Unplugging and Unwinding: The Best Picnic Spots in Utah

In the great state of Utah, where nature takes center stage, there is no shortage of breathtaking landscapes that beckon weary souls to unwind and recharge. From the majestic peaks of the Wasatch Range to the otherworldly beauty of Arches National Park, this land is a haven for those seeking solace amidst untamed wilderness.

For those who yearn to unplug from their busy lives and embrace the serenity of nature, there are some truly remarkable picnic spots scattered throughout Utah's vast expanse. These hidden gems offer not just a respite from the daily grind but also an opportunity to connect with local traditions and culture.

Let us begin our journey by venturing into one of Utah's smallest towns - Boulder (Boulder Mountain Lodge & Resort). Tucked away in Garfield County, this charming hamlet provides an idyllic setting for a peaceful afternoon picnic. Surrounded by towering pine trees and nestled against Boulder Mountain, it feels like stepping into a scene from a Fitzgerald novel. Lay out your blanket on the lush green grass as you savor locally sourced cheeses and wines while immersing yourself in Hemingway's prose or Mary Austin's vivid descriptions of desert life.

Continuing our exploration further south lies Goblin Valley State Park (Goblin Valley Rd., Green River). This surreal landscape carved by time offers an otherworldly backdrop for an unforgettable picnic experience. Wander through formations reminiscent of H.P Lovecraft's stories or Terry Tempest Williams' contemplative essays as you indulge in hearty sandwiches made with artisanal breads from nearby bakeries. Let your imagination run wild among these ancient hoodoos while enjoying moments of quiet reflection under the vast dome of blue sky above.

As we traverse deeper into southern Utah, we encounter Kodachrome Basin State Park (Hwy 12 at Cannonville). Named after the vibrant colors captured by Kodak film, this park is a photographer's dream come true. Capture the essence of Utah's stark beauty as you savor local delicacies like fry bread and Navajo tacos. Lose yourself in Ansel Adams' iconic black-and-white photographs or Edward Abbey's lyrical descriptions of the Southwest while basking in the warm glow of sunlight illuminating red rock formations.

No exploration of Utah's picnic spots would be complete without a visit to Bear Lake (Garden City). Known as the "Caribbean of the Rockies," this azure gem straddles both Utah and Idaho, offering stunning panoramic views that will leave you breathless. Spread out your picnic blanket on its sandy shores and indulge in fresh trout caught from its pristine waters, all while contemplating Mark Strand's evocative verses or Terry Tempest Williams' meditations on water conservation.

In these comfortable corners of Utah, where time seems to stand still, one can truly unplug from modern distractions and find solace amongst nature's grandeur. So pack your basket with local treats, grab a good book or poem that captures the spirit of this land, and head out into the wild expanse to unwind, decompress, relax or simply chill amidst untamed splendor.

Websites:

- Boulder Mountain Lodge & Resort: www.bouldermountainlodge.com

- Goblin Valley State Park: stateparks.utah.gov/parks/goblin-valley

- Kodachrome Basin State Park: stateparks.utah.gov/parks/kodachrome-basin

- Bear Lake: bearlake.org

Twitter Handles:

- @UTStateParks

- @BoulderMtnLodge

- @UtahGov