Top Trails of Utah: Includes Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, Grand Staircase, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Goblin Valley, and Glen Canyon

Be careful here: the title aside, this is not just a list of the "top trails" in Utah. It is a list of the top recreational destinations in Utah and surrounding states. And it is remarkably well done. The author, Eric Henze, is captivated by the southwest, and in particular the Grand Circle" of national parks and monuments found in Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado. If you have the time for some extensive exploration in Utah, the heart of the Grand Circle, then this book is likely tailor made for you. He describes here almost every state park, national park, monument, and recreation area in the region. Beautiful pictures and park maps accompany the text.So, this is not a true hiking guide, but hiking does figure prominently in the text. Henze recognizes that not all his readers will want hard core challenging multi day hikes in the arid backcountry of these parks. So he includes trails tailored for every ability level. Dozens of half mile, handicap accessible trails are found within these pages. I personally appreciate that. My wife is permanently disabled but she likes to get out and explore as she is able, and most authors overlook short trails like these. But dedicated outdoor enthusiasts need not be put off by the short trails. Henze also includes strenuous hikes only the uber fit will enjoy. And just about everything in between. It's a great hiking guide (and camping guide, fishing guide, 4wd guide, museum guide, etc. it's all included here.)So, if this is such a great book, why not give it 5 stars? I want to. The author, by his own account, does these books as a labor of love and it shows on every page. But I have 3 minor concerns: the first is, I think the title does mislead a little. It does not cover all of Utah. I lived in Logan for a time and the northern part of the state is not described here. But Logan has some great outdoor recreation. It is definitely worth a visit. Second, it somehow misses my favorite Utah state park, even though it is within the boundaries of the book. Freemont Indian State Historic park features some of the finest rock art anywhere, and has numerous short to medium length trails to explore. I hope it appears in the next edition. Finally, this book is one part of a series. I purchased all of them. They are all good. But there is significant overlap within the series. 15 of the 34 parks found here are also found in the Arizona "top trails" book. So if you are going to Utah for a few weeks to explore, this is your book, but if you are planning an extended spring visit to the Grand Circle area and buy all the books, you will find a lot of information repeated. Still in all, I enjoy the series and highly recommend this title in particular.