In the 1966 cult classic surfing documentary Endless Summer, a couple of surfers travel both sides of the equator for one year searching for the perfect wave, enjoying an “endless summer”. Salt Lake Express does not have a travel route that expansive, so by necessity, summer must end for us. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t time to check out the many great Utah destinations at your fingertips.
The Beehive State is famous for its national parks, opportunities for hiking, and breathtaking scenery. From the majesty of the Wasatch Range to the red-hued geology of southern Utah, the landscape provides plenty of diversions. If this gorgeous part of the country doesn’t provide an endless summer, it certainly encourages endless summer fun. And now in the month of August, the pressure is on to take advantage of what remains of the season.
Here are a five Utah destinations you’ll want to make sure you visit this month.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is not only one of the most beautiful Utah destinations, it is also extremely inviting. Scores of hiking trails weave through this national park, including the popular Narrows, a hike down and in the Virgin River through the narrowest gorges of Zion Canyon.
Fascinating wild and plant life also swarm the lovely sandstone cliffs and wilderness, adding to the camping and hiking allure. Learn more about park fees, permits, and other things to do at Zion’s by visiting their official website.
Salt Lake City
Some of the best that Utah has to offer can be found in the sights, sounds, and culture of its capital. Salt Lake City keeps the summer party going even going into September. The ongoing Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Festival entertains with events through mid-September, the Real Madrid schedule begins this month, and City Creek is all the more enjoyable in warm weather.
From concerts to festivals to dining, Salt Lake attracts thousands upon thousands of visitors each year. And as our namesake, Salt Lake Express is proud to help sustain that exodus. Join us in Salt Lake City this summer before the cool weather moves in.
Bonneville Salt Flats
Home to the Bonneville Speedway and numerous land speed records, the Bonneville Salt Flats are a mere two hours west of Salt Lake City. The dense salt pan is a natural phenomenon and definitely worth checking out for its own sake. Not to mention there are several places to camp nearby — though not on the flats!
And when we say flats, we mean flat. You can practically see the curvature of the earth, and there is no vegetation to decorate the landscape. This truly otherworldy part of the state is one of the most impressive Utah destinations.
Bryce Canyon
Just 72 miles from Zion is yet another national park — Bryce Canyon National Park, which includes more sandstone features, huge, breathtaking amphitheaters, and a dazzling array of color. Summer is a great time to visit Bryce Canyon, but late August and September are especially timely; at this point, the summer rains have subsided and temperatures are still pleasant. In fact, while other popular outdoor areas in southern Utah experience fairly scorching heat, Bryce Canyon remains more temperate.
If you are looking to visit Utah destinations off the beaten path, Bryce is several hours from any major airport and over 100 miles from the I-15. We’re happy to take you as close as we can!
Bear Lake
On the other end of the state, straddling the Utah-Idaho border, Bear Lake boasts just about all the summer fun you can imagine. Swimming, boating, camping, and fishing are all available from both states’ sides.
You can also enjoy summer events at Bear Lake, such as the Bear Lake County Fair and coinciding Rodeo Days.
Our summer days may be numbered, but in Utah, there are plenty of attractions to fill them up. From the diverse cultural experience of the city to the beauty and wonder of the parks, these Utah destinations are ideal during this time of year.
Book your trip to your next destination with Salt Lake Express and we will take you there or to the nearest drop-off point. This state is vast and open for adventure, so make good use of the summer and explore its endless majesty.