Best Drone Filming Locations in Utah
Utah is a filmmaker's paradise, and for drone cinematography, the Beehive State offers perhaps the most diverse and accessible terrain in North America. From the iconic red rock formations of southern Utah to the alpine wilderness surrounding Salt Lake City, the variety of landscapes within a few hours' drive is unmatched. As a professional drone cinematographer based in Salt Lake City, I've had the privilege of filming across the state. Here are my top picks for aerial production.
Near Salt Lake City (1-2 Hours)
Big Cottonwood Canyon
Just 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, Big Cottonwood Canyon offers dramatic alpine scenery perfect for outdoor brand content. The winding canyon road, granite cliffs, and seasonal changes provide year-round filming opportunities. Note: Parts of the canyon fall within watershed protection areas with specific regulations.
Best for: Outdoor lifestyle brands, automotive, adventure sports
Bonneville Salt Flats
The surreal, endless white expanse of the Bonneville Salt Flats creates otherworldly aerial video production opportunities. The flat terrain is ideal for FPV flying, and the lack of obstacles allows for creative, sweeping shots impossible elsewhere. Located about 90 minutes west of Salt Lake City.
Best for: Automotive, fashion, abstract brand content
Antelope Island
Rising from the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island offers unique desert-meets-water landscapes. The island features free-roaming bison, dramatic sunsets over the lake, and varied terrain from beaches to rocky outcrops.
Best for: Tourism, wildlife, sunset sequences
Southern Utah (4-5 Hours)
Monument Valley
The iconic sandstone buttes of Monument Valley have defined American Western cinematography for decades. While the area requires Navajo Nation filming permits, the results are worth the coordination. The scale of the formations creates breathtaking drone footage.
Best for: Commercials, brand films, narrative projects
Dead Horse Point State Park
Overlooking a dramatic bend in the Colorado River 2,000 feet below, Dead Horse Point is one of the most photogenic locations on Earth. For cinematic drone work, the combination of the river, red rock canyons, and vast desert creates layered compositions.
Best for: Tourism boards, outdoor brands, landscape-focused content
Moab Area
The Moab area encompasses Arches National Park, Canyonlands, and countless Bureau of Land Management areas. Each location offers distinct red rock formations, natural arches, and canyon systems. Note: National Parks have strict drone regulations and generally prohibit recreational and commercial drone use.
Best for: Adventure tourism, action sports, vehicle commercials
Permitting and Regulations
Professional drone filming in Utah requires attention to various regulations:
- National Parks: Generally prohibit drone use; special permits rarely granted
- State Parks: Permit required; typically $200-500 depending on production scale
- BLM Land: Generally open for drone use; commercial operations may require notification
- Forest Service: Most areas open; Wilderness Areas prohibited
- Private Land: Always obtain permission from landowners
Timing Your Shoot
Utah's light varies dramatically by season:
- Spring (March-May): Dramatic clouds, snow-capped peaks, wildflowers in some areas
- Summer (June-August): Harsh midday light; best for sunrise/sunset shoots
- Fall (September-November): Golden light, fall colors in mountains, fewer crowds
- Winter (December-February): Snow creates stunning contrast with red rock; cold temperatures affect battery life
Working with a Local Expert
Utah's terrain presents unique challenges for drone operations. Working with a licensed drone pilot familiar with Utah's geography ensures you get the shots you need while navigating permits, weather, and logistics efficiently.
Contact me to discuss scouting and production for your Utah-based drone project.