Best Utah Winter Photo Locations for Stunning Winter Photography
Winter in Utah is nothing short of magical, especially for engagements, bridal portraits, and bride and groom sessions. The snow-covered landscapes, majestic mountain views, and frosty scenery create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos. To help you capture the beauty of Utah in winter, I’ve put together a list of the Best Utah Winter Photo Locations, each offering something unique and breathtaking.
1. Jordan Pines
Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Jordan Pines is one of the Best Utah Winter Photo Locations. With its sprawling, snow-covered pine trees and stunning mountain views, it’s a winter wonderland perfect for portraits. However, parking can be limited, so be sure to arrive early. On weekends, it can get crowded, so try to visit on weekdays for more privacy. A recent change means you’ll need to pay $9 for parking, which can be done via a QR code at the entrance gate.
2. Tibble Fork Reservoir
Tibble Fork Reservoir in American Fork Canyon is a top contender for Best Utah Winter Photo Locations. The frozen lake, combined with beautiful pine and aspen trees, creates a gorgeous winter scene. The panoramic mountain views only add to its charm. Just a quick note: be sure to stop at the ranger station (on the right side of the road) to pay for parking unless you have an “America The Beautiful” National Park Pass. If you don't, you may end up with a ticket!
3. Aspen Grove
For a more unique Utah Winter Photo Location, Aspen Grove offers a stunning backdrop with a mix of aspen and pine trees. If you’re up for a hike, you can venture up the trail to the left, which leads to sweeping views of snow-covered trees. However, take extra caution—this area is known for its avalanche risk, especially from February onward. Make sure to check avalanche warnings before heading out, as I’ve had a close call with an avalanche on a shoot before.
4. Mule Hollow
Mule Hollow, with its snow-covered cliffs in the background, offers a beautiful, Swiss Alps-like atmosphere. While the area is somewhat small, the dramatic scenery makes it worth a visit. For more variety, I recommend combining a shoot here with Jordan Pines, so you can capture both the rustic forest and the striking cliff views.
5. Ice Castles
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind, man-made Utah Winter Photo Location, the Ice Castles in Midway should be on your list. The intricate ice formations are illuminated with multicolored lights, creating a magical atmosphere at dusk. The best time to visit is about 30 minutes before dark when you can capture the deep blue sky and glowing ice sculptures in the perfect light.
6. McPolin Farm
McPolin Farm, located near Park City, offers a rustic winter vibe with its iconic white barn, old wooden fences, and scenic trails. While it’s not filled with dense pine forests, the open, snowy fields and historic structures make it a great option for a more rural winter shoot. The stark contrast between the snow and the barn creates a visually stunning backdrop for photos.
7. Silver Lake at Brighton
Located in Brighton, Silver Lake is a serene Utah Winter Photo Location. The lake often freezes over in the winter, and the surrounding pine and aspen trees provide the perfect setting for a winter wonderland shoot. A trail encircles the lake, making it easy to explore different angles. Keep in mind that it’s closed to the public during Nordic ski events, so check the schedule before heading out.
8. Spruces Campground
Spruces Campground offers something a bit different from the other locations on this list. Nestled deep in the forest, surrounded by towering spruce pine trees, it gives you that perfect “in the woods” winter feel. If you’re looking for dense forest coverage and a more secluded setting, Spruces Campground should be at the top of your list.
Conclusion
Utah’s winter landscapes provide a stunning array of options for photographers looking to capture the beauty of the season. Whether you’re drawn to snow-covered pine trees, frozen lakes, or unique man-made ice formations, these Best Utah Winter Photo Locations will leave you with memories and photographs to treasure. So grab your camera, bundle up, and head out to explore these winter wonderlands!
For more amazing locations, no matter what season, you can visit my Best Utah Photo Locations webpage