date back millions of years. One such formation is the Waterpocket Fold, a massive wrinkle in the earth's crust that extends for nearly 100 miles.

This unique feature creates a diverse landscape of canyons, cliffs, and arches. Visitors can explore this rugged terrain on foot or from behind the wheel. The park offers several hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

A popular destination in Capitol Reef National Park is Chimney Rock. Chimney Rock is a sandstone formation that towers 300 feet over the park and attracts plenty of visitors.

One popular trail is Hickman Bridge Trail, which leads hikers to an impressive natural bridge spanning 133 feet across. Visitors looking for a more leisurely stroll can walk along Fruita's Historic District where they can enjoy orchards filled with fruit trees that were planted by Mormon settlers in the late 1800s.

Capitol Reef National Park is a Dark Sky Park and offers incredible views of the night sky in Southern Utah. As a dark sky park, astronomy enthusiasts can enjoy unmatched views of the stars at Capitol Reef National Park.

Capitol Reef National Park is also home to numerous campgrounds allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature while enjoying all that the park has to offer.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is known for its stunning desert landscapes and dramatic canyons carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. There are several popular destinations and points of interest within the park:

  • Island in the Sky: This is the most visited district of Canyonlands and offers breathtaking views from atop a massive mesa. Some notable spots within Island in the Sky include:
    • Grand View Point Overlook: A viewpoint that provides panoramic vistas of canyons and cliffs.
    • Mesa Arch: A short hike to an iconic natural arch that frames the canyon below. Mesa arch is a stunning sandstone arch in the park.
    • Upheaval Dome: A unique geological feature with two possible viewpoints, showcasing an enigmatic impact crater.
  • The Needles: Located in the southeastern part of the park, The Needles district features colorful rock formations and a network of hiking trails. Popular sites in this area include:
    • Chesler Park: A stunning, open area surrounded by red rock spires.
    • Joint Trail: A famous hike that takes you through narrow slot canyons and showcases the park's unique geology.
    • Druid Arch: A longer, challenging hike that leads to a picturesque natural arch.
  • The Maze: This is the most remote and least accessible district of Canyonlands. It's a backcountry wilderness area with limited visitor services and requires careful planning. Some popular destinations within The Maze include:
    • The Harvest Scene: A significant archaeological site with ancient Native American rock art.
    • The Doll House: A collection of unique, square-cut red rock towers that serve as backcountry campsites.
    • The Maze Overlook: A remote viewpoint that offers a spectacular view of the complex canyon system.

Canyonlands National Park offers stunning slot canyons, rock formations, and other natural landmarks. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy this outdoor destination, come and take a hike through the incredible slot canyons.

Goblin Valley State Park

After exploring the stunning Capitol Reef National Park, it's time to head over to Goblin Valley State Park. This unique park is home to some of the most fascinating rock formations in Utah. Known for their hoodoos and goblins, these structures have been formed by years of erosion and weathering.

Visitors can spend hours marveling at these unique formations that seem almost otherworldly. But Goblin Valley State Park isn't just a place to admire nature; there are plenty of hiking trails and activities to keep you busy during your visit. Here are some highlights:

     

      • Take a hike on one of the many trails throughout the park.

      • Go camping under the stars and experience the beauty of Goblin Valley at night.

      • Bring your mountain bike and explore the area on two wheels.

      • Try your hand at geocaching, a fun treasure-hunting activity using GPS technology.

    No matter what you choose to do, be sure not to miss out on this incredible destination. From hiking to biking, from admiring unique rock formations to stargazing at night, there's something for everyone here at Goblin Valley State Park.

    And now onto Monument Valley: located along the Arizona-Utah border, this iconic landmark has long been associated with classic Western films. The towering red sandstone buttes rise up against an expansive sky, creating a scene straight out of a movie set.

    Monument Valley

    Nestled on the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley stands tall as one of America's most recognizable natural wonders.

    The towering sandstone formations at Monument Valley that make up this Navajo Tribal Park have been featured in countless Western films throughout history, making it a must-see destination for any film buff or adventurer alike.

    As you traverse through the valley's winding roads and trails, you'll be transported to another world, one where time seems to stand still and ancient legends come alive before your very eyes.

    With each turn, you'll encounter breathtaking vistas that will leave you spellbound and remind you why Monument Valley has captured the hearts of so many for generations.

    So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Utah's most iconic landmarks at Monument Valley.

    Popular Landmarks Located throughout the state:

    Salt Lake City Landmarks

    Salt Lake City was the first settlement in Utah established by Pioneers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or Mormon Pioneers. Located near the Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake City has plenty of popular landmarks and outdoor destinations for those that visit this remarkable city.

    Salt Lake City offers plenty of national historic landmarks, some popular destinations in Slat Lake City include:

    • Temple Square: Temple Square is a large complex of buildings owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These include the Salt Lake Temple, the LDS Conference Center, the LDS Visitor Center, and the LDS Church Office Building. Temple Square is under heavy renovation, but visitors and go to the visitor center to see what is currently available. Temple Square is located in downtown Salt Lake City and South Temple street runs adjacent to the area.
    • Utah State Capitol: The Utah State Capitol is the house of government for the state of Utah. Originally opened in 1916, the Capitol Building overlooks Salt Lake City and offers amazing views of the valley.
    • Cathedral of the Madeleine: Cathederal of the Madeleine is a Roman Catholic church in Salt Lake City, located just off of South Temple Street. Construction began in 1900 and the church opened in 1909, this Neo-Romanesque building is an incredible landmark to visit in Salt Lake City.

    Bonneville Salt Flats

    The Bonneville Salt Flats are located west of Salt Lake City and the Great Salt Lake. The Bonneville Salt Flats are a natural formation of salt left behind from the ancient lake, Lake Bonneville.

    The Bonneville Salt Flats are a popular destination for those looking for out-of-this world beauty, and the flat land makes it a popular destination for land speed racing. Several land speed records have been set at the Bonneville Salt Flats and it's land speed racing destinations.

    The Bonneville Salt Flats are a must-see destination when visiting Utah.

    Park City

    Park City is a popular destination known for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor recreational activities, and a charming historic downtown area. Some popular landmarks and attractions in and around Park City include:

    • Park City Mountain Resort: This renowned ski resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. In the summer, it transforms into an adventure park with activities like mountain biking, hiking, and zip-lining.
    • Deer Valley Resort: Another top-tier ski resort, Deer Valley is known for its luxury amenities and excellent ski slopes. In the summer, it hosts outdoor concerts and offers hiking and mountain biking trails.
    • Main Street: Park City's historic Main Street is lined with charming shops, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. It's a great place for shopping, dining, and soaking in the town's unique atmosphere.

    Lake Powell

    Lake Powell is a reservoir in southeastern Utah which was created with the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam. Glen Canyon is a natural canyon which was carved by the Colorado River and is one of the amazing landmarks found in southern Utah.

    Lake Powell was created in 1963 with the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam and ever since its creation, it has become one of the premier destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports recreation in Southeast Utah.

    Lake Powell is visited by nearly two million people per year for the amazing recreation the area offers.

    The area surrounding Lake Powell is also known as the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and some of the popular natural landmarks at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area include:

    • Rainbow Bridge/Rainbow Bridge National Monument: Rainbow Bridge is located at Rainbow Bridge National Monument and is known as the world's largest natural bridge in the world. Rainbow Bridge is one of the most popular Natural Landmarks that visitors to Lake Powell visit. Rainbow Bridge National Monument is known for being one of the world's largest natural rock bridges and is a sacred and culturally significant site for several Native American tribes. A trip to Lake Powell should include a visit to Rainbow Bridge National Monument.
    • Castle Rock: Castle Rock is another popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts as it towers 600 feet above Lake Powell and becomes an island when the lake is full.
    • Horseshoe Bend: Horseshoe bend is part of Colorado River and is one of the stunning natural wonders found in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
    • Lone Rock: Lone rock is a solitary lock located in Wahweap Bay in Lake Powell.

    Lake Powell has plenty of amazing formations. Whether you want to visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument, or enjoy a day on the lake, Lake Powell is a great place to visit.

    Dinosaur National Monument

    Dinosaur National Monument is a unique national park unit located in northeastern Utah. It is renowned for its exceptional dinosaur fossils, rugged landscapes, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Here's some key information about Dinosaur National Monument:

    • Dinosaur Fossils: The park's primary attraction is its wealth of dinosaur fossils. It contains one of the world's most extensive and well-preserved collections of Jurassic-period dinosaur bones, including fossils of Allosaurus, Diplodocus, Stegosaurus, and many others. The fossils are found in the Morrison Formation, a layer of rock that dates back approximately 150 million years.
    • Quarry Visitor Center: The Quarry Visitor Center, located on the Utah side of the monument, is the main visitor center and the gateway to the dinosaur fossil exhibits. It houses the famous Quarry Exhibit Hall, where you can see more than 1,500 dinosaur bones still embedded in the rock. Visitors can view these fossils up close and even touch some of them.

    Dinosaur National Monument is a remarkable destination for both dinosaur enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, offering a blend of natural wonders and historical significance. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with Earth's prehistoric past in a stunning and remote setting.

    When visiting northeastern Utah, Dinosaur National Monument is a location you have to add to your trip.

    Natural Bridges National Monument

    Natural Bridges National Monument is a captivating protected area located in southeastern Utah. Natural Bridges National Monument is renowned for its remarkable natural rock bridges, rugged canyons, and pristine night skies.

    The primary attractions of Natural Bridges National Monument are the three natural bridges carved by erosion over thousands of years. These bridges were formed as the meandering waters of the White Canyon cut through the rock layers. The three main bridges are:

    • Sipapu Bridge: The largest and most massive of the three bridges, Sipapu has a span of 268 feet (82 meters) and is 220 feet (67 meters) high.
    • Kachina Bridge: Kachina Bridge has a span of 204 feet (62 meters) and is 210 feet (64 meters) high, making it the second-largest bridge in the park.
    • Owachomo Bridge: Although smaller than the other two, Owachomo Bridge is still impressive, with a span of 180 feet (55 meters) and a height of 106 feet (32 meters).

    Timpanogos Cave National Monument

    Timpanogos Cave National Monument is a small but stunning protected area located in American Fork Canyon. The monument is known for its spectacular cave system, beautiful alpine scenery, and diverse flora and fauna.

    The primary attraction at Timpanogos Cave National Monument is its intricate cave system. The monument includes three main caves: Hansen Cave, Middle Cave, and Timpanogos Cave. Timpanogos Cave is the most famous and the one that is open to the public through guided tours. These tours take visitors through narrow passageways, past unique formations such as stalactites and stalagmites, and into large chambers within the cave.

    Cedar Breaks National Monument

    Cedar Breaks National Monument is a beautiful and geologically unique protected area located in southwestern Utah, USA. It's known for its stunning amphitheater filled with colorful sandstone rock formations, including hoodoos, spires, and cliffs.

    The centerpiece of Cedar Breaks is its natural amphitheater, which is over 2,000 feet deep and spans three miles in diameter. This amphitheater is composed of intricate rock formations created by erosion, including hoodoos, fins, and pinnacles. The colorful rock layers consist mainly of limestone, shale, and sandstone, resulting in vibrant hues of red, orange, and purple found in these amazing sandstone rock formations.

    Other Popular Destinations:

    National Parks and the historic settlements aren't the only popular places for people to visit. Here are some other popular places and breathtaking landscapes and activities of visitors that enjoy visiting in this amazing state:

    • Newspaper Rock: Newspaper Rock is a famous petroglyph panel etched into a large sandstone rock. The panel contains over 650 ancient petroglyphs created by various Native American cultures over centuries. These intricate rock carvings found on Newspaper Rock depict scenes of daily life, hunting, and spiritual motifs. Newspaper Rock is accessible from State Route 211 and is a popular stop for visitors interested in Native American rock art and natural rock scenery.
    • Balanced Rock: Balanced Rock is an iconic rock formation located within Arches National Park near Moab, Utah. It consists of a large boulder precariously balanced on top of a narrower pedestal. The formation stands about 128 feet (39 meters) tall and has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park. Visitors can view Balanced Rock from a nearby parking area and hiking trails.
    • Chimney Rock Pillar: Chimney Rock Pillar is a striking sandstone formation located within Capitol Reef National Park in south-central Utah. It resembles a tall chimney or spire and stands out prominently against the desert landscape. While there isn't a designated trail to access Chimney Rock Pillar, visitors can view it from viewpoints along the park's scenic drives and breathtaking landscapes.
    • Corona Arch: Corona Arch is one of the largest natural stone arches located just outside of Moab, Utah. It is renowned for its distinctive shape and the scenic hike that leads to it. The trail to Corona Arch is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock scenery and stunning landscape. Visitors can also see Bowtie Arch along the same trail that Corona Arch is found.
    • Landscape Arch: Landscape Arch is one of the largest natural stone arches in Arches National Park and is notable for its thin, delicate appearance and breathtaking landscapes. Landscape Arch spans approximately 306 feet and is a popular attraction along the Devil's Garden Trail. However, the trail to Landscape Arch is relatively easy and short, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers.
    • Cassidy Arch: Cassidy Arch is one of the other natural stone arches located within Capitol Reef National Park. It is named after the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy, who was known to frequent the area. The trail to Cassidy Arch offers stunning views of the park's rugged terrain and is approximately 3.4 miles.

    These landmarks in Utah offer a glimpse into the diverse and remarkable geological features and cultural history of the state. Whether you're interested in ancient rock art, towering arches, or unique rock formations, Utah's natural wonders have something to offer for every explorer and outdoor enthusiast.

    Bottom Line

    From the towering red cliffs of Zion National Park to the otherworldly formations of Bryce Canyon, there are so many activities for visitors and each landmark has a unique beauty that will leave you in awe.

    The incredible National Historic Landmarks throughout the state. From Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the amazing Rainbow Bridge National Monument to Natural Bridges National Monument, to historic South Temple Street in Salt Lake City, there is no shortage of places to visit.

    As I reflect on my journey through these stunning national parks and valleys, I am struck by the power of nature to inspire and uplift us.

    The swirling sandstone arches of Arches National Park remind me of the constant ebb and flow of life, while the ancient rock formations of Capitol Reef speak to the enduring strength and resilience within us all.

    Whether you're seeking adventure or simply looking for peace and quiet amidst the natural world, Utah's most famous landmarks and national parks offer an experience unlike any other.