Utah's Unusual Attractions and Hidden Gems

STEPHANIE HOFFEE
January 22, 2024

Beyond the beautiful and well-known attractions in Utah, lie some of Utah's best-kept secrets — the hidden gems and unusual attractions that add a touch of magic to our beautiful state.

The Tree of Utah (Tree of Life)

Venture into the Bonneville Salt Flats to find the surreal "Tree of Utah." This 87-foot-tall, brightly colored sculpture emerges from the desolate landscape.

Hole N' The Rock

Head into the red rock canyons near Moab to discover the extraordinary home carved into a massive rock by Albert Christensen. Hole N" The Rock is a unique residence and trading post.

Mystic Hot Springs

Take a trip to Monroe and soak in the tranquility of Mystic Hot Springs. Nestled in the mountains, these terraced pools are adorned with vintage bathtubs and offer a serene retreat with a quirky touch.

Gilgal Gardens

Take a stroll through Gilgal Gardens in Salt Lake City, where sculptures and carvings create a beautiful scene. This hidden gem pays tribute to the city's pioneer history with a mix of creativity.

Newspaper Rock State Historic Monument

Travel to the southeastern part of the state to witness Newspaper Rock's ancient petroglyphs. This remarkable site features a vast panel of rock art, telling stories from various Native American cultures.

Fantasy Canyon:

Fantasy Canyon is located near Vernal. Erosion has sculpted the rocks into fantastical shapes, creating an alien-like environment that sparks the imagination.

The Cosmic Ashtray

Explore the Cosmic Ashtray in the San Rafael Swell. This unique geological formation resembles a massive, overturned ashtray and offers a surreal setting for hikers.

Nine Mile Canyon

Utah's "longest art gallery" at Nine Mile Canyon, renowned for its extensive collection of ancient rock art and petroglyphs. This remote canyon is a testament to the enduring connection between humans and the landscape.

The Spiral Jetty

Visit the artistry of Robert Smithson's Spiral Jetty, a massive earthwork sculpture that emerges from the shores of the Great Salt Lake.

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