My Favorite Outdoor Photo Locations in Utah
Utah is a photographer’s dream; Vast landscapes, golden sunsets, snowy peaks, and wild textures that make every photo feel alive. Over the years, I’ve explored some of the most scenic spots that are perfect for portraits, fashion shoots, and storytelling photography. Whether you're another creative photographer, a model prepping for a shoot, or just looking for the perfect place to take in a view, here are a few of my all-time favorite outdoor photo locations in Utah (with some helpful tips for each!).
1. Bonneville Salt Flats
📍Google Maps
The Salt Flats are otherworldly! Endless white ground reflecting the sky, especially magical at golden hour. I always recommend sunset shoots here when the light hits just right. It gets hot in the summer and extremely bright, so bring sunglasses, water, and prep for the drive; It’s long, without many stops. You can sometimes drive out onto the flats, but if not, there’s a designated parking lot that still offers an amazing view.
2. Great Salt Lake State Park
📍Google Maps
Sunsets by the lake here are breathtaking. The water reflects the sky in dreamy pastel tones, making this a stunning portrait spot. There’s convenient parking and the openness of the lake makes for peaceful, minimalistic backdrops. Ideal for storytelling photography and serene shots.
3. Kyhv Peak Lower Parking Lot
📍Google Maps
One of my secret go-to views over Provo Canyon. There's a pin just past the lot that leads to a hillside that captures the mountains just right. The road is closed during winter and early spring, so I usually plan shoots here between May and September and looks quite different depending on the season. It's quiet, scenic, and has breathtaking views.
4. Red Ledges
📍Google Maps
Looking for vibrant, red rock texture? This is your spot. With easy access and lots of variation in terrain, it’s an ideal shoot location for creative portraits and bold fashion looks. I love stopping along the way to capture the surrounding fields too! There’s so much natural beauty packed into this area.
5. Little Sahara Recreation Area
📍Google Maps
These sand dunes are a vibe. Golden textures, flowing dunes, and open skies make it a great spot for fashion and portrait photography in Utah. Parking is easy near the base of the dunes, and I always bring sandals and extra water to rinse off sandy feet post-shoot. Be prepared, it’s a bit of a drive.
6. Big Springs Park
📍Google Maps
After a 10 minute walk from the upper parking lot, you'll find a peaceful field surrounded by mountains. It feels tucked away and tranquil. Perfect for soft, dreamy portraits. The walk is mostly flat and easy, just something to keep in mind for gear or styled outfits!
7. Tibble Fork Reservoir
📍Google Maps
A stunning alpine lake, Tibble Fork is beautiful in all seasons. Summer gives lush greens and golden light, while winter offers breathtaking frozen lake views and snow-covered trees. There’s no cell service, so I recommend meeting clients at the carpool lot at the canyon base and driving up together.
8. Little Rock Canyon Overlook
📍Google Maps
A rugged drive up, but absolutely worth it. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle, but when you get to the top, you're rewarded with sweeping views of Provo and surrounding peaks. Gorgeous summer fields meet cinematic sunsets here, great for dramatic editorial-style shots.
9. Utah Lake State Park
📍Google Maps
Utah Lake never disappoints. The views of the mountains paired with the still water make for a clean, striking backdrop. One of my favorite spots is down the long dirt road that leads into the lake, giving you a full 360° view of water, mountains, and sky. The rocky walls scattered throughout make incredible texture for editorial or portrait work. I’ve shot here in every lighting scenario; Midday, golden hour, dusk, and even nighttime. It’s stunning every time.
10. Provo River Falls
Provo River Falls is absolutely breathtaking. Nestled high in the mountains, the water rushes over tiers of smooth stone, creating a dramatic and refreshing backdrop. The water is freezing—no exaggeration—but its crystal clarity and movement make it worth the chill. Because it sits tucked deep in the canyon, the sun sets a little earlier here, giving the light a soft, golden quality that’s perfect for late-afternoon shoots. It’s a location that feels peaceful, wild, and cinematic all at once.
11. Pink Lake - Stansbury Island
This place doesn’t even look real. The Pink Lake at Stansbury Island is absolutely unbelievable—vibrant pink water stretching out against white salt flats and endless blue sky. It’s one of those spots that makes every photo feel surreal. The salt here is sharp, so water shoes are a must, and I always bring a water bottle to rinse the salt off my feet afterward. Whether you’re shooting portraits, fashion, or landscapes, this location gives you color, texture, and atmosphere like nowhere else in Utah.
12. Knolls Ut
Knolls is an absolute dream for photographers and travelers alike. This remote stretch of white sand dunes feels sculpted by nature itself! Smooth curves, wind-carved ridges, and walls of sand that catch the light beautifully. The views stretch endlessly, creating a landscape that feels both minimal and dramatic. It’s an incredible spot for creative shoots or simply soaking in the silence and beauty of Utah’s desert. Every direction here looks like a painting.
