Things to do

Just outside Hanksville lies one of Utah's most breathtaking hidden gems. The Bentonite Hills are famous for their vibrant, rolling clay formations, where layers of purple, blue, pink, gray, orange, and white create a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. As the sun moves across the sky, the colors seem to shift and transform, making every visit a completely unique experience.

This otherworldly destination has become one of Utah's most photographed locations and is a favorite for visitors looking to experience something truly unforgettable.

Just a scenic drive west of Whispering Sands Motel, Capitol Reef National Park is one of Utah's five breathtaking national parks—and one of its best-kept secrets. While it often receives fewer crowds than Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Arches, many visitors leave saying it was their favorite stop of the trip.

From towering sandstone cliffs and colorful canyons to historic orchards, ancient petroglyphs, and unforgettable scenic drives, Capitol Reef offers a little bit of everything. Whether you have just a few hours or several days to explore, you'll find endless opportunities for adventure, photography, and discovering the beauty of Utah's red rock country.

Just a short drive from Hanksville, Goblin Valley State Park is one of Utah's most playful and unforgettable destinations. Home to thousands of fascinating mushroom-shaped sandstone formations—known as "goblins"—this incredible landscape invites visitors to wander, explore, and experience the desert in a way that's unlike anywhere else.

Instead of viewing the scenery from a trail or overlook, you'll have the opportunity to walk right through the valley, weaving between towering rock formations that spark the imagination of visitors young and old.

Red Rock Meets Blue Water

Just south of Hanksville, Lake Powell offers an entirely different side of Southern Utah. Set within the spectacular cliffs of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, this massive reservoir is famous for its crystal-clear water, towering sandstone walls, secluded beaches, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Whether you're spending the day on the water or simply enjoying the incredible scenery, Lake Powell is an unforgettable destination.

Home to the world's largest concentration of natural stone bridges, Natural Bridges National Monument is one of Utah's most remarkable hidden treasures. Here, millions of years of erosion have carved enormous sandstone bridges spanning deep desert canyons, creating some of the most impressive geological formations in the Southwest.

Visitors can enjoy scenic overlooks, peaceful hiking trails, ancient petroglyphs, and some of the darkest night skies in the country.

Southern Utah is home to some of the most incredible slot canyons in the world. These narrow, winding canyons—carved over thousands of years by water and wind—offer an unforgettable adventure through towering sandstone walls, twisting passages, and dramatic desert scenery.

Whether you're looking for a family-friendly hike or an exciting technical canyoneering adventure, the Hanksville area offers opportunities for every experience level.

If you're looking for something a little different, Long Dong Silver has become one of Hanksville's most talked-about roadside attractions. This tall, naturally shaped rock formation has earned its memorable nickname thanks to its unmistakable appearance—and visitors from around the world can't resist stopping for a photo.

While it's certainly a lighthearted destination, the surrounding desert scenery is every bit as impressive.

Highlights: Made-to-order burgers, crisp french fries, onion rings, and thick soft-serve milkshakes. A cherished Hanksville tradition for quick, high-quality road food.

Best For: Fast lunches, fueling up between trail runs, or enjoying a sweet afternoon ice cream treat.

Offerings: Fully stocked convenience market, cold beverages, trail snacks, ice, and camping supplies.

Souvenirs: Local Utah apparel, unique desert keepsakes, maps, and travel gear.

Convenience: Perfect for stocking cooler boxes and grabbing road-trip snacks before heading out on remote scenic drives.

Offerings: Full-hookup RV sites, shaded tent spots, modern shower facilities, and guest laundry.

Convenience: Located adjacent to Duke's Slickrock Grill, making it ideal for group travel arrangements where some members stay in rooms and others in RVs.