Utah Travel Headlines Blog

Relaxed Liquor Laws Go Into Effect in Utah

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:15:00 +0000

As of July 1, Utah liquor laws have become more "normal" and the state's notorious private club system has been abolished. Under the old system People had to buy a private club membership before they could drink hard liquor in a bar or pub. Now the bars are open to everyone of legal age, no membership required.

The Washington Times has this article about the changes.

Utah made history this year by eliminating its 40-year-old private-club system, which required would-be drinkers to purchase a membership. The move is expected to boost tourism and convention business as word of the state's less-restrictive laws spreads to other states.

In exchange for the move, the state Legislature tightened DUI laws and required bars to scan the driver's licenses of anyone who appears younger than 35.

The legislature agreed to tear down the so-called "Zion Curtain," the glass partition that separated bartenders from customers in a setup similar to all-night gas stations and convenience stores. The move allows bartenders to serve their patrons directly over the bar, instead of having to walk around the partition.

More significantly, lawmakers ended the system that classified hard-liquor bars as clubs that could only serve members, requiring customers to fill out an application and pay a small fee before they could be served. Still, certain features of the law gave savvy Utahns ways to work around it.

Local papers have published numerous articles on the subject. Below are excerpts from this Salt Lake Tribune editorial.

Independence Day came early this year for people who enjoy tipping a few with friends without being subjected to oppressive regulations. Starting today, state Senate Bill 187 takes effect, and residents and visitors of legal age can walk into a Utah club and order an alcoholic beverage without first buying a membership. And so ends one of the most onerous restrictions on legal libations in the state since Prohibition.

Of course, there were trade-offs required to satiate the unfounded fears of legislative teetotalers who believed club memberships curbed underage drinking. So expect to have your driver license scanned if you appear to be under 35 years of age. But make no mistake, this is a landmark occasion, and, hopefully, just the beginning of expansive liquor law reforms.

Thanks For Utah Travel Brochures

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:56:00 +0000

We received the text below as a comment posted on utah.com. It refers to the free brochures available on this page. Many people also find our Canyon Country National Park Map & Guide to be valuable as they plan trips.

We have just returned to the UK from an extended vacation in Utah. I am writing to thank you for the wonderful information packs we received from Utah tourism. Would you please pass on our gratitude to your colleagues in Salt lake City, Moab, Cedar City, St. George, Garfield County, San Juan County, Kane County and Wayne County who took the time and trouble to send their information too.

(You can tell from the list that it was a fairly lengthy trip- and that doesn't include our "discovery" of Logan and its canyon en route for Yellowstone. The maps and brochures greatly assisted in the planning of a wonderful holiday (sorry-vacation!) I am enjoying looking back at the contents of the brochures now and wishing I was back in Utah. Maybe next year or sometime soon?!

Thanks once again
Best Wishes
Graham E

Bigfoot - The Search Is On In Utah This Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:45:00 +0000

Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization will be exploring NE Utah this weekend, searching for the elusive Bigfoot creature. That after a series of purported sightings over the years have many believers speculating that a clan of the critters lives in the rugged Uinta Mountains.

The Deseret News has this detailed article about the effort. Below are excerpts.

Salmond, 44, is a new member of the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization, which plans to explore the Ashley National Forest near the Utah-Wyoming border this Thursday through Monday looking for elusive Bigfoot evidence. Founded in 1995, BFRO claims to be the only scientific organization dedicated to finding Bigfoot.

Purported sightings in the Utah are not uncommon. Less than two weeks ago, Ryan Burns said he spotted a strange, hairy creature in the forest south of his home.

"I saw a reddish figure," he said. "At first, I thought it was a person in a fur coat."

When the Deseret News first did an overall look into Utah bigfoot phenomena back in 1993, it found at least 36 total purported sightings/signs of the creature from 1977 on. In the 16 years since, there have been at least another 49 new alleged sightings (an average of more than one a month) reported in Utah.

Here's a sampling of some reported bigfoot sightings in Utah:

Early June 2009 — Two campers along Reservation Ridge, northwest of Price, were frightened by a strange creature they saw in the area. They quickly packed up and left.

The article continues by detailing numerous purported sightings.

Hiking Upper Muley Twist Canyon

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 20:32:00 +0000

Matt H sent us these photos and this short description of a recent hike he did in Upper Muley Twist Canyon, in Capitol Reef National Park:

"As mentioned, here are some photos from my hike of Upper Muley Twist Canyon at Capitol Reef National Park. The hike was a bit more strenuous than anticipated, but it was still enjoyable. The drive to the trailhead was a bit arduous, with washboards for about 30 miles. We were in a Jeep, so we took the road on in to the Strike Valley Overlook trailhead.

"I was surprised by the number of arches on the trail, and the view of the Waterpocket Fold from the rim route portion of the trail was stunning. The canyon portion was easy to follow, but we did get off track once trying to follow the trail to the rim."

Moab and Dead Horse Point

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:58:00 +0000

If you want to know what's happening in Moab, follow http://twitter.com/VisitMoabUtah. Our friend Michele Hill sends tweets on a regular basis to help people stay informed about events there.

Michele works for the Moab Area Travel Council and she sends us info about what's happening in the area. Below we list her report on programs offered at Dead Horse Point State Park.

We have interpretive programs at the park every Thursday thru Sunday this summer. You can find the program descriptions on our State Parks website. Here's the list:

Geology Rocks! Thursdays 2:00 p.m. If you love rocks, this is the program for you! Meet at the Dead Horse Point overlook under the shelter at 2:00 p.m. on Thursdays for a program about the
rock cycle and how it relates to Dead Horse Point State Park.

Guided Hike. Fridays 10:00 a.m. Join Ranger Ramona on Friday at 10:00 a.m. for a guided hike to Dead Horse Point. Learn about some of the geology and plant life of the area, and discover the exact location of "Thelma and Louise Point."

See the Rainbow! Fridays 8:00 p.m. Join park staff at the visitor center amphitheater at 8 p.m. for a program about flowers at Dead Horse Point State Park. We will discuss what a flower actually is, what its purpose is, and view a slide show on the wildflowers found in the park.

Junior Ranger Program. Saturdays 10:00 a.m. Hey kids! Join Kim for a program about water in the desert! We will meet at the visitor center amphitheater at 10:00 a.m. If conditions allow we will take a short hike to the potholes north of the visitor center.

Uranium: The Passionate Heart of the Desert. Saturdays 8:00 p.m. We know uranium as the element that made the atomic bomb possible, but there is much more to this element than meets the eye. Come discover how uranium is ultimately responsible for the stunning landscape surrounding Dead Horse Point State Park, and why this element deserves to be called the passionate heart of the earth. Saturday, 8:00 p.m. at the visitor center amphitheater.

Insect Safari! Sundays 10:00 a.m. Hey kids! Join Ranger Ramona on an insect safari at Dead Horse Point State Park on Sunday at the visitor center amphitheater at 10:00 a.m. Learn about these amazing creatures, then see how many different insects you can find!

Leapin' Lizards. Sundays 8:00 p.m. Meet at the visitor center amphitheater at 8:00 p.m. for a program about reptiles. We will learn what snakes and lizards call this park their home.

Zion Tops TripAdvisor Parks List

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:24:00 +0000

Zion National Park is the best in the country, according to TripAdvisor.com.

The Salt Lake Tribune has this article detailing the website's park rankings. Below are excerpts.

According to travelers and editors from TripAdvisor, Utah's Zion National Park is the best in the country. Zion was No. 1 on a top 10 list of U.S. national parks. The publication picked Zion because its "stunning red monoliths and canyons of the park invite visitors to explore its beauty by camping, biking, touring by car, hiking and more. Adventurous travelers can embark on the exciting Angels Landing hike, and the views make the daring climb well worth it." According to one TripAdvisor traveler, "It's the best view in the entire park, and best hike I have ever done! Do not miss it!"

Grill On The Hill BBQ Championship and Brewfest

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:09:00 +0000

Jun 19 - Jun 21
Barbecue lovers, don't miss the The 2nd Annual Snowbird Grill On The Hill BBQ Championship and Brewfest, June 19 -21st, a state championship qualifying event sanctioned by the Kansas City BBQ Society. Top BBQ chefs from across the U.S. will compete in the categories of pork ribs, pork shoulder, beef brisket and chicken for a chance to win a share of more than $10,000 in cash and prizes. Eat championship BBQ as the best pit men in the country line up ready to do battle, apron to apron.

Event Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Address: Little Cottonwood Canyon, Snowbird
Phone: 801-933-2222
Contact: Teri Mum
Web Site: Click here

Utah Resorts Sizzle with Summer Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:10:00 +0000

Ski Utah provides the news release below about summer activities at Utah's Ski resorts.

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - When the days get longer and temperatures rise, Utah ski resorts bloom with a host of summer activities perfect for everyone in the family. Whether you prefer the challenge of a stimulating bike ride or hike, or are just looking to cool down, let summer breezes blow you to your favorite Utah resort.

- Alta Ski Area is open to the public all summer long for hiking and biking. Enjoy a fabulous lunch or brunch on weekends at the Alta Lodge. Alta’s famous Wildflower Festival will also take place July 17-19, 2009.

- Beaver Mountain rents its facilities to groups, great for company parties or family reunions. Facilities include the lodge, a yurt, 10-man tents, tent sites and RV hook-ups. New this summer, Beaver Mountain will host a summer music festival Sat., Sept. 12 from 3-9 p.m. Enjoy many bands and food vendors while resting on Beaver Mountain’s grassy slopes.

- Brian Head Resort offers hiking, biking, ATV rides and dining daily throughout the summer. Weekend visitors can also enjoy scenic chairlift rides, lift-accessed mountain biking, mountain disc golf, concerts and various special events.

- Brighton Resort will show its summer colors with a variety of flora and fauna. Enjoy flowers, fresh air and wildlife in beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon. Join the Resort this summer for the Keep on Rollin classic car show July 18, 2009 organized to raise money for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.

- The Canyons Resort will be running summer operations daily from June 19-Oct. 4. Enjoy gondola rides, lunch at Red Pine Café, mountain biking, disc golf and hiking. Don’t forget The Canyons Free Saturday Summer concert series every Saturday, starting July 18 and ending August 29. Also, check out the hugely popular 3rd of July Celebration with a free concert in the Resort Village by the Disco Drippers followed by an enormous fireworks show.

- Deer Valley Resort will offer lift-served mountain biking, hiking and scenic chairlift rides seven days a week June 19 through Labor Day and weekends only through Sept. 13 (conditions permitting). Hikers and bikers will have access to 55 miles of trail, and can enjoy scenic deck dining at the Royal Street Café. Deer Valley will host over 40 evening concerts in the Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater.

- Park City Mountain Resort’s family activities include the Alpine Slide, with four lanes available to ensure a new thrilling experience each ride; ZipRider; Utah’s only Alpine Coaster; lift-served mountain biking, hiking; scenic chairlift rides; climbing wall; the Legacy Launcher; Little Miner’s Park; horseback riding and much more.

- Powder Mountain will begin Summer Safari 4 X 4 Adventure Tours in mid-June. Guided tours in an oversized four wheel drive vehicle will take guests to spectacular sites over the 10,000 acres within the resort that would otherwise be inaccessible to the public by vehicle. The Resort will also host a series of exciting sporting events including the Powder Mountain Hill Climb presented by Diamond Peak Mountain Sports on June 27 and the Powder Mountain Motorcross presented by Monster Energy August 27–30, 2009.

- Snowbasin offers 2,650 acres of scenic beauty with gondola-accessed mountain biking, hiking and fine dining from June 27-October. Snowbasin also offers novice to moderate trails with shuttles back to the base, bike rentals, guided tours and a nine-hole disc golf course. Free concerts are held on Earl’s Patio every Sunday throughout the summer. The XTERRA National Championships will also take place Sept. 25-26 at Snowbasin.

- Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort will offer the ZipRider, Alpine Slide, hiking, biking, horseback and ATV riding, tram and lift rides, camps, concerts, festivals, and NEW this year, the Wasatch Mining Company Gemstone Mine. In addition, the Resort will host a number of national and local musical acts throughout the summer, including the new Tent Revival which will be the biggest gospel music festival west of the Mississippi.

- Solitude Mountain Resort, in beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon, offers the opportunity to enjoy peaceful alpine hikes, heart racing descents on mountain bikes, or a quiet weekend brunch with the family. Summers always cover the canyon in blankets of vibrant wildflowers and lush foliage, providing the perfect backdrop for outings.

- Sundance Resort offers the perfect family getaway with something for everyone, including summer theatre under the stars, concerts, hiking, biking, horseback riding and moonlight lift rides. Everyone in the family will enjoy the Sundance Summer Theatre production of the musical, The Fantasticks, from July 31-Aug. 22 at the Eccles Outdoor Amphitheater, presented in partnership with Utah Valley University.

- Wolf Creek Utah Ski Resort will host the 4th Annual Music in the Mountains from June 27 - Sept. 5. Guests will never run out of things to do with Wolf Creek Adventures. Summer adventures include horseback riding, Powzilla Tours, guided hikes, geo-cache hikes, hot air balloon rides, mountain and road bike tours, tennis lessons, white water rafting, flat water kayaking, Chuck Wagon Dinners and Wild West Games, lift-accessible bike rides, scenic rides, fishing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and golf.

- The Utah Olympic Park will have you feeling like a champ with bobsled rides, the Quicksilver Alpine Slide and zip-lines. Watch Olympians and national team members soar up to 60 feet in the air, performing acrobatic feats at the Flying Ace All-Stars shows. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays June 13- Sept. 5. Introductory Olympic sports camps are also offered for all ages and abilities.

For more information on these or other activities visit SkiUtah.com to link to resort websites. A complete summer activities calendar may also be found by visiting www.skiutah.com/trip_planning/calendar/. For media information, contact Ski Utah Director of Communications Jessica Kunzer at 801.647.2510 or by email at jessica@skiutah.com.
###

Ski Utah is the marketing firm owned and operated by the 13 statewide ski resorts that make up the Utah Ski and Snowboard Association. The organization has been creating brand awareness of and demand for the Utah wintersports product since its inception in 1978.

Disney, Pixar Will Shoot Sci-Fi Movie in Utah

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:29:00 +0000

Utah's exotic landscape has often appeared in movies and TV shows, sometimes being used to depict alien worlds. Most recently, a portion of the San Rafael Swell stood in for the plant Vulcan in the last Star Trek movie.

Now we'll be depicted as Mars in a new Disney-Pixar movie, "John Carter of Mars," based on the Edgar Rice Burroughs science-fiction book series.

The Salt Lake Tribune has this article about the production. Below are excerpts. Also see this MTV blog.

Disney and Pixar, makers of classic animated movies such as "Toy Story" and the recent hit "Up," are expected to partly film the pulp science-fiction adventure "John Carter of Mars" in Utah from November to July 2010.

Portions of the Beehive State will double as Mars, including Lake Powell (where the original "Planet of the Apes" was partially filmed), Moab, and Kane and Wayne counties.

"It's the biggest movie we've ever used incentives on," said Utah Film Commission executive director Marshall Moore. "We haven't seen these kinds of numbers since doing a TV series for a year."

According to a GOED executive summary, the filmmakers are committed to spend $27.7 million in the state and employ 398 Utahns during the seven months of pre-production and shooting. In turn, the production would receive a $5.5 million tax credit under the state's incentive program.

In the past, the comedy "Unaccompanied Minors" resulted in $16 million being spent in Utah, while "High School Musical 3" resulted in $14 million.

National ATV Jamboree

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 17:02:00 +0000

This is a major ATV event that includes rides on some of the best trails in the region. It will take place June 22-27, and is centered in Fillmore, in central Utah.

The event offers approximately 30 different rides each day in the Pahvant Mountains, with experienced local guides making stops along the way to describe history, geology, flora and fauna. Participants will enjoy seeing wild turkeys, elk and mule deer as you travel the Paiute ATV Trail and experience some of the most spectacular scenery you can imagine. Pizza parties, pot luck dinners and a progressive dinner in Chalk Creek Canyon are just some of the activities planned during the week-long event.

See millardcountytravel.com for details.Contact: Nola Whatcott or Jayne RasmussenPhone: 435-759-2543

On Horseback In Red Canyon

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Red Canyon offers stunning red-rock formations set amidst an evergreen forest. It is located near Bryce Canyon National Park and offers similar features. There is no better way to explore the area than on horseback.

Deseret News writer Amy Donaldson describes the adventure in this article. Below are excerpts. The News also has this video showing the ride.

Imagine wildflowers, three or four different types and colors, growing on a red rock ledge. A few hundred yards later, you're surrounded by Ponderosa pines, junipers and Douglas fir. Overhead is a clear, blue sky marred only by birds that draw your attention away from the trail up into the vastness of the beauty that surrounds you for hundreds of miles.

As we rode along the trails — of which there are about 50 miles for horses, mountain bikers and hikers — that dipped and climbed through Red Canyons' hills and cliffs, I had a hard time not repeating myself.

"Look at that!" I exclaimed, pointing out whatever it was that had pulled my attention to it this time. "Isn't that amazing!"

In some places, words really do fail a person.

24 Indicted For Looting Ancient Indian Artifacts

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 20:19:00 +0000

Twenty-four people have been named as criminal defendants in the theft of archaeological and cultural artifacts from public and Indian lands in the Four Corners area.

That's from this Deseret News article about a federal investigation into allegded looting of ancient graves and other sites, many of which are located in southeastern Utah. Below are excerpts from the article.

The stolen artifacts, some of which were on display during the news conference, including an Archaic period obsidian blade and a black-on-white bowl recovered from San Juan County.

Utah's cultural treasures have often been the target of vandals and thieves, with arrowheads stolen from museums and damage reported to ancient rock art in the southern Utah area.

A 2006 report by the National Trust for Historic Preservation concluded that artifact hunters, off-roaders, urban sprawl and vandals are "robbing the nation" of cultural resources.

It's illegal to take artifacts from public or Indian lands without a permit or from private lands without permission from the landowner, said (Utah State Archaeologist Kevin) Jones.

Federal and state officials have been tracking down and prosecuting Utah looters for years.

The Salt Lake Tribune has this article about the investigation.

Stories Mark Zion Park Centennial

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 22:44:00 +0000

Several special activities are being held this year, as Zion National Park marks its centennial. The park has published this Official Centennial Newspaper, titled "A Century of Sanctuary 1909-2009. It is interesting reading.

The Salt Lake Tribune has this article featuring stories about the park submitted by readers.

And Trib outdoors writer Tom Wharton shares his experiences related to the park. Below are excerpts from Tom's article.

My late wife and I spent the first two nights of our honeymoon camping here in 1972. She was trying to turn me into an outdoor lover but didn't help her cause when we climbed to the top of Angels Landing on a hot June day with no water.

I've watched as snow covered Checkerboard Mesa on a Thanksgiving weekend and as a late summer monsoon storm created waterfalls nearly everywhere. Zion was one of the last national parks my late wife visited before her death. We hiked the Watchman Trail, her once sturdy body struggling with the combination of cancer and chemo.

After reading a couple of dozen stories about Zion submitted by Tribune readers for the centennial celebration, it's obvious that I am not alone in my feelings for this place. On warm March weekends, first surrounded by strangers from all over the world and then by kids and grandkids, I realized that Zion is a spiritual place. I can only marvel at the wisdom and foresight it took 100 years ago when few visited this land of towering sandstone cliffs for someone to see its value and set it aside so millions of us can now enjoy its largely unspoiled views.

Read his complete article.

Kanab Ranked As Best Utah Town For Sportsmen

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 22:21:00 +0000

Kanab is the best Utah town for sportsmen, according to Outdoor Life Magazine. That southern Utah community came in at #12 in the magazine's national List.

The magazine's June/July edition issue provides the rankings. You can see them here.

The Deseret News has this article on the magazine's list. Below are excerpts.

"Outdoorsmen want world-class hunting and fishing, but like everyone else, they also want to have a high quality of life," says Todd Smith, Outdoor Life editor-in-chief. "The towns on this list offer the best of the outdoors as well as decent homes and schools and good-paying jobs. They are truly dream towns for sportsmen."

In addition to Kanab, Heber City, Vernal, Richfield, Cedar City, Logan and Price made the list from Utah.

Kanab is located on the Utah/Arizona border, close to Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks and Lake Powell. There are excellent deer hunting opportunities in the nearby mountain - including some units that consistently produce trophy animals. There are also great fishing spots nearby.

Outdoor Adventure Expo Friday and Saturday in Salt Lake

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 18:13:00 +0000

The Utah Outdoor Adventure Expo will be held June 5-6 (Fri and Sat) at the Utah State Fairpark in Salt Lake City.

Billed as "The Trailhead to Your Next Outdoor Adventure," the expo features information, demonstrations and exhibits to help people enjoy all kinds of outdoor recreational activities. There will be entertainment, food and discounted prices on all kinds of equipment.

See the expo webpage for details.

Also see this Deseret News article about the expo.

Documentary Film Promotes Kanab As Little Hollywood

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 21:34:00 +0000

Kanab, a small community in southern Utah, picked up the nickname "Little Hollywood" because many movies and TV shows have been filmed in the area.

Now a documentary film has been produced to showcase the area's film history and promote it as an attractive location for future films.

The Deseret News has this article about the documentary. Below are excerpts.

"Kanab has an amazing past," (documentary producer Stephen) Armstrong said. "As remote as this area used to be, it managed to attract some of Hollywood's greatest talent."

Since the 1920s, hundreds of feature films and television programs have been made there, most notably "Western Union," "Buffalo Bill," and Clint Eastwood's classic Western "The Outlaw Josey Wales," as well as the long-running TV series "Gunsmoke" and "Have Gun, Will Travel." Consequently, Kanab is often referred to as Utah's Little Hollywood.

"Movie stars like Frank Sinatra, John Wayne, Dean Martin, Maureen O'Hara and James Garner made movies out here. World-class directors like Fritz Lang, John Sturges and Clint Eastwood worked out here, too," Armstrong said.

His documentary, "Return to Little Hollywood," provides audiences with the opportunity to view footage of locations and sets used in past movies and television productions. It also includes interviews with county residents who participated in those productions. Local officials, historians and several Hollywood professionals, including Clint Walker and Harry Carey Jr. also appear and are interviewed in the film.

The film will premier June 17 at 7 p.m. at the Crescent Moon Theatre in downtown Kanab. Producers then hope to screen the picture at various locations throughout the state.

Visit National Parks For Free This Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:44:00 +0000

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that entrance fees will be waived on 3 summer weekends to encourage people to visit US National Parks, Monuments and Recreation Areas.

KSL carried this news release about the announcement. Below are excerpts.

"National Parks also serve as powerful economic engines for local communities and we hope that promoting visitation will give a small shot in the arm to businesses in the area," he (Salazar) said. The 147 National Park Service sites across the country that charge fees for entry will waive these entrance fees during the weekends of June 20-21, July 18-19, and August 15-16, 2009, Salazar said. Meanwhile, many park partners including tour operators, hotels, restaurants, gift shops, and other vendors will offer additional discounts and special promotions on those dates. More information on the fees and discounts can be found at nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm.

Most Americans live less than a day's drive from a park, the Secretary noted. Nationwide, parks last year attracted more than 275 million recreation visits. Spending by non-local visitor provided $10.6 billion for local economies, supporting more than 213,000 jobs, not counting National Park Service jobs.

"Tourism income helps America's economic recovery," Salazar said. "National park sites in the Great Lakes states, for example, attract 8 million recreation visits a year that bring $211 million into the local economies. Spending by visitors from out of the area supports 4,400 local jobs. So these areas need to maintain and expand this vital tourism."

Some businesses associated with National Parks are offering discounts or special promotions. Some are listed here. Below is one example.

Lake Powell - From Aramark Parks and Destinations -- Rainbow Bridge Tours: Buy One All Day and Get One 50% off (PROMOTIONAL CODE/REQUEST: NPSDAYS)

Southwestern Utah Backways and Byways

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 22:34:00 +0000

If you are interested in scenic drives off the beaten path, you'll love the backways and byways around St George, Zion Park and Bryce Canyon.

St George Magazine describes area routes in this interesting article, which includes beautiful photographs. It highlights these roads:

Mojave Desert-Joshua Tree Scenic Backway
Kolob Reservoir Scenic Backway
Gooseberry-Fremont Road Scenic Backway
Burr Trail
State Route 18
US Route 89
Old Highway 91
State Route 14
All American Road Highway 12

Fish For Free On June 6

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 28 May 2009 22:02:00 +0000

Utah will hold Free Fishing day on Saturday, June 6. On that day only, anyone can fish in Utah waters without a license. All other regulations will be enforced.

See our fishing report for ideas about where to fish.

Read more about Free Fishing Day, including clinics and events where you can learn to fish.

During the late spring/early summer, fishing is usually very good at most Utah reservoirs and streams.

Children under age 12 do not need a license to fish in Utah waters. Everyone age 12 and over must have a license to fish, except on Free Fishing Day.

Buy a Utah fishing license.

Learn about Utah fishing regulations.

Wet and Wild in Zion Park

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 27 May 2009 22:40:00 +0000

It's time to get wet in Zion Park.

Some of the park's most popular hikes involve wading or swimming through streams and potholes, and that kind of activity is most pleasant when air temperatures are warm and stream flows are down. Those conditions are developing right now. We're on the front end of Zion's peak hiking season.

I hiked in Zion last weekend and had a great time. Conditions were perfect.

The park was crowded - standing room only on the shuttle - but that is to be expected over a holiday weekend. The air temperature pushed into the low 90s. That's warm enough to make the water attractive, but not nearly as hot as it will be in July. We were able to hike sunny trails in relative comfort.

Stream flows have been high, but they are now coming down rapidly. The water is still cold but that is also moderating. It is now enjoyable to hike in the Narrows. The Subway and other famous "wet hikes" will be very attractive during the next several weeks.

My daughter recently became engaged and her fiancé had never been to southern Utah. Our mission was to show him some of the best of the best (as much as you can fit into a quick weekend trip.)

Where do you go, with so many great options? Zion has long been my favorite and we decided to do Angels Landing, because it offers a bit of adventure while providing a grand overview of Zion Canyon.

Our friend assured us there are mountains and canyons in his home state of Virginia. Yeah, right...

He found the view to be overwhelming, as he gazed across the saddle and up the hogsback. It took a little time before he could make his feet climb those rocks, his hands grasp those chains, but he made it to the top.

He passed the test - barely. I guess we can let him join the family.

To cool off, we played in the pools along lower Pine Creek, below the waterfall. It was great fun.

- Dave Webb

Utah's scenic calendar wins top national prize

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Fri, 22 May 2009 21:52:00 +0000

The Utah Office of Tourism's official 2009 scenic calendar won the best national calendar award recently in the Calendar Marketing Association's annual competition, the Salt Lake Tribune reports.

The state's calendar won seven gold and one silver awards in several categories, the golds for best scenic photography, most informative and best graphic design.

Designed by graphic artist Scott Hardy, the calendar was printed at Rastar in West Valley City.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache is Second-Most Popular Forest in the US

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 21 May 2009 17:00:00 +0000

Some 8.9 million people visit the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest every year, making it the second-most popular forest in the US.

The Daily Herald has this article about the forest. Below are excerpts.

A year after the Uinta and Wasatch-Cache national forests were combined, officials have announced the forest is the second-most visited in the nation.

The two forests were combined to save an estimated $2 million a year in administrative expenses.

With the economy as it is, the increasing popularity of the forest may be because more people are looking for recreation opportunities closer to home, said Lorraine Januzelli, spokeswoman for the forest. Surveys show that just over half of all visitors here live within 25 miles of the forest, just over 90 percent live within 100 miles of the forest, and just 9 percent live farther away.

"Forty-two percent come to hike, and then the next-biggest group is people who come to view nature," she said.

The sheer number of visitors means that it becomes everyone's job to help protect the forest for future generations, both Januzelli and Velarde said.

"Obviously that is a huge impact for us," said Velarde of the number of visitors. "First and foremost, we are there to protect the forest."

Landscape Arch Named Longest In World

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Wed, 20 May 2009 23:00:00 +0000

There has been a long-standing debate, whether Landscape Arch (in Arches National Park) or Kolob Arch (in Zion National Park) is the world's biggest.

In this AP article, researchers say they have an answer. Below are excerpts.

Utah state geologists and a group of intrepid volunteers say they've finally answered a nagging geological question: What's the longest natural arch in the world?

The answer, they say, is Landscape Arch in Arches National Park in southeastern Utah.

Of course, it all depends on how you measure it. But members of the all-volunteer Natural Arch and Bridge Society spent years developing a standardized measurement that looks at the widest horizontal opening in each arch — not the arch itself.

Using that yardstick, they found that Landscape Arch spanned about 290 feet. Kolob Arch in Zion National Park came in at 3 feet shorter.

Moab Arts Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Mon, 18 May 2009 21:53:00 +0000

The annual Moab Arts Festival is held every Memorial Day Weekend. This year it will run Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.

The festival offers artistic on display and for sale including jewelry, pottery, wood, sculpture, clothing, fine art and photography.

There will also be a kid-o-rama, music, entertainment, taiko drummers and a food court.

Events will be held in Swanny City Park, 400 North 100 West, in Moab.

See the festival website or call 435-259-2742 for more information.

Memorial Day Preview

noreply@blogger.com (Utah Blog Admin) — Thu, 14 May 2009 21:23:00 +0000

Memorial Day is a low-keyed holiday in Utah. There will be several events hosted by communities and organizations, and plenty of family picnics, campouts and recreational activities.

This is a popular family holiday. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer and many people will be fishing, boating, hiking, camping and engaging in other outdoor sports.

Popular campgrounds will fill up early. Many campgrounds are first-come, first-served and they will start filling on Thursday afternoon. Arrive early if you hope to get a site. Campgrounds that accept reservations may have some openings, if you book immediately.

Low-elevation areas in southern Utah will have summer-like temperatures. In northern Utah the weather will still be spring-like, with chilly nights, so be prepared.

Boat ramps will be busy at our popular reservoirs, including Lake Powell, Strawberry, Jordanelle, Deer Creek and Otter Creek.

Lake Powell is an attractive destination, even through the marinas will be crowded. It is a huge reservoir and you can always boat away from the crowds. Arrive early, if you can.

At Powell, the upper lake won't be as crowded and it offers some of the best fishing. The Colorado River is pumping muddy water into the lake, and muddy conditions may extend downloake almost to Good Hope Bay. But the fishing will be great in the area where muddy river water gives way to clear lake water.

The official launch ramp at Hite is still not usable but it is possible to launch on an old roadbed near the old marina. However, there is considerable floating debris in the area and so boating is difficult.

Here are some great places that won't be as crowded.
Flaming Gorge
Bear Lake
Red Fleet
Steinaker
Piute
Anywhere in Utah's west desert

Boulder Mountain is starting to open up. Lakes on the side of the mountain should be accessible and ice-free. Boulder Top is still not accessible.

Uinta Mountain high lakes are not accessible but lower-elevation lakes usually start to open up about this time of year.