Northern Utah RV Travel Guide

Scenic Routes, Hidden Gems, and the Best Places to Stay

Northern Utah is one of the most underrated regions in the Mountain West for RV travel. Known for its wide-open valleys, mountain backdrops, and quieter pace compared to Southern Utah’s national park crowds, this part of the state offers a refreshing blend of scenic driving, outdoor recreation, and easy-to-navigate routes.

For RV travelers looking to experience Utah beyond the busiest tourist corridors, Northern Utah delivers a balance of accessibility and natural beauty that’s ideal for both short getaways and longer road trips.

This guide highlights what makes the region special, where to go, and how to plan a comfortable RV journey through Northern Utah.

While Southern Utah often draws attention for its iconic red rock parks, Northern Utah offers a completely different kind of travel experience. The landscapes shift from rolling farmland and alpine lakes to mountain ranges and expansive wetlands — all without the same level of congestion found in more heavily visited destinations.

For those who enjoy discovering places that feel authentic and unhurried, Northern Utah provides a welcome change of rhythm.

Why RV Travelers Love Northern Utah

Travelers often appreciate:

  • Less crowded scenic routes

  • Easy interstate access via I-15 and I-84

  • Cooler summer temperatures

  • Unique landscapes not found elsewhere in the state

  • A more relaxed travel pace

One of the highlights of RV travel in this region is how accessible scenic driving can be. Many routes offer beautiful views without requiring long detours or challenging terrain.

Best Scenic Drives in Northern Utah

I-15 Northern Corridor

Stretching from Salt Lake City toward Idaho, this route features wide valleys, mountain views, and peaceful farmland. It’s one of the most RV-friendly interstate drives in the state and a popular path for travelers heading toward Bear Lake, Yellowstone, and beyond.

Logan Canyon Scenic Byway

Located east of Logan, this winding canyon road offers alpine scenery, waterfalls, and access to Bear Lake. It’s a favorite day trip for travelers looking to experience mountain landscapes without venturing too far off major routes.

Golden Spike Scenic Byway

This lesser-known route near Promontory Summit blends historic landmarks with sweeping desert-meets-mountain scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy quiet drives and a sense of open space.

Northern Utah is filled with unique stops that appeal to a wide range of travel styles — from outdoor adventure to relaxed sightseeing.

Top Destinations in Northern Utah

Bear Lake

Often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” Bear Lake straddles the Utah–Idaho border and is famous for its turquoise water and laid-back lakeside atmosphere. It’s a favorite summer destination for boating, beaches, and scenic drives.

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge

This expansive wetland sanctuary offers miles of scenic driving routes through peaceful marshlands filled with wildlife. It’s one of the most unique landscapes in the state and a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers.

Crystal Hot Springs

Located in Honeyville, Crystal Hot Springs features one of the largest natural hot spring systems in the world. The mineral-rich pools make it a popular stop for travelers looking to relax and recharge along their journey

Golden Spike National Historical Park

History meets open landscapes at this site marking the completion of the first transcontinental railroad. The area combines sweeping scenery with fascinating historical significance.

Northern Utah is especially approachable for RV travelers, but a few insights can make the experience even smoother.

RV Travel Tips for Northern Utah

Expect Open Landscapes

Many areas feature wide valleys and farmland, creating beautiful views but occasionally bringing crosswinds. Planning relaxed driving days helps maximize enjoyment.

Plan Around Seasons

Spring and fall offer especially scenic travel with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summers are ideal for lake trips, while winter travel can be peaceful with proper planning.

Take Advantage of Corridor Travel

Northern Utah sits along several major RV travel paths connecting the Mountain West to national parks and northern destinations. Many travelers use the region as a comfortable stopover between larger destinations.

Because of its location along major interstate routes, Northern Utah offers several convenient overnight options for RV travelers. Many seasoned road trippers prefer stopping in quieter towns that still provide easy highway access, allowing for a more restful experience compared to dense metro areas.

Communities along the I-15 corridor provide some of the most accessible overnight stops, especially for travelers moving between Salt Lake City, Idaho, and destinations farther north. These areas allow RVers to pause, recharge, and explore nearby attractions without straying far from their route.

Tremonton, Utah in particular has become a natural stopping point thanks to its proximity to both I-15 and I-84. Travelers passing through the region often choose locally operated parks that offer spacious sites, full hookups, and a relaxed atmosphere just minutes from the highway.

Where to Stay in Northern Utah

Each season offers its own unique experience for RV travelers.

Spring: Green landscapes and active wildlife make this one of the most underrated travel seasons.
Summer: Ideal for lakes, mountain drives, and extended daylight.
Fall: Cooler temperatures and golden scenery create a calm, scenic atmosphere.
Winter: A quieter, more peaceful experience with striking mountain views and fewer crowds.

No matter the season, Northern Utah remains one of the most approachable regions in the state for RV exploration.

When to Visit Northern Utah

A Different Side of Utah

For travelers willing to explore beyond the most heavily traveled destinations, Northern Utah reveals a side of the state that feels open, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded. It’s a place where scenic drives are easy, stops feel unhurried, and the journey itself becomes part of the experience.

Whether you're passing through on a larger western road trip or planning a focused regional adventure, Northern Utah offers a rewarding blend of accessibility and natural beauty that keeps RV travelers coming back year after year.

If you're exploring Northern Utah by RV, choosing the right place to stop can make all the difference. Convenient access, peaceful surroundings, and proximity to major routes all play an important role in creating a relaxed travel experience.

For travelers moving along the I-15 corridor, towns like Tremonton offer easy interstate access and a quieter alternative to larger metro stops. With nearby attractions and wide-open surroundings, it’s a natural place to recharge before continuing your journey through the Mountain West.

Planning Your Northern Utah RV Stop?