In Love, In Utah

Utah makes you feel things — joy, pride, connection, energy and a contentment that settles deep into your bones. In essence, it's a sentiment best encapsulated in a single word — love. And so we asked travelers across the United States to tell us their "In Love, In Utah." story. 

And boy did they respond! We received over 1,600 entries, each showcasing the diverse ways to experience "love" in the Beehive State.

The entries spotlighted the incredible breadth and depth of available experiences throughout Utah. The four winners below were chosen based on the compelling nature of their stories of being “In Love. In Utah.” and how those stories demonstrated the distinct ability of Utah to empower, inspire and support love in all its forms.

Sparks Fly by the Campfire at Pine Creek

Heather H. from Washington

Every spring, a friend from the climbing gym left for two weeks to go backpacking in Utah with a group of friends. I raved so much over her photos, she invited me to come along the next spring. On the way there, she mentioned that part way through our trip, we would meet up with another person she used to climb with so we would have two cars for a through hike down the Boulder Mail Trail.

We met up with John in the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park campground. The next day we hiked Lower Calf Creek Falls on our way to Boulder Mail Trail trailhead. All total we were a group of five, ranging from very experienced backpackers to first timers. I had done a lot of hiking, but very little backpacking. I would soon learn that John had hiked, backpacked and climbed all over the world, but kept coming back to southern Utah. It is his favorite place.

As we hiked, John and I often ended up next to each other, visiting. We had a similar pace. We quickly learned that we had grown up about 20 miles from each other in neighboring small towns. We then lived seven miles apart. His younger sister and I were in the same 4-H club, although not at the same time. We had worked in similar industries and knew quite a few of the same people through work. We also knew other climbers in common.

The first evening, we camped along Pine Creek in the Box-Death Hollow wilderness. We told stories around the campfire, then talked as we walked the next day. The last night we camped looking down on the lights on Escalante. It was a beautiful, warm evening. We sat on the slickrock and looked at the stars. By the time we reached Escalante, it felt as though we had known each other forever.

My friends and I had to go back to work, but John had another week planned in Utah. We were running behind schedule and had a plane to catch, so our good-bye was brief.

Once John returned home, we were inseparable. That was in 2016. We have been married for six years and have returned to Utah to hike twice a year since we met. We have never repeated a trail and have many more we want to explore, the further off the beaten path, the better. We have explored ancient ruins in Beef Basin, hiked the Posey Trail, backpacked through Step and Pine canyons and explored Cedar Mesa. More recently, we took a guided trip on the Green River through the Gates of Lodore.

Mutual friends are often surprised we met in Utah, when we have so much in common near home. They are not surprised we met hiking. Stories about our trips to Utah have spread so widely, we are now frequently asked to help others plan their trips. The one thing we cannot plan for others is falling in love.

The Soothing Embrace of Nature in Bryce Canyon

Michael H. from Oregon

In the summer of 2015, my wife Michelle and I set out on a road trip to Utah, a journey that weaved together themes of loss, love and the soothing embrace of nature. We were grappling with the passing of my dad, carrying the weight of sorrow in our hearts. Seeking solace amidst Utah's landscapes, we hoped to create a space where memories could flow freely like rivers winding through canyons.

Driving through the state each scenic view felt like a reflection of my dad's spirit. The majestic red cliffs of Arches National Park symbolized his strength and resilience while the tranquil beauty of Canyonlands echoed his wisdom. Our conversations often revolved around him sharing anecdotes that evoked laughter and tears, finding solace in knowing he was present in every awe-inspiring panorama.

One night as we camped beneath the sky in Bryce Canyon, a sense of calm enveloped us. The celestial dome above us was adorned with twinkling constellations stirring a glimmer of happiness amid our grief. It was as if the universe was gently reminding us of enduring beauty. Holding each other tight, united by our shared wonderment at nature's grandeur and serenity.

Our trip led us to Zion National Park, where we decided to take on the challenge of hiking The Narrows. Walking through the waters, we felt a connection to nature and to each other that touched our souls. Every step we took seemed like a step towards healing, showing our resilience in facing life's uncertainties.

Exploring landscapes from the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the peaceful alpine meadows of the High Uintas, we found ourselves filled with gratitude. We appreciated the moments shared with my dad, the enduring love after his passing, and the breathtaking beauty of Utah that embraced us during times.

Our journey across Utah wasn't a vacation; it was a meaningful experience for our hearts. We returned home with memories etched in our hearts — memories of love that surpassed grief, landscapes that brought solace and a voyage that strengthened our bond like never before. Utah's natural beauty provided a setting for our tale of love and remembrance.

A Simple Kindness in Capitol Reef

Noah S. from Ohio 

Our “In Love. In Utah” Story is about more than just a trip; it was a pilgrimage of love and discovery. My wife Babette and I set our sights on the rugged beauty of Utah's national parks. Our hearts were set on witnessing the majestic arches, vast canyons and serene landscapes that make Utah a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

We planned our trip for six months — woke up early, hiked each morning to get in shape and prepared every detail. At first, we thought we’d visit all five Utah national parks in one trip. However, we realized that we’d be better off enjoying more time at the three eastern parks, then visiting the western ones at a later time.

Our first destination, Arches National Park, greeted us with its natural stone arches, each telling a story millions of years in the making. As we hiked beneath these colossal formations, hand in hand, we couldn't help but feel a part of something timeless and grand.

Next, we ventured into Canyonlands National Park, a masterpiece of canyons, mesas and buttes. Here, amidst the rugged wilderness, we shared adventures that tested our limits and strengthened our bond.

However, it was in Capitol Reef National Park that our adventure took an unexpected turn. After a day of exploring its rich tapestry of cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges, we returned to our rental car, only to find it wouldn't start.

Alone, with no cell reception and the sun dipping below the horizon, we faced the prospect of being stranded overnight. The prospect of spending the night under the stars, while romantic in theory, was daunting without preparation.

A truck's headlights suddenly cut through the dimming light. With a friendly smile and a portable charger, this stranger offered us not just a jump for our car, but a reminder of the goodness that thrives even in the most unexpected places.

Our adventure through Utah's majestic landscapes was filled with breathtaking views and moments of awe. Yet, it was this act of kindness in Capitol Reef that truly captured the essence of our journey.

The only thing we missed was a visit to Zion and Bryce Canyon, which we plan to experience on our next Utah vacation.

As we look forward to Zion and Bryce Canyon, our trip left us with a true appreciation for the stunning natural beauty of Utah, the resilience of the human spirit and the unexpected kindness that can turn a moment of worry into one of our most cherished memories. We hope this is merely the first chapter in our “In Love. In Utah.” story.

Park City Magic

Kevin F. from California

My love for Utah bloomed not from a single seed, but from a thousand scattered across its diverse landscape. It began with a heart-stopping descent down Alta's legendary back bowls, the wind whipping through my hair as the Wasatch Mountains unfolded beneath me like a frosted dreamscape. Each turn was a poem etched in pristine snow, a silent symphony composed by the rhythm of my skis and the hushed reverence of fellow powderhounds.That initial spark ignited a passion for exploring Utah's legendary ski havens. At Snowbird, I soared above the clouds on the Peruvian chairlift, the world shrinking to the glittering expanse of snow and the distant twinkle of Salt Lake City lights below. Each mogul on Sundance's slopes was a playful challenge, a chance to test my skills and revel in the exhilaration of carving my own path through the winter wonderland.

But Park City held a special place in my heart. There, the thrill of the slopes was interwoven with the charm of a historic mining town turned vibrant ski village. I remember the exhilaration of mastering the challenging runs of Park City Mountain, the whoosh of wind as I raced down Deer Valley's perfectly groomed trails, and the laughter echoing through the snow-covered town square during après-ski.

Beyond the slopes, Park City unveiled its own magic. I wandered through Main Street, marveling at the restored Victorian buildings and the bustling shops filled with local crafts and souvenirs. In the cozy cafes, I savored steaming mugs of hot cocoa and fresh pastries, sharing stories with friends and fellow ski enthusiasts. One evening, I stumbled upon a hidden gem — a lively pub with live music, where the warmth of the fireplace and the friendly atmosphere chased away the winter chill.

But Utah wasn't just about the grand vistas and bustling squares. It was also about the quiet moments — a crackling fire in a cozy cabin, the aroma of pinewood filling the air, stories whispered under a blanket of stars. It was about the exhilarating descents down untouched powder, the shared laughter with friends at the bottom of the run, and the sense of camaraderie forged on the slopes.

Yes, Utah has its quirks — the occasional dust storm, the sometimes-unpredictable spring skiing conditions. But these imperfections only add to its charm, like brushstrokes that lend depth and character to a masterpiece. They remind me that Utah is not a postcard, but a living, breathing entity with its own unique rhythm and soul.

And so, when someone asks why I love Utah, I know the answer lies not in a single memory or place, but in the tapestry woven from countless experiences. It's the taste of fry sauce on a winter day, the thrill of carving through fresh powder, the warmth of a hidden pub, and the quiet companionship shared under a star-studded sky. It's a love story written in mountains and valleys, a symphony played on the wind, a whisper that echoes in my heart, saying, "You belong here."