With its vast stretches of wild lands and dramatic landscapes, Utah is an ideal spot for an adventurous bachelor getaway before the big day. There’s something for every type of groom, whether you want to enjoy the nightlife in Salt Lake City, or partake in water sports at Lake Powell. As you make your party plans and book Utah vacation rentals, check out these fantastic cities and towns.
1. Salt Lake City
When you’re searching for the traditional bar-crawl bachelor party experience, downtown Salt Lake City is your best bet in Utah. The state’s famously conservative culture is relaxed in this small enclave, so you can enjoy drinks and dancing until the wee hours. Start your evening with craft cocktails at Bar X or beers at Beerhive before you catch the dueling pianos at the Tavernacle. If you’re in the mood for a club, head straight for the neon lights and house music at Elevate or Area 51. Leave your cars behind – the city’s TRAX light rail loops around downtown until midnight, and both Uber and Lyft operate locally after that.
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2. Desolation Canyon
Get away from it all before the big day with a rafting trip on the Green River through the spectacular Desolation Canyon. This remote, isolated wilderness was the home of the Fremont Indians for centuries; later, it was a haven for Wild West criminals on the run from the law. As you sail over gentle whitewater, rainbow-colored cliffs rise dramatically on either side, and bighorn sheep watch as you pass. Book a trip through outfitters such as Western River Expeditions and Holiday River Expeditions. Each company shuttles you from your vacation rental Moab or Green River to the top of the canyon, and provides guides, gear, and meals for the trip. Along the way, you can stop to swim at hidden beaches, fish off of the boat, and enjoy evening campfires under the starry Utah skies.
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3. Moab
If the groom-to-be is an adrenaline junkie, pack up the guys and head straight for Moab. As the undisputed adventure capital of Utah, this small town is loaded with heart-pounding activities. Ride the Colorado River rapids on a rafting trip with Red River Adventures, or go off-roading with Outlaw Jeep Tours. Set off to the towering Moses desert spire and dawn and watch the sun rise over the red rocks as you enjoy challenging crack climbing. Other local activities include world-class mountain biking, canyoneering, and hiking. After dark, head downtown for beers at the Moab Brewery and end the evening with a round of pool at Woody’s Tavern, a classic dive bar.
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4. Park City
Enjoy a mountain getaway and a fantastic bar scene in Park City. During the day, head to Deer Valley or Park City Mountain Resort for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. PCMR even has a ski lift that leaves right from Main Street year-round, so there’s no need for your group to drive from local vacation rentals – just hop on and head straight to the slopes. If you’re in the mood for adventure, visit the Utah Olympic Park to try bobsledding or take a free fall from the Drop Tower. When the ski hills close, head to the bustling downtown area to listen to live music at OP Rockwell or indulge in a whiskey tasting at High West Distillery.
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5. Fremont River
Escape the chaos of wedding planning with a bachelor fishing trip on the Fremont River, which lies just north of Capitol Reef National Park in central Utah. Look for cabins in Torrey or Teasdale to use as your home base; many offer private land and spectacular views of the red-rock desert. A few miles away, head upstream of the Mill Meadow Reservoir to fish for wild brown trout, or visit Seven-Mile Creek for brook trout and cutthroat trout. Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy a full day of fishing without seeing another person. Refuel with a ribeye or a generous steak platter at the Broken Spur Steakhouse in Torrey. Be sure to stock your kitchen with drinks; the area is sparsely populated and lacking a bar scene, but you can enjoy a beer under the stars at home after dinner.
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6. Springdale
For the groom who’s seeking sunshine and some of the best hiking in the United States, Springdale is a bachelor-party heaven. This tiny town is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the state for one reason: it’s the gateway to the mind-blowing Zion National Park. If you’re visiting in the summer, plan a full day of hiking in The Narrows, where the canyon walls close in tightly and the Virgin River rushes beneath your feet. Hike through the water, climb over boulders, and enjoy cool swims in hidden pools. Guided tours are available through Zion Adventure Company and Zion Guru, or you can go it alone. After you’re cleaned up from the day, enjoy a full rack of ribs at Oscar’s, and enjoy the relaxed local bar scene at the Zion Canyon Brew Pub.
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7. Lake Powell
Whether you’re in the mood for sun or adventure, Lake Powell is a fantastic choice. Tucked away in southern Utah, just over the Arizona border, this enormous lake features otherworldly sandstone shores and long, winding arms that are perfect for exploration. Look for vacation rentals near Bullfrog, which sits a short drive from the lake. The best way to experience Lake Powell is by boat; head down to the Bullfrog Marina to rent ski boats or power boats. The marina also provides Jet Skis, water skis, tubes, kayaks, and paddle boards, so it’s a breeze to suit everyone in your party. Stop for dinner at the Anasazi Restaurant in Bullfrog, or drive a few miles to Moki’s at the Ticaboo Resort.
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Ready to go? Check out these amazing Utah vacation rentals on Tripping.com.