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10 Utah Myths Debunked: What You Need To Know Before Visiting

By May 30, 2023May 31st, 2023No Comments
If you’re planning on visiting Utah, there’s a good chance you’ve heard some things about the state that just aren’t true. From its rugged landscapes to its diverse population, Utah is a state that is often misunderstood. In order to help you better understand what Utah is really like, we’ve debunked some of the most common myths about the state. Keep reading to learn the truth about Utah – and what you can expect if you decide to visit!

Myth #1: Utah is nothing but desert

False! While Utah does have some of the most stunning desert landscapes in the US, the state is actually more diverse than you may think.
There are five distinct regions of Utah – the Rocky Mountains, the Great Basin, the Colorado Plateau, the High Plateau, and the Great Salt Lake Desert. The Rocky Mountains, located in the northern part of the state, offer stunning views of snow-capped peaks and vibrant forests. The Great Basin, located in the central area of Utah, offers views of wide-open deserts, lush grasslands, and deep canyons. The Colorado Plateau, located in the southeastern part of the state, offers views of ancient petrified forests, red-rocked canyons, and stunning natural arches. The High Plateau, located in the central area of Utah, features beautiful mountain lakes, sprawling ranches, and vibrant wildflowers. The Great Salt Lake Desert, located in the western part of the state, offers vast salt flats that shimmer in the sunlight.
While a majority of Utah’s landscape is made up of stunning desert, there’s a lot more to the state than just sand and rocks.

Myth #2: It’s always cold in Utah

False! While winters in Utah can be cold, temperatures can vary from region to region.
In northern Utah, temperatures drop to near freezing in wintertime, while in the south of the state, temperatures are much more moderate and rarely drop to freezing. In the southern region of Utah, temperatures are coldest in the mountains, where average temperatures range between 0-15°C (32-59°F). In the warmer and more protected valleys below the mountains, temperatures are much milder.
In the winter time, average temperatures in Utah range from -5°C (23°F) in the northern parts of the state, to around 13°C (55°F) in the south. The highest temperatures in the summer months can hit 38°C (100°F) in the Utah Valley region near Provo and the surrounding areas.
So while it’s true that Utah is known for its cold temperatures, it’s certainly not true that it’s always cold. Depending on where you travel in Utah, you can experience a wide range of temperatures.

Myth #3: There’s nothing to do in Utah

This myth couldn’t be further from the truth! Utah has a wide variety of activities that will keep you busy no matter the season. The state is full of museums, outdoor activities, and attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, there’s something in Utah for you.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Utah has some of the most diverse and stunning national parks. Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are must-sees, for their majestic canyons, jagged cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are also popular destinations, for the stunning rock formations and canyons.
If you’d prefer to spend your time indoors, Utah has plenty of museums and attractions for you to explore. The Natural History Museum of Utah is a popular destination, as well as the Utah State Capitol building and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. There are also plenty of films, theatre performances, and concerts in Utah, so be sure to check out the local entertainment scene.
There’s no need to worry about being bored in Utah. With its diverse array of activities and attractions, visitors will never run out of things to do.

Myth #4: Everyone in Utah is a Mormon

Although The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the most prominent church in Utah, it is certainly not the only one. There are numerous faith denominations that follow more traditional Christian beliefs such as Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Presbyterianism. There are also multiple synagogues, mosques, and temples that worship a variety of religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Jainism.
A 2018 survey concluded that 61% of households in Utah identify as members of a certain religious denomination. This doesn’t mean that everyone in Utah is necessarily Mormon though. In fact, Utah has one of the highest percentages of non-Mormons in the USA, with almost a third of the population practicing a religion other than Mormonism.
So that myth that everyone in Utah is a Mormon is simply not true. To add to this, visitors should also not expect everyone to be conservative either. Utah’s main cities, Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden are all very progressive and open minded. So, if you’re looking for a unique vacation, you should not be afraid to visit Utah – you’re sure to find something that fits your interests.

Myth #5: Non-Mormons aren’t welcome in Utah

This is one myth about Utah that needs to be debunked. Non-Mormons are always welcome in Utah and are accepted as part of the community. Whether you are Jewish, Muslim, Catholic, or of any another religion, you can have a great time in Utah and will be accepted as part of the Utah community.
There are many places in Utah that cater to those of all religious backgrounds. For example, the Salt Lake City area has several Christian churches, a synagogue, a mosque, several Buddhist temples, and even a Hindu temple. There is also a wide variety of restaurants and entertainment venues that are welcoming and friendly to both Mormons and non-Mormons alike.
In short, Utah is open to all kinds of people, no matter what religion you follow. So, feel free to book a flight to Utah and experience all the beautiful sites and attractions without worrying about religious discrimination.

Myth #6: Utah is an expensive place to visit

This myth is not entirely true. It is true that Utah has some expensive attractions, such as the ski resorts, that have made it a popular destination for high-end travelers. However, Utah has a wide range of affordable activities and attractions, ranging from hiking and biking trails to camping and river rafting.
There are also many affordable accommodation options, from hotels and hostels to cheap Airbnb’s. You can also find many affordable dining options, from chain fast food restaurants to local cultural eats. If you are on a tight budget, you can also take advantage of free events and attractions, such as National Parks and Monuments, outdoor activities, festivals, theater productions, and more. Utah really does have something for everyone, no matter what their budget is.

Myth #7: All the best skiing is in Colorado

This is a common myth, but it is far from true. Utah has some of the best skiing in the world, especially in the area around Salt Lake City and Park City. Many of the legendary ski resorts in Utah, such as Park City, Deer Valley, Snowbird, and Alta are consistently ranked among the best. Plus, they offer a wide variety of runs, from easy beginner runs to steep powder chutes. With world class resorts, terrain, and snow predictions, Utah is one of the best destinations for skiing in the country.

Myth #8: There’s no nightlife in Utah

This myth may have been true a few decades ago, but it’s definitely not true these days. Though Utah is largely known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere, the state also has a vibrant nightlife. Utah’s cities, such as Salt Lake City and Park City, are filled with bars, clubs, live music venues, and other entertainment options. If you’re looking for a night out, Utah can definitely provide!

Myth #9: You can’t get good Mexican food in Utah

This is simply not true. Though Utah may not have the same breadth of authentic Mexican restaurants as other states, it does have plenty of delicious Mexican food. From hole-in-the-wall mom and pop joints to gourmet chains run by famous chefs, Utah has a surprisingly diverse selection of Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re looking for burritos, tacos, tamales, or any other Mexican treat, you’ll definitely be able to find it in Utah. So go ahead and enjoy some tasty Mexican food in Utah!

Myth #10: There’s nothing to do in Utah outside Salt Lake City

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Utah is an incredibly diverse state with something to do seemingly everywhere you look. Whether you’re interested in unique outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or just relaxing, Utah has it all.
In addition to Utah’s myriad adventure features, the state also has a vibrant music scene featuring everything from punk and indie to classic rock and jazz. Plus, Utah is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, perfect for winter sports lovers.
Finally, Utah is a great place for the foodie. From celeb-chef-owned restaurants to awesome hole-in-the-wall eateries, Utah’s culinary scene has something for everyone. So don’t think Salt Lake City is the only place to have fun in Utah. The Beehive State has plenty of must-see spots around the state.

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