Hanksville: Purple Mountain Photography Tour
Active
2h - 4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us on a remarkable journey to the Mars Research Facility and Blue Bentonite Hills. Witness the futuristic allure of the facility against the desert backdrop and capture its essence. Then, immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of the Blue Bentonite Hills, photographing the azure slopes. As the sun sets, we return, leaving you with treasured memories of adventure and wonder. Book now for an unforgettable experience.
Available options
Default
Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our guide will pick you up from your hotel or AirBnB, and together, we'll dive into the 200 million years of geological history encapsulated in the layers of Capitol Reef National Park.
2
When you join our experience, you'll embark on an unforgettable journey. While en route to the stunning Blue Bentonite Hills, we'll make a stop at the Mars Research Facility. Although visitors won't directly enter the facility, they'll have the chance to observe it from outside. You'll marvel at the futuristic architecture and learn about the groundbreaking research being conducted within. While pausing at this iconic landmark, you can capture some incredible photos and absorb the atmosphere of innovation and exploration. Then, we'll continue our adventure towards the magnificent Blue Bentonite Hills, where even more awe-inspiring sights await you.
3
Stop 3
After we finish our photography experience at the Mars Research Station in Bentonite Hills, we'll drive back to our starting point, passing through Capitol Reef along the way.
What's not included
drone video
drone
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
3.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Park at the hotel's parking lot and wait for one of our SUVs with letters MERIDIAN on it to pick you up. Note that in Cainville (including Cathedral Valley Inn hotel) phones don't work.
About Utah
Utah is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, from the towering red rock formations of Zion and Arches National Parks to the serene beauty of the Great Salt Lake. This state offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both natural wonders and urban experiences.
Top Attractions
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is known for its stunning red rock formations, narrow canyons, and diverse wildlife. It offers a variety of hiking trails, including the famous Angels Landing and The Narrows.
Nature
1-3 days
Free entry for the first three days, then $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass
Arches National Park
Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. The park offers stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.
Nature
1-2 days
$30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its unique hoodoos, or tall, thin spires of rock. The park offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails.
Nature
1-2 days
$35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass
Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. It offers a unique ecosystem and recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and birdwatching.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free entry to the lake, fees for state parks
Park City
Park City is a historic mining town turned popular tourist destination. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, world-class skiing, and the annual Sundance Film Festival.
Cultural
1-3 days
Varies by activity and accommodation
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fry Sauce
A tangy, creamy sauce made with mayonnaise and ketchup, often served with french fries or burgers.
Condiment
Contains mayonnaise and ketchup, may contain allergens.
Pasties
A savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables, originally brought by Cornish miners.
Main Course
Contains meat and dairy, may contain allergens.
Green Jell-O
A unique Utah dessert made with green gelatin, whipped cream, and sometimes fruit.
Dessert
Contains gelatin and dairy, may contain allergens.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Jeep tours
Rock climbing
Whitewater rafting
Spa treatments
Yoga
Meditation
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Utah for outdoor activities and exploring national parks. The weather is warm, and the parks are fully accessible. However, it can be crowded during this period.
15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F)
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (UTC-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Utah is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Use reputable tour operators and check reviews before booking
- • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
Getting there
By air
- Salt Lake City International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from downtown Salt Lake City
- McCarran International Airport • 480 km (300 miles) from Salt Lake City
By train
Salt Lake City Intermodal Hub
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station in Salt Lake City
Getting around
Public transport
UTA operates an extensive bus network, including local and express routes. The system is efficient and user-friendly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Salt Lake City
Sugar House
The Avenues
Day trips
Moab
400 km (250 miles) from Salt Lake City • Full day to overnight
Moab is a gateway to some of Utah's most iconic national parks, including Arches and Canyonlands. It offers a mix of outdoor adventure, scenic landscapes, and historic sites.
Provo
80 km (50 miles) from Salt Lake City • Half day to full day
Provo is a vibrant college town known for its cultural attractions, outdoor recreation, and historic sites. It is home to Brigham Young University and offers a mix of urban and natural experiences.
Park City
40 km (25 miles) from Salt Lake City • Full day to overnight
Park City is a historic mining town turned popular tourist destination. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, world-class skiing, and the annual Sundance Film Festival.
Festivals
Sundance Film Festival • January
Utah State Fair • September
Park City Food & Wine Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit national parks early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen when exploring outdoor attractions
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
- Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains
- Book accommodations and activities well in advance during peak seasons
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
