UTAH
Some of the most spectacular scenery in the world is located in Utah. An abundance of national parks and easy access to them makes it a must destination. It is a photographers dream. Approximately 10 Million visitors attest to the magnificence of these parks. The top four are Zion, Glen Canyon aka Lake Powell, Flaming George, and Bryce Canyon. Other prominent favorites are Arches, Grand Staircase, Capitol Reef, Cedar Breaks and Canyonlands. All are on the national register for the top 10 national scenic wonders.
| THINGS TO DO | THINGS TO SEE |
|
|
The Winter seasons bring a whole range of activities and sites to do and see. Utah advertises the greatest snow on earth. There are 13 major resorts with most being located within 30 minutes to 1 hour from the Salt Lake International Airport. It is not by accident that the U.S. Ski and Snow boarding Association is located in Park City Utah, just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City. Most of these resorts can accommodate beginners to professionals on gentle sloops to the most challenging. Remember the 2002 Winter Olympics were held at these resorts. Many championship events are held here each year including ski jumping and snowboarding on the Olympic venues. Other activities which are popular during the Winter Season are blazing across the snow on a snow machine and cross country skiing. All equipment and clothing can be rented.
Perhaps the most famous feature in Utah is the Great Salt Lake itself, however the largest tourist attraction, by
far, in Northern Utah is Temple Square. Salt Lake City was founded in 1847 when a group of pioneers, led by Brigham Young, crossed the plains from Illinois and settled in the Valley of the Great Salt Lake. This event is commemorated each year on the 24th of July with a huge parade, western rodeo and large fire works displays throughout the state. There are historical museums, visitor centers and films which depict the customs of the Mormon people and their history on Temple Square and in near-by buildings. On Sunday's many visitors like to attend the free Tabernacle Choir broadcast which originates live from the Mormon Tabernacle on Temple Square at 9:30 AM each Sunday. You must be in your seat for this broadcast by 9:15 AM.
The Eastern Part of Utah has a variety of remarkable features for your indulgence. Moab is the gateway to Arches and Canyon lands National Parks. In addition Moab is world renowned for the bike riding and ATV trails that exist among the most gorgeous scenery you will ever behold. Local businesses are setup to cater to this clientèle as it is such a major share of the economy of that region. Some of the best rivers and river runners are also available in the Eastern Utah region. Imagine floating down the Colorado with high rock walls and hardly a sound but for the rippling of the water. Through in an occasional glimpse of a big horned sheep or Indian art sketched on the rock walls and it just doesn't get much better than that.
Sports Activities
Golf courses are located in almost every community of any size in the State. Boating likewise is available from beautiful Bear Lake on the Northern border to Lake Powell on the South. Most areas have boats and jet skis for rent at reasonable rates. Remember also that Utah is home to the Utah Jazz, the Salt Lake Bees, and Real Salt Lake Hockey Team, all professional sports franchises. Utah is also world renowned for it fishing and hunting. It takes a lifetime to fully take advantage of all that is available. Plan to spend enough time to just relax and enjoy.
Scenic Byways
The best way to really get to know Utah is to get off the Interstate Highways and on to the side roads that meander through many of the small towns. Experience the pioneer heritage of the state which includes farming communities, mining towns and even an "outlaw hideout" or two. There are a series of National and State "Scenic Byways", that consist of over thirty roads that explore the forests, lakes, red rock formations and deserts of Utah. These Byways are carefully designated with colorful signs. Most roads are excellent but may have slower speed limits and there are some sharp turns and steeper sloops.
Great Salt Lake
Perhaps the most famous feature of Utah and the source of the name for Utah's capitol, Salt Lake City. It is salty and not very conducive to swimming and other water activities. It is the home of many sail boats however. The best place to view the lake is on the South shore at "Salt Air". There are several islands in the lake, one of which is Antelope Island, which is a state park and connected by a causeway with a good road which can be accessed from Interstate 15, Buffalo and other wild animals can be observed. Picnicking and camping is available.
