Utah isn’t just about towering cliffs and stunning landscapes—it’s also a fantastic place for taking a memorable lunch break. With wide-open spaces, hidden corners, and adventurous activities, you can turn a simple meal into a full-fledged experience. Whether you’re craving a peaceful hike with llamas or an adrenaline-filled river trip with a hearty BBQ, Utah’s lunch experiences are well worth the effort. These tours combine great food with unique settings and fun activities, making your midday meal one of the highlights of your trip.
In this guide, I’ve picked two standout options that each offer something different. One is a guided llama hike through Capitol Reef National Park, perfect if you want serenity, scenery, and a touch of quirky charm. The other, a Colorado River rafting trip in Moab, offers excitement, stunning canyon views, and a delicious riverside BBQ. Both are excellent choices, whether you’re after a relaxed adventure or a lively outing.
1. Spectacular 8-Hour Guided Llama Hike with Lunch and Dinner
At number one, the Spectacular 8-Hour Guided Llama Hike with Lunch and Dinner offers a full day immersed in Utah’s natural beauty. This tour takes you into the Water-pocket Fold of Capitol Reef National Park, an area known for its rugged cliffs and quiet trails. What makes this trip stand out is the companionship of trusty llamas—they carry your gear and add a bit of charm to the hike.
The adventure includes a day-long trek through scenic vistas, with opportunities to learn about the area’s geology and history from knowledgeable guides. The trek is carefully designed to be physically refreshing yet manageable, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The tour provides lunch and dinner, giving travelers a chance to enjoy hearty, well-prepared meals amid stunning surroundings. The seclusion and the entertainment of the llamas make it a truly distinctive experience.
While this tour comes with a higher price tag ($480 per person), it offers a comprehensive experience—combining hiking, wildlife, and local cuisine—that’s hard to match. It’s best suited for those who love nature, enjoy gentle physical activity, and appreciate a bit of quirkiness in their outdoor adventures.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day, all-inclusive outdoor experience with great scenery, good food, and a touch of fun, this guided llama hike is a superb choice.
2. Moab: Colorado River Mid-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch
Next on our list is the Moab: Colorado River Mid-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch. For $114 per person, this 4.5-hour guided river trip packs a punch. It’s a fantastic option for those craving adventure, scenic views, and good food. The tour includes navigating White’s Rapid, one of the most popular rapids in the area, among breathtaking canyon walls.
The highlight is the gourmet BBQ lunch served at a picturesque riverside ranch, which many describe as a perfect way to refuel after a morning of splashing through rapids. You can choose between paddle rafts or inflatable kayaks, making the trip accessible whether you want to paddle or just relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour’s moderate difficulty level means you get a good dose of excitement without it being overly strenuous.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of thrilling river action and a delicious outdoor meal in a stunning setting. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to experience Moab’s rugged beauty from the water, with the added bonus of a satisfying lunch. Some reviews even mention the “best BBQ” they’ve had on a river trip, which underscores the quality of the experience.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a half-day adrenaline rush combined with great food, this rafting tour hits the mark. It’s a lively, scenic, and satisfying midday adventure.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two Utah lunch experiences, consider your interests, fitness level, and the kind of scenery you prefer. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic day with a quirky twist, the llama hike offers tranquility, educational insights, and a relaxed pace. On the other hand, if you want action and excitement, with a hearty riverside BBQ as a reward, the Colorado River rafting trip provides an exhilarating outing suitable for most fitness levels.
Budget-wise, the llama hike is more expensive but includes all meals and a full-day experience, while the rafting trip is a quick, more affordable adventure with a delicious lunch included. Think about how much time you want to spend and whether you’d prefer a day of gentle hiking or a half-day of river action.
Booking early is advisable for the rafting trip, especially in peak seasons, and for the llama hike, securing a spot well in advance ensures you won’t miss out on this unique experience.
Utah’s diverse landscape lends itself to a variety of memorable lunch experiences. Whether you choose the peaceful companionship of llamas and stunning hikes or the thrill of whitewater rafting with a flavorful BBQ, you’re set to enjoy a midday meal that’s unforgettable. For a relaxing, scenic journey, the llama trek is ideal. For pure adventure with a delicious reward, the Moab river trip is hard to beat. Both promise a satisfying break from sightseeing—book early and enjoy a true taste of Utah’s outdoor spirit.