8 Underrated Destinations in Utah to Avoid Summer Crowds
Permeated with awe-inspiring landscapes, rich historic fascinations, and warm inviting hospitality, the Beehive State is among the country's best destinations to spend a summer holiday. Utah has a lot to boast about, with five national parks, 45 state parks, and countless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. To no surprise, these attractions can draw considerable crowds, leaving those looking for a quieter, more individual experience high and dry. Luckily, there is still a lot to see in this mountainous state if you are willing to go just slightly off the beaten path.
Capitol Reef National Park
Less well-known than the likes of Zion or Arches National Park, Capitol Reef is still home to the red rock country’s truly breathtaking vistas and geologic fascinations. Centered on a geologic monocline, which can be thought of as a wrinkle of the earth’s crust, the park is filled with interesting cliffs, bridges, domes and other features that must be seen to be believed. With numerous trailheads there is plenty of opportunity for hiking and exploration, or for something more historic, there is the famous Capitol Reef Petroglyphs, etched by the Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan peoples. Visitors can stay in nearby towns, such as Torrey, Hanksville, or Boulder, or camp right in the park at one of a variety of top-class campgrounds.
Powder Mountain
For more hiking and outdoor exploration, there is Powder Mountain far up in the north of the state. A popular destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, the mountain resort is considerably less crowded during the summer, though still filled with opportunities for recreation. Lift accessed downhill mountain biking, free hiking and biking trails, and UTV guided tours are all on offer for visitors during the summer months, and all grant unique access to the gorgeous mountain park. With events like live music, and opportunities to stay on the mountain in the form of cabins, condos and camping, Powder Mountain is the perfect way to experience a unique slice of Utah while avoiding some of the major crowds.
Sundance
Another site more popular in the winter is the Sundance Mountain Resort. World famous as the site of Robert Redford’s renowned January-set film festival, the resort is another of Utah’s celebrated skiing destinations. It is less well-known as a perfect destination for summer activities, ranging from spa days, to fishing, to rugged exploration. For those looking for views, the resort continues to run ski-lifts throughout the summer, as well as offering a zipline tour which grants visitors once-in-a-lifetime views of Mount Timpanogos. In addition to the natural beauty, the resort is dedicated to celebrating the arts, offering classes and studio experience at the Sundance Art Gallery. With a variety of culinary options, including the famed Tree Room, there is truly something for everyone visiting Sundance in the summer.
Bear Lake
If mountains are not what you are searching for, Bear Lake is a great option for a summer vacation. Located far in the north of Utah, on its border with Idaho, the lake is a stunning site with lots to offer any traveler. The iridescent azure waters have led to the moniker of the “Caribbean of the Rockies." This distinctively vibrant color is a result of light scattering off finely ground limestone particles suspended in the lake, creating a sight that must be seen to be believed. Beyond its stunning appearance, Bear Lake offers a summer experience that is both invigorating and serene. With a plethora of water activities such as boating, fishing, and paddleboarding, coupled with pristine beaches ideal for relaxation, it is a haven for those seeking the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
Green River
For a different type of water-based experience there is the iconic Green River. Carving its way across the state, there are countless ways to experience the river which range from exciting to calming. For some exhilaration, there are plenty of opportunities for whitewater rafting on the Green, including at the Split Mountain Gorge, the Gray Canyon, and the Lodore Canyon. All of these offer guided rafting tours with unparalleled views and suitable excitement. For those seeking less rambunctious ways to see the river, there are numerous stretches of slower-moving sections, such as at Labyrinth Canyon or Stillwater Canyon. Perfect for leisurely floats in kayaks or canoes, these sections are great for families or anyone else looking for a way to see the gorgeous shores of the breathtaking Green River.
Logan
Utah has more to offer summer vacationers than mountain resorts and bodies of water. Towns like Logan are the perfect way to experience the hospitality of the state while staying out of the major metropolises. The Cache Valley, with its fertile lands and panoramic beauty, envelops Logan in a natural embrace that evokes a sense of timelessness. Amidst this enchanting landscape, the American West Heritage Center stands as a living testament to the region's history, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the pioneer spirit of the American West. But what truly distinguishes Logan is its quiet charm—an understated allure that draws you in with its unhurried pace, friendly locals, and a community-driven ambiance.
Cedar City
On the other side of the state is Cedar City, a gorgeous little town that has a lot to offer every traveler. The city prides itself on its proximity to many stunning national parks, such as the aforementioned Capitol Reef and the world famous Zion. The beautiful red rocks these parks are famous for also surround Cedar City, making for idyllic vistas even for those who choose to spend their time entirely within the town. This is far from a bad choice to make, as the town has lots going on on its own. One nickname the town goes by is Festival City, USA, due to the staggering amount of celebrations that take place, ranging from Shakespeare, to films, and even classic cars. Taking place all summer long, these festivals, along with everything else on offer, make for a perfect summer getaway.
Kanab
Just down the road from Cedar City, on the southern border of Utah is Kanab. A town straight out of an old western, Kanab is the perfect place for a lowkey summer excursion. Filled with old movie sets as well as the Little Hollywood Museum, the town has a fascinating history as the locale of many actual old western films, and is an ideal place to live out fantasies of cowboy antics. The Western Legends Heritage and Music Festival, held every August, is another opportunity to take part in this compelling piece of American history. Beyond that, the town is just a gorgeous and stunningly unique piece of the country, surrounded by one-of-a-kind geographic features such as red cliffs, pink sand dunes, and deep slot canyons, and opportunities to explore them.
Utah is a state perfectly suited for any number of perfect summer vacations. Between the wondrous state and national parks and its metropolises such as Salt Lake City, there is a lot that sits at the top of the minds of travelers. For those looking to avoid the crowds that tend to flock to these sites, there is luckily still an enormous amount to do and see. These eight are just the top of the iceberg when it comes to one of the most beautiful and exciting states in the country.
