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Things to Do in Utah This Winter

Imagine the striking contrast of snow-dusted red cliffs, hiking some of the most iconic trails in the country in Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, & Canyonlands), hitting the slopes, or attending annual festivals with loved ones. There’s no better time to visit Southern Utah than when the air has turned crisp, the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way, and the summer crowds have dispersed.

Visiting during the quieter season means you’ll have a more authentic experience of the culture and communities nestled in this stunning landscape and make lasting memories with the family while supporting the local economy1. You’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Utah in the Winter when you want them and serenity when you need it.

Ideas for Winter Fun in Utah

The Sundance Film Festival

If your travel plans are flexible in late January, you should fly into Salt Lake City and spend a few days between there and Park City before heading south. Filmmakers and fans have been traveling to the area to experience innovative storytelling at Sundance since 1984, but 2026 is the last year it’ll be held in Park City before moving to Boulder, CO. If you’ve ever wanted to see where this storied festival was born, now is the time2.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Being an adventurous traveler means you’ll want to rent a car and try to hit at least two of our known national parks. We recommend starting at Bryce Canyon in the winter, since the higher elevation means more snow than much of Southern Utah and more fun winter sports3. Bryce Canyon transforms into a winter fairyland of snow-covered hoodoos this time of year.

You can cross country ski or snowshoe a 2.25-mile easy trail, camp at the north campground which remains open (though it can dip below 20 at night), and witness some of the most stunning night skies2. You can also lace up your skates and hit the ice at Bryce Canyon Ice Ribbon4. If you and your beloved are in town on Valentine’s Day, check out the Winter Festival held at Ruby’s Inn, with activities including races and ski archery competitions.

Brian Head Lodge

Less than an hour and a half west of Bryce Canyon, you’ll find one of the coziest, family-friendly ski resorts in Southern Utah. If you love outdoor winter sports, this is the place to downhill ski, snow tube, snowshoe, hop on a snowmobile tour, or go ice skating through the holiday trees. The laid-back, festive atmosphere and powdery snow will delight the whole family5.

Zion National Park

No trip to Southern Utah is complete without visiting Zion, particularly in winter, when you can hit some of the most epic trails in the world without the summer crowds and experience the charm of a quieter time. The weather tends to be mild with temperatures often reaching the 40s and dropping down to the 20s overnight6.

We recommend the Riverside Walk & Lower Emerald Pool trails, which remain accessible in winter and offer unparalleled views of snow-covered cliffs and frozen waterfalls. You may be able to hike the two most famous trails, Angel’s Landing and The Narrows, but check conditions at the visitor’s center first. You might want to swing by Zion Adventure Co. to rent any gear needed to stay warm and safe6.

Tuacahn Amphitheater

From November 20 to December 23, Tuacahn Amphitheater in nearby Ivins transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland with a live nativity on Friday and Saturday nights, a production of “Elf: The Musical,” a train ride through the canyon illuminated by thousands of festive lights, paired with holiday narration and music, and Santa’s been known to set up shop there for the season, too.

If you’re visiting Zion and staying nearby, this is a wonderful evening out for the family that’s sure to become a lasting memory.

And if you’re visiting later in winter, Million Dollar Quartet shows January through March7.

St. George

About half an hour outside of Zion, you’ll find the charming town of St. George, which offers family-friendly options around the holidays and throughout winter. Here, you can ride the North Pole Express at St. George’s Thunder Junction, where you can also enjoy park access, decorate cookies, sip on hot cocoa, and create holiday crafts. Purchase your train tickets early, as they tend to sell out4. In town, you can also visit the Children’s Museum or run one of several races held in the winter months7.

Zion Canyon Hot Springs

After getting in a flurry of outdoor adventure and winter activities in Utah, logging miles on the slopes and experiencing Southern Utah’s iconic national parks in all their winter glory, it’s time for the reward at the end of the trail. We recommend booking some time to relax and reflect on time well spent with loved ones at Zion Canyon Hot Springs so you can return from your vacation refreshed and rejuvenated.

Adults can indulge in our 32 natural geothermal hot springs, 16 globally-inspired mineral soaking pools, cold plunges, barrel saunas, delicious food, and other amenities while your bodies and minds recover. Our family-friendly area boasts 14 mineral-rich hot springs, a spacious freshwater pool heated to a comfortable 90 degrees, a cold plunge, and a barrel sauna—crafted for wellness and enjoyment the whole family can share. Book it in minutes. Soak for hours.


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  • Sundance Film Festival
    Things to Do in Utah This Winter

    on Dec 22, 2025 | 3 minutes

    Imagine the striking contrast of snow-dusted red cliffs, hiking some of the most iconic trails in the country in Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, & Canyonlands), hitting the slopes, or attending annual festivals with loved ones. There’s no better time to visit Southern Utah than when the air has turned crisp, the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way, and the summer crowds have dispersed. Visiting during the quieter season means you’ll have a more authentic experience of the culture and communities nestled in this stunning landscape and make lasting memories with the family while supporting the local economy1. You’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Utah in the Winter when you want them and serenity when you need it. Ideas for Winter Fun in Utah The Sundance Film Festival If your travel plans are flexible in late January, you should fly into Salt Lake City and spend a few days between there and Park City before heading south. Filmmakers and fans have been traveling to the area to experience innovative storytelling at Sundance since 1984, but 2026 is the last year it’ll be held in Park City before moving to Boulder, CO. If you’ve ever wanted to see where this storied festival was born, now is the time2. Bryce Canyon National Park Being an adventurous traveler means you’ll want to rent a car and try to hit at least two of our known national parks. We recommend starting at Bryce Canyon in the winter, since the higher elevation means more snow than much of Southern Utah and more fun winter sports3. Bryce Canyon transforms into a winter fairyland of snow-covered hoodoos this time of year. You can cross country ski or snowshoe a 2.25-mile easy trail, camp at the north campground which remains open (though it can dip below 20 at night), and witness some of the most stunning night skies2. You can also lace up your skates and hit the ice at Bryce Canyon Ice Ribbon4. If you and your beloved are in town on Valentine’s Day, check out the Winter Festival held at Ruby’s Inn, with activities including races and ski archery competitions. Brian Head Lodge Less than an hour and a half west of Bryce Canyon, you’ll find one of the coziest, family-friendly ski resorts in Southern Utah. If you love outdoor winter sports, this is the place to downhill ski, snow tube, snowshoe, hop on a snowmobile tour, or go ice skating through the holiday trees. The laid-back, festive atmosphere and powdery snow will delight the whole family5. Zion National Park No trip to Southern Utah is complete without visiting Zion, particularly in winter, when you can hit some of the most epic trails in the world without the summer crowds and experience the charm of a quieter time. The weather tends to be mild with temperatures often reaching the 40s and dropping down to the 20s overnight6. We recommend the Riverside Walk & Lower Emerald Pool trails, which remain accessible in winter and offer unparalleled views of snow-covered cliffs and frozen waterfalls. You may be able to hike the two most famous trails, Angel’s Landing and The Narrows, but check conditions at the visitor’s center first. You might want to swing by Zion Adventure Co. to rent any gear needed to stay warm and safe6. Tuacahn Amphitheater From November 20 to December 23, Tuacahn Amphitheater in nearby Ivins transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland with a live nativity on Friday and Saturday nights, a production of “Elf: The Musical,” a train ride through the canyon illuminated by thousands of festive lights, paired with holiday narration and music, and Santa’s been known to set up shop there for the season, too. If you’re visiting Zion and staying nearby, this is a wonderful evening out for the family that’s sure to become a lasting memory. And if you’re visiting later in winter, Million Dollar Quartet shows January through March7. St. George About half an hour outside of Zion, you’ll find the charming town of St. George, which offers family-friendly options around the holidays and throughout winter. Here, you can ride the North Pole Express at St. George’s Thunder Junction, where you can also enjoy park access, decorate cookies, sip on hot cocoa, and create holiday crafts. Purchase your train tickets early, as they tend to sell out4. In town, you can also visit the Children’s Museum or run one of several races held in the winter months7. Zion Canyon Hot Springs After getting in a flurry of outdoor adventure and winter activities in Utah, logging miles on the slopes and experiencing Southern Utah’s iconic national parks in all their winter glory, it’s time for the reward at the end of the trail. We recommend booking some time to relax and reflect on time well spent with loved ones at Zion Canyon Hot Springs so you can return from your vacation refreshed and rejuvenated. Adults can indulge in our 32 natural geothermal hot springs, 16 globally-inspired mineral soaking pools, cold plunges, barrel saunas, delicious food, and other amenities while your bodies and minds recover. Our family-friendly area boasts 14 mineral-rich hot springs, a spacious freshwater pool heated to a comfortable 90 degrees, a cold plunge, and a barrel sauna—crafted for wellness and enjoyment the whole family can share. Book it in minutes. Soak for hours.

  • Grand Canyon National Park
    Things to Do Near Grand Canyon National Park

    on Dec 17, 2025 | 3 minutes

    Visiting Northern Arizona puts you in the heart of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, with the iconic Grand Canyon standing as the ultimate showstopper. But the magic of the region goes far beyond a single sight. From winding desert trails to shimmering rivers, there are countless experiences and attractions near the Grand Canyon just waiting to be discovered. If you're planning a romantic getaway or family trip to the area, this 5-day itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable route. How to Spend 5 Days Near the Grand Canyon Day 1: Grand Canyon National Park Start your adventure at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, where the views feel almost unreal. Watch the sunrise paint the canyon gold at Mather Point or take in sweeping vistas from the Desert View Watchtower1. Walk or bike the Rim Trail for a slower, more intimate look at panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Traveling couples can sneak away to a quiet overlook for a picnic with a view, while families will love exploring the Yavapai Geology Museum, where kids can learn how the canyon was formed and discover millions of years of history in one place2. Before leaving the park, stop at Cameron Trading Post, a historic detour full of character where you can browse Native American crafts, local art, and hearty local dishes, like frybread. Remember to snap a few fun photos with the colorful storefronts and desert backdrop. Finally, stay overnight in Tusayan, just outside the South Rim entrance, for an easy start to the next day's adventures. Day 2: Page In the morning, leave the Grand Canyon behind and cruise east along Highway 64, where the desert seems to stretch forever. Continue to Page, AZ, your home base for a day packed with red-rock views and water-side adventure. Once there, start with Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River curves in a perfect emerald loop 1,000 feet below, a jaw-dropping sight at sunrise or sunset when the cliffs glow gold and crimson. Later, join a guided tour through Antelope Canyon to step into a world of swirling sandstone and shifting light that feels more like art than stone. This is one of the most photogenic things to do near the Grand Canyon3. Day 3: Lake Powell Start your day surrounded by the surreal beauty of Page, where glowing sandstone canyons meet shimmering blue water. Spend the morning on or near the water at Lake Powell, a surreal landscape where red cliffs meet bright blue waves. Rent a kayak or a paddleboard at Wahweap Marina, take a scenic boat tour through Antelope Canyon, or find a sandy cove to swim and relax. Couples can catch the sunset from the deck of a boat, while families will love a beach picnic or an easy swim along the shore. If you like a quick hike, don't miss Hanging Garden Trail, a lush pocket of green tucked into the desert rock above Glen Canyon Dam. Both kids and adults will love spotting the unique plants and wildlife along the trail4. After a day of sun and water, enjoy a relaxed dinner in Page before driving north toward Kanab, UT, for a well-earned night's rest. Day 4: Kanab Wake up in Kanab, the cinematic desert town once dubbed “Little Hollywood” for its role in Western classics. Start your morning with a short drive to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where rippling red sands shift with the wind and sunlight. Rent sleds for a thrill, wander the dunes barefoot, or just soak in the desert silence stretching endlessly around you. Families can spend hours here exploring, while couples might bring a picnic to enjoy against the peaceful backdrop. One of the top attractions near the Grand Canyon for animal lovers is the Best Friends Animal Society. This is the nation's largest sanctuary for homeless animals and a heartwarming refuge where you can meet adorable rescues and tour the peaceful grounds. As the sun dips low, head back to Kanab's main street for dinner and a cozy night under the glowing desert stars5. Day 5: Zion National Park Finish your journey in Zion National Park, less than 90 minutes from Kanab. Families will love the popular Narrows and Emerald Pools trails, while couples can hike the more private Chinle Trail for sweeping romantic views. Check in for your last night in Springdale, where boutique hotels and cozy cafes set the stage for your final adventure6. For the perfect finale to your Southwest escape, head to Zion Canyon Hot Springs in nearby La Verkin. After days of hiking and exploring, you'll love to unwind in mineral-rich pools surrounded by desert cliffs and warm air along the Virgin River. Couples can sink into the water at sunset, watching the sky fade to pink and gold. Families can relax together in the calm, natural pools for a serene pause before the journey home. Whether you're hiking trails solo, sneaking off on a romantic escape, or exploring with the whole crew, Zion Canyon Hot Springs gives you the chance to soak in the magic of the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona. Book your visit today to secure your spot and treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind experience. Sources: Southwest Media Communications. Grand Canyon Top Attractions. Grand Canyon. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.grandcanyon.net/attractions U.S. Department of the Interior. (July 29, 2025). Yavapai Museum of Geology. National Parks Service. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/yavapai-geo.htm Rivers & Oceans. Top Attractions Near Grand Canyon. Rivers & Oceans Adventure Travel Experts. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.riversandoceans.com/top-attractions-near-grand-canyon/ U.S. Department of the Interior. (February 12, 2025). Day Hikes. National Parks Service. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit/day-hikes.htm Utah Office of Tourism. Kanab. Utah: Life Elevated. Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/cities-and-towns/kanab Utah Office of Tourism. Zion National Park. Utah: Life Elevated. Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/zion

  • Bryce Canyon National Park
    Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon

    on Dec 12, 2025 | 3 minutes

    If you’re planning a trip to Bryce Canyon, your adventurous heart is already looking forward to the otherworldly beauty of natural amphitheaters and the largest collection of hoodoos—those towering red spires rising from the bottom of the basin—in the world1. Once you’ve done some stargazing in this dark sky designated park, witnessed a jaw-dropping sunrise, toured below the rim on horseback, and hiked the iconic Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop Trail, you might like to branch out and add some of the other incredible and inspiring things to do near Bryce Canyon from our curated list below. Southern Utah is loaded with swoon-worthy, family-friendly sites for the history buff, the naturalist, outdoor sports lovers, and wellness enthusiasts alike. As you plan your dream trip to southern Utah, don’t forget to incorporate some relaxation and recovery time. Zion Canyon Hot Springs is your reward at the end of the trail. 7 Must-See Attractions Near Bryce Canyon Scenic Byway 12 One of the most beautiful drives in the world is located near Bryce Canyon National Park and connects Kodachrome State Park, Grand Staircase National Monument, and Capitol Reef National Park. The 122-mile drive from Panguitch to Torrey passes through twisting canyons, red rock towers, pine forests, and pioneer towns. With so much tucked along one road, you’ll want to stop often to take it all in and make lasting memories. Crank up the music, roll down the windows, unplug, and take in “the most scenic road in America” with your loved ones2. The Town of Escalante About an hour east of Bryce Canyon along stunning Byway 12, Escalante features incredible hiking and delicious farm-to-table dining3. Start your day with a visit to Petrified Forest State Park, home to large pieces of petrified wood and numerous fossils4. Then, venture over to Grand Staircase National Monument for a hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls. The strenuous 6-mile trek through often hot sand is worth the payoff, a 128-foot waterfall with a spectacular swimming hole shaded by canyon walls. It’s the ideal setting for a picnic lunch, but plan on dinner in town. Note that most of Escalante’s restaurants are open seasonally from March through October, serving tourists and locals. Fourth West Pub is open year-round. Anasazi State Park If you’re driving Byway 12, you might continue east from Escalante to nearby Boulder and visit Anasazi State Park, where you can explore the Ancient Puebloan village once home to one of the largest Anasazi communities west of the Colorado River. Check out a replica of a typical dwelling, view artifacts, and learn about life here in 1050–1200 A.D5. And since you’re already in the area, plan on dinner at Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm, which features seasonal, farm-fresh Western Range and Southwestern flavors3. Cottonwood Canyon Road If you’re looking for a hidden gem experience, take this scenic dirt road (weather permitting, avoid if there’s a chance of rain) from Kodachrome Basin State Park (a gorgeous and underrated park with colorful cliffs and buttes in hues of red, orange, and yellow) to Kanab, a town with many unique attractions of its own. In Kanab, you’ll find stunning Coral Pink Sands State Park, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, museums, and a thriving food scene. Brian Head Ski Resort If you’re visiting in winter, go downhill skiing at this premier ski resort with the highest base elevation in Utah at 9,600 feet. You can also snowboard or tube down the slopes amid some gorgeous vistas. During summer and fall, you might rest up for your next stop, hike, bike, fish, go horseback riding, and they host plenty of events, including an Oktoberfest. With restaurants and shopping on site, it’s an excellent addition to an epic southern Utah itinerary2. Zion National Park As you head west toward Las Vegas International Airport, one of the best things to do near Bryce Canyon National Park is to take the time to visit Zion National Park and the surrounding towns for a few days. With over 150 hiking trails, including two of the most iconic hikes in the world, Angel’s Landing which offers beautiful views of the park (permit required for this strenuous hike), and The Narrows, an often-wet hike through the Virgin River and a famous slot canyon, you’ll find plenty of awe-inspiring activities at one of America’s most treasured national parks. The entrance fee for Zion National Park is $35, but if you’re planning on visiting at least 3 national parks in the next year, it’s worth it to purchase an America the Beautiful Annual National Parks Pass for $802. Zion Canyon Hot Springs As your trip winds down, take some time to rest, recover, and reflect on this legendary adventure. Approximately half an hour from Zion National Park in La Verkin, you’ll find Zion Canyon Hot Springs is the ideal spot for pampering and relaxation. Boasting 32 natural geothermal hot springs with water pulled and treated from the natural hot springs of the Virgin River, 16 globally-inspired mineral soaking pools, each inspired by legendary destinations—like Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and the Dead Sea—cold plunges, barrel saunas, delectable food and drinks served poolside, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is a stellar reward at the end of the trail. We have both family-friendly and 21+ areas, so whether you’re traveling with friends or little ones, our water-rich oasis has everything you need to ease your aches and pains so you can return home not only inspired by all you’ve seen in this unforgettable part of the country, but also well-rested and rejuvenated in both body and mind. Book in minutes. Soak for hours. Sources: (10 December 2021). The Perfect 72 Hours Near Bryce Canyon National Park. Under Canvas. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.undercanvas.com/blog/72-hours-near-bryce-canyon-national-park/ (9 September 2022). 11 Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The Wildlife Diaries. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.thewildlifediaries.com/things-to-do-near-bryce-canyon/ Bauer, A. Fun Family Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon (Plus the Best Place to Stay!). Zion Adventure Photog. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.zionadventurephotog.com/single-post/things-to-do-near-bryce-canyon Ockey, N. (22 April 2023). Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon. Utah’s Adventure Family. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.utahsadventurefamily.com/things-to-do-near-bryce-along-scenic-highway-12/ Parks and Other Tourist Attraction Spots near Bryce Canyon. Bryce Canyon. Retrieved September 16, 2025, from https://www.brycecanyon.net/parks-tourist-attraction-spots-near-bryce-canyon/