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You've skied your favorite runs and tamped the forested trails along the Wasatch Front. Hearing the increasing birdsong from the budding trees, you begin dreaming of warmer days, spring breaks and summer vacations. But there's no need to wait; it's actually the perfect time of year for a getaway to southern Utah.
Boasting Utah's world-renowned snow, national parks and monuments, southern Utah has something for everyone this winter.
For the snow bunnies: Brian Head and Eagle Point
The Greatest Snow on Earth® isn't a claim that's exclusive to the northern Wasatch. In fact, skiers and snowboarders can find perfect powder and stellar conditions just a few hours south of Salt Lake City.
In fact, you might be surprised to find out that, at 9,600 feet, Brian Head features the highest base elevation in Utah. With more than 650 acres of terrain and averaging 360 inches of snow each year, Brian Head is the perfect spot to indulge your inner ski (or snowboarding) bunny.
If you're learning or returning to the sport or just want to get to the next level, its Winter Sports School is both excellent and affordable, with options for all ages for private or group instruction.
For those in the Beaver area, consider a snow day at Eagle Point Resort. The resort is only open Friday-Monday, allowing untouched snow to build up over the week. Because it is more remote, there are fewer people on the slopes, allowing you more time on the snow and less standing in line.
If you're interested in snowmobiling, snowshoeing or anything else in the great (winter) outdoors, Tucker High Adventure Tours can set you up with an experienced guide who knows the area and how to maximize fun.
For the sightseers: The Mighty 5
While winter sports aficionados might find their wonderland at Brian Head, southern Utah also has quite a bit to offer more fair-weathered friends – particularly those hoping for scenic views and outdoor adventures in the dead of winter.
Enter Utah's Mighty 5 – five awe-inspiring national parks within three hours of each other. Southern Utah is home to Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks, and all are worthy destinations year-round. But a winter visit might just be optimal, according to Visit Utah, because you'll experience less traffic on the roads, in the parks and on the trails while enjoying the mild desert temperatures.
And if you love desert scenery, you'll be in awe of the contrast of snow on Utah's famous red rock formations.
For the happy campers: Capitol Reef, Goblin Valley and San Rafael Swell
If waiting until spring to pitch your tent under the stars feels completely out of the question, it's time to head south. After all, Southern Utah isn't just a stone's throw from Salt Lake City; it also boasts 300 days of sunshine a year, so you're bound to find some fine weather even during the winter months.
For an epic itinerary, check out Visit Utah for this Capitol Reef to San Rafael Swell adventure. You'll see Southern Utah in all its glory, from towering monoliths to desert plateaus to buttes, pinnacles, canyons and mesas. Bring a reliable vehicle and warm gear to experience Utah as you've never seen it before.
For the hikers: base camp Kanab
There's a reason outdoor enthusiasts flock to Kanab. Centrally located right in the middle of 10 – yes, 10 – of America's natural wonders, you won't just see Southern Utah in all its wild splendor, you'll hike right on through it.
Make Kanab your base camp for an epic adventure that includes scrambling up the summit of Mollie's Nipple for a birds-eye view of the Grand Staircase, tramping through Buckskin Gulch, hiking Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend and even the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Check out this six-day itinerary for an adventure that'll challenge your feet and invigorate your soul.
For the culture-seekers
Southern Utah evokes unique and otherworldly images of red rock buttes and desert landscapes that have not only inspired its Native inhabitants for ages but have drawn new ones,fueling a cultural – and culinary – boom from I-70 to the border.
This six-day itinerary provides recommendations for foodie-worthy stops along the way from Moab's renowned eateries to local wineries like Castle Creek. And when you tire of good food (as if), feel free to soak in some rest and relaxation at one of Southern Utah's best spas – like Sagestone Spa & Salon at Red Mountain resort in Ivins, or Noorish Spa, located near Brian Head or the ultra-luxurious Amangiri east of Kanab.
Getting away this winter is easier – and closer – than you might think, but be sure you "know before you go." There are few guardrails or guides on winter trails, and weather conditions can change by the hour. Head over to Visit Utah for tips on a safe and successful Southern Utah winter adventure.
Be a responsible winter adventurer
Whether you are skiing, hiking or biking, the Utah Office of Tourism wants you to remember to Keep Utah Forever Mighty by being a respectful and responsible visitor by adhering to these guidelines.
Leave no trace: Be sure to follow the seven Leave No Trace Principles, including minimizing impact, disposing of waste properly and leaving things where you find them. If you find rock art or artifacts, leave them where they are and never make markings.
Watch out for biocrust: Fragile cryptobiotic soils (which contain algae, microfungi and cyanobacteria) are an important part of the desert ecosystem. They serve vital roles, including reducing erosion, and are very susceptible to damage by off-road vehicles or even a footprint from veering off trail. Stay on the trail or travel on durable surfaces, and keep an eye out for these fragile soils so you "don't bust the crust." Read more tips for winter hiking in Utah.
Be prepared when nature calls: In the event that nature calls and vault toilets are not available, the most responsible option is to pack it out. (Read: "How to Poop in the Outdoors"). Bring a "wag bag" with you and know how to use it — no one likes to come across toilet paper "flowers."
Be considerate of others: Allow other visitors to experience nature's quiet and solitude. Be respectful when hiking on trails and driving through neighboring communities, and dispose of trash only in properly designated locations.
Practice mindful photography: Capture incredible scenery and memories while being a mindful photographer. Learn how to photograph the red rock beauty without causing any ecological harm or detracting from other visitors' experiences. Similarly, take and post that selfie responsibly on social media by caring for your own safety and preserving the character of your subject and its environment.
Whether you love the snow or the warm sun or both, southern Utah is a perfect wintertime destination.
