It’s that time of year when the snow is starting to melt and the sun is finally coming out! However, lots of us are busy with work and school during the week. This is your chance to take advantage of the better weather by taking exciting weekend road trips! Read on to learn about the most stunning locations in Utah for the outdoor enthusiast.
St. George
The first destination is St. George, Utah. Though it’s a popular trip, it never gets old! Enjoy a weekend getaway to the red rocks and heat of southern Utah. In the spring, St. George averages about 60s and 70s. Book an Airbnb or camp in Snow Canyon Campground.
Pack your hiking shoes and enjoy exploring and taking photos of the open red rocks in Snow Canyon State Park. Then head over to hike the famous “crack” in Pioneer Park. If you have kids with you, they will love the St. George Dino Discovery Site! In addition there are tons of big open parks in the area where you can hang out, have a picnic, and play sports. If you are looking for gorgeous views and massive red rocks, drive to Zion National Park (only 33 miles away!) and glamp nearby.
Enjoy shopping and eating out in downtown St. George. When it comes to food, you need to try the tasty tacos at Angelia’s, the best Thai food around at Benja’s, and Nielsen’s famous custard. We promise you won’t regret it. And don’t forget to grab a Swig drink and cookie in the place it first opened!
Moab
Moab may not be the biggest city in Utah, but there is so much to see! Moab’s claim to fame is its proximity to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Drive just a few minutes to the entrance of Arches to take some beautiful insta-worthy photos with the arches. Browse the terrific Arches hikes listed here. Then take a day trip to hike in Canyonlands, just 30 minutes away. If you brought your bike, you can find plenty of cool bike trails nearby as well. Finish off your trip with the Museum of Moab.
When it comes to living accommodations (LODGING), glamp just outside of Arches National Park at Wander Camp. Enjoy sleeping under the stars with yummy dinners and fun activities super close. For tips on what to pack and how to plan meals, check out our blog post.
Heber Valley
If you’ve never explored Heber Valley, now is the time. There are so many options of things to do outside in the spring! You can find a cute Airbnb cabin to stay in. Heber is a beautiful location to go on runs, go for walks, or find a fun park to hang out at. Go boating and swim around at Deer Creek Reservoir and visit Deer Creek State Park. You can go ziplining nearby at Zipline Utah. Another fun activity is riding the Heber Valley Train to enjoy the gorgeous views.
Snag the very best burgers and famous shakes at Dairy Keen. (Seriously, they are the best.) For a fancier dinner, enjoy delicious Italian sitting in the heated globes at Cafe Galleria in Midway.
Bear Lake
If you love summer, you love Bear Lake. A favorite weekend trip for hundreds, Bear Lake will give you just the relaxing vacation you need. Bear Lake is known for… well the lake and also it’s delicious raspberries! As you arrive, you’ll notice the many drive-ins selling their famous homemade raspberry shakes. Yum!
During the day, hang out on the beach and go boating on the lake in the warm sun. Enjoy hiking and 4-wheeling on backroads in the mountains. Then find a good spot to watch the sunset over the Lake. Oh, and watch out for bears.
Bryce Canyon
Another one of Wander Camp’s glamping locations, Bryce Canyon is a great place to travel to! It is one of the less-known National Parks that becomes a favorite for anyone who visits! Bryce Canyon is filled with amazing rock formations. You’ll love hiking among the hoodoos and stunning pine trees. For more information on the best Bryce Canyon activities, check out our post. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by I.D.K. Barbeque for some tasty baked bean sandwiches!
There’s never a bad time to take a trip- especially a weekender! No matter which trip you choose, we promise you’ll find the exciting and rejuvenating vacation you are looking for!
Post written by: Katie Johnson