The stories in this issue explore the theme of “This Land’s Heritage.” Some stories interact with people and artifacts that give definition to the place, others engage in outdoor recreation and activities and emerge with a deeper awareness and appreciation of that place.

A View From the Past reconstructs forgotten history on the Transcontinental Railroad Backway Byway.

Blazing Sandals human-powered and off-road adventures in North Lake Powell.

Tracing the Outlaw Trail in eastern Utah, where dinosaurs and cowboys play well together.

And additional stories on how to see the Milky Way and a connecting with an ancient people in an unforgiving landscape.

Desert Shutter Speed follows the steps of two photographers as they uncover a different side of the desert.

Gleaning a Small Town’s Harvest showcases how Scandinavian heritage, fine arts and historic preservation define Utah’s Sanpete Valley.

Read up on the latest from the Utah Office of Tourism:

• Director’s Message with some success headlines and problems to solve.
• Recently published web stories, video, and itineraries.
• Team updates with our content team, public relations, and marketing/digital strategy.
• Latest news in research.
• Upcoming tourism industry events, both instate and nationally.

Our new Explorer’s Guide is out and you can read the issue now to plan your year of transformative travel to include:

• Lost and Found in Desolation Canyon – A rafting pilgrimage through the remote rapids and canyon of the Green River
• The Bear Lake Monster Winterfest – Come for the Cisco Disco, stay for the party and learn about the lake’s monster lore
• A new life in Helper – Turning carbon into culture: art, Amtrak and a riverwalk anchor Helper
• Golden Spike at 150 Years – Northern Utah’s Golden Spike Country and railroad history are much bigger than the golden spike
• Snowfield and stream: A winter fly-fishing trip to Sundance Mountain Resort
• More… Artisian cheese in redrock country, the freedom of wild places in The Needles District, and Women in the Wild: Transformation and the outdoors

Registration is open for the annual Utah Tourism Conference, September 17-19, 2019, at the Utah State University Campus in Logan, Utah.

As the state’s premier industry event, the conference combines dynamic and relevant workshops, inspiring keynote speakers, multiple networking opportunities and an exciting expo of services and resources to deliver an exceptional experience.

Visit the Utah Tourism Industry Association website for registration, schedule of events, conference lodging, and speakers list.

Join this annual event of Tourism Day on the Hill as the Utah tourism industry descends on Capitol Hill. Enjoy networking with your legislators and the tourism industry with lunch and experiential stations. Event presented by the Utah Tourism Industry Association on Friday, February 1, 2019, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at the Utah State Capitol Rotunda.

Registration required. For more information, visit the website.

Get caught up on the Latest Happenings from the Utah Office of Tourism, including:

• Director’s Message on the Government Shutdown and how it affects Utah’s parks
• Recent stories on our website
• Developing a data portal for partner DMOs
• Team Updates
• UOT Wins HSMAI Adrian Awards
• Tribal Tourism Growth in U.S. and Canada
• Upcoming industry events

In addition to monitoring industry and marketing metrics, the Utah Office of Tourism conducts research on visitors and the Utah communities that welcome them. Explore  interactive dashboards to discover lodging metrics, tourism-related taxes, visits and more on the Utah Tourism Industry Metrics page.

The 2018 General Session of the 63rd Legislature will be held January 22 – March 8, 2018.

For information about the 2018 Legislative Session, the Utah Tourism Industry Association’s website has information that includes a weekly legislative bill tracker, list of Utah’s elected officials, legislative toolkit, and more.

You can also access weekly schedules, audio and video of meetings and debates, committee memberships, and more on the Utah State Legislature’s website.