10 Best Utah Labor Day Destinations

Flaming Gorge Reservoir - photo by Dave Webb

Labor Day Weekend is fast approaching and it will bring wonderful opportunities to get out and enjoy Utah destinations.

As the official last holiday of summer, I always think of outdoor recreation when I plan Labor Day activities. But that doesn't have to be the case. There are plenty of theatrical productions, concerts, movies, shopping malls, restaurants and pubs available for those so inclined. For this blog I'll focus on outdoor recreation, thank you.

National parks, most state parks and other popular recreation areas will be crowded, but will still offer plenty of opportunity to have fun. Crowds can actually be part of the attraction. I enjoy interacting with international tourists in Zion Park and other area. But, even more, I enjoy escaping congestion and finding solitude. That is a prime factor as I zeroed in on recommended destinations.

The weather should be nice. Warm but not scorching hot. The weatherman has added a few clouds to the prognosis for Saturday and Sunday, so watch as we get closer, but at this writing it looks like conditions will be wonderful.

Here are some extra helps:

• Utah State Park reservoir conditions - Plenty of water and good launching conditions in most reservoirs.

• Utah.com Labor Day deals - Great values at popular spots around the state.

• KSL.com picks 5 destinations for great fall recreation

• Lake Powell fishing report - Good and getting better

Ok, here are my top 10 choices:

• Lake Powell - Arrive early and boat away from the marinas to avoid the crush.
• High Uintas - Highway 150 and road-accessible lakes will be crowded. Backpack to find solitude.
• Flaming Gorge - Excellent fishing, perfect conditions and not as many people as Powell.
• Skyline Drive - This is a high-elevation area, not as well know, protected by rough roads. It offer great camping and fun fishing in small lakes.
• San Rafael Swell - Temple Mountain and Little Wildhorse will be crowded. Get into the backcountry.
• Grand Staircase Escalante - Hole In the Rock slot canyons will have quite a few people but you can drive jeep roads or hike to get away from it all.
• Canyonlands National Park - This place is huge and backcountry roads are rough, but it is a great place to escape on busy holiday weekends.
• Capitol Reef National Park - There is scenery here the rivals Zion, but far fewer people.
• Monument Valley - I never get tired of this scenic treasure.
• Great Salt Lake - Often overlooked, this is a wonderful water for sailing, kayaking and just relaxing on the beach.

– Dave Webb