WHERE TO BACKPACK IN UTAH
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Backpacking Utah's Red Rock Country
Southern Utah has some of the best backpacking around. Explore more information here and plan your trip. Visit Utah.
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Uinta Mountains Backpacking
Blue-ribbon backpacking is abundant throughout the High Uintas Mountains.
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Wasatch Range Backpacking
Here are a few of the best backpack trips in the Wasatch Mountains.
"I was to look around me as though I had never been in this place before. And slowly, my travels began to bear fruit."
– Alain de Botton, The Art of Travel
Backpacking Tips and Tricks
There is no more varied place in the world than Utah to backpack. Here are a few tips to help get you in the right mindset for backpacking in Utah.
- The season can determine the destination, whether you choose to head for the mountains, make a pilgrimage to the desert, or both.
- Two-thirds of Utah is public land: Five national parks, nine million acres of national forest, millions of acres within national monuments and national recreation areas, and vast areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
- Regardless of where you choose to hike, keep safety in mind and be cautious.
- Never hike alone, always tell your friends and family where you are going and when you plan to return. Learn more about how you can support Utah’s local search and rescue teams with a Utah Search and Rescue Assistance card.
- Always carry plenty of water in both the deserts and mountains, no matter the season, no matter the outside temperature. You are hiking at high elevation.
- Bring a first-aid kit and a water filter. It's a good idea to take more food and water than you think you'll need in the event you become stranded.
- Be prepared to be truly self-reliant.
- Most importantly, have a safe, fun, and rewarding experience.
The Seven Leave No Trace Principles
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impacts (be careful with fire).
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
- Learn more here.
Discover More
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3 Hikes That Showcase the Raw, Dramatic Beauty of the High Uintas Wilderness
Utah’s High Uinta Wilderness displays some of the most impressive and classic Rocky Mountain beauty that Utah has to offer. Here are three of the best trails to experience this rugged part of Utah for yourself.
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6 Steps to a Family MTB Trip on Canyonlands' White Rim
Want to take the family mountain biking on the White Rim Trail? Tackle 100 miles of biking and three days of backcountry camping in Canyonlands with the kids.
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A First-ever Camping Trip on BLM Lands
As a new resident of the western United States, I’ve discovered the gift of recreating on public lands. Though daunting at first, after researching and waiting too long, the time finally felt right to try camping on BLM lands in Utah’s dinosaur country. There is no shame in trying something new.
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A Visitor's Guide to Zion's Kolob Canyons
In the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, you’ll find a scenic wonderland with an adventure for everyone. Learn more about this unforgettable attraction and plan a visit.
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Across a Snow-Covered Desert
Follow this itinerary for a week-long winter road trip across the snow-covered desert of Southeastern Utah.
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Backpacking: Start 'Em Early
Follow a father and his seven-year-old daughter on her first-ever backpacking trip at the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.
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Dog-Friendly Utah: The Road to Mighty
Want to bring your furry friend on your next vacation? Utah is home to several great dog-friendly national parks and other fun destinations. Check it out and plan your trip!
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Escalante River Canyon Trail
Located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, the Escalante River Canyon river trail winds and knots its way east and south.
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Exploring Utah's Little Sahara
Little Sahara Recreation Area is an unforgettable destination for sand dunes in Utah and ATV, camping, hiking, and sand-boarding enthusiasts.
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Fishing Fish Lake
The largest natural mountain lake in Utah, Fish Lake sits at more than 8,800 feet of elevation, which makes for pleasant weather all summer long. Located near Richfield, Utah, the lake has everything you need for a relaxing summer getaway.
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How to Camp on Utah’s BLM Lands
Read these insights and tips gathered from a novice’s first-ever camping trip on BLM and public lands to gain the confidence you need to recreate happily and respectfully on Utah’s public lands.
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How to Take a Kayak & Camping Trip at Yuba State Park
Pristine sandy beaches, warm water temperatures all summer long and serene mountain views make Yuba State Park an appealing destination for campers and kayakers in sunny Central Utah.
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Knobby Tired Nomads: Bikepacking the Utah High Country
If you’re into bikepacking, Utah is a place you’ll want to check out. Read about a self-supported tour of Utah’s backcountry here, and start planning your trip.
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Meet the Fremonts: Unearthing an Ancient Civilization
Did you know that interstate highway construction created Fremont Indian State Park? Visit the park and Museum for a peek into Utah’s past, plus hiking and ATV trails.
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Moab Under Canvas: Glamping
If you’re looking for a luxurious camping experience, Moab Under Canvas is just the ticket. Book your stay in a fully-furnished canvas tent in canyon country!
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Paddle Among Red Rocks and Waterfalls at Gunlock Reservoir State Park
Pack up your gear and head out to Gunlock Reservoir near St. George. Bring your SUP, kayaks, jet skis and power boats for a day full of watersport excitement.
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Planning Ahead for Your Utah Adventure: Outdoors Tips for Three-Season Fun
Before you plan your Utah outdoor adventures, check out our guide to proper preparation. You’ll enjoy your action-packed travels even more. Read now!
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Reef Walking, Petroglyphs and Bones
Check out the world’s densest concentration of dinosaur bones at Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry and explore other prehistoric wonders around Utah.
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San Rafael Swell Throughout the Seasons: 4 Reasons to Visit
From narrow slot canyons to grand sweeping vistas, sandstone plateaus to meandering rivers, San Rafael Country and the San Rafael Swell are home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Utah.
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Southwestern Utah's Legendary Panoramas
Wondering where to take pictures in Utah? Our guide to the most breathtaking Utah panoramas is only a click away. Plan a photographic getaway today!
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The Story of Starvation Reservoir
Sprawling waters and local legends at Fred Hayes State Park at Starvation.
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Touring the Sheep Creek and Spirit Lake Scenic Backways of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Explore the Utah Sheep Creek backways within the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Experience awe-inspiring scenery, rock formations, and wildlife.
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Utah’s Scenery Offers A Backdrop for Inclusive Family Camping
While Utah is known for its amazing outdoors, it also has resources that ensure that families and individuals of all abilities can access these places.
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Walking The Line Between Risk and Responsibility
Why a Hawaii-based highliner and influencer hasn't returned to Utah — yet.
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Winter Wonders in Greater Zion
As you’re mapping out your winter trip through southeastern Utah, consider adding the following parks and natural wonders to your itinerary.
