Walk your way around Utah!
Corey Marshall, Account Director, Canada for the Utah Office of Tourism, talks about the upcoming step challenge through which agents can win a trip to the state and some must-sees while there
Cover photo: Robert Riberia; Intro photo: Michael Kunde Photo
Tell us a little about the Visit Utah Walker Tracker challenge and what the goal is?
Our Visit Utah Walker Tracker program is a unique partnership between us as destination marketers and an app/ map based challenge program (Walker Tracker) designed to stimulate health and wellness through tracking step counts.
In our case with Visit Utah Walker Tracker these steps being made by our Canadian agent partners in Canada will translate to kilometre markers on our Utah map and travel trade who participate will cross many Utah milestones (points of interest) along the way.
At the same time there is a team & social component of the program that will allow our industry to come together through a fun coopetition environment within the app. In one of our most challenging years for our industry all time we also wanted to ensure we brought everyone together through this program.
Our official Utah walk begins on October 15th but registration is open now for Canadian trade partners at: https://visitutah.walkertracker.com/.
On the other side of COVID-19 and once borders with the US reopen we see the role of travel advisors being more important than ever. Consumers will be looking for certainty and specific travel advice more than ever before. Travel trade partners will be the key to a quicker recovery offering more certainty for their consumers.
Corey Marshall
Why is it important to stay connected with the travel trade in Canada during this time?
Utah believes in the importance of the travel trade (and always has) in the Canadian market and we continue to invest in unique partnerships with travel trade partners packaging and selling Utah. We additionally do this through maintaining our Canadian international office and representatives, providing educational & incentive tools as well as access to Utah assets for promotions. On the other side of COVID-19 and once borders with the US reopen we see the role of travel advisors being more important than ever. Consumers will be looking for certainty and specific travel advice more than ever before. Travel trade partners will be the key to a quicker recovery offering more certainty for their consumers.
What’s something not a lot of people know about Utah?
Many people know that “The Greatest Snow on Earth” trademark is the marketing brand for skiing in Utah, however did you know that it is actually scientifically proven? That’s right!
The science to The Greatest Snow on Earth trademark, according to research by University of Utah atmospheric scientist Jim Steenburgh, the combination of climate conditions that brew over the Wasatch Cottonwood Canyons is the reason why many believe Utah snow is the best for deep powder skiing and riding. This science can be boiled down to a single word; flotation.
Additionally a reminder that all of Utah’s national parks are open year round, so you can also visit in the winter and combine your ski holiday with the national parks when they are quiet and free of the summer crowds.
Photo: Doug Pulsipher
What are a few things travellers shouldn’t leave Utah without seeing, tasting or experiencing?
Tough! Where do we start.
- All American Road: Scenic Byway 12 – There are only 31 designated All American Roads in the USA, scenic byway 12 which runs from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon is one of them. This is hands-down the most colourful of the nation with some of the most diverse and rugged landscapes of anywhere. It winds past red rock cliffs, through slickrock canyons, pine and aspen forests, national and state parks, a national monument and some cool quaint rural towns.
- Capitol Reef National Dark Sky – Utah actually leads the world with nine International Dark Sky Parks across the state. So no matter where you are, if it’s a clear night, make sure you get out to see it. Capitol Reef National Park has a Gold-tier rating. It is absolutely worth seeing.
- Goblin Valley State Park – located along the San Rafael Swell this park is often compared to feeling like you’re on Mars, you want to walk through all of the Rock Formations for hours! It’s seriously like being a kid again exploring.
- The Narrows in Zion – A hike that’s not to be missed is ‘The Narrows’, following the Virgin River through a narrow gorge, you’ll leave the road and the trails, and walk through the water itself. As you walk in the water – anywhere from ankle to chest height, you’ll look up between walls that soar up to 2000 feet above you, and you’ll spot sandstone grottos and hanging gardens along the way.
- Monument Valley – Monument Valley is an iconic symbol of the American West and is really the heart of the Navajo Nation. You can join a jeep tour with a local guide to go into areas not accessible by private cars.
- Park City Mountain Resort – the largest ski resort in the USA, Park City could certainly stake a rightful claim of being the “perfect mountain town.” Combining its silver mining town heritage, an artistic vibe and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
- Antelope Island – home to 58km of hiking and mountain bike trails meandering among free-roaming bison and antelope herds year-round.
Is there anything you want to share with travel advisors?
Utah is most commonly known for the MIGHTY 5® National Parks & The Greatest Snow on Earth®.
Utah has five National Parks, 45 State Parks, five National historic sites & trails, and a dozen national monuments & recreation areas.
Our destination is known for its outdoor adventure, iconic scenery and exploring.
It attracts people who want to get outside, be active and explore nature.
We have 15 ski resorts in the state, 10 are within just one hour of the new Salt Lake City International Airport.
Do you have anything to add?
We hope as many of the Canadian travel trade with join us on our Walk around Utah (http://visitutah.
