Best Movies, TV Series and Books Set in Utah

Utah, the Beehive State, is not just famous for its stunning landscapes and national parks. It has also been the setting for a plethora of renowned films, TV shows, and books, making it a paradise for film and literature enthusiasts. Journey with us as we explore the 10 famous films shot in Utah, some captivating TV shows set in Utah, and the compelling narratives of books set in Utah. We’ll guide you on where to go, where to stay, where to eat, and share some intriguing local legends and hidden gems. So gear up for an exciting cinematic adventure in Utah.

The Cinematic Charm of Utah: 10 Famous Films Shot in Utah

Utah’s diverse scenery, ranging from arid deserts to lush forests, has caught the eye of numerous filmmakers. Here’s a list of 10 iconic films shot amidst Utah’s breathtaking vistas:

1. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969): This classic Western, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, features Utah’s scenic landscapes prominently. Notable filming locations include Zion National Park and the ghost town of Grafton.
2. Thelma & Louise (1991): The climactic scene of this iconic road movie was filmed at Dead Horse Point State Park, offering a stunning view of the Colorado River.
3. 127 Hours (2010): This harrowing survival drama, based on the real experience of Aron Ralston, was filmed in the actual location where Ralston got trapped – Blue John Canyon near Moab.
4. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989): The opening sequence of young Indiana Jones was shot in Arches National Park, showcasing its distinctive red rock formations.
5. Forrest Gump (1994): The memorable running scene where Forrest decides to stop running was shot on the long, straight road of U.S. Route 163, south of Monument Valley.
6. Planet of the Apes (1968): The alien landscapes of this famous science fiction film were in fact shot in Utah’s Lake Powell and Glen Canyon.
7. High School Musical (2006): This popular Disney Channel Original Movie was filmed at East High School in Salt Lake City, which has since become a tourist spot for fans.
8. The Sandlot (1993): This beloved coming-of-age baseball movie was filmed in various locations around Salt Lake City, including the actual ‘sandlot’ in Glendale.
9. John Carter (2012): The otherworldly landscapes of Mars in this science-fiction epic were filmed in Utah’s Lake Powell, Moab, and the famous Monument Valley.
10. The World’s Fastest Indian (2005): The Bonneville Salt Flats served as the perfect backdrop for this biographical sports drama about speed bike racer Burt Munro.

Television Takes on Utah: 5 TV Shows Set in Utah

Utah’s allure isn’t just limited to the big screen. Several renowned TV shows have also been set amidst Utah’s picturesque locales:

1. Westworld (2016-present): This popular HBO series about a futuristic amusement park used Utah’s iconic landscapes, including Castle Valley, to depict the Wild West.
2. Blood & Oil (2015): Though set in the oil fields of North Dakota, this drama series was mainly filmed in Utah, particularly in the rural areas around Park City and Salt Lake City.
3. Touched by an Angel (1994-2003): This classic CBS drama about angels helping people with their problems was filmed in and around Salt Lake City.
4. Yellowstone (2018-present): This modern western series, starring Kevin Costner, is filmed in various locations in Utah, including Summit and Wasatch counties.
5. Everwood (2002-2006): This family drama series transformed the town of Ogden into the fictional Everwood, Colorado.

Animated Adventures: 5 Animated Films Set in Utah

Utah’s enchanting landscapes have not only inspired live-action films and series but also animated features. Here are some animated films that bring Utah’s charm to the world of animation:

1. Cars (2006): The fictional town of Radiator Springs in this Pixar film was inspired by real locations along U.S. Route 66, including Monument Valley in Utah.
2. Rango (2011): This Oscar-winning film about a chameleon who becomes a sheriff features scenes inspired by the Monument Valley.
3. The Land Before Time (1988): The ‘Great Valley’ in this classic animated film about dinosaurs is believed to be inspired by Utah’s prehistoric landscapes.
4. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 (2013): Some scenes in this animated comedy were reportedly inspired by Utah’s unique rock formations.
5. Arlo the Alligator Boy (2021): The journey of Arlo, the alligator boy, takes him through locations inspired by American landscapes, including Utah’s Monument Valley.

Literary Landscapes: Famous Books Set in Utah

Utah’s captivating landscapes and rich history have also provided the backdrop for several literary works. Here’s a look at 3 classic and 3 contemporary books set in Utah:

Classics:

1. Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey: This autobiographical work by Abbey chronicles his experiences as a park ranger in Arches National Park.
2. Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey: This classic western novel is set in the canyons of Southern Utah, depicting the struggles of the early Mormon settlers.
3. The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey: This novel about environmental activists is set in the sandstone deserts of Southern Utah.

Contemporary:

1. Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer: This non-fiction book explores the history of Mormonism and a murder committed by fundamentalists, set against the backdrop of Utah.
2. The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff: This novel intertwines a murder mystery in a polygamous community and the historical account of one of Brigham Young’s plural wives.
3. Refuge: An Unnatural History of Family and Place by Terry Tempest Williams: This memoir deals with the Great Salt Lake’s rising water levels and the author’s mother battling cancer, reflecting on Utah’s environment and the impact of nuclear testing.

Exploring Utah’s Filming Locations: Where to Go

To immerse yourself in Utah’s cinematic history, visiting the actual filming locations is a must. Here are some key places to include in your itinerary:

1. Monument Valley: Featured in many films, this iconic landscape is a must-visit.
2. Salt Lake City: Explore locations from ‘High School Musical’ and ‘Touched by an Angel’.
3. Moab: Visit the filming locations of ‘127 Hours’ and ‘John Carter’.
4. Ogden: The town was transformed into Everwood, Colorado for the TV series ‘Everwood’.
5. Park City: Visit the rural areas around the town where ‘Blood & Oil’ was filmed.
6. Bonneville Salt Flats: The setting for ‘The World’s Fastest Indian’ and many car commercials.

Where to Sleep in Utah: From Budget to Luxury

Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options or luxury accommodations, Utah has something for everyone. Here are our top picks for 3 cheap and 3 luxury places to stay:

Budget:

1. Salt Lake City Hostel: A budget-friendly option located in downtown Salt Lake City.
2. Moab Rim Campark: Affordable cabins and campsites with beautiful views.
3. The Sandstone Inn & Restaurant: Economical lodging in Torrey, close to Capitol Reef National Park.

Luxury:

1. Amangiri: A luxury resort in Canyon Point offering stunning desert views.
2. The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection: A high-end resort in Wanship offering luxury cabins and an array of outdoor activities.
3. The St. Regis Deer Valley: A luxury resort in Park City offering ski-in/ski-out access, a private ski beach, and a split-level infinity pool.

Where to Eat in Utah: From Budget Bites to Luxury Dining

Utah offers a diverse food scene, from budget-friendly food trucks to high-end dining establishments. Here are our top picks for 3 budget and 3 luxury dining options:

Budget:

1. Red Iguana: Known for its award-winning Mexican food, located in Salt Lake City.
2. Moab Food Truck Park: Offers a variety of cuisines, from American to Asian.
3. Pretty Bird: A budget-friendly restaurant in Salt Lake City serving Nashville hot chicken.

Luxury:

1. The Tree Room at Sundance Mountain Resort: Offers a fine dining experience with a rustic ambiance.
2. Hell’s Backbone Grill and Farm: A farm-to-table restaurant in Boulder offering organic and locally-sourced dishes.
3. Log Haven: A beautiful log mansion in Millcreek Canyon, known for its innovative American cuisine.

A Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Utah Day by Day

To help you make the most of your cinematic journey through Utah, we’ve crafted a detailed itinerary that takes you through the state’s most iconic filming locations:

Day 1: Salt Lake City

1. Start your day by exploring the  filming locations in downtown Salt Lake City, including East High School from ‘High School Musical’.
2. After lunch, visit  Liberty Park, which was featured in ‘The Sandlot’.
3. End your day with a visit to  Trolley Square, where scenes from ‘Halloween 2’ were filmed.

Day 2: Moab

1. Begin your day with a visit to  Arches National Park, the backdrop for ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’ and ‘Thelma & Louise’.
2. Then, head to  Blue John Canyon, the actual location where Aron Ralston got trapped in ‘127 Hours’.
3. In the evening, visit  Castle Valley, which was used to depict the Wild West in ‘Westworld’.

Day 3: Monument Valley

1. Spend your day exploring  Monument Valley, featured in numerous films like ‘Forrest Gump’ and ‘Cars’.
2. After sunset, enjoy a guided tour to learn about the valley’s history and its significance in film.

Day 4: Kanab

1. Start your day at  Paria, a ghost town that was the filming location for many western films.
2. Next, visit  Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, another popular filming location for westerns.
3. End your day by visiting the  Little Hollywood Museum  in Kanab, which exhibits movie sets and memorabilia from the numerous films shot in the area.

Local Legends and Curiosities: Discovering Utah’s Cryptid Legends

Utah is home to several intriguing cryptid legends and curiosities. One such legend is the Bear Lake Monster, a creature reported to dwell in Bear Lake on the Utah-Idaho border. Another fascinating cryptid is the Navajo Skinwalker, a shape-shifting witch according to Navajo legend, which has been associated with the mysterious happenings at the Skinwalker Ranch in northeastern Utah. These legends add a layer of mystery and excitement to Utah’s cinematic landscapes.

Hidden Gems in Utah: Lesser-Known Filming Locations

Beyond the well-known filming locations, Utah also boasts several hidden gems:

1. Kanab: Known as ‘Little Hollywood’, this small town has been a filming location for over 100 films and TV shows.
2. Snow Canyon State Park: Featured in several films, including ‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’ and ‘The Electric Horseman’.
3. Goosenecks State Park: Its unique geological formations have been featured in several commercials and films.

What to Pack for a Trip to Utah

When packing for your film-themed trip to Utah, consider the weather and the activities you plan to do. Ensure you pack comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Depending on the season, pack appropriate clothing – warm layers for winter, light clothing for summer, and waterproof gear for the rainy season.

Transportation Tips for Exploring Utah’s Filming Locations

Getting around Utah’s filming locations is relatively easy with a car, as many locations are in remote areas not served by public transportation. Renting a car is the most convenient option. However, some locations are accessible by local buses. For those staying in Salt Lake City, the city’s light rail system, TRAX, is a convenient way to get around.

In conclusion, Utah’s unique landscapes have served as the backdrop for numerous films, books, and TV shows, making it a must-visit destination for film buffs and literature enthusiasts. From exploring the iconic Monument Valley to discovering hidden gems in Kanab, a journey through Utah offers a cinematic experience like no other. So pack your bags, embrace your spirit of adventure, and get ready to step into your favorite stories in the picturesque landscapes of Utah!