Boulder UtahATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Boulder, Utah.
1. The Hogback
SCENIC RIDGE VIEWS
The Hogback is a dramatic, narrow ridge offering panoramic vistas along Scenic Byway 12. Drivers and sightseers are treated to stunning drops on either side and unparalleled views of the surrounding slickrock country. It is a favorite stop for photographers and those seeking a thrilling drive through unique geology.
2. Devils Garden
SANDSTONE FORMATIONS HIKE
Devils Garden is a remarkable area within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, known for its otherworldly hoodoos and natural arches. A short trail allows visitors of all ages to explore these colorful rock formations up close. The site is especially popular for families, photographers, and nature lovers.
3. Anasazi State Park Museum
ANCIENT PUEBLOAN HISTORY
Anasazi State Park Museum provides a fascinating look at the region's Ancestral Puebloan heritage. Visitors can walk through a reconstructed ancient dwelling and view artifacts dating back nearly a thousand years. The museum is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology and Indigenous history.
4. Burr Trail
FAMOUS BACKCOUNTRY DRIVE
The Burr Trail is a scenic drive extending from Boulder into Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Capitol Reef National Park. It features dramatic switchbacks, slot canyons, and expansive views of rugged wilderness. Adventurous travelers often use this route to access some of southern Utah's most remote landscapes.
5. Hell's Backbone Grill & Farm
AWARD-WINNING ORGANIC DINING
Hell's Backbone Grill & Farm is a celebrated restaurant emphasizing organic, locally sourced cuisine. Run on Buddhist principles and sustainability, it offers a unique farm-to-table experience in a remote setting. The restaurant has received national accolades and is considered a culinary destination in itself.
6. Circle Cliffs
SPECTACULAR GEOLOGICAL LANDMARK
Circle Cliffs is a breathtaking geological formation within the Grand Staircase-Escalante region. The layered cliffs create a vibrant and colorful landscape that draws geologists, hikers, and photographers alike. This remote area offers tranquility and endless opportunities for exploration.
7. Upper Calf Creek Falls
HIDDEN WATERFALL HIKE
Upper Calf Creek Falls is a beautiful and secluded waterfall accessible by a moderately challenging hiking trail. The trek rewards visitors with views of cascading water set amid a rugged, pristine landscape. It is a popular spot for hikers seeking solitude and natural beauty.
8. Sweetwater Kitchen
FRESH LOCAL DINING
Sweetwater Kitchen offers creative cuisine using organic, locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed, scenic setting. Known for its farm-to-table approach, the menu changes with the seasons to highlight the freshest produce available. The restaurant is a favorite among visitors for healthy and delicious meals.
9. Burr Trail Grill
CASUAL WESTERN EATERY
Burr Trail Grill is a popular spot for hearty Western fare and homemade desserts. The rustic establishment features local beef, creative salads, and freshly baked pies, all served in a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. It is well-loved by travelers exploring Scenic Byway 12 and the Burr Trail.
10. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
VAST WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument begins just outside Boulder, offering vast expanses of slot canyons, slickrock, and desert landscapes. This 1.9-million-acre area is renowned for hiking, stargazing, and backcountry exploration. The monument provides endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
11. Boulder Mountain
HIGH-ELEVATION RECREATION
Boulder Mountain is a high, forested plateau ideal for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The area boasts pristine alpine lakes and panoramic views stretching across the southern Utah landscape. It's a cool retreat in summer and a destination for outdoor adventure year-round.
12. Scenic Byway 12
AWARD-WINNING SCENIC DRIVE
Scenic Byway 12 is a nationally recognized route passing through Boulder and connecting Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks. The drive features breathtaking vistas, winding roads, and easy access to many of the region's top attractions. It is frequently cited as one of America's most beautiful scenic drives.
13. Bryce Canyon National Park
ICONIC HOODOO LANDSCAPES
Bryce Canyon National Park, located about 77 miles from Boulder, is home to the world's largest concentration of hoodoos—remarkably shaped rock pillars. Visitors can hike along rim trails, peer into dramatic amphitheaters, and experience stunning sunrises and star-filled skies. The park is a must-see destination for anyone exploring southern Utah.
14. Capitol Reef National Park
WATERPOCKET FOLD WONDERS
Capitol Reef National Park is known for its colorful rock formations and the impressive Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long warp in the Earth's crust. The park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities to see historic orchards and petroglyphs. It is a favored destination for geology enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
15. Escalante Interagency Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO EXPLORATION
The Escalante Interagency Visitor Center serves as the main hub for information on Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and surrounding areas. Visitors can pick up maps, learn about local trails, and discover the region's unique geology and history. The center is an essential stop for trip planning and orientation.
16. Escalante Outfitters
OUTDOOR GEAR & CAFÉ
Escalante Outfitters is a popular stop for hikers and adventurers, offering outdoor gear, guide services, and a cozy café. The business provides expert advice on exploring the nearby canyons and trails, as well as comfortable cabins for overnight stays. Its retail and dining options make it a convenient base for regional exploration.