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Best Lesser Known Places For Utah Landscape Photos

Author: Mark Wade
There are many lesser known places for incredible photographs in the state of Utah. This list only begins to scratch the surfaces on places to see and photos to capture.
Utah TOP 10 Lesser Known Photo Landscape Locations.

The state of Utah is rich in hidden gems that provide unique and lesser-known opportunities for landscape photography. Here are ten such places, along with the best time of day, camera direction, and notable features:

Devil's Garden

Devil's Garden Utah

Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Best Time of Day: Sunrise and sunset.

Camera Direction: West for sunrise, east for sunset.

Description: Unique rock formations, including hoodoos and natural arches, create an otherworldly landscape. The soft morning and evening light accentuates the intricate details.


Little Wild Horse Canyon and Bell Canyon

Location: San Rafael Swell.

Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon.

Camera Direction: Varies based on the specific slot canyon you're exploring.

Description: Narrow slot canyons with towering walls and curving passages. Play with light and shadows to highlight the textures and colors within the canyons.


Grosvenor Arch

Grosvenor Arch

Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Best Time of Day: Late afternoon.

Camera Direction: West for optimal lighting.

Description: A stunning double arch formation with contrasting red and white rock layers. The warm afternoon light enhances the colors and textures.


Goosenecks State Park

Location: Near Mexican Hat.

Best Time of Day: Sunset.

Camera Direction: West for capturing the winding San Juan River.

Description: Deep canyon with intricate meanders of the river. The setting sun casts warm hues on the canyon walls, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Parowan Gap Petroglyphs

Parowan Gap Petroglyphs

Location: Near Parowan.

Best Time of Day: Late afternoon.

Camera Direction: West for optimal lighting on the petroglyphs.

Description: Ancient petroglyphs on the rocks depict various symbols and figures. The low-angle sunlight brings out the details and enhances the contrast.


Notch Peak

Notch Peak

Location: House Range.

Best Time of Day: Late afternoon.

Camera Direction: West for optimal lighting on the peak.

Description: One of the highest limestone cliffs in North America, with stunning views of the surrounding desert. The low-angle sunlight accentuates the rugged textures.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

Kodachrome Basin

Location: Near Cannonville.

Best Time of Day: Sunrise or sunset.

Camera Direction: Varies based on the specific formations.

Description: Unique sandstone spires and monolithic rock formations surrounded by vibrant colors. Soft, warm light during sunrise or sunset enhances the surreal landscape.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

Location: Eastern Utah.

Best Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon.

Camera Direction: Varies based on the specific location along the scenic byway.

Description: Alpine lakes, dense forests, and mountain vistas. The serene reflections on Mirror Lake during quiet moments provide excellent photo opportunities.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Cedar Breaks

Location: Near Brian Head.

Best Time of Day: Sunset.

Camera Direction: West for optimal lighting on the amphitheater.

Description: A natural amphitheater filled with colorful rock formations, similar to Bryce Canyon but on a smaller scale. The setting sun adds a warm glow to the already vibrant landscape.

Fisher Towers

Location: Near Moab Utah

Best Time of Day: Sunrise or sunset.

Camera Direction: East for sunrise, west for sunset.

Description: Towering red rock spires with unique and dramatic shapes. The soft, golden light during sunrise or sunset creates a surreal atmosphere around these formations.

Exploring these lesser-known locations in Utah offers photographers a chance to capture the state's diverse and hidden beauty, away from the more crowded and well-known spots.

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