When most people think of Utah, they picture the Mighty Five National Parks, Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. While these iconic parks are bucket-list worthy, Utah is also home to 46 state parks, 6 national monuments, and countless underrated landscapes that many travelers overlook.
From otherworldly hoodoos and ancient petroglyphs to pink sand dunes and dinosaur fossils, Utah’s hidden parks deliver just as much adventure (without the heavy crowds). If you’re looking to find secret adventures beyond the famous spots, here are 10 road trip ideas in Utah you’ll definitely want on your bucket list.
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1. Goblin Valley State Park
Ever seen rocks that look like goblins, gnomes, or giant mushrooms? Goblin Valley’s whimsical hoodoos are a playground for both kids and adults. Visitors can hike, climb, and wander freely among the formations, making it one of Utah’s most interactive landscapes. If you like other worldly destinations, this park is for you. Best seasons to visit are spring and fall. You will find this park along Utah’s Mighty Five Loop.
2. Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument
With jaw-dropping slot canyons like Peek-a-Boo Gulch and Spooky Canyon, this monument rivals even Zion in beauty. Unlike the crowds at Antelope Canyon, Escalante’s canyons are peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for a half-day hike. Don’t miss the vibrant Zebra Canyon for striped rock walls unlike anywhere else. Binoculars come in handy to see those stripes! We got these Occer binoculars on Amazon and we really like them.
3. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park
Step back in time with trails lined by millions-of-years-old petrified wood. The 2-mile Petrified Forest Trail showcases glowing red, green, and golden logs that have been turned to stone. It’s like walking through an ancient storybook of Earth’s history.
4. Fremont Indian State Park
This park blends archaeology, history, and scenic hikes. See petroglyphs carved into cliffs by the Fremont people, then explore the Five Finger Ridge Trail for sweeping canyon views. The on-site museum adds depth with artifacts and cultural exhibits.
5. Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument
Nicknamed the “rock that tells a story,” Newspaper Rock features a massive wall of ancient petroglyphs, depicting humans, animals, tools, and abstract symbols etched into sandstone. Pair this stop with a drive along the Indian Creek Scenic Byway, which eventually leads to Canyonlands’ Needles District. This is just one place to see Utah’s petroglyphs and pictographs.
6. Valley of the Gods
Often called a smaller version of Monument Valley, this area is filled with towering sandstone buttes with names like “Seven Sailors” and “Lady in the Bathtub.” Drive the 17-mile scenic loop for stunning desert views. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended after heavy rain.
Pro Tip: Whatever you do don’t forget to bring your camera! You will want to look back on these memories. Find a camera that is easy to carry in your bag, so you have it handy. I love my Kodak PixPro, it’s a great size and takes really nice pictures and videos.
7. Nine Mile Canyon
Known as the “World’s Longest Art Gallery,” this 46-mile canyon is home to thousands of petroglyphs and pictographs. Along the scenic drive, you’ll find marked stops and picnic spots perfect for a leisurely day of exploration. Don’t forget your camera!
8. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Just an hour from Zion, this park glows with vibrant coral-colored sand dunes set against red rock cliffs. Visitors love sandboarding, hiking, and photography.
Pro Tip: If you visit in winter, the pink dunes look stunning against the snow.
9. Bonneville Salt Flats
Stretching for 46 square miles, the Bonneville Salt Flats look like another planet. The shimmering, flat white landscape is best visited in summer or fall when dry conditions allow you to drive across the salt crust.
*Pro tip: Sunset and sunrise here are unforgettable.
10. Dinosaur National Monument
Straddling Utah and Colorado, this monument is a dream for dino lovers. The Quarry Exhibit Hall displays over 1,000 dinosaur fossils still embedded in rock walls. Beyond the bones, explore scenic drives, petroglyphs, and sweeping canyon views along Harpers Corner Road.
Final Thoughts on Utah’s Hidden Parks
Utah is a land of endless wonder, from slot canyons and sand dunes to petroglyphs and petrified forests. While the Mighty Five draw the crowds, these underrated Utah parks offer adventure, history, and natural beauty without the hustle.
Next time you’re road-tripping through the Beehive State, make room on your itinerary for these hidden gems, they just might become your favorite stops. Utah has some amazing state parks worth visiting and so do most other states. If you can’t get away for a long trip, investigate what your state has to offer. I bet you’ll be surprised. If you need help finding new places to visit or with planning a road trip, check out roadtrippers.com. They have lots of great information. Use code BTR5QTP to save $5.
We enjoy sharing information and tips we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have fun and make lots of memories!
By Greg and Peggy
We are two people who love to travel, thrift and play slot machines. We love going to new places, especially if there is a casino! We just want to share our adventures with people and hope to inspire them to explore and have fun!