Best Places to Watch the Sunrise or Sunset in Utah
Utah’s dramatic landscape—red-rock cliffs, high mountain ranges, desert lakes—makes it a sunrise and sunset lover’s paradise. Whether you're chasing pastel-drenched skies or flaming horizons, here are the top spots across the state to catch those magical moments.
Southern Utah
1. Bryce Canyon (Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point)
Why it shines: Hoodoos glow in saturated tones at dawn and dusk, creating surreal color “shows”
Pro tip: Try Inspiration Point at sunrise to catch long shadows and warm light painting the amphitheater walls
2. Zion National Park (Canyon Overlook, Watchman Trail, Timber Creek Overlook)
Why it stands out: Towering Navajo sandstone cliffs blaze with golden hues as the sun rises and sets.
Suggested spots: Canyon Overlook offers dramatic canyon views; Watchman Trail and Timber Creek are less crowded and equally stunning.
3. Dead Horse Point State Park (Moab)
Why it's special: Panoramic views overlooking the Colorado River and Canyonlands make for sweeping and cinematic light shows.
Timing tip: Evening serene moments — skip Mesa Arch crowds and head to the mesa rim instead.
4. Arches National Park (Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden)
Delicate Arch at sunset: One of Utah’s icon scenes—bright evening hues against the arch’s silhouette.
Devil’s Garden at sunrise: Less crowded trail, gently lit arches and fins in soft morning light .
Northern & Central Gems
5. Antelope Island / Buffalo Point (Great Salt Lake)
Why it’s gorgeous: Sunlight glistens off the lake and silhouettes antelope roaming the shoreline at sunset.
Don’t miss: Buffalo Point offers an open, undisturbed horizon.
6. Ensign Peak / Mueller Park Canyon (Salt Lake City area)
Why locals flock here: City skyline with mountain backdrops—especially at Ensign Peak for sunrise and Mueller Canyon’s Elephant Rock for sunsets,
7. Mirror Lake Highway – Bald Mountain Pass
For high-altitude adventure: Alpine lakes, golden aspens, and quiet serenity—ideal for early risers to enjoy crisp mountain sunlight .
Underrated & Backroad Beauties
8. Snow Canyon Overlook (St. George)
What you'll see: Volcanic cliffs and dunes bathed in pastel glow—reachable via a moderate hike .
Extra: Bring a headlamp for early morning hikes.
9. Red Canyon Overlook (Flaming Gorge)
Ideal for reflections: Cliffs mirrored in the reservoir waters at sunrise or sunset.
10. Alstrom Point (Lake Powell)
Why photographers love it: Remote mesas offer panoramic views of Lake Powell’s cliffs—often empty with breathtaking light .
Tips for the Perfect Experience
Arrive early: 20–30 minutes before sunrise or sunset—lighting lasts only minutes.
Pack layers: Evenings & mornings can be chilly, especially at high elevations.
Scout the spot: Visit once before peak day to find the best vantage.
Bring essentials: Headlamp/flashlight, tripod, snacks, water.
Leave no trace: Stick to trails, pack out trash, and respect wildlife.
Closing Thoughts
From hoodoo amphitheaters to salty shores and alpine peaks, Utah is a treasure trove for dawn and dusk chasers. Drop a comment below with your favorite location or share your own sunrise/sunset story—we’d love to hear it!