Zion National Park is awesome.
Here are the top 5 early spring Utah destinations down in the deserts of the central and southern parts of the state. The shoulder seasons are the best time to visit the desert.
I love Utah, especially the fact that it’s easy to visit these amazing spots in the shoulder seasons. The shoulder seasons, early spring and fall, are the best times to get to the deserts of southern and central Utah. Most people are in school or not traveling at that time, leaving these primo spots less crowded. I’ve had some great days hiking, camping, and exploring these spring Utah destinations.
5 Top Spring Utah Destinations – Think Desert
Moab
This is the ultimate hikers and mountain bikers destination. There are a huge number of cool trails to explore. Some of our favorites for hiking include Fisher Towers, Corona Arch, Delicate Arch, and the Fiery Furnace (inside of Arches National Park).
At sunset make sure you head up to either sand flats or to Deadhorse Point Statepark. Both of those places are up high and have stunning views.
If your into mountain biking then you need to check out the world famous slick rock trail.
Entering a slot in Little Wild Horse Canyon.
Goblin Valley and Little Wildhorse Canyon
Wow! That is about all that I can say about this area. Goblin valley is super fun to wander around and amidst the hoodoos. Then when you tire of that, head down the road to Little Wild Horse Canyon. This canyon is a super fun, easy introduction to slot canyons.
The San Rafael Swell has some neat, less known spots.
San Rafael Swell
The swell is so big and has too many cool places to mention all of them! You can find slot canyons, big canyons, sandstone cliffs, and pictographs. One of the best parts of the swell is that if you take your time you can find some desolation and quiet.
Deep down inside Bull Valley Gorge.
Grand Staircase Escalante NM
Speaking of big, this is another huge area that is full of possibilities. There are a couple of main roads that head down into the Grand Staircase from which there are many canyons to explore.
One of my favorites to explore is Spooky and Peekaboo canyons (great, short slot canyons). Another cool one to check out is Bull Valley Gorge.
Zion National Park
This park has some great trails to explore, both in the main canyon and on the benches. The benches get more sunlight so are nicer to check out if it’s too cold in the bottom of the canyon.