This relatively quiet, relatively unknown corner of the United States is beginning to draw nationwide, even worldwide, attention. More and more people are coming -- to visit the state's majestic national parks, explore its pristine wilderness, bike its slickrock trails, ski the best powder in the world, and discover the all-around charm of its cities and towns. To some, this is America as it should be -- wide-open country with plenty of room to roam, plus some of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. Of course, it isn't quite that simple, but it comes close. Don't just take it from us; find out for yourself.
Utah is an easy state to visit -- you can often expect to pay less for food and lodging than you would in other parts of the country, and roads are good and generally uncrowded. But once you leave the Wasatch Front -- the area around Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo -- distances between towns are long, with few services along the way. Plan your trip carefully and make reservations far in advance for popular areas such as the national parks, and for popular times, such as ski season.
The presence and influence of the Mormon Church -- officially known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) -- makes visiting Utah a unique experience, from ordering an alcoholic beverage to visiting a historic home with two identical bedrooms -- one for each wife.
