An Often Overlooked Red Rock City Is Utah's Best 'Base Camp' For Outdoor Adventure

Utah. A wild place out west that bears a strange resemblance to Mars — and for many outdoor enthusiasts, Utah has it all. You've seen the pictures of an otherworldly red rock landscape, sprawling as far as the eye can see: plateaus, hoodoos, arches, canyons, and bridges, to name a few. The Mighty 5, as well as countless untamed protected lands and state parks, attract explorers from all over the world. But first — they need a great base camp for their adventures in Southern Utah.

Within 45 minutes of some of the state's greatest natural attractions and a three-hour drive from Salt Lake City, lies Green River, a humble town truly representative of the Old West and a hub of outdoor recreation. Dusty, solitary, and charming as only a small Western town can be, Green River is perfectly situated and equipped to be the ideal base camp for your Utah adventures. Offering professional tours, affordable lodging, and a rich history (ever heard of Butch Cassidy?), the town is stocked with everything you need and invites you to unlimited recreation opportunities. Whether you're hiking, camping, stargazing, rafting, or dirt biking, you can truly take your pick of what you want to do! 

Green River is a short drive to the famous Goblin Valley, Dead Horse State Park, Canyonlands, San Rafael Swell, and Arches National Park, each site begging for your time and attention. And fear not, if you are a rough-and-tough outdoors person who also values a great meal and place to lay your head at night, then the Tamarisk Restaurant and its adjoining lodge Skyfall Guestrooms satisfies all.

Out of the many red rock adventures you could choose during your stay at Green River, canyoneering is one of the most thrilling and immersive experiences available. This Viator tour called the Goblin Valley State Park Canyoneering Adventure, is your firsthand opportunity to access an underground world with the expertise of a local guide. During your adventure, you will disappear into the depths of a Goblin Valley slot canyon (safely, of course) until your reach the mysterious "Chamber of the Basilisk." Harry Potter references aside, yes, this place is magical. You'll be rappelling, climbing, hiking, and wandering through a great red rock chamber that is said to resemble a Gothic church!

Canyoneering, for those new to the sport, is not one you can do alone. By taking advantage of this unique Viator tour, you can build a new skill, learn about the area's astounding geographical history, bring home a unique travel story, and have an experience like you've never had before. This half-day tour is family-friendly (note participants must be at least 7 years old and must weigh 70-250 pounds), open to beginners with a moderate fitness level, and allows you exclusive entry into one of the best hidden gems of red rock country. Undertaking this canyoneering expedition, as well as undertaking a trip to Green River, is one that will take your breath away.