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Summer Road Trippin’ in Southeastern Utah By Monique Beeley Leaving the Wasatch Front in the rearview and heading south feels like taking a step away from the fast-paced action of the epicenter of our state and stepping into the soothing sights, the quieter sounds, and the surreal landscapes of the central and southern part of our state. One of the many things I love about Utah is the diversity of our landscapes and the recreational opportunities that each provide throughout the seasons. Fall is the time to heed the call to the red rock country that is primed and ready for adventure.

“Bluff…huh…where is Bluff?” was the reaction I got from my sister when I called to invite them on an adventure with us. My reply: “It’s two hours south of Moab, north of Monument Valley, and Bears Ears National Monument.” She replied, “Oh…Bears Ears…yes, I have heard of that area.” The small town of Bluff is located 330 miles south of Salt Lake City, 50 miles north-east of Monument Valley and has a population of about 300. If you haven’t been to this outdoor adventure-hub then you need to put it on your list ASAP. This small town really packs a punch for the outdoor enthusiast.

Unplug, recharge and reconnect with your loved ones on any of Utah's awesome rivers, here we round up our favorite family trips!

The San Rafael Swell sits dramatically in the southeastern section of Utah. Split by I-70 the Book Cliffs are to the east and the Henry Mountains to the southwest. The Swell is 80 miles long and 35 miles wide and is part of the Colorado Plateau.

Where the Wasatch Plateau meets the high desert, Joe's Valley sits as a world-class bouldering destination. Beautifully color streaked boulders dot the landscape just east of Joe's Valley Reservoir in Central Utah's "Castle Country".

Family river trips are some of the best adventures, offering something for all ages and it is mandatory that all phones, iPods, games etc.…. are left behind - or at least stowed away and then, hopefully, forgotten, as days and nights on the river are filled with good, old-fashioned outdoor fun.

This year, thanks to Outdoor Utah and REI, my summer vacation was a blast! The Jensen family, mom, dad, my brother Zach and I spent a three-day vacation in Moab at the end of May. We stayed at Red Cliffs Lodge while we were there, and it was amazing!!

The Ogden River was a mess. For years had been abused, misused and trashed. The river corridor itself was beautiful – winding its way down scenic Ogden Canyon and through town. But the river was on a collision course ...

"Lean into your turn Mom!" my daughter yelled from behind as I soared through another smooth switchback! The golden fall leaves crackled under my tires as I tapped lightly on my brakes and easily coasted along.