TRAVEL TIPS:
from the Utah Office of Tourism BY ARIANNA REES
Southern Utah in the wintertime is an ethereal maze of snow-glazed hoodoos, buttes and canyons with a quiet magic that can only be found this time of year. It isn’t the
obvious destination for a winter escape, and it takes a little extra preparation, but Utah’s southern desert offers underrated adventure for snowbirds and ski families alike looking for kid-friendly fun and an excuse to leave the house for some Vitamin D. It’s also more accessible than you might think. Here’s everything you should know to plan a fun, safe and warm family trip to red rock country this winter.
Things to do VISIT A NATIONAL OR STATE PARK Utah’s Mighty Five national parks can see big crowds and searing temperatures in the summertime. In winter, popular trails quiet down and crowds thin, allowing guests to see the parks in a whole new way. While not all amenities are available in the off-season and winter conditions may prompt road and trail closures at times, Utah’s parks generally stay open year round, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy them. You might experience the wonder of Zion shrouded in snow clouds, or retire to a yurt after playing among the hoodoos at Goblin Valley. Off-road in 50 to 60 degree temperatures with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains at Sand Hollow State Park, or see Bryce Canyon in its winter coat. There’s no shortage of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
EXPLORE BASECAMP National park basecamp towns like Kanab, Torrey, Panguitch, St. George and Moab make for a cozy change of pace at the end of an adventure-packed day, and there’s plenty to see while out on the town, like art museums, historical sites, theatrical performances, fine dining and festivals—Tuacahn’s Christmas in the Canyon and Kanab’s annual Balloons and Tunes hot air balloon festival are two the kids will love.
14 DISCOVER UTAH KIDS
ENJOY A SNOW DAY The Wasatch Front isn’t the only area of the state that boasts great skiing. Brian Head Resort sees an annual snowfall of over 360 inches and boasts the highest base elevation in the state. Set against a backdrop of craggy red sandstone, it’s a unique spot to put in some powder runs during your trip. If skiing’s not your thing, Southern Utah’s winter recreation opportunities have as much variety as the landscape. Snowshoeing, hiking, skiing, stargazing, snowmobiling and winter fat biking are just a few.
ROADTRIP Southern Utah is home to some of the most stunning scenic drives in the country, such as Highway 12—which passes through pine forests and twisting red rock canyons—and the Trail of the Ancients, a 400 plus-mile byway that intersects with contemporary and Ancestral Puebloan history in the Four Corners and Monument Valley area. Weird and interesting geological and historical pitstops can be found up and down Utah’s scenic byways, making them a fun weekend trip if you’re wanting to get out of the house but not necessarily spend too much time outside. Just remember to check local road conditions before you go.
What to bring It’s important to prepare whenever you venture into Utah’s public lands, but during winter, it’s especially critical to make sure you’ve packed enough. Lower temperatures and lack of proper gear can turn a family trip sour in a hurry, so you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared with the following:
Winter clothing: While St. George is located at 2,700 feet in elevation and often has warmer temperatures than other parts of the state, higherelevation locations like Bryce Canyon National Park (9,100 feet) can plunge below zero, and you’ll want to pack the right clothing to stay warm.
