Utah boasts a number of national parks, with one of its most well known, Bryce Canyon National Park, being known for its dazzling geological wonders that defy description. Its iconic hoodoos are extremely appealing and the park has the largest concentration of them anywhere on Earth, attracting visitors from far and wide.
Beyond these striking rock formations, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to abundant wildlife, scenic hiking trails, and spectacular dark skies. With these priceless treasures comes a slew of visitors, and why not, when there lies so much beauty and adventure?
However, just 22 miles away lies another inspiring attraction, which, although underrated, offers seemingly similar experiences sans the crowds. Kodachrome Basin State Park offers its own array of unique geological features and a tranquil ambiance.
For travelers interested in exploring Utah’s stunning red rock landscapes without the crowds, Kodachrome Basin State Park is a serene and striking alternative to Bryce Canyon.
Related
Looking for serenity and beauty? Skip Gatlinburg for this quiet town for your perfect Smokies getaway.
1
Kodachrome Basin State Park: Utah's Underrated Alternative To Bryce Canyon
Kodachrome Basin State Park lives up to its name with its striking sandstone spires and colorful vistas. Home to 67 monolithic stone spires, known as sedimentary pipes, Kodachrome Basin State Park is one of Utah's obscure state parks that are well worth a visit and are great alternatives to national parks.
The park's stone spires rise dramatically, some reaching up to 170 feet, making for a sight to behold. They are also believed to be the remnants of ancient geysers and offer a look into the Earth's interesting past. With a dazzling array of red, orange, and white hues, the park is a visual retreat to watch for, especially at sunrise and sunset. ?
Kodachrome Basin State Park's unusual rock formations with multicolored sandstone layers create a picture-perfect postcard, making it an ideal location for photographers. Plus, there are many scenic hiking trails in the state park, allowing hikers of all levels to immerse themselves in the surreal surroundings.
Location | |
Entry Fees | |
Opening Hours | |
Dog Allowed? | |
Distance To Bryce Canyon National Park | |
Indeed, witnessing Bryce Canyon Amphitheater, a canyon full of hoodoos and other rock formations, is unparalleled. Yet, watching the sandstone spires in Kodachrome Basin State Park rising from the valley floor is equally incredible. What makes the experience a bit better is that one can enjoy the experience without being surrounded by a large number of other visitors.
Bryce Canyon received around 2,354,660 visitors in 2022, meaning crowded trails and limited solitude. On the other hand, Kodachrome Basin State Park welcomed 160,956 visitors in the same year. Simply, this state park provides much better opportunities to appreciate nature's craftsmanship and reconnect with nature in a more peaceful setting. The awe-inspiring scenery and adventure make a trip to this corner of Utah’s red rock country truly remarkable.
What Is There To See & Do At Kodachrome Basin State Park?
From hiking, biking, camping, and horseback riding to stargazing, Kodachrome Basin offers a wealth of activities to suit a wide range of interests. The park is an ideal location for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for fun experiences away from the crowds of popular national parks.
The park has many scenic trails, ranging from family-friendly to moderate ones for experienced hikers.
Visitors can explore the park's stunning landscape on a two-hour guided horseback riding tour. Within the park, a concessionaire offers the service. The guided tour lets visitors explore areas that are otherwise inaccessible via hiking, making it one of the best things to do in the park.
Mountain biking is also allowed in the park on three designated trails, including Panorama Trail, Big Bear Geyser Trail, and the Grand Parade Loop. Mountain biking is indeed an exhilarating way to experience the park's magical landscapes.
Kodachrome Basin State Park has three campgrounds, offering options like standard, full hook-up, group sites, and two bunkhouses. The amenities include a comfort station, a dump station, dog waste stations, firewood, and restrooms with modern rain showers. Book your campsite in advance and enjoy a nature retreat in solitude.
Beyond the stunning landscapes by day, Kodachrome Basin offers night skies that are equally mesmerizing. Declared an International Dark Sky Park in 2021, it stands as one of Utah’s most underrated state parks for stargazing.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Kodachrome Basin State Park?
Kodachrome Basin State Park is open year-round, and visitors will find something interesting to see and do in any season. Still, spring and fall are regarded as the best times to visit the park due to the pleasant weather and surrounding landscape.
While planning your next Utah adventure, consider venturing beyond the crowded Bryce Canyon National Park. The serene Kodachrome Basin State Park offers not just stunning landscapes to fill your camera memory but also a peaceful oasis to reconnect with Mother Nature.