Utah

Labyrinth Slot Canyon — Lake Powell, UT

Labyrinth Slot Canyon — Lake Powell, UT

Only accessible through Lake Powell, Labyrinth Slot Canyon has the same colorful sandstone walls as the famous Antelope Canyon.. but without the crowds and fees!

Off-Roading to Skylight Arch - Glen Canyon NRA, UT

Off-Roading to Skylight Arch - Glen Canyon NRA, UT

Skylight Arch near Page, Arizona is an inverted arch hidden above the main highway with gorgeous views of Lake Powell that requires some off roading to get to.

Lower Calf Creek Falls - Grand Staircase-Escalante NM, UT

Lower Calf Creek Falls - Grand Staircase-Escalante NM, UT

Lower Calf Creek Falls is well worth braving the crowds to enjoy a 120ft. waterfall in the middle of the desert

Zebra Slot Canyon - Grand Staircase-Escalante NM, UT

Zebra Slot Canyon - Grand Staircase-Escalante NM, UT

The Zebra Slot Canyon is one of my favorite hikes in the Grand Staircase-Escalante area. The red, smooth, striped walls make for unique photo opportunities.

Willis Creek Canyon - Grand Staircase-Escalante NM, UT

Willis Creek Canyon - Grand Staircase-Escalante NM, UT

Willis Creek Slot Canyon is a a little oasis in the middle of the Escalante desert! The short hike leads you through beautiful section of narrows.

Rainbow Bridge - Rainbow Bridge National Monument, UT

Rainbow Bridge - Rainbow Bridge National Monument, UT

Rainbow Bridge is one of the largest arches accessible by foot or boat. It stands almost 300 feet wide and tall! Getting there by boat makes it a short and easy 1.3 mile hike to see the arch, and I love the 50 mile boat ride up the gorgeous Lake Powell.

Alstrom Point - Lake Powell, UT

Alstrom Point - Lake Powell, UT

Alstrom Point in Arizona is one of the most scenic views of Lake Powell that gives expansive views of the lake, and remains one of my favorite campgrounds

St. George Slot Canyon - Pioneer Park, St. George, UT

St. George Slot Canyon - Pioneer Park, St. George, UT

This is the narrowest slot canyon I've ever been in, and if you're in the area this would be a fun stop.. but not for the claustrophobic!

Camping and Dune Boarding at Coral Pink Sand Dunes SP, UT

Camping and Dune Boarding at Coral Pink Sand Dunes SP, UT

Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a small state park off the beaten path that is worth staying a night, or more if you have any dune toys like buggies, motor bikes, or ATVs. The campground had the nicest facilities of any park I've stayed at, and the pink dunes were impressive to see in the middle of the desert.

Hiking and Canyoneering The Subway — Zion National Park, UT

Hiking and Canyoneering The Subway — Zion National Park, UT

If you can snag permits, the Subway in Zion is my favorite semi-technical canyoneering route. This day hike covers the most unique and iconic features of Zion

Hiking the Narrows - Zion National Park, UT

Hiking the Narrows - Zion National Park, UT

The Zion Narrows is another classic hike with a unique twist - you'll be hiking in the water! Trust me, for these stunning views, it's worth it

Angel's Landing - Zion National Park, UT

Angel's Landing - Zion National Park, UT

A classic hike for anyone visiting Zion. The dramatic climb uses chains to traverse a sheer ridge to an incredible view of the valley

Hidden Canyon - Zion NP, UT

Hidden Canyon - Zion NP, UT

Hidden Canyon is a strenuous hike up the side of the canyon wall, but it has great views of a hanging canyon, waterfall, and even a natural small arch! Warning: lots of switchbacks! Not recommended for people who are scared of heights, since there is a section of slickrock and a chain to guide you.

Mesa Arch & Elephant Hill at Island in the Sky - Canyonlands NP, UT

Mesa Arch & Elephant Hill at Island in the Sky - Canyonlands NP, UT

Island in the Sky was our favorite district within Canyonlands. Although it was definitely more crowded, you can drive between all of the attractions, and the hikes are all short and easy with just as rewarding payoffs. If you only have the time or energy for one, definitely do Grand View Overlook (at sunset for an extra bonus), because the view of the white rim is stunning.

Grand View Point at Island in the Sky - Canyonlands NP, UT

Grand View Point at Island in the Sky - Canyonlands NP, UT

The Grand View Overlook parking lot is easy to reach by car, and there were plenty of other hikers at this very popular overlook. It's a very easy but scenic trail - Clark and I actually hiked it all in flip flops. If you only have time for one short hike at Island in the Sky, I would recommend this one!