Why Utah Hiking Should Be at the Top of Your Adventure List

If you’re craving red rock landscapes, quiet slot canyons, and those epic desert sunsets that feel too perfect to be real, hiking in Utah is calling your name. This state is a dream come true for anyone with a love of the outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just dipping your toes into hiking, Utah delivers big.



From the dramatic cliffs of Zion to the hoodoo-filled amphitheaters of Bryce Canyon, from the quiet vastness of Grand Staircase-Escalante to the surreal landscapes of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, Utah is, without exaggeration, one of the best places on Earth to hike. And yes, we may be a little biased because we love it here, but spend a few days on the trails and you’ll see why.

What Makes Utah So Special for Hiking?

It starts with variety. Utah has five national parks, seven national monuments, two national recreation areas, and over 40 state parks. That means there are thousands of miles of trails that span everything from alpine forests to sandstone deserts.



The landscape is like nowhere else: slot canyons carved by flash floods, sandstone arches defying gravity, and towering spires rising from the desert floor. Every turn of the trail feels like you’re stepping onto a movie set, except it’s all real.

And the solitude? Magical. Utah is full of places where you can hike for hours or even days without seeing another soul. If you’re looking for a real escape from the buzz of everyday life, this is it.

Best Times to Go Hiking in Utah

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are prime seasons. During these months, temperatures are mild and the desert blooms with wildflowers or lights up with fall colors.



Summer can be beautiful but scorching, especially in the southern parks. Early starts and plenty of water are a must. And winter? Surprisingly amazing, especially in places like Bryce Canyon where snow on red rock turns the landscape into a surreal wonderland.

Must-See Hiking Destinations in Utah

• Zion National Park: Famous for Angels Landing and The Narrows, but there are dozens of quieter trails with equally jaw-dropping views.
  
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Home to otherworldly hoodoos and high-elevation trails that stay cooler in summer.
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: Wild, remote, and packed with hidden gems like Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulches.
• Canyonlands National Park: Massive canyons, ancient rock art, and mind-blowing overlooks.
• Arches National Park: Over 2,000 natural stone arches and some of the best sunrise and sunset hikes in the state.

Outside the national parks, spots like Capitol Reef, the San Rafael Swell, and Bears Ears National Monument offer even more remote and less-traveled adventures.

How to Hike Utah With Us

At Four Season Guides, we’ve been guiding guests through Utah’s wildest and most beautiful places for years. We offer three types of hiking experiences to match your comfort level and sense of adventure:

• Utah Backpacking Trips: Perfect if you want to truly unplug and get deep into the wilderness. These multi-day trips are all about solitude, incredible sunrises, and starry skies you’ll never forget.
• Utah Basecamp Hiking Tours: Great for those who want the backcountry feel but prefer sleeping in a cozy camp. You get full days of hiking and exploring, then return to a comfortable basecamp each night.
• Utah Lodge-Based Hiking Tours: Ideal if you want to hike hard all day and relax in a nice bed and hot shower at night. These tours balance adventure with comfort.

Every trip is fully guided and includes gear, meals, and expert knowledge from our team, who live and breathe these landscapes. Whether you want a classic Zion experience or a custom itinerary through Grand Staircase, we can make it happen.

Tips for Hiking in Utah

• Hydrate like crazy: Utah’s dry climate means you’ll need more water than you think. Always carry more than you expect to need.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and long sleeves will go a long way.
• Check the weather: Flash floods are real, especially in slot canyons. Always check the forecast and trail conditions.
• Leave No Trace: These places are fragile and sacred. Pack it in, pack it out.
• Be prepared: Trails can be remote, unmarked, and rugged. A guide can make a huge difference in safety and experience.
  

Why We Love It

We’re not just guides. We’re hikers, explorers, and lovers of the land. On our days off, we’re out scouting new routes, checking out wildflower blooms, or just soaking in the silence. Utah has a way of getting into your soul. It reminds you how small you are, how beautiful the world can be, and how important it is to protect places like these.

Whether you’re lacing up your boots for the first time or looking for your next big challenge, Utah has something to offer. It’s one of those places you visit once and dream about forever.

So if you’re thinking about your next hiking adventure, consider heading to Utah. And if you want to experience it with people who know it like the back of their hand and love it with their whole heart, come hike with us.

Ready to start planning your Utah hiking trip? Explore all our Utah adventures here and let’s hit the trail!