Field Guides: Voices From the Forever Mighty Landscape
Meet the people whose lives have been shaped by nature — and are helping others find their way.
Utah’s natural landscapes become easier to appreciate thanks to the guides who help us along the trail. Sometimes guides offer the kind of wisdom, both lived and learned, that's hard for adventurers to absorb in any other way.
Field Guides: That’s what we consider these trail minders, people whose emotional habitats have been shaped by wind and weather and epic vistas. These land ambassadors can help visitors like us come to a deeper understanding of the shared responsibilities of stewarding Utah’s mighty, fragile landscapes.
That’s why we’re launching this series about the lives of Utah’s guides. We’re focusing on people whose avocations and vocations have drawn them deeper into the canyons, mountains and deserts that most of us simply visit. Those who help us recreate responsibility. Those who share what can be termed the Forever Mighty ethos.
We asked guiding questions:
- How did you choose this life?
- What have you learned from the land?
- How has your life been transformed by nature?
- And what guidance would you offer to those who follow?
We’re launching this series with stories: of a retired national park superintendent who is still stargazing and wandering; a fishing guide with a listening ear and a well-honed vision; a ranger who rebuilt his life after tragedy; a hawk researcher who can’t — or won’t — stay out of nests; and a biologist whose passion is as salty and mysterious as the creatures and the lake she studies.
We hope you’ll be inspired by these stories — and the wisdom in each chapter of the series.
Field Guides: Voices From the Forever Mighty Landscape
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‘We Are All Great Salt Lake’: A Biologist Explains the Lake’s Mysteries
A career studying one of the most unique ecosystems in the world might be smelly, but Jaimi Butler wouldn’t trade her time on Great Salt Lake for anything.
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How a Window View Led to a Career as a Raptor Biologist
Hawkwatch’s Steve Slater rappels or climbs into bird nests — whatever it takes — as he studies the West Desert’s golden eagle population.
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How the Life of One Utah State Park Ranger Reveals the Healing Power of Nature
After years of protecting the Utah landscape and the people who flock to it, Brody Young found strength from the river and the red rock to recover from what should have been a fatal incident.
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Protecting Our Forests — One Branch at a Time
When it comes to preserving forests, University of Utah ecologist Nalini Nadkarni believes in the cumulative power of small acts of goodness.
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The Wayward Path of a Utah Fly-Fishing Guide Led Straight to the Green River
Colby Crossland isn’t quite sure how he ended up a guide on one of the country’s best fly-fishing destinations, but he knows the perks are worth the tangles.
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What Happens When Wandering and Stargazing Leads To a Life-Long Journey
National Parks Service Superintendent Kate Cannon patrolled and managed the country’s wilderness for more than 40 years, finding a special connection with the unique Utah terrain along the way.
How to Visit Utah's National Parks
Get the most out of a visit to Utah’s parks and monuments, while also ensuring they stay Forever Mighty, by following these tips.
Discover More
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5 Expert Tips to Prepare for Your Utah National Parks Adventure
If you’re planning to visit Utah national parks for a hike, learn important tips to maximize your experience and keep you and your family safe.
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A Van Lifer’s Guide to Responsible Travel in Southern Utah
When Utah’s dirt roads are calling you, it’s time to plan your van life road trip. Here’s what you need to know to travel safely, support Utah’s rural communities, and help preserve the delicate desert landscapes.
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A Year-Round Guide to Great Salt Lake State Park
Great Salt Lake State Park is easy to access from Salt Lake City and makes for a great spot to get out on the water, with unbeatable sunset views.
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Field Notes: Backpacking With Children
Author Tim Sullivan shares his tips and tricks on backpacking with his young children.
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Fly Fishing the Uinta Mountains
The Uinta Mountains are one of Utah’s top fly fishing destinations. Learn where to go and how to land that trophy trout, then plan your own fly fishing getaway.
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How to Backcountry Camp Responsibly
Four tips on how to camp more thoughtfully and responsibly in Utah's backcountry.
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How to Canyoneer Safely
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned canyoneer, here are six expert tips for your next canyoneering adventure.
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How to Find a Guided Outdoors Experience
You might not be a pro climber, camper or explorer, but Utah’s diverse collection of outdoor guides has all of the expertise you need to have an adventure worth getting stoked about.
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How to Stargaze in Utah
Tips on what to pack and when and where to go stargazing in Utah.
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How to Support Local On Your Utah Road Trip
Many small businesses in Utah rely on tourism for survival. These expert tips help road trippers make a real difference in communities by supporting local.
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Q&A With the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge Biologist
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Songbirds, Shorebirds and Migrating Birds, Oh My!
The Eccles Wildlife Education Center, sandwiched between Utah's Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake’s Antelope Island State Park, opened in 2018 and has become a bucket-list destination to see, study and photograph the state's diverse animals.
