A Renter's Guide to Exploring Utah's National Parks from Salt Lake City

One of the greatest perks of finding apartments in Salt Lake City is the unparalleled access to Utah's stunning natural landscapes and five incredible national parks. From your comfortable apartment in SLC, you're perfectly positioned to embark on weekend adventures to some of the most beautiful places in the American West.

This guide will help you plan your trips to Utah's "Mighty 5" and show you why your apartment complex in Salt Lake City, like Crossing at 9th, is the ideal base camp for outdoor enthusiasts.

Getting There: Your Salt Lake City Base Camp

Living in an apartment in SLC means you have a central hub with a major airport, a robust road network (I-15, I-80, and I-70), and all the supplies you need for a road trip. The ideal location of our salt lake city apartments provides a quick launchpad to each of the national parks.

Zion National Park: Approximately a 4-hour drive south on I-15 from your Salt Lake apartments. Known for its towering cliffs, lush canyons, and iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
Bryce Canyon National Park: A scenic 4-hour drive south from your apartments in the Salt Lake City area. Famous for its unique "hoodoos" and incredible night skies.
Capitol Reef National Park: About a 3-hour, 30-minute drive southeast from your SLC apartments. A less-traveled gem with a dramatic "Waterpocket Fold" and stunning geological formations.
Arches & Canyonlands National Parks: Both are located near Moab, a 3-hour, 45-minute drive southeast from your apartments in SLC..
- Arches: Home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the world-famous Delicate Arch.
- Canyonlands: A vast and rugged wilderness, perfect for hiking, biking, and experiencing the untouched desert landscape.

Crossing at 9th's easy access to I-15 and I-80 ensures your road trip starts without delay.

National Parks by Lifestyle: From Your Studio to the Scenery

Whether you're flying solo in a cozy studio apartment, sharing a life with a partner in a spacious 1-bedroom, or tackling adulting with roommates in a 2-bedroom, Utah's national parks are calling. There's an adventure waiting for every type of renter.

For the Solo Explorer: Living in a studio apartment in SLC means you value simplicity and freedom. That's why Capitol Reef is your perfect match. It's a quieter park with fewer crowds, offering contemplative drives and trails that feel like your own private escape. It’s an easy trip from your apartment, requiring less planning and gear, leaving you more time for spontaneous adventure.
For the Couple's Escape: Your 1 bedroom apartment in Salt Lake City provides the perfect home base for a romantic weekend away. Head south to Zion National Park, where you can take scenic drives through the towering canyon and find a hike that's just challenging enough for the both of you. The charming town of Springdale at the park's entrance has all the cozy dining and lodging you'll need for a memorable trip.
For the Ambitious Adventurer: As a resident of a downtown Salt Lake City apartment, you're used to having everything at your fingertips. That's why the adventure hubs of Arches and Canyonlands near Moab are your ultimate destination. You can spend your morning hiking to the iconic Delicate Arch and your afternoon biking the rugged terrain of Canyonlands. Moab is packed with gear shops and restaurants, so you'll have all the urban amenities you need before hitting the trail.
For the Group Getaway: With the extra space of a 2 bedroom apartment, you have the perfect home for planning a trip with roommates or friends. Bryce Canyon is an excellent choice for a group adventure. The park's main scenic drive lets you and your friends enjoy stunning panoramic viewpoints without a full-day commitment to a tough hike. It’s perfect for group photos and shared meals, and the versatile space in your apartment makes it easy to coordinate everyone and pack all the necessary gear.
For the Photo Enthusiast: It doesn't matter what kind of Salt Lake City apartment you have, Bryce Canyon is an absolute must-see. The vibrant colors of the hoodoos at sunrise and sunset are a photographer's dream. The views from the rim trails are unparalleled and worth the drive for that perfect shot.

Packing Your Bags: Essentials for National Park Trips

Before you leave your apartment rental in Salt Lake City, make sure you're prepared. Here's a quick checklist:

Water and Food: Pack plenty of water and non-perishable food. The parks have limited services.
Layers: Utah's weather is unpredictable. Pack layers of clothing for hot days and cold nights.
Sturdy Shoes: Hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for navigating rocky terrain.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are a must.
Park Pass: Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful annual pass if you plan to visit multiple parks throughout the year.

Finding the Best Apartments in Salt Lake City, Utah

What are the most important amenities for a renter who loves to travel? Your home base is just as important as your destination. When looking for apartments in Salt Lake City that make your adventures easy, consider a place that offers:

Prime Location: Easy access to major interstates (like Crossing at 9th's proximity to I-15 and I-80) to cut down on travel time.
Secure Parking: A place to safely store your car when you're not on the road.
In-Unit Laundry: No one wants to do laundry after a dusty road trip. Having a washer and dryer in your unit is a game-changer.
A Relaxing Community: After a long hike, you’ll appreciate community amenities like a fitness center or a rooftop lounge with scenic views.

Whether you're coming home from a weekend in Zion or planning your next trip to Arches, living in an apartment complex in Salt Lake City provides the perfect balance of urban living and outdoor exploration. Start your next adventure from the comfort of your own home at Crossing at 9th!