8 National Parks in Utah to Visit If You Love Hiking

Utah stands as one of America’s greatest hiking destinations, packed with incredible national parks and monuments. Red rock canyons, towering arches, and desert landscapes create unforgettable adventures for hikers of all skill levels. From easy nature walks to challenging backcountry trails, these protected areas offer something special for everyone who loves exploring on foot.

1. Capitol Reef National Park

Fruit orchards and towering red cliffs make this hidden gem perfect for families seeking moderate hiking adventures. Pioneer history comes alive along the easy Petroglyphs Trail, where ancient rock art tells stories from long ago.

The famous Hickman Bridge Trail leads hikers through desert washes to a stunning natural bridge. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall offers perfect temperatures for longer hikes.

Don’t miss the scenic drive through Capitol Gorge, where short walks reveal pioneer inscriptions carved into canyon walls decades ago.

2. Zion National Park

Towering sandstone cliffs and emerald pools create Utah’s most famous hiking destination. The Riverside Walk offers an easy introduction to Zion’s beauty, following the Virgin River through hanging gardens.

Adventure seekers tackle Angels Landing, where chains help hikers navigate the final exposed ridge to incredible views. The Narrows provides a unique experience walking through slot canyon waters.

Shuttle buses transport visitors to trailheads during busy seasons, making access simple and stress-free for families planning their hiking adventures.

3. Canyonlands National Park

Mesa Top Loop at Island in the Sky offers breathtaking views across endless canyon country. This easy trail showcases the park’s incredible scale, where the Colorado River carved deep gorges over millions of years.

Upheaval Dome Trail leads to a mysterious geological formation that scientists still debate. The moderate hike rewards visitors with views of colorful rock layers twisted into strange patterns.

Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as desert conditions can be challenging even on shorter trails throughout this vast wilderness area.

4. Bryce Canyon National Park

Hoodoos create a fairyland landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. The Rim Trail provides easy access to multiple viewpoints, perfect for families with young children or anyone wanting spectacular photos.

Navajo Loop Trail descends into the canyon among towering rock spires, offering close-up views of these amazing formations. Early morning light makes the red and orange rocks glow like fire.

Winter brings snow that transforms the landscape into a magical wonderland, though hikers need proper gear for icy trail conditions during colder months.

5. Natural Bridges National Monument

Three magnificent natural bridges await discovery along well-maintained trails in this peaceful monument. Sipapu Bridge Trail offers the longest hike, descending into White Canyon where massive sandstone spans create natural sculptures.

Owachomo Bridge provides the easiest walk, perfect for families wanting to see these incredible formations without difficult hiking. The thin, graceful arch appears almost delicate despite its enormous size.

Dark skies make this location ideal for stargazing after hiking, as the monument holds International Dark Sky Park status for exceptional night viewing.

6. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Slot canyons and hidden arches reward adventurous hikers willing to explore this vast wilderness area. Spooky Gulch provides an exciting squeeze through narrow canyon walls, perfect for older kids and adults seeking unique experiences.

Devil’s Garden Trail leads to colorful rock arches and balanced stones scattered across the desert landscape. The easy walk offers incredible photo opportunities without requiring advanced hiking skills.

Remote locations mean hikers should carry GPS devices and inform others of their plans, as cell phone service remains unreliable throughout most areas.

7. Arches National Park

Over 2,000 natural arches create the world’s largest concentration of these incredible formations. Delicate Arch Trail leads to Utah’s most famous landmark, though the moderate hike across slickrock requires good balance and proper footwear.

Windows Section offers easier walks to massive arches perfect for family photos and picnics. Courthouse Towers provides stunning views without requiring long hikes from parking areas.

Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, making early morning or evening hikes much more comfortable for visitors exploring these amazing sandstone sculptures.

8. Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Underground limestone caves await at the end of a steep 1.5-mile trail gaining 1,000 feet of elevation. The challenging hike through mountain forests leads to incredible formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone decorating three connected caverns.

Guided tours reveal the cave’s hidden beauty, including the famous Heart of Timpanogos formation. Cool cave temperatures provide welcome relief after the demanding uphill climb.

Advance reservations are required for cave tours, and the monument typically closes during winter months due to dangerous trail conditions and snow.