Escalante River   |  Ryan Salm

Best Time to Visit Southern Utah

Southern Utah's celebrated national parks draw millions of visitors seeking red rock trails, canyons and arches. But with a little planning, you can enjoy a less crowded time, or even discover a lesser-known, but equally impressive destination. Venturing beyond the borders of the national parks — exploring state parks, national monuments and small towns — also makes for a more well-rounded trip. If you can weave an extra day into your itinerary, take the opportunity to slow down, try somewhere new and see where your Southern Utah adventure leads you.

Keep Utah Forever Mighty How to Visit Utah's National Parks

How to Avoid Crowds

The Mighty 5® national parks draw millions of visitors to Southern Utah annually, but just outside their boundaries, state parks, national monuments, wilderness areas and national forests promise comparable views and recreation. Visiting Southern Utah is a regional experience, and the best experience will flow inside and outside of national parks.

If you are planning to visit a park, be aware that May through September and holidays are popular times to visit. If you can't avoid the busy season, consider recreating outside the park during high-traffic times — typically from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Read: 7 Trails Near Zion National Park to Expand Your Hiking Experience ). Visiting early in the morning or after sunset for stargazing are both great options. All parks and monuments are accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. 

Crowds are common in Utah’s popular natural destinations. Remember that anytime you are in a crowd, you are the crowd. A little patience and understanding will go a long way. And don't forget, winter is one of the best times to visit Southern Utah if you want to enjoy some solitude amongst the beautiful landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Utah's National Parks

Arches National Park is a red rock paradise — and also a very popular destination. Early morning and late afternoon typically offer fewer crowds, shorter lines, easier parking, cooler temperatures and “golden light” for photographers.

Arches National Park is a red rock paradise — and also a very popular destination. Early morning and late afternoon typically offer fewer crowds, shorter lines, easier parking, cooler temperatures and “golden light” for photographers.

Photo: National Park Service

The most popular trails in Zion, including The Narrows, are located in Zion Canyon. But there are several less crowded hiking options located in Kolob Canyons in the northwest corner of the park.

The most popular trails in Zion, including The Narrows, are located in Zion Canyon. But there are several less crowded hiking options located in Kolob Canyons in the northwest corner of the park.

Photo: Marc Piscotty

How to Visit More Remote Areas

Outside of Utah's national parks, you'll find fewer crowds and plentiful wide-open spaces, but you may also find more limited services and remote wilderness. Before you hit the road to any unknown area, make sure to plan ahead and be aware of potential hazards. Or, go with a guide. Being prepared can help you, help others. 

Tips for Prepared Travel Go With a Guide

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State Parks Near The Mighty 5

Utah’s natural beauty extends well beyond the borders of the Mighty 5. Visit some of the best state parks in Southern Utah.

Read more


 

Beyond National Parks

See All Itineraries

01

4 Days

The Complete Arches Trip

Discover a new side of Arches National Park with this four day itinerary. Start exploring the hidden gems in the Arches region today.

Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

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02

4 Days

The Complete Bryce Canyon Trip

Planning a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Bryce Canyon region to make the most of your trip!

Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

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03

5 Days

The Complete Canyonlands Trip

The Canyonlands Region of Utah combines the best of the Moab area's easy proximity to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park's most accessible district with some of the United State's most remote and culturally significant landscapes.

Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

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04

5 Days

The Complete Capitol Reef Trip

Planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Capitol Reef region to make the most of your trip!

Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

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05

6 Days

The Complete Zion Trip

Tucked into the southwest corner of Utah, Zion National Park is the centerpiece for a 6-day red-rock vacation that includes a little bit of everything that makes the state such a marvel to experience.

Ghost Towns, Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

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