Landlocked in the western United States, Utah was inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years before the Spanish arrived in the 16th century. Many of the state’s earliest settlers were Mormons fleeing persecution, with Salt Lake City becoming the global headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Things to do in Utah
Spectacular desert scenery, world-class ski resorts and legendary hiking trails - Utah is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
Visit Salt Lake City’s Temple Square. In the heart of Salt Lake City is Temple Square, a four-hectare complex owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that has been designated as a National Historic Landmark District. Admire the ornately decorated Salt Lake Temple and see the world’s largest genealogy library, the Family History Library, or stroll through the square’s leafy gardens. One of Temple Square’s most controversial architectural landmarks is the Mormon Tabernacle, which Oscar Wilde described as a “soup kettle”.
Explore Zion National Park. In the far south of Utah is Zion National Park, which encompasses striking red cliffs, cascading falls and a hanging garden, many of which can be visited along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The park’s trails range from easy walks to the vertigo-inducing Angel's Landing Trail, with the sheer waterfalls of the Emerald Pools a must-see natural wonder.
Tour Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Spanning the Utah-Arizona border is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a rocky red desert that has been used as a film setting for countless Western movies. Winding through the valley is the 27-kilometre-long Valley Drive, which offers easy access to the region’s hiking trails and breathtaking lookouts. Among the valley’s most iconic sights are the West and East Mitten Buttes.
Getting around Utah
Salt Lake City International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Utah and has flights to destinations across North America. Amtrak’s California Zephyr travels through Utah and long-distance buses connect the state’s cities and towns. Renting a car is the most convenient way of accessing Utah’s natural attractions.