We Bet You Didn't Know These Rural Utah Destinations Even Existed
By Courtnie Erickson|Published August 21, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Utah is home to countless hidden gems. Some of these destinations are found right in the heart of the larger cities, but some of my personal favorites are those that are tucked away and located in rural areas. In fact, some of these hidden gems are so remote that many people don’t even know they exist. Today, I want to share just a few rural Utah destinations that many people don’t know about. But, believe me, they are worth exploring.
Boulder is a small town in southern Utah and is actually one of the smallest towns in the state. It is a town that is rich in history and also has many attractions, including the award-winning Hell’s Backbone Grill and Farm. Boulder is also home to the Anasazi State Park Museum and Scenic Byway 12 passes right through town.
2. Wind Caves, Logan Canyon
Wind Cave Trailhead, Wind Caves, Logan, UT 84341, USA
Tucked up Logan Canyon you will find the Wind Caves Trail. This is a 3.5-mile, round-trip hike that offers beautiful views and takes you to the wind caves. However, this isn't much of a cave — it is more of a triple arch.
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3. Grosvenor Arch, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Grosvenor Arch is actually one of the largest natural arches in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and a destination many people don’t even know is there. You will need to tackle a short, easy, and paved trail to reach the arch, which stands approximately 150 feet above the ground and 100 feet in diameter.
Fantasy Canyon is one rural destination you will be grateful to have discovered. This unique destination is approximately 40 miles south of Vernal and is home to some of the most unique formations. When visiting, you can walk around and check out the unique scenery. Just make sure you don’t touch as these formations are quite fragile.
Red Reef Trail may be one of my favorite hiking trails in southern Utah and it’s found at the Red Cliffs Campground north of St. George. This out-and-back hiking trail takes you through red rocks and desert to a small seasonal waterfall. There is even a rope and Moki steps next to the falls if you wish to climb on top of the waterfall and continue exploring.
6. Posey Lake
Posey Lake Campground, Dixie National Forest, Forest Rd 154, Escalante, UT 84726, USA
Posey Lake is one true hidden gem near Escalante. In fact, if you want to spend some time in southern Utah but want to avoid the crowds, Posey Lake is the perfect destination. This is a small lake tucked up in the mountains and features a gorgeous, yet small campground. Hike, fish, or just enjoy the quiet of the area — you’ll quickly see why this is one of my favorite destinations in Utah.
There are a handful of slot canyons in Utah to explore — some much more popular and well-known than others. Little Wild Horse Canyon has something for every member of the family. There are areas that are wide and others that are a bit more narrow. You’ll likely need to do some rock scrambling on your way and depending on the weather, you may even need to wade in water for a while. But, it’s one destination that is full of adventure.
Valley of the Gods is easily one of the most underrated destinations in Utah. It is located near Monument Valley but is actually on BLM land, allowing for more opportunities to explore than Monument Valley. Here, you won’t find any services but you will find a long dirt road and views that are picturesque in so many ways.
Tony Grove Lake is another hidden gem that is located up Logan Canyon. Many people drive by the turn-off on their way to Bear Lake but it’s one stop that’s worth a visit. The lake isn’t large but it sure is beautiful no matter the time of year. In the summer, this is one of the best places in Utah to view summer wildflowers and in the fall, this area is inspiring with its incredible fall foliage.
What other rural Utah destinations would you add to this list? Are there any that you love? Let us know in the comments! And, if you want to check out even more hidden gems in Utah, check out this list featuring 12 hidden gems to discover, one for each month of the year.
