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There's absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying all the usual highlights southern Utah has to offer. Zion National Park, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Delicate Arch, Lake Powell — these are all worthy inclusions on any bucket list. But if you've already checked these off and you're hungry for something a little different, several new adventures are waiting for you in southern Utah.
Grab your hiking boots, sunscreen, swimsuit, binoculars, and plenty of drinks and snacks from Maverik. These activities and destinations might just become your new favorite go-to's when you head down south. And, as a bonus, most of them are free.
Start every adventure with Maverik
Maverik’s got you covered with great values on fuel, food, drinks and more. Check out maverik.com to find a location near you. Maverik — Adventure’s First Stop.Go stargazing with an astronomer
If you think the best activities in southern Utah are confined to the daytime, you're missing out on one spectacular show at night. Utah is home to more dark sky parks than any other place in the world, so stargazing is an absolute must for your to-do list. You can pack your blankets, chairs and telescopes and head out to do some stargazing on your own, but it might help to go with someone who knows what to look for.
"If you want to go a bit deeper to learn mythology or point to constellations and view the deep sky through a powerful telescope, it may be necessary to attend a star party or guided program," Whitney Childers writes for the Utah Office of Tourism. "Numerous astrological societies and astronomy clubs across the state also host star parties as enthusiasts bring along their telescopes and amazing knowledge."
The International Dark Sky Association lists 24 places in Utah to go see some incredible starry skies. Not all of the spots are state parks, some include national monuments and parks.
Play on the pink sand dunes
Instead of red rocks, head for something a little softer with lighter hues: Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. This 3,730-acre state park in Kanab is a fun place for the family to explore and even do some boarding down the dunes. The Utah State Parks website says about 90% of the dunes are open to ATV riders. Even if off-roading or ATVing isn't your scene, the dunes are still open for hiking and just playing around in the uniquely pink sand.
It doesn't matter how old you get. Playing in the sand will never stop being fun.
Explore the Moqui Sand Caves
After you get your fill of pink sand, be sure to check out the bright orange sand at the Moqui Sand Caves. Also known as the Kanab Sand Caves, you'll find this old sand mine along Highway 89, just north of Kanab. If you enter through the gift shop and museum, Google users say you can go deeper into the Moqui cave.
Visit Southern Utah describes what you can expect to see, "Within Moqui Cave is a large display of Native American artifacts along with unique fluorescent rocks and minerals from around the world. Also on display are a sizeable collection of pre-Columbian artifacts from Mexico and more than 1,000 arrowheads."
Utah's Adventure Family advises wearing shoes with good traction and keeping your toddlers close since the caves are right next to the busy highway.
Go inside the Belly of the Dragon
It sounds like something from a medieval fantasy, but there is actually a place in Kanab called "Belly of the Dragon." This walk-through manmade tunnel is a fun, free spot to let your kids roam about and it's only 1.8 miles out and back. Even if you're just looking to get out and get some steps in, there's motivation to reach the end of the tunnel—a waterfall!
The best time to visit is between March and October, according to AllTrails. Visitors recommend bringing a flashlight.
Take a horseback ride tour through Dixie National Forest
Explore the great outdoors the way they used to do it in the Old West — by horseback. A guided horseback ride along the northern rim of Bryce Canyon National Park is a great way to take in the views while you enjoy some fresh air. Ruby's Inn offers a 90-minute horseback tour and all experience levels are welcome. Just be sure to bring your own water!
Swim at Fire Lake Park in Ivins Reservoir
When you want a low-key, fun family adventure that will help you beat the heat, swimming at Fire Lake Park at Ivins Reservoir is a great option. The desert views and red dirt surrounding the reservoir are picturesque, so even if you don't take a dip, you can still enjoy the scenery.
Admission is free, bathrooms are available and no reservations are required, so come early and bring something for shade!
Visit St. George's Electric Theater
Fans of old-timey things with a rich history will love paying a visit to the old Electric Theater in St. George. This was the first motion picture theater in southern Utah and the first to have air conditioning — so you can imagine how popular it was with visitors looking to escape the heat. The Electric Theater is now a venue for entertainment events, such as art and comedy shows and other performances. And it's still a great spot to get out of the sun for a bit.
Tell your friends — or don't
Once you've tried these adventures for yourself, you'll probably want to tell all your family and friends about them. Just be careful — once the secret's out, your out-of-the-ordinary adventure might become the next big thing.
No matter where you're headed, make sure you visit Maverik first. With plenty of food, snacks, fuel and clean bathrooms, Maverik is adventure's first stop.
Utah Adventures with Maverik: San Rafael Swell is a quiet playground with loud views
Just two hours south of the Wasatch Front and 90 minutes northwest of Moab you'll find the San Rafael Swell, a quiet section of the Colorado Plateau offering endless recreation and timeless panoramas. Most of the Swell is located on BLM land, meaning it belongs to the public but it's wild and open and mostly empty.Start every Utah Adventure with Maverik
Wherever you explore in Utah, make sure to fuel up and grab some food at one of the Maverik locations. Maverik's Nitro Card saves you 10 cents off every gallon, every day with additional high-value benefits on its huge selection of tasty food and drinks. Maverik's premium BonFire food made fresh in every Maverik features breakfast and lunch burritos, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and more. New dishes to amp up your spring road trip feature premium hardwood smoked burnt ends including the Burnt Ends and Hatch Green Chili Mac n' Cheese; Burnt Ends Breakfast Burrito; Burnt Ends and Tots Burrito; and later this summer the Burnt Ends Pizza.
To save on every gallon of gas and get special offers inside the store download the Maverik app to join the Adventure Club and activate your Nitro Card.
