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Destination guide
Desert landscapes and ski resorts in Utah
From the salt lakes to mountain trails, Utah is certainly a state for outdoorsy types, and, outside the cities, there are activities to enjoy in all weathers. Towns such as Park City have become world-class ski resorts, with plenty of powder during the winter, and many Utah vacation rentals are set among the state's mountainous landscape. There are large areas of red-tinged desert, with rocky hiking trails, and several national parks for camping. Utah also has a rich cultural scene, hosting the annual Sundance film festival, with Salt Lake City home to many museums, art galleries and historic theaters.
Activities
See Utah's sparkling Great Salt Lakes
Utah's capital, Salt Lake City, gets its name from the nearby Great Salt Lakes, so no visit to Utah is complete without a drive around the lakefront. The salt deposits make the lake sparkle, and if you visit at sunrise or sunset, they have a spectacular pink glow. Consider booking a Utah vacation rental close to the lake and exploring Antelope Island, which is reached by a long causeway and offers great views. You'll find sandy beaches overlooking the lake, and, if you don't mind a few brine shrimp, you can enjoy a relaxing float in the salty waters.
Weather
Hot Utah summers and snowy winters
Utah has 4 distinct seasons, and there's plenty to do, whenever you visit. The summers tend to be hot and dry, sometimes reaching 100, especially out in the desert. The temperature soon drops in October for a chilly fall, with the occasional cyclone hitting Utah, which can mean heavy rain. Spring can also be a wet season, although the temperature warms up quickly, so it's usually nice and mild. Winter brings snowfall from mid-November, especially in the mountains where the thick powder has made Utah a popular ski destination.
Natural features
Red deserts and snowy mountain tops in Utah
Around a 3rd of Utah is desert, with wide flat landscapes punctuated with large rocky formations and desert plants. Close to Moab is the Arches National Park, which has large red-tinged sandstone arches, creating a dramatic landscape. Look for Utah vacation rentals close to the park, and you can explore the many hiking trails, including the Grandstaff Canyon, with its rocky trails through hills and creeks. Utah has many mountains throughout the state, including Kings Peak, where there's a challenging 26-mile trail to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains