WHERE TO BACKPACK IN UTAH
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Backpacking
Backpacking in Utah can take you through alpine forests, red rock lands, jagged peaks or lush waterways.
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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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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.
- 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.
Discover More
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Backpacking in Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park offers a spectrum of backpacking opportunities — from short trips at designated backcountry campsites to longer, adventurous trips that require extensive planning and desert canyon navigational knowledge.
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Be Prepared for the Backcountry
Prepare for a trip out into Utah's rugged red rock backcountry by learning as much as possible about the area before heading out. Stop by a ranger station to educate yourself and pick up necessary permits. Always practice good backcountry ethics and proper safety techniques for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
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Bikepacking through Time in the San Rafael Swell
We're miles away from civilization here in southeastern Utah’s San Rafael Swell, and we carry everything we need on our bikes. This is the type of adventure I've longed for, a trip that reminds us of our self-worth, resilience, and how little we actually need to survive.
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Elevate Your Hiking with Mindfulness
Incorporating simple mindfulness techniques into your next hike can take the edge off anxiety and enhance your overall well being.
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Field Notes: Backpacking With Children
Author Tim Sullivan shares his tips and tricks on backpacking with his young children.
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From Sparkles to Sparks: Just Click Your Heels (or Hiking Boots) and Go!
Women embrace adventure differently throughout their lives.
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Getting Back on the Mountain
Adaptive recreation puts everybody in the game, regardless of age or ability.
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Hiking the Desert in Capitol Reef National Park
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Introduction to Hiking Utah's High Uintas
Highlights of local hiking trails in the High Uintas include stellar views of sparkling lakes in a lush alpine environment. Get a multi-day pass for your hiking adventure!
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Winter Hiking in Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon winter hiking is not your typical hike. Review our suggested checklist of snow hiking gear and tips to stay dry, warm and comfortable. Plan a trip.
