Salt Lake City, Utah’s capital, is celebrated for a bevy of unique finds, restaurants, shops and activities and, while nearby Summit Creek, is also a short drive to some of the most coveted outdoor wonderlands in the U.S. Each of these ever-inspiring locales are around three hours away from the city, but boast other-worldly experiences. From Mars-like vistas to world-renowned hikes, to layers of stars in the night sky, each of these destinations are yet another testament to the wonder of Utah.

Moab

Known as an adventurer’s paradise, Moab is only three hours and 50 minutes from Salt Lake City and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country. All around are vibrant red rocks and ample opportunities to hike, climb and explore. While Moab is a beautiful escape from your day-to-day, it’s also a short drive from Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, balanced rocks and potentially life-altering sunsets and Canyonlands National Park, where you’ll find a rustic desert and the beautiful Colorado River.

Goblin Valley State Park

A scenic three hour and 36 minute drive lets you off at Goblin Valley State Park—home to thousands of rock formations known as hoodoos and referred to in the park as “goblins” and “gnomes.” A wildly inspiring place where the clay colored rocks meet up with the bright blue sky above, one can hike through the park and camp within the nooks of the hoodoos. Goblin Valley State Park is a truly unique experience and a reminder of how bright the stars shine at night in the great outdoors.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Another favorite short, three hour and 36 minute road trip is Bryce Canyon National Park. One of the most popular national parks in the state, this sprawling reserve boasts the world’s largest collection of hoodoos, a host of greenery, endless photo opportunities, campgrounds and numerous hiking trails. Take a full moon hike, experience the plateaus at sunrise or wander the Mossy Cave Trail at sunset. No matter what you choose, you won’t be disappointed by Bryce.

While Summit Creek is a captivating escape in its own right, it’s also a short drive from some of the most breathtaking locales in the country. And with summer fast approaching, we’re loading up the car.