Palisade State Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Palisade State Park with our comprehensive travel guide featuring everything from must-see attractions and activities to where to stay and what to eat.


Introduction to Palisade State Park

Nestled in Central Utah, Palisade State Park is a breathtaking destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its serene lakes, rolling hills, and stunning natural beauty, this park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to hike along scenic trails, go fishing, or simply relax in nature, Palisade State Park is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in Palisade State Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Palisade State Park is home to many culturally important attractions where visitors can learn about the history and heritage of the area. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical places:

  • The Pioneer Museum: Take a trip back in time as you explore the Pioneer Museum, which showcases historical artifacts and exhibits about the early settlers of the area.
  • The Donn Wooden Art Gallery: Discover the artistic side of Palisade State Park at the Donn Wooden Art Gallery, which features a variety of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
  • The Historic Devil’s Kitchen: Learn about the ancient geology of the area at the Historic Devil’s Kitchen, a unique sandstone formation that dates back millions of years.

Natural Attractions of Palisade State Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Palisade State Park is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Here are some of the park’s most popular natural attractions:

  • Palisade Reservoir: With its crystal-clear water and breathtaking views, Palisade Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, boating, and other water activities.
  • The Palisade Rim Trail: Take a hike along the Palisade Rim Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • The Golf Course: Enjoy a round of golf on Palisade State Park’s stunning golf course, which features lush greens and stunning mountain views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Palisade State Park

Palisade State Park is home to a variety of hiking and biking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the park’s natural beauty and scenic views. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • The Palisade Rim Trail: This 2.8-mile trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is suitable for hikers and bikers of all skill levels.
  • The Reservoir Trail: This 3.6-mile trail is perfect for hikers and bikers looking for a leisurely stroll through the park’s beautiful scenery.
  • The Golf Course Trail: This 2.5-mile trail offers visitors a chance to hike or bike through the park’s stunning golf course.

Best Things to Do in Palisade State Park: Activities and Tours

Palisade State Park offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours that are perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Palisade State Park:

  • Go Fishing: Palisade Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, catfish, and bass, making it a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Rent a Kayak: Explore the beauty of Palisade Reservoir by renting a kayak and paddling along its crystal-clear waters.
  • Take a Guided Tour: Learn about the history and heritage of Palisade State Park by taking a guided tour with a knowledgeable park ranger.

Week-Long Itinerary for Palisade State Park

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Palisade State Park, here’s what your itinerary could look like:

Day 1: Arrive at Palisade State Park and take a guided tour of the park’s most popular attractions - the Pioneer Museum, the Donn Wooden Art Gallery, and the Historic Devil’s Kitchen.

Day 2: Spend the day exploring the park’s outdoor attractions, including hiking along the Palisade Rim Trail, swimming in Palisade Reservoir, and playing a round of golf.

Day 3: Rent a kayak and paddle along the crystal-clear waters of Palisade Reservoir. In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike along the Reservoir Trail.

Day 4: Spend the day fishing in Palisade Reservoir, which is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout and bass.

Day 5: Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as the Great Salt Lake or Zion National Park.

Day 6: Enjoy a relaxing day at Palisade State Park, taking in the stunning natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Day 7: Depart from Palisade State Park, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.

Food and Drink Scene of Palisade State Park

Must-Try Dishes

Palisade State Park is known for its delicious local cuisine, which reflects the heritage and culture of the area. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Fry Sauce: This Utah favorite is a delicious blend of ketchup, mayonnaise, and seasonings and is perfect for dipping fries or other snacks.
  • Pastrami Burgers: This mouthwatering dish consists of a juicy burger patty topped with tender pastrami and served with homemade fry sauce.
  • Funeral Potatoes: A traditional Utah dish, funeral potatoes are a creamy and cheesy casserole that is perfect for any occasion.

Local Beverages

Utah is known for its world-class breweries and wineries, and Palisade State Park is no exception. Here are some of the best local beverages to try:

  • Squatters IPA: Brewed in Salt Lake City, Squatters IPA is a hoppy and flavorful beer that pairs perfectly with a juicy burger or other pub food.
  • Ciders from Mountain West: Made from locally grown apples, the ciders from Mountain West are a refreshing and crisp drink that is perfect for a hot day.

Where to Stay in Palisade State Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Palisade State Park offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from rustic campsites to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Palisade State Park:

  • Palisade State Park Campground: This rustic campground offers tent and RV sites and is perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • The Palisade Resort: This luxurious resort offers stunning views of Palisade Reservoir, as well as a variety of amenities, including a spa and fitness center.
  • The Sweet Haven Bed and Breakfast: This charming bed and breakfast is located just a short drive from Palisade State Park and offers cozy rooms and delicious home-cooked breakfasts.

What to Buy in Palisade State Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Palisade State Park is home to many unique shops and boutiques where visitors can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best places to shop in Palisade State Park:

  • The Pioneer Gift Shop: Located at the Pioneer Museum, the Pioneer Gift Shop offers a variety of souvenirs and gifts that showcase the history and heritage of the area.
  • The Palisade Bay Company: This boutique store offers a wide range of locally made products, including jewelry, pottery, and home decor.

Local Culture and Customs of Palisade State Park

Utah is known for its strong religious and conservative values, which are reflected in the culture and customs of the state. Visitors to Palisade State Park should be respectful of these values and customs, which include avoiding alcohol and nicotine use in public places and dressing modestly in public.

Best Time to Visit Palisade State Park

The best time to visit Palisade State Park is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy, making outdoor activities more difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Palisade State Park

Do:

  • Do take a guided tour with a knowledgeable park ranger to learn about the history and heritage of the area.
  • Do make reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs of the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash behind in the park.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife or the natural environment.
  • Don’t bring pets to the park, except in designated areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Palisade State Park

Palisade State Park is generally a safe destination for visitors, but it’s still important to be aware of potential risks and hazards. Here are some safety tips for visitors to Palisade State Park:

  • Always wear appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Stay on designated hiking and biking trails.
  • Watch out for wildlife and be sure to keep a safe distance from them.

Health in Palisade State Park

Palisade State Park is located at a high elevation, which can cause altitude sickness in some visitors. Be sure to stay hydrated and take it easy in the first few days to acclimate to the higher elevation.

Getting to Palisade State Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Palisade State Park

The nearest airports to Palisade State Park are:

  • Salt Lake City International Airport: 102 miles away
  • St. George Regional Airport: 219 miles away

Bus Stations Near Palisade State Park

The nearest bus stations to Palisade State Park are:

  • Salt Lake City Greyhound Station: 90 miles away
  • Provo Greyhound Station: 35 miles away

Other Options

Visitors to Palisade State Park can also drive or rent a car to get to the park. The park is easily accessible from Highway 89, which runs north-south through Utah.

How to Get Around in Palisade State Park

The best way to get around Palisade State Park is by car, although there are also hiking and biking trails for those who prefer to explore the park on foot or by bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Palisade State Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Palisade State Park is located in close proximity to many other stunning destinations in Utah. Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions:

  • The Great Salt Lake: Located just a few hours’ drive from Palisade State Park, the Great Salt Lake is a unique natural wonder that is well worth a visit.
  • Zion National Park: Known for its stunning red rock formations and narrow slot canyons, Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Bryce Canyon National Park: Another stunning national park in Utah, Bryce Canyon is known for its unique hoodoo rock formations and incredible hiking trails.

Conclusion

Palisade State Park is a hidden gem in Central Utah, offering visitors a chance to explore some of the most stunning natural scenery in the state. Whether you’re looking to hike along scenic trails, go fishing, or simply relax in nature, Palisade State Park is a must-visit destination. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Palisade State Park is one of Utah’s most popular outdoor destinations.