Visiting or Moving to Southern Utah? Here are some must check out things.
Southern Utah is one of the most photographed and visited regions in the American West, thanks to its dramatic canyons, arches, and desert landscapes. From Zion to small towns like Kanab and Mexican Hat, this area is full of surprises and local charm.
1. Land of the “Mighty Five”
Southern Utah is home to most of Utah’s famous “Mighty Five” national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands are all located in the southern half of the state or easily accessed from Southern Utah hubs like St. George and Moab. These parks draw millions of visitors each year for world-class hiking, canyoneering, and scenic drives.
2. Red Rock That Looks Like Mars
Many people compare Southern Utah’s red rock deserts to the surface of Mars because of the deep canyons, towering cliffs, and strange rock formations. The region’s otherworldly landscape has been used as a testing ground for Mars-related research and film projects due to its rugged, alien look.
3. Zion National Park’s Iconic Trails
Zion National Park is one of the crown jewels of Southern Utah and is known for famous trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows. Visitors come from all over the world to hike through slot canyons, wade the Virgin River, and stand beneath sheer sandstone walls that glow at sunrise and sunset.
4. Bryce Canyon’s Hoodoo Wonderland
Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its “hoodoos,” tall, thin rock spires that fill natural amphitheaters in shades of red, orange, and white. These formations are especially stunning at sunrise, making Bryce a favorite destination for photographers and stargazers.
Capitol Reef’s Hidden Orchards and Cliffs
Capitol Reef National Park combines dramatic cliffs and canyons with historic orchards planted by early settlers in the Fruita district. In season, visitors can wander among fruit trees, pick produce, and enjoy fresh pies surrounded by rugged sandstone scenery.
Grand Staircase–Escalante’s Wild Backcountry
Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument covers a massive area of canyons, plateaus, and slot canyons stretching across Southern Utah. This lesser-visited region is a paradise for hikers and backpackers looking for hidden arches, remote waterfalls, and true backcountry solitude.
Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Adventures
Southern Utah provides access to Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, a huge reservoir surrounded by red rock cliffs, coves, and side canyons. Boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and camping on sandy beaches make this one of the region’s premier water destinations.
Small Towns with Big Character
Southern Utah is dotted with memorable small towns like Kanab, Springdale, Moab, and Mexican Hat. Many of these communities are known for their proximity to national parks, local festivals, film history, and unique rock formations that inspired their names.
A Hotspot for Slot Canyons
Southern Utah is world-famous for its narrow slot canyons—twisting passages carved through sandstone that can be only a few feet wide. Popular areas include canyons near Zion, Escalante, and Page, where visitors can experience swirling walls, reflected light, and sculpted rock formations.
International Dark Sky Destinations
The remote deserts and high plateaus of Southern Utah offer some of the darkest night skies in the United States. Several parks and communities in the region have earned International Dark Sky status, making stargazing and Milky Way photography major draws for visitors.
Dinosaur Fossils and Ancient History
Southern Utah is rich in dinosaur fossils, trackways, and paleontology sites, with museums and dig locations scattered across the region. Fossil beds, preserved footprints, and exhibits help visitors imagine what this desert looked like millions of years ago.
Petroglyphs and Native American Heritage
Throughout Southern Utah, you can find petroglyphs and rock art panels left by Native American cultures that lived in the region for thousands of years. These sites, found near canyons, cliffs, and rivers, provide a powerful connection to the area’s deep human history.
Outdoor Playground All Year Long
Thanks to its lower elevation deserts and higher elevation plateaus, Southern Utah offers year-round outdoor activities. In a single season, you can hike in red rock canyons, mountain bike on slickrock, and escape summer heat by heading to higher, cooler forests and viewpoints.
Scenic Byways and Road Trips
Southern Utah is crisscrossed by scenic highways and byways that make road trips unforgettable. Routes like Scenic Byway 12, which connects Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef through dramatic canyons and high ridges, are often called some of the most beautiful drives in America.
A Magnet for Adventure Seekers
Whether it’s canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, off-roading, or trail running, Southern Utah is a magnet for adventure enthusiasts. Towns like Moab and St. George have grown into outdoor hubs with guide services, gear shops, and events that celebrate the region’s active lifestyle.
Moving to Southern Utah? Choose Manly Moving
If you’re planning to relocate to Southern Utah, you’re stepping into a landscape of sunshine, red rock beauty, and endless outdoor adventure. To make your move smooth and stress-free, partner with Manly Moving—a professional moving company focused on reliable service, careful handling, and friendly support. With Manly Moving on your side, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time settling into your new Southern Utah home.
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