Why You Should Take a Trip to Southern Utah
Where Adventure Is Everywhere
When you find yourself saying, “I need a vacation,” you might not be that far off. Taking the time to relax is beneficial for both your physical and mental health. For an optimal mental health break, pick a warmer location, and balance fun, energetic activities with quieter, more relaxing ones. If you’re looking for sunny weather, leisure, and fun, southern Utah is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation! Even in the winter, you can escape the cold and enjoy a nice, relaxing break.
National Parks
Utah is home to several national parks, all famous for their beauty and the adventures they offer. Take a scenic drive on the Mt. Carmel highway, then hike the Narrows in Zion National Park. Then head over to Arches National Park, home to several landscape features, including balanced rock, the fiery furnace, and the devil’s garden trail. In between hiking and rock climbing, do some sightseeing. Relax in a natural pool, or enjoy stargazing in the open desert.
Moab
Moab is surrounded by nature, making it a wonderful place to explore! Experience a variety of ropes courses at Adventure Park Moab! Try rafting in the Colorado River, or hike the Corona Arch trail. If you don’t feel like walking, take one of Dan Mick’s guided jeep tours, or sit back and relax as you enjoy the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park. Travelers of every age will love Moab Giants, a dinosaur park located in the middle of the desert. No matter what you do, you’re sure to have a good time.
Cedar City
There’s plenty to do in Cedar City, from fine arts to history. A definite highlight is the Utah Shakespeare Festival, with various shows running from June through October. Not far from Cedar City is the town of Parowan, one of the original settlements in Utah. You’ll find beauty in its old-fashioned streets and pioneer museums. If you’re looking for a natural getaway, visit Brian Head ski resort. It’s gorgeous throughout every season, and you can ride the lift up the mountain to catch an even better view of the surrounding area. There are also plenty of annual Cedar City Utah events to choose from making it a perfect year-round travel destination.
Springdale
Further east, you’ll find the little town of Springdale. Surrounded on all sides by Zion National Park, there’s already plenty of hiking and sightseeing to do. You can spend the day walking the canyon trail, then head into town for dinner at the famous Switchback Grill. You don’t even have to hike to find beautiful scenery. Take a drive up to Kolob Terrace, a lesser-known peak in Utah, rising over 8,000 feet in elevation. When you’re ready to unwind, you can pay to float the Virgin River. Nature’s never far away in Springdale.
Hurricane
Head down to Hurricane, where the weather is sunny and dry year-round. Located in the heart of the Utah desert, Hurricane is famous for its sand. You can swim, boat, and fish at the Sand Hollow Reservoir, and ride the nearby sand dunes. Enjoy the view from above when you take a tour with Zion Helicopters. And connect with your inner Shakespeare at the Hurricane Valley Theatrical Company.
St. George
One of the most popular locations to visit in southern Utah is St. George, located just north of the Utah/Arizona border. A great place to visit for some nicer weather, St. George is also home to several museums and activities. Explore the famous red rocks and canyons of Utah with an excursion from Paragon Adventures, or enjoy the view from above with Palledin Balloon Excursions. For something more relaxing, experience the unique beauty of the Red Hills Desert Garden. There are also plenty of educational opportunities, including the Western Sky Aviation Warbird Museum, the Daughters of Utah Pioneer Museum, and the Kayenta Art Village.
No matter where you choose to spend your vacation, you are sure to come home feeling relaxed and refreshed. Visit southern Utah and get the mental health break you deserve!
About the Creator
Indy Summers
Indy Summers is a freelance writer interested in fashion, healthy living, and fitness. She has worked as an esthetician, as a personal trainer, and as a freelance model for several years.
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