Updated excerpt from Park City Explorer, by Nancy Tallman
Many people leave town during the shoulder season, with the exception of families who are beholden to the school schedule for spring break. While looking through family photos as I wrote my book, I realized that we ventured away from town during every spring break, usually seeking warmer climates. It is a wonderful time to travel south, but I must admit that there is an abundance of things to do and sights to explore for those who choose to stay.
The “Mighty 5” campaign, launched in 2013, was designed to increase visitation to Utah’s national parks. It has become somewhat controversial for working too well, and putting Utah on the map as an international bucket-list destination. As a result of that campaign, Moab became the most visited city in Utah. How lucky for us that these parks are within a 4-hour drive of Park City. Spring is one of the best times of year to visit the parks.
Here’s why I find them interesting and where I love to stay when I hit the Mighty 5.
Arches National Park
Just north of famed Moab, Utah, there are more than 2,000 arches in this red rock wonderland. Chances are, you recognize the iconic Delicate Arch from the state license plate. The arches are true wonders of nature, caused by windblown sand over millions of years. My favorite Arches point of interest is Balanced Rock, which is said to be the size of three school buses. Reservations are now required to enter Arches. A few years ago I was in Moab in the spring, and we were able to get into the park without a reservation in the late afternoon.
Canyonlands National Park
Also in the Moab area, Canyonlands National Park is unique in that it consists of three distinct areas: Needles, Maze, and Island in the Sky. There are many recreational activities to enjoy there, from hiking to four-wheeling. But my two best recommendations require a bit more of a commitment. First, I advise backpacking to truly see and experience the unique landscape. Second, I recommend biking the White Rim Trail, which does require advanced permitting and planning but is something you’ll never forget. There are some great local outfitters who can take you on a guided mountain biking tour of the White Rim Trail.
Where to Stay in Moab
$ Holiday Inn Express, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
$$ Gonzo Inn
$$$ Under Canvas Moab (glamping), Red Cliffs Lodge, Sorrel River Ranch & Spa, Element (Marriott Bonvoy), Hoodoo (Hilton), Hyatt Place Moab
Zion National Park
I believe Zion National Park is one of the most scenic locations on planet Earth. It’s so popular, that it’s not uncommon to see “parking full” signs in the park, especially during the summer. But if you can time the weather correctly, a visit in the spring is nice because you can drive through the park rather than take the otherwise mandatory shuttle bus.
The geology of this area is simply stunning, and a fun fact about Zion is that it was originally named Mukuntuweap National Monument. If you have time to plan, are in great shape, and not afraid of heights (and consequences), check out Angels Landing. There is a permitting system to hike this trail, so be sure to check the website for the latest details.
The gateway town of Springdale is quaint and offers a variety of bed and breakfasts, coffee shops, restaurants, and shops. I love this area so much, I purchased a vacation home in Hurricane, Utah, which is only 20 minutes away and visited 3 times in March. It’s so easy to get to and when it’s 40 degrees and muddy in Park City, it’s 60 degrees and perfect for outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay in Zion (Springdale)
$ Holiday Inn Express, Driftwood Lodge
$$ Cliffrose Lodge, Cable Mountain Lodge
$$$ Desert Pearl Inn (book early; it always fills up)
Insider’s Tip: If you exit Zion through the eastern entrance, you can stay in the town of Kanab and then head to Bryce Canyon National Park early the next morning. Kanab is home to the world-famous Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and was the location for many classic John Wayne Western movies. There is more going on in Kanab than at Bryce Canyon in terms of restaurants and other things to do.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Have you heard of a hoodoo? If not, a visit to Bryce Canyon National Park will have the word (and image) permanently imprinted on your brain. This is an otherworldly type of landscape that is formed by frost-weathered and stream-eroded rock, as opposed to air, like Arches. It makes sense, since the park is at a higher elevation and holds snow. There is a great scenic drive that grants you access to hikes ranging from one to six hours, so there are plenty of options for whatever you’re in the mood for. If you’re a mountain biker, check out Thunder Mountain Trail, just outside the park. Snowshoeing and horseback riding are other wonderful activities here.
Where to Stay in Bryce
$ Best Western Ruby’s Inn
$$ Stone Canyon Inn
$$$ Bryce Glamp and Camp
Capitol Reef National Park
I’ve always wondered where Capitol Reef got its namesake. Turns out, it has to do with the domed sandstone cliffs that can be found throughout, which reminded the early settlers of those frequently found on capitol buildings. This park suits everything from a scenic drive to a slot canyon with multiple rappels. One of my favorite features is the beautiful orchard where you can pick apples and other seasonal fruit. I love Capitol Reef because it’s the closest national park to Park City (3.5 hours) and it’s the largest. This means that you can hike and not run into another soul for hours.
If you have the time, take Scenic Byway 12 from Torrey to the town of Boulder and have a meal at Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm, one of the top-ranked restaurants in the entire United States. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but you will want to make a reservation well in advance as it’s very popular. Founded in 1999 by Jen Castle and Blake Spalding, the restaurant was selected as a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2022 and 2023.
I first read about this restaurant in the L.A. Times in 2002, before I moved to Utah. It was literally one of the first farm-to-table restaurants in the U.S. and has been voted one of the best restaurants in the U.S. many times. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and you should make reservations well in advance before going. You can plan a night’s stay at the Boulder Mountain Lodge and head to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument the next day or head back up Scenic Byway 12 and enjoy Capitol Reef National Park.
Where to Stay in Capitol Reef (Torrey, Utah)
$ Broken Spur Inn, Rim Rock Inn
$$ Casitas at Capitol Reef
$$$ Capitol Reef Resort, Red Sands Hotel, Cougar Ridge Resort
If you visit Southern Utah this spring, let me know what you did and your favorite restaurants.