We’re pretty lucky to live in Utah, where the landscape is diverse and unique. From our soaring mountains and alpine lakes to our endless vistas over valleys of red rock, the beauty of the Beehive State never fails to delight and amaze. There’s one spot here that stirs the imagination of everyone who visits. Check out Fantasy Canyon, one of the best rock formations in Utah:

You'll find Fantasy Canyon 40 miles south of Vernal.
Google
To reach the canyon, take UT-45 for about 25 miles, then drive along an oil company service road and follow the signs to the canyon.
Compared to some of Utah's other places with rock formations, this canyon is pretty small - just 10 acres - but it's very special. You won't see formations like this elsewhere.
Kyle Dropik/Google
These rock formations are remnants of Lake Uinta, a huge lake that covered hundreds of miles around 50 million years ago. Fantasy Canyon is located on what was once the eastern shores of the half-mile-deep lake.
Bruno Jablonoski/Google
Deposits of sand and silt built up along the shores, and when the lake dried up, erosion wore away the softer rock, leaving these magnificent formations of sandstone.
Bruno Jablonoski/Google
Wander through the canyon to get a look at these strange formations, and use your imagination to see all kinds of creatures.
Sam/Google
You might see a flying witch...
Daniel Meissner/Getty Images

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...a bear...
rjcox/flickr
...and a host of other animals.
Frits Visser/Google
The BLM has a map to help you find other named rock formations, but you can always study these and come up with your own interpretation.
Frits Visser/Google
You can find castles, aliens, fantastical creatures, and all kinds of people and animals if you try.
Daniel Meissner/Getty Images
The rock formations here have survived for millions of years, but they're still very fragile. Keep your hands to yourself as you explore - the slightest touch can cause the sandstone to crumble.
Jesse C/Google
Don't climb up these rock formations! You could cause them to crumble, and also injure yourself. Keep a close eye on your children, and teach them how to show respect for this fragile environment.
When visiting Fantasy Canyon, make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the elements. It's a remote location, so you'll want to be prepared.
Lynn Sessions/Google
Pygmy rattlesnakes call this canyon home, so watch where you step!

Learn more about Fantasy Canyon on the Bureau of Land Management’s website, and if you love checking out Utah’s interesting geology, you should also visit the 9,915 acres of rock formations at Goblin Valley.

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More to Explore

Utah's Hidden Gems

William Suphan | October 19, 2022

What are some of Utah's most gorgeous natural hidden gems?

One of the most beautiful places you'll ever visit in Utah is Kodachrome Basin State Park near Cannonville. The red rock spires and geological formations are like a fantasy landscape of the Old West. It makes for a lovely drive and is also filled with hiking trails so you can take your time and soak in the natural elegance of this place. Paria Canyon, on the Arizona/Utah border, is like a watercolor painting come to life. The layered formations are as old as 237 million years! It's perfect for a backpacking adventure you'll never forget and also just as wonderful for a day's hike. Either way, it's a place you certainly shouldn't miss.

What are some of Utah's best-kept natural secrets?

Not all secrets are big, but the smallest ones can be the most impactful. At only 10 acres, Fantasy Canyon near Vernal is an otherworldly landscape of twisted and alien-looking rock formations that are as fragile as they are strange and beautiful. It's hard to believe that sandstone, wind, and water can create such a thing to behold. Calf Creek Falls is part of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and if you go there you will catch your breath as the water cascades past seemingly painted cliffs. There are Upper and Lower Falls, with the lower one being easier to access and the upper one taking more effort but it's so worth it.

What are some lesser-known Utah Hikes?

East of Farmington lies the Stead Creek Trailhead which will lead you to a fairytale grotto. It does require some effort to get to and a trail map is a good idea, however, once there you'll find that you'll be treated to a stunning view of the valley. The little grotto with waterfalls looks like a fairy pool out of a storybook. For an easier hike, the Peruvian Gulch Trail will take you to Hidden Peak. Though the hike itself is rather easy, you can take it even easier by riding a tram. Either way, the views you'll get to enjoy will stay etched in your memory for a long time to come.

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Fantasy Canyon, Vernal, UT 84078, USA