Backcountry (back’ kun tri) n.  Remote, undeveloped terrain

Photo courtesy of Moki Mac River Expeditions

Not for everyone.  Utah has plenty.  Acre upon acre, mile after mile.  Slot canyons by the hundreds, remote stretches of river few have seen.  High mountains and canyons designated wilderness areas heavily populated, but only by four legged creatures.  National Forests and National Recreation Areas protected from development.  Raw and unforgiving desert.  The crown jewel of Utah  backcountry, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, 1.9 million acres, is larger than many states. Even the highly visited five National Parks in Utah contain vast amounts of backcountry accessed only by primitive roads, trails, or, more often than not, no roads or trails at all.  But for those who see beauty in this landscape, Utah is paradise.

Backpackers and hikers who possess route finding skills.   Flyfishers willing to bushwhack to a mountain stream to find no other angler, but plenty of trout.  Mountain bikers willing, and able, to pack in, and out, all necessary gear and survival equipment, with the knowledge of how to use it.  Canyoneers who know and respect the power and danger of a flash flood, and have the common sense to avoid one.  Kayakers seeking the thrill of the deep hole and the challenge of the rock garden.  Climbers taking on the big wall for the first time.  Llama guides or horsemen/horsewomen concerned for the safety of their animals as well as their own.

For these outdoor pros, Utah is a huge playground, a kid’s jungle gym.  But as intimidating as the backcountry environment can be, and is, there are dozens of guide services, outfitters, pack trip operators and river operators in the state that can lead the uninitiated safely, although not necessarily always in complete creature comfort, into this amazing and uniquely beautiful land and waterscape.  Many guide services are listed on this site, and in our companion publication, the Outdoor Utah Vacation Guide, and on our three other related web sites.  If it’s rugged you want, rugged you can get.  If it’s slightly more cushy you want, slightly more cushy you can get.  If it’s a waiter in a tux, a wine steward with a white towel draped over his arm, and a chaise lounge on the veranda you want, go elsewhere.