Travel Guide To Utah Map By County
Travel Guide To Utah Map By County
Introduction
Welcome to Utah, a state known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Utah is divided into 29 counties, each with its own unique attractions and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, or a cultural immersion, Utah has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more in each county of Utah.
Top Attractions
Salt Lake County
Salt Lake County is home to the capital city of Utah, Salt Lake City. Some of the top attractions in this county include Temple Square, the Great Salt Lake, Utah State Capitol Building, and Red Butte Garden. Temple Square is a sacred religious site that features the Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and the Family History Library. The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and it’s a popular spot for boating, swimming, and bird watching. The Utah State Capitol Building is a historic landmark that offers guided tours and stunning views of the city. Red Butte Garden is a botanical garden that features over 100 acres of plant life and scenic hiking trails.
Washington County
Washington County is located in the southwestern part of Utah and is known for its stunning red rock formations and national parks. Some of the top attractions in this county include Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site. Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its towering sandstone cliffs and scenic trails. Snow Canyon State Park is another popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and camping. St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site is a museum that features a collection of dinosaur tracks and fossils.
Hidden Gems
Garfield County
Garfield County is located in central Utah and is home to some of the state’s most stunning natural wonders. One hidden gem in this county is Bryce Canyon National Park, a unique geological formation that features colorful hoodoos and spires. Another hidden gem is Capitol Reef National Park, which offers breathtaking views of the Waterpocket Fold and scenic drives through the park’s canyons and valleys.
San Juan County
San Juan County is located in the southeastern part of Utah and is known for its rugged landscapes and ancient ruins. One hidden gem in this county is Bears Ears National Monument, a protected area that features sandstone formations, canyons, and archaeological sites. Another hidden gem is Hovenweep National Monument, which features ancient Puebloan ruins and stunning views of the surrounding desert.
Food Scene
Utah County
Utah County is located in the central part of the state and is home to a thriving food scene. One popular spot is Black Sheep Cafe, which offers a fusion of southwestern and Native American cuisine. Another popular spot is Communal, which features farm-to-table dishes made with local ingredients. For dessert, be sure to check out The Mighty Baker, which offers a variety of delicious baked goods.
Summit County
Summit County is located in the northern part of Utah and is home to several upscale restaurants and cafes. One popular spot is Riverhorse on Main, which offers fine dining with stunning views of Park City. Another popular spot is High West Distillery, which features craft cocktails and whiskey flights. For a more casual dining experience, check out the Main Street Deli, which offers delicious sandwiches and soups.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Cache County
Cache County is located in the northern part of Utah and is home to several budget-friendly attractions. One popular spot is Logan Canyon, which offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping sites. Another popular spot is the American West Heritage Center, which features living history exhibits and interactive experiences. For a free activity, check out the Logan Tabernacle, a historic building that offers free tours and concerts.
Iron County
Iron County is located in the southwestern part of Utah and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. One budget-friendly activity to check out is the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, a collection of ancient rock carvings that can be viewed for free. Another budget-friendly activity is hiking the Kanarra Creek Trail, which offers stunning views of waterfalls and slot canyons.
Outdoor Adventures
Duchesne County
Duchesne County is located in the northeastern part of Utah and is home to several outdoor adventure opportunities. One popular spot is the Uinta Mountains, which offer hiking, camping, and fishing. Another popular spot is the Duchesne River, which is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking. For a unique experience, check out the Duchesne County Fair, which features rodeos, concerts, and other outdoor activities.
Grand County
Grand County is located in the southeastern part of Utah and is known for its stunning natural beauty. One popular spot is Arches National Park, which features over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and other geological formations. Another popular spot is Canyonlands National Park, which offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and white-water rafting. For a unique experience, check out the Moab Music Festival, which features classical music performances in stunning outdoor settings.
Family-Friendly Activities
Tooele County
Tooele County is located in the northern part of Utah and is home to several family-friendly attractions. One popular spot is the Tooele Valley Railroad Museum, which features historic train exhibits and train rides. Another popular spot is the Benson Grist Mill, a historic mill that offers tours and hands-on experiences. For a fun outdoor activity, check out Settlement Canyon Reservoir, which offers swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Carbon County
Carbon County is located in the central part of Utah and is known for its mining history and outdoor recreation opportunities. One family-friendly activity to check out is the Utah State University Eastern Prehistoric Museum, which features dinosaur exhibits and hands-on activities. Another family-friendly activity is hiking the Price River Trail, which offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Millard County
Millard County is located in the central part of Utah and is home to several unique experiences. One off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Topaz Museum, which tells the story of Japanese Americans who were interned during World War II. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Little Sahara Sand Dunes, which offer ATV riding and sandboarding opportunities.
Beaver County
Beaver County is located in the southwestern part of Utah and is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. One off-the-beaten-path activity to check out is the Tushar Mountains, which offer scenic drives, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Cove Fort Historic Site, a restored fort that offers tours and interactive exhibits.
Natural Wonders
Kane County
Kane County is located in the southern part of Utah and is home to several natural wonders. One popular spot is the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which features canyons, cliffs, and natural arches. Another popular spot is Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir that offers boating, swimming, and camping. For a unique experience, check out the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, which features pink sand dunes and scenic hiking trails.
Emery County
Emery County is located in the central part of Utah and is known for its geological formations and outdoor recreation opportunities. One natural wonder to check out is the San Rafael Swell, a massive sandstone formation that offers hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Another natural wonder is Goblin Valley State Park, which features unique rock formations and hiking trails.
Vibrant Nightlife
Salt Lake County
Salt Lake County is home to several bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. One popular spot is The Depot, a historic music venue that features concerts and events. Another popular spot is The Red Door, a speakeasy-style bar that offers craft cocktails and live music. For a more laid-back atmosphere, check out The Bayou, a Cajun restaurant and bar that offers over 300 types of beer.
Weber County
Weber County is located in the northern part of Utah and is home to several nightlife options. One popular spot is The Yes Hell, a bar and music venue that features local and national acts. Another popular spot is Funk ‘n Dive Bar, which offers live music, craft beer, and a rooftop patio. For a unique experience, check out The Salty Creative, a DIY art studio that offers painting classes and cocktails.
Local Markets
Cache County
Cache County is home to several farmers’ markets and local food co-ops. One popular market is the Cache Valley Gardeners’ Market