In this guide, we uncover the top Utah photoshoot locations for your next adventure, from the majestic mountain ranges to the serene deserts. We'll also offer practical tips for traversing these landscapes.
Whether you're a seasoned photographer looking for the perfect shot or a hobbyist keen on capturing special moments, Utah's terrain offers a matchless setting.
Charge your camera batteries, fit your lenses, and prepare for Utah's most iconic landscapes.
First up…
Bonneville Salt Flats
This almost endless stretch of flat horizon offers a surreal backdrop that is particularly mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset. The Bonneville Salt Flats cover over 30,000 acres and are one of Utah's most unique natural features.
Cathedral Valley, Capitol Reef National Park
Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem with massive rock formations and wide-open views. Like the Temple of the Sun and Moon, these geological structures in the valley light up beautifully at sunrise and sunset. They cast long shadows and make the landscape glow.
This remote, serene setting is perfect for photographers seeking tranquillity and unspoiled natural beauty.
Utah Badlands
The Utah Badlands, with their moon-like bentonite clay hills, offer a unique, almost supernatural scene for enthusiasts.
The Badlands' hills shift from soft gray to vibrant red, revealing its full splendor during the golden hours as dramatic shadows emerge.
Goblin Valley State Park
Goblin Valley State Park is a fantasy landscape of mushroom-shaped rock formations, each unique in shape and size. Tucked away in a remote part of Utah.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for soft lighting that accentuates the intricate details of these formations.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park's massive sandstone cliffs range in color from cream to pink to red, soaring into the clear blue sky. Visit Angel's Landing or the emerald pools at dawn to enjoy serene solitude and the gentle morning light.
The park's diverse landscape offers endless photographic possibilities, from vast canyons to lush riverbanks.
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Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, Arches National Park is a surreal landscape photographer's paradise. The park's star attraction, Delicate Arch, presents a mesmerizing scene against the vast desert backdrop.
In the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, Arches National Park transforms, with the arches aglow in golden hues, creating vivid shadows and contrasts.
Canyonlands National Park — Island in the Sky
At the top of Canyonlands National Park, you'll have a bird's eye view of the deep canyons and huge flat-topped hills. This less-visited park offers tranquility, allowing you to take in and capture its beauty without the crowds.
Monument Valley
A symbol of the American West, Monument Valley's towering sandstone buttes rise dramatically against the sky. This iconic landscape, featured in countless films and photographs, is best experienced on a scenic drive.
Snap your shots of the Mitten Buttes and Merrick Butte during the golden hours as the lighting infuses the valley with a warm, luminous ambiance.
Valley of the Gods
Valley of the Gods offers a quieter, more intimate alternative to Monument Valley. This scenic dirt road winds through buttes and towering rock formations, reminiscent of a mini Monument Valley.
This 16-mile drive through the Valley of the Gods is perfect for photographers who want quiet and untouched scenery.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon, famed for its forest of hoodoos – irregular columns of rock – is a natural amphitheater of staggering beauty. The light and shadows make the orange and white rocks glow. This looks best when the sun is rising or setting.
Walk the Rim Trail or take the Navajo Loop in Bryce Canyon for different views of this unusual place.
Yant Flats (Candy Cliffs)
Near St. George, Yant Flats, also known as the Candy Cliffs, showcases a stunning array of swirling colors and patterns in the sandstone.
Yant Flats is most captivating in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Tips for Ethical & Mindful Photography
As you set out to snap Utah's breathtaking landscapes, it's important to photograph ethically and mindfully. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
- Practice 'Leave No Trace' Principles: Carry out what you bring in, stick to the trails, and avoid disturbing natural settings.
- Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: When setting up your shot, be conscious of where you step or place your equipment. Avoid trampling delicate vegetation or disturbing wildlife habitats. Remember, the goal is to capture nature's beauty without causing harm.
- Respect Cultural and Archaeological Sites: Utah is home to many sacred and historical sites. Always treat these places with respect. This includes not climbing on fragile structures, not removing artifacts, and adhering to any posted guidelines.
- Consider the Impact of Social Media: Think about how sharing your photos on social media with the location can affect the place. Revealing exact spots can lead to overcrowded and damaged natural sites. Instead, leave out the precise location to protect these natural wonders. By sharing responsibly, you contribute to preserving the beauty and integrity of these landscapes.
By following these tips, you'll have a great time taking photos and helping maintain Utah's beauty for others to enjoy.
Read this guide before exploring Utah's stunning landscapes – Day Hiking Essentials, What To Bring On Every Hike.
Capture Life Through Your Lens
Remember, each photo is part of a bigger, more incredible story. Every location offers a unique spectacle, from the ethereal Bonneville Salt Flats to the towering cliffs of Zion.
When taking photos of these amazing places, be careful, respect nature and culture, and share responsibly. Your photos can inspire a deeper appreciation for these landscapes, encouraging others to explore and protect them.
With your camera in hand and the spirit of adventure in your heart, enjoy capturing one or all of these stunning landscapes. Appreciate every moment, and most importantly, have fun!