7 Reasons Why Utah Needs to Be On Your Motorcycle Adventure Bucket List

Utah is a hidden gem for adventure motorcycle riders, offering an unparalleled combination of stunning landscapes, diverse terrains, and a wealth of outdoor activities all within easy reach. Not only that, but the weather is pleasant and there is a plethora of lodging and camping options.

Here are seven compelling reasons why riders should consider Utah a "must-ride" adventure motorcycle destination.

1. Proximity to world-renowned parks

Utah is home to five national parks, collectively known as the "Mighty 5". Any one of which can be reached from the airport or our headquarters within a day's ride:

• Arches (~3 hours)

• Bryce (~4 hours)

• Canyonlands (~3 hours)

• Capitol Reef (~3 hours)

• Zion (~4 hours)

Can you see them all in one day? No.

Can you explore them all in a 5-day trip? Absolutely!

Each park boasts unique geological formations, breathtaking vistas, and a variety of roads, trails, and sights for exploration. Riders can easily plan a route that takes them through any combination of iconic destinations, making for a truly personalized and unforgettable experience.

If Utah's Mighty 5 seems boring, there are even more National Park and Monument options with a 2-day ride from Salt Lake:

• Great Basin National Park

• Grand Teton National Park

• Grand Canyon National Park

• Yellowstone National Park

• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

• Craters of the Moon National Monument

• Dinosaur National Monument

• Sawtooth National Forest

In addition to its five incredible National Parks, Utah also boasts an impressive 45 state parks, which often serve as an uncrowded alternative to their famous neighbors. A perfect example is Dead Horse Point State Park, located on the road to Canyonlands National Park with equally spectacular views but easier entry and fewer crowds. This means less time idling and more time enjoying the views!

If none of these options get your heart racing, then I'm sorry to be the one to tell you...but you are likely clinically dead.

2. Centrally-located international airport

Whether you're flying in from another state or another country, Salt Lake City International Airport (KSLC) is about as ideal as it gets. As one of Delta Air Lines' main hubs, Salt Lake offers numerous direct international routes, many of them non-stop including London and Paris.

Thanks to a recent redesign and new terminal expansion, the airport is modern, clean, and incredibly easy to navigate. Security lines are quick, there are plenty of dining and relaxation options in both terminals, and it consistently ranks among the top airports for on-time departures and arrivals.

The airport sits at the crossroads of I-80 (east-west) and I-15 (north-south). You are a quick 15-minute Uber ride away from downtown SLC and its selection of hotels and restaurants for any budget. You can even take the TRAX public transit, with a convenient airport terminal station and $2.50 one-way fare.

Utah Touring is located 25 minutes south of the airport and we offer services (both free and paid) to simplify your fly-in travel experience. We can deliver your bike(s) right to the airport, give you a lift to and from our location, and store your luggage while you're out riding. Let us know what we can do to make your fly & ride experience as seamless as possible!

3. Variety of off-bike activities

As much as we love riding, it feels good to step off our motorcycles for a break. Across the state you can find a wide selection of activities, experiences, and opportunities to suit your interests:

Hiking, mountain biking, skydiving, 4x4 adventures, distillery & brewery tours, fine dining, wakeboarding, horseback riding, golf, live music, rodeos, festivals, and professional sports games.

If you don't know where to start, we can help you find and book these experiences at no additional cost to your motorcycle rental. We can also book your lodging accommodations too!

4. Large swaths of federal lands for exploring

Did you know that 65% of Utah's land area is federally owned? This includes vast areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). What does this mean for adventure riders? Countless opportunities for exploration and camping!

When it comes to camping, here's a good rule-of-thumb: If you see numbered sites, paved roads, constructed fire rings, and/or restroom facilities, you've likely found an established campground that requires a nightly fee. They are typically well-labeled and can be paid for with cash or a check (from a US bank).

Outside of these developed areas in designated Federal Land areas, however, no-cost dispersed camping is permitted for up to 14-days at the same location at no cost. This means you can pull off a quiet backroad and set up camp away from crowds under a stunning dark sky. This free access to natural lands and recreation gives riders the ultimate chance to immerse themselves in Utah's natural beauty on their own terms and budgets. We expect our riders to know & respect local restrictions and leave no trace when wild camping. If you have questions - just ask!

5. Unparalleled natural landscapes

Utah is home to some of the most unique natural landscapes in the world. From the red rock formations of the southern desert to the snow-capped peaks of the Wasatch Range, Utah's landscapes are incredibly diverse. Riders can experience everything from sweeping canyons and towering cliffs to lush forests and alpine lakes.

The incredible stone formations in Arches, the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, and the iconic Delicate Arch in Arches National Park are just a few examples of the extraordinary sights that await. These landscapes are not only visually stunning but also provide excellent photo opportunities for riders looking to capture their adventure.

This variety provides a thrilling experience as you navigate through different terrains, each with its own unique charm. Don't forget to bring your camera, GoPro, or drone (*with restrictions) to capture your memories!

6. Pleasant weather

With a diverse climate that varies by region, Utah offers pleasant weather for motorcycle riding throughout much of the year. Spring and fall are particularly ideal, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Even summer can be enjoyable in higher elevations due to our very low humidity, making it possible to ride comfortably in various conditions.

The "safe" riding season is May through September, but warm seasons can let you extend the rideable months from mid-March through mid-November. Because of our desert climate, temperatures can swing wildly from day to night, varying as much as 50 degrees Farenheit (28° Celcius) warmer or cooler within a single day's ride. Your ride could start out at 80°F (26°C) in Salt Lake City, and end up at 45°F (7°C) at your campsite in the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

Packing versatile layers is key to comfort!

7. Unique cultural heritage

Riding through Utah means engaging with its layered cultural heritage. Your route can take you from the modern marvel of Salt Lake City, master planned in the 1840s by Mormon pioneers, down segments of the Pony Express trail, to eerie remnants of boom-and-bust mining ghost towns. Visit the place where the east and west transcontinental rail lines finally met, or explore hideouts once used by Wild West bandits.

Further south, the landscape opens up a much deeper past: ancestral Puebloan history, cliff dwellings, and petroglyphs are human history preserved in stone. These diverse attractions provide excellent inspiration for planning routes or detours based on your interests!

Conclusion

With its breathtaking parks, diverse landscapes, and pleasant weather, Utah is a must-visit destination for any adventure motorcycle rider. Whether you’re seeking thrilling off-road trails, stunning vistas, or a chance to connect with nature, Utah has something to offer everyone. Whether you rent one of our motorcycles or bring your own, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this incredible state on two wheels. Add it to your travel bucket list today!