I LOVE Utah ! I've been to the Kolab canyons (part of Zion) and the main part of Zion Park and it is otherworldly ! I didn't have a camera at the time, but my memories are starkingly vivid.
I used to live in Salt Lake and even the Wasatch directly next to the city are amazing. I found the mormon population and influence actually a positive. I was never proselytized by them and they are such busy/family people they don't allot much time to hedonistic pleasures. Thus I had all the room in the world and could go out to eat at 6 or 7pm and sit right down.
But yes, if you're an outdoor lover...hiker, skier, biker, whatever...Utah can't be beat.
Just buy your GOOD beer at the liquor store and put it on ice quickly (they only sell it hot.
) Dont' buy at the 7-11, it's only 3.2 schwag !!