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Utah national park Bryce Canyon

Why Bryce Canyon Was My Least Favorite Utah National Park

I might have the most unpopular opinion about Bryce Canyon National Park. Don’t get me wrong—it’s stunning. The hoodoos are some of the most unique rock formations you’ll ever see, and the park is overflowing with natural beauty. Yet, it only ranks third on my list of Utah’s five national parks. Why third? Not because Bryce lacks beauty or amenities—it has both in abundance—but because I struggled to find a moment of solitude. To me, a national park should be...

Utah national park Bryce Canyon

Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks: Which One Is the Best?

Of Utah’s five national parks—often called the Mighty Five—which one is the best? The answer depends on what you value, why you’re visiting, and who you’re with. I spent five weeks visiting every Utah national park, exploring solo and hiking whenever possible. As someone who loves solitude in nature, my impressions reflect that perspective. If you enjoy hiking and peaceful wilderness, you’ll likely appreciate the same parks I did. If you prefer crowds, scenic drives, or more social experiences, your...

3 Reasons The Watchman is the Best Trail at Zion National Park

The Watchman Trail in Zion National Park is the most underrated and overlooked trail in the system. That’s to your disadvantage. It may be my favorite of all the hikes in the park. Now, hear me out. I have my reasons. Zion is a hiker’s park. Unlike most other national parks, if you’re going to Zion, chances are you’re also a hiker of some level. Sure you could just drive through and look at the glorious bright red-orange mountains, but...

Monument Valley road

Take an Epic Drive Through Monument Valley in Utah and Arizona

When I took the scenic route toward Monument Valley along US 191 from Moab down into Arizona, I had no idea of the surreal, almost magical drive that awaited me. I’ve been to Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, the Grand Canyon and many other places in the area considered among the most beautiful, but none compared to the simple majesty of Monument Valley. I think perhaps the beauty comes from the simplicity that we so seldom find in today’s world. There...

Visiting Capitol Reef National Park

I’d decided to skip Capitol Reef National Park during my five-week visit to Utah. But it was all the things I didn’t like about the other parks that made me go. I’m so glad I did. It ended up being my 2nd favorite Utah National Park. Why? The number one reason Capitol Reef National Park is worth visiting is the crowds. This park doesn’t have any. My other reason is history. Oh, and the pie. Who am I kidding? It’s...

Antelope Island Buffalo

Visiting Antelope Island, Utah, Where the Buffalo Roam, For Now

On Antelope Island, the buffalo roam. And it’s a beautiful miracle where once they were nearly extinct.   Not so many years ago, the American Bison, or buffalo as they’re commonly called, were decimated. They say that once in the late 18th century, these glorious beasts numbered over 60 million. There were so many buffalo in this country that a buffalo crossing could last up to six days. If your path crossed theirs, you’d have to wait as they lumbered and rumbled past, like waiting at a passing train. But we hunted...