This Epic Road Trip Leads To 7 Iconic Landmarks In Utah
By Courtnie Erickson|Published February 11, 2022
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
With five national parks, dozens of state parks, and a fascinating history, Utah is an extraordinary place to visit. There is something for everyone here, not to mention an array of bucket-list-level attractions and adventures. Utah is also home to countless landmarks; some are natural and others are man-made. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to enjoy this road trip to seven iconic landmarks in Utah. If you’ve lived in Utah for a long time, you’ve likely been to many of these locations — or have at least seen them in pictures or in the distance. But, nothing compares to enjoying the splendor of visiting each and every one.
This road trip to iconic landmarks in Utah is approximately 229 miles long. It requires just under five hours of drive time. You can either enjoy this road trip in a single day or break it up into two or three days — the choice is up to you. To customize this road trip, use this interactive map.
Our road trip begins at the unique Spiral Jetty at the north end of the Great Salt Lake. This is a unique and picturesque earth sculpture that was created in 1970 by Robert Smithson. This sculpture certainly is not small and is made using 6,000 tons of black basalt rock. The Spiral Jetty is 15 feet wide and 1,500 feet long, making it very difficult to miss.
Right along Interstate 84, between Morgan and Henefer, is a well-known rock formation known as Devil’s Slide. This is no small rock formation; in fact, these rocks are approximately 40 feet tall and at least 200 feet long! They are also about 25 feet apart and they look like a large, rocky slide. The landmark itself is on private property, but there are pull-outs on I-84 so you can easily admire this incredible formation.
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Utah State Capitol Building, Salt Lake City
State Capitol east entrance, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, USA
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Of course, we couldn’t have a road trip to iconic landmarks in Utah without a stop at Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Temple Square is five city blocks of buildings for worship and history for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This area is also home to the unique and historic Salt Lake City Temple. You can walk around the grounds and admire the beautiful buildings, talk to missionaries, or visit exhibits to learn more about Temple Square, Salt Lake City, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Keep in mind that areas of Temple Square are closed for several years while seismic improvements and other renovations are made.
A visit to this iconic landmark will make you feel like you are far, far away from Utah. This is one stop on our road trip that will take some time, as there is quite a challenging hike with multiple switchbacks ahead of you. However, the tour of the cave is well worth the challenge.
Bridal Veil Falls are some of the most popular waterfalls in Utah. Located in Provo Canyon, these waterfalls are easily seen right from the road, or if you want to get up close, you can hike up to them. In the winter, you may even see some brave individuals climbing on the ice. No matter when you visit Bridal Veil Falls, you’re in for a real treat.
The last stop on our landmark road trip in Utah is the Shri Shri Radha Krishna Temple that is located south of Spanish Fork. This temple stands out on the mountain with its Rajasthani architecture and large design. Daily temple tours are available along with an adorable animal park with all types of animals from cows to peacocks. Stop by for lunch or dinner at the buffet or attend a yoga class. Once a year, the Shri Shri Radha Krishna Temple also hosts the Festival of Colors that attracts hundreds of individuals.
Did we leave your favorite Utah landmark off of this list? If so, let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments!
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