5 Badass Backpacking Trips in Southern Utah

There's no better way to find out what you're made of than by spending a few nights deep in the high desert backcountry, traversing from cool, water-filled slot canyons to the ultimate exposure of sandstone trails baking under the sun. If you can push yourself through these adventures, you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable experience. Most of these backpacking trips cover 20+ miles of this stunning terrain, so if you're up for a challenge, read on and start making your plans.

1. Backpack the Trans-Zion Trek

Photo: Mike Quine

2. Backpack Reflection Canyon

Photo: Kathleen Buenviaje

3. Backpack Great Gulch: Kane Gulch to Bullet Canyon

Photo: Ian Glass

4. Backpack to Joint Trail in Canyonlands Needles District

Photo: Jonathon Reed

5. Backpack death Hollow in Grand Staircase-Escalante

Photo: Brandon Jett

Cover photo: Kathleen Buenviaje