The sight of snow dusting red sandstone arches and otherworldly rock formations is something that stays with you. Last year, during Thanksgiving week, our family embarked on a road trip through Utah’s national treasures – Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon. The contrast of white snow against the crimson landscape created scenes that even our teen couldn’t resist photographing.
A Desert Paradise in Winter
South Utah’s landscape is mesmerizing, especially in winter. Having visited about 20 national parks across the US, we found the winter driving experience here unique – hours of scenic roads nearly to ourselves. While the stark beauty draws visitors, the region’s limited economic opportunities remind us that living in such remote landscapes comes with its own challenges.
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St George continues to impress us
St George is our favourite stop along the way. This well-planned city of 100,000 sits against the stunning backdrop of Red Cliffs.
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Moab: Gateway to Two Parks
Moab is perfectly positioned for visiting both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. With less than 6,000 residents, this small town still provides everything travelers need. Similar to Zion National Park, Arches gets busy during Thanksgiving week, but the cold weather creates ideal hiking conditions with fewer crowds.
Utah’s Community Spirit
What struck us most was the strong sense of community. At our hotel’s breakfast area, guests naturally followed and encouraged a “clean-as-you-go” system. Many went beyond just returning their plates to the designated area, wiping down tables after use. This collective care for shared spaces reflects a culture we deeply appreciate.
Winter’s Transform
Each park revealed a different face under winter’s touch. The blanket of snow created an enchanting contrast against the red rock formations, transforming familiar landscapes into something entirely new.
Arches National Park
Capitol Reef National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
The Sphere in Vegas: A One-Time Experience Worth Having
While not part of our Utah adventure, we made a stop at the Sphere in Las Vegas. The 360-degree screen and sound system create an impressive one-time experience, though the $28 beer can and basic AI robot interactions left us unconvinced about return visits without significantly upgraded content. If you’re in Vegas, it’s worth experiencing once – but only once until they develop more compelling custom content for this unique venue.
Final thoughts
Winter transforms Utah’s national parks into a different world – one of solitude, stark contrasts, and serene beauty. While the cold weather might deter some visitors, we found it created the perfect conditions for exploring these natural wonders. From the welcoming community spirit to the uncrowded trails, our Thanksgiving journey through South Utah reminded us why sometimes the best adventures happen outside peak season. Just remember to check weather conditions before you go and be prepared for sudden changes – that’s part of what makes winter visits so memorable.