Summer will soon be fading into fall. While saying farewell to our favorite season is never easy, the goodbye is a little sweeter when you celebrate summer's last hurrah in Southern Utah. Whether you're coming down for Labor Day or taking your own long weekend, you'll find plenty of great summer activities still going strong around the area. Before sending the kids back to school (and getting yourself back into the daily grind), plan a trip to our spectacular landscapes for some last-minute summer fun.
If you don't love these ideas, download your FREE Southern Utah Vacation Guide for all the best activities, attractions, and amusements the area has to offer.
Enjoy a fun summer send-off
Summer's last hurrah may be bittersweet, but it will also be packed with tons of fun and priceless memories thanks to our area's great activities.
Fishing. Fishing is a traditional family activity and a great way to connect with the kids while the weather is warm. Panguitch Lake, Navajo Lake, and Bristlecone Pond are great spots to cast a line on lazy summer afternoons. If the fish aren't biting, you can still get in some late-summer swimming or boating!
Hiking and Biking. Take some time to get your muscles moving before those long days at a desk. Hike or bike miles of scenic mountain trails in Brian Head and the surrounding area. Search for ancient Mammoth Caves, find panoramic views at mountain peaks, or look for alpine lakes as a refreshing reward for your hard work.
Park-Hopping. You can't pass up a chance to spend a summer day exploring our national parks and monuments. Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Cedar Breaks are spectacular during the summer, with wide-open trails, daily activities, guided tours and more. Crowds and temperatures will be high, so pack your patience and dress appropriately.
Mountain activities. Be sure to visit Brian Head Resort for some last-minute mountain fun. Resort hours are extended during the summer, and visitors can enjoy fun activities like ziplines, avalanche tubing, wall climbing, archery, mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, and more.
Labor Day Events
Despite the name, Labor Day is more about hardly working than working hard '" and fun relaxation is one thing we do well in Southern Utah. If you're visiting for the holiday weekend, add one of these local events to your itinerary to send-off summer in Southern Utah style.
Iron County Fair. Parowan's annual Labor Day fair is back this year with more events, rides, and games than ever before. Every day of this five-day event is packed with fair-related events, including the PRCA Pro Rodeo, tractor and car shows, talent competitions, parades, fireworks, kids' activities, and so much more. Admission to the fair is free, so head over to the Iron County Fairgrounds on September 1-5 to enjoy a true Southern Utah tradition.
Brian Head Resort Country Music Festival. Brian Head Resort will be holding their sixth annual Country Music Festival on September 3. A $10 ticket fee will get visitors a full day of music and fun, with country bands playing from 11:30 am to 8:00 pm. Other fun activities include a cornhole tournament, bike park and resort activities, prize drawings, and more.
Cruisin' Old '˜89 Car Show. Head over to Panguitch on September 2nd and 3rd to see a Labor Day car show like no other. Friday will include a cool cruise down main street, a burn-out competition, and a city-wide cornhole contest. On Saturday, view dozens of classic and custom cars and trucks, hear live music on the center stage, enjoy fun raffles and fill your belly with some great local food vendors.
Send-off the season with Family Time Vacation Rentals.
Summer's last hurrah will be even better from the comfort of a spectacular Southern Utah vacation property. Family Time Vacation Rentals can help you send-off the season in comfort and style with our wide variety of rentals across the area. From private homes near the national parks to cabins on Panguitch Lake and even properties that are pet-friendly, we can help you find the perfect place for the whole family to spend one last summer celebration.