road trip en utah

10 Best Utah Road Trips: Unique Itineraries + Maps

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: July 16, 2020

Utah has many unique road trip options, including national parks, state parks and off-road adventures. Spectacular landscapes, bucket list hikes and beautiful photo spots make Utah one of the very best road trip destinations in the world.

In this guide, we’re going to show you 10 original and personally tested Utah road trips based entirely on our own experiences.

Our Utah Road Trip Experience

Why trust us with helping you to plan your Utah road trip?

Because we’ve explored far and wide throughout two separate Utah road trips, first in the fall of 2019 and again in the winter of 2021. We love the region and consider southern Utah to have some of the best road trips in the US .

During both our extended visits to Utah, we’ve hiked the iconic trails, explored the major parks and photographed the unmissable sunrise and sunset spots. Every Utah road trip itinerary in this guide is created from first hand knowledge . Read more about us .

With so many amazing US road trips available for your next adventure, why would you choose to road trip through Utah ?

Here’s what makes Utah such a popular place to visit:

• Five remarkable national parks
• Countless other special natural landscapes
• Year round accessibility
• Several of the best hikes in the US are in Utah
• Diverse and adventurous attractions
• Excellent weather for most of the year
• Easy logistics with Las Vegas and Salt Lake City airports

Other popular road trip routes in the US have the ocean, big cities, rainforests or rugged mountains. Utah offers dramatic canyons , extraordinary sandstone formations and bucket list hikes .

Choosing Where To Visit

Utah is home to a diverse range of topography including canyons, sand dunes, mountains and salt flats. The Mighty 5 national parks are the most heavily visited places in Utah, but there are so many other fun and underrated places to see.

So where should you visit on your Utah road trip?

Well, the answer depends on factors like your travel style, how much time you have and how many times you have visited Utah in the past.

• Are you a hiker? You should prioritize hikes in Zion National Park above all else.
• Are you a photographer? You should prioritize Arches, Canyonlands and Bryce Canyon.
• First time in Utah or short on time? You should start with Zion and Bryce Canyon.
• Already seen the national parks? You should head to the adventure town of Kanab.

We think Utah is a state you can return to time and time again because there’s just so much to do. Even after 2 extensive trips to Utah, our bucket list is still only half full!

Further Reading: The 20 best places to visit in Utah

About Our Itineraries

Next, we’re going to show you our 10 favorite Utah road trip routes. You’ll find route statistics , a description and a map for each itinerary.

You can click into the interactive maps associated with each itinerary listed below. Simply touch or click the map to activate, then you can move around or zoom in and out.

We’ve tried to be as inclusive as possible in order to accommodate every traveler who wants to see the very best of Utah. Please feel free to leave us a comment at the end of the guide if we haven’t quite covered exactly what you are looking for.

Let’s get into the first itinerary!

1. Utah Mighty 5 National Parks Road Trip

• Distance : 389 miles
• Time : 7 hours 20 minutes
• Days : 6-8 days
• Attractions : Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef , Canyonlands, Arches

The Mighty 5 national parks road trip is the ultimate Utah experience . This famous route consists of many of the best US national parks with stops at Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands.

After driving the Mighty 5 we can confidently say that it’s the all-in-one scenic Utah ticket featuring the best hikes, photo spots and landmarks. If you’ve never been to Utah and you want to see all the major highlights , this is the road trip for you.

Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip Map

The Mighty 5 is most commonly driven as an out-and-back loop route from Las Vegas (here are the best things to do in Las Vegas ). Use the map above to see how the route begins in Zion, moves to Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef before stopping near Moab for both Arches and Canyonlands.

Returning to Las Vegas from Moab, you have several amazing options for places to stop including Monument Valley, Page AZ, Grand Canyon North Rim and the adventure attractions around Kanab.

Road Trip Tip : Drive UT-12 from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef. The route through Escalante is slightly longer but it’s incredibly scenic and shouldn’t be missed.

2. Utah State Parks Road Trip

• Distance : 476 miles
• Time : 9 hours 40 minutes
• Days : 3-5 days
• Attractions : Gunlock, Snow Canyon, Sand Hollow, Coral Pink Sand Dunes , Kodachrome Basin, Escalante Petrified Forest, Goblin Valley, Dead Horse Point

We’ve created this original Utah road trip itinerary for return visitors to Utah or those who prefer to avoid heavy crowds . It follows the same route as the Mighty 5 but only stops at state parks and avoids national parks altogether.

We think Utah is overflowing with incredible state parks that are completely overshadowed by the national parks. There’s so much more to see, hike and photograph in Utah outside of the national parks. And the best part is that they’re always quiet .

Utah State Parks Road Trip Map

Our Utah state parks road trip is best driven in a loop from Las Vegas . Similarly to the Mighty 5 route, you can easily throw in plenty of extras stops along the way, which could even include one or two national parks if you don’t want to miss out.

Road Trip Tip : If state parks are your thing, do not miss the amazing Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada either on the way in or out of Utah from Las Vegas, which we have included in the route map above.

3. Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip

• Distance : 86 miles
• Time : 1 hour 55 minutes
• Days : 2-4 days
• Attractions : Zion, Bryce Canyon

Zion to Bryce Canyon is our top Utah road trips pick for visitors with just 2 or 3 days available. It’s a hugely popular and well established route which works perfectly with the nearby Las Vegas airport as a transport hub.

Both Zion and Bryce Canyon are amazing places, but they’re surprisingly different considering how close they are to one another. We love both parks and think this double header offers the perfect balance between ticking off some of the best Utah hikes and photo spots in a short trip.

Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip Map

The Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip route is easy to plan . You simply fly into Las Vegas, drive to Zion, then drive to Bryce Canyon and eventually return to Las Vegas the same way. Here are 5 very different ways you can spend one day in Zion National Park .

Road Trip Tip : Serious hikers should spend more time in Zion, whereas photographers and sightseers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon.

4. Arches And Canyonlands Road Trip

• Distance : 78 miles
• Time : 2 hours 5 minutes
• Days : 1-2 days
• Attractions : Canyonlands, Arches

Arches and Canyonlands is one of the best bang for your buck road trips in Utah. We loved the photo spots in these two parks and can’t wait to go back for more landscape shoots. It’s possible to see the highlights of both parks in one day by starting in Canyonlands and ending in Arches.

However, 2 full days would allow you to relax and visit more natural attractions by spending a day in each park. You can tick off the best hikes in Arches and end with sunset from Delicate Arch on the first day, before spending the next day in Canyonlands which begins with an incredible sunrise at Mesa Arch .

Arches To Canyonlands Road Trip Map

Many visitors to Moab only have time to do Arches and Canyonlands in one day . Our route map above shows you exactly how to see both parks in a day from sunrise to sunset .

With more time you can do one day in each of Arches and Canyonlands. Start the second day in Canyonlands Island in the Sky district before visiting the further away districts called The Needles, The Maze and The Rivers.

Road Trip Tip : Start with Mesa Arch at sunrise and end with Delicate Arch at sunset for one of the most amazing days in Utah.

5. Kanab HQ Road Trip

• Distance : 320 miles
• Time : 6 hours 55 minutes
• Days : 3-4 days
• Attractions : Belly of the Dragon , Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Buckskin Gulch, The Wave, Toadstool Hoodoos , Grand Canyon North Rim

Our Kanab headquarters road trip is unique because you will use one tiny town as a base and the driving aspect is essentially fanning out in all directions around Kanab to visit attractions. Don’t be put off by what sounds like a boring road trip, trust us, it really isn’t!

We spent a few days ticking off hikes , landscapes , caves and sand dunes around Kanab during our second road trip through Utah and we were blown away by the area so much that we included it in our list of the 50 best US vacation spots .

Kanab is one of the most underrated places we’ve visited in America. Not only are there countless awesome things to do in Kanab , but the town also has affordable hotels, excellent restaurants and a chilled vibe.

Kanab HQ Road Trip Map

The route map above shows driving routes from Kanab to each of the most prominent attractions and hikes nearby. Visiting Grand Canyon North Rim is totally optional but it does make for a fantastic experience.

By using Kanab as a base, you can see the likes of Coral Pink Sand Dunes , Belly of the Dragon , Toadstool Hoodoos , Buckskin Gulch and The Wave . It’s also close to slot canyons and a bunch of fun adventure tours going out into the harder to reach areas of Utah like Peek-a-boo canyon.

Road Trip Tip : For the ultimate Kanab experience you should apply for the online lottery to win a permit for The Wave .

6. Kanab To Moab Road Trip

• Distance : 423 miles
• Time : 8 hours 45 minutes
• Days : 4-6 days
• Attractions : Kanab, The Wave or Grand Canyon North Rim, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, Arches, Canyonlands

Moving into custom Utah road trips territory , we think our Kanab to Moab road trip itinerary could be among the very best in this list . It’s perfect if you want to get off the beaten path and do something a bit different.

You’ll start with the best of Kanab , which could include hiking The Wave if you win a permit, before moving to Page AZ for Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon ( book your Antelope Canyon tour in advance). Next is Monument Valley and eventually you reach Moab for Arches and Canyonlands.

Kanab To Moab Road Trip Map

This route can be driven from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City or Denver with plenty of stops available on the back end after leaving Moab. It works perfectly for anyone who plans to spend time in Colorado either before or after Utah. Remember, Rocky Mountain National Park isn’t too far from Moab.

Do you want to visit Grand Canyon South Rim during your Utah road trip? You could leave Kanab and arrive into Page, then drive down to South Rim before re-joining the itinerary to Moab.

Road Trip Tip : You can see most of Monument Valley without actually going into the paid area.

7. Utah Hiking Road Trip

• Distance : 932 miles
• Time : 18 hours 20 minutes
• Days : 6-10 days
• Attractions : Fire Wave, The Subway , Angels Landing , The Narrows , Queen’s Garden , Hickman Bridge, Mesa Arch, Devil’s Garden, Delicate Arch, Buckskin Gulch , The Wave

We’ve created this custom road trip through Utah specifically for hikers and we think it’s pretty awesome! Utah’s unique landscapes are a paradise for hikers but the iconic trails are time consuming, so this is the longest itinerary in our list.

The route effectively follows the Mighty 5 path but it only consists of the best hikes . There are no photography stops, sunrises, sunsets or stops at other attractions. It’s a case of getting your permits in advance , driving from hike to hike and enjoying the trails.

Utah Hiking Road Trip Map

The map for our hikers Utah road trip route is created as though you have acquired permits for every necessary trail. Adapt the route if you are unable to obtain any permit, otherwise sit back and soak up what is going to be an incredible hiking trip !

Are you considering the Grand Canyon? Here’s our popular guide on the best hikes in Grand Canyon South Rim .

Road Trip Tip : In Utah you need permits to hike The Subway, Angels Landing, Buckskin Gulch and The Wave.

8. Utah Photography Road Trip

• Distance : 1,019 miles
• Time : 20 hours 15 minutes
• Attractions : Fire Wave , Zion Canyon Overlook , Cedar Breaks, Bryce Canyon Amphitheater , Fruita Barn, Mesa Arch , Delicate Arch , Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend , Grand Canyon

Our next custom Utah road trip itinerary is designed for photographers . Utah is not just for hikers, it’s also a prime location for landscape photography. Some of our favorite photo spots are in Utah. Think Mesa Arch, Delicate Arch and the Bryce Canyon amphitheater and you’ll get the idea!

The major issue with a photography itinerary is that you often need to be out for sunrise or sunset , so we’ve crafted this Utah road trip mainly around the most prominent locations at the best times of day. It’s a longer itinerary to accommodate for being in the right place at the right time .

Utah Photography Road Trip Map

Our photography route is one of our favorite Utah road trips because it leads to nothing but stunning landscapes . Use our itinerary as a starting point but be sure to include any other photo spots you know along the way (there are so many more!)

Follow the map above to see how you can drive around southern Utah and place yourself at the best photo spots every day . There are several ways you could plan this trip based on how much time you have and how important each stop is to you.

Road Trip Tip : The more time you allow for this road trip, the more sunrises and sunsets you can include. Dawn and dusk really are the most amazing times of day in Utah.

9. 4×4 Adventure Utah Road Trip

• Distance : 745 miles
• Time : 17 hours 30 minutes
• Attractions : Sand Mountain, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Red Canyon Slot, Willis Creek Slot, Kodachrome Basin, Zebra Slot, Natural Bridges, Valley of the Gods, White Pocket

Our custom 4×4 Utah road trip would be an entirely different experience to the typical routes. You can either hire a Jeep and drive yourself or take tours into the scorched wilderness. This adventure filled itinerary leads into countless slot canyons, washes and totally off the beaten path spots.

A lot of this itinerary is based around Vermilion Cliffs National Monument and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument but you could also include Glen Canyon National Recreation Area . These are the places nobody else goes in Utah so you really get that lost world feel.

Utah 4×4 Road Trip Map

The map above shows a basic 4×4 off-road adventure itinerary that we would follow if we were to take on this awesome road trip through Utah. Adapt, remove and include as you see fit based on any other spots you have pegged to visit.

This is the only itinerary in this list that deserves a cautionary warning up front . It’s vital that you are experienced with these types of terrains and situations, as well as being proficient in vehicle fixes and knowing what to do in emergency situations.

Road Trip Tip : With more time you can take your Jeep way off the beaten path. Study the roads in Grand Staircase Escalante in particular to plan the perfect off-road adventure.

10. Salt Lake City To Yellowstone Road Trip

• Distance : 832 miles
• Time : 16 hours 10 minutes
• Days : 7-10 days
• Attractions : SLC, Bonneville Salt Flats, Antelope Island, Park City, Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Bear Lake, Jackson, Grand Teton National Park , Yellowstone National Park

Our last Utah road trip is an extension of our extremely popular 7 days Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip itinerary . You can create a fantastic 10 day itinerary with Yellowstone and Grand Teton simply by including 3 days ticking off the top attractions around Salt Lake City.

Uinta Wasatch Cache is home to some seriously amazing hikes, Bonneville Salt Flats and Antelope Island are perfect for photographers, Park City is a famous skiing destination and downtown SLC is lovely to walk around.

SLC To Yellowstone Route Map

The map above shows an extended version of our classic 7 day SLC to Yellowstone road trip route with several spur trips near Salt Lake City creating a 10 day itinerary.

After leaving the Salt Lake City area, the route continues through Jackson to Grand Teton and Yellowstone before ending in Gardiner, MT. You can either fly home from Bozeman or return to SLC airport.

Road Trip Tip : Allow at least one full day in Grand Teton and two full days in Yellowstone at a minimum. In an ideal world you will have six full days to see both parks. Here’s our 4 days Yellowstone itinerary .

Planning Tools

So you know the routes and you’re excited to get started with planning. But what about logistics and the important things you need to know?

Here are the tools we use and the key information you should be aware of:

When searching for flights to Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, we recommend checking prices on both Skyscanner and Google Flights as the two best flight search engines.

Tips to save on flights to Las Vegas or SLC:

• Shop around and compare prices on several days of the week
• Use incognito or private browser and clear your cache
• Use several devices such as your laptop and smartphone
• Read our guide on how to book cheap flights

You should have no issues booking accommodation for any of the Utah road trips covered in this guide with the exception of Zion National Park hotels during the peak season.

We always use and recommend using Booking.com to book hotels in the US. You might want to compare prices with Hotels.com to see if you can find a better deal.

Tips for booking hotels:

• Book your hotels in advance
• Sign up for a free membership account with Booking or Expedia
• Arrive at Zion during the week to avoid expensive weekend prices
• Read our popular guide on how to book cheap hotels

Resource : Our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere can help you find the best hotels in Las Vegas, Moab, Kanab, Page, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Grand Canyon South Rim.

3. Hire Car

If you’re not driving your own car to Utah, you’ll need to hire a car when you land at Salt Lake City or Las Vegas airport.

Our top recommendation is to find prices with Rental Cars and compare costs against Discover Cars . Input Salt Lake City airport or Las Vegas airport and your travel dates to see your options.

They’re our go to car hire platforms and we always choose whichever has the better vehicle at the right price point.

Tips for hiring a car:

• Book in advance for a better selection of cars
• Small cars are better for parking in tight spots at the national parks
• You’ll need a 4WD high clearance vehicle to go off road in Utah

4. National Parks

It’s important to stay up to date with live conditions such as roads, weather, hiking trails and lodging when you visit any of the national parks in Utah.

One of the unsung positives to visiting Utah is that natural disasters, wildfires, flooding and other problematic conditions are rare. Just look at Yellowstone and Yosemite in 2022 and 2023.

With that said, we still recommend keeping on top of the following current status reports:

• Arches – Live conditions
• Bryce Canyon – Live conditions
• Canyonlands – Live conditions
• Capitol Reef – Live conditions
• Zion – Live conditions

What To Pack For Utah Road Trips

Packing for a road trip in Utah will depend on what you plan to do and what time of year you decide to visit.

Our two trips to Utah have been in the months of October and December. Both times we packed for cold mornings and cold evenings but warmer days, especially when hiking.

If you plan your Utah road trip for summer you can expect hot days so your packing list will look very different. Take plenty of shorts, t-shirts and socks in case you need to wear more than one per day.

Are you planning to visit the Mighty 5? The number one thing you should buy and pack is an America the Beautiful Pass to save money on national park entry costs.

Here is a basic road trip packing list to get you started:

• America the Beautiful Pass – REI
• Car emergency kit – First Secure
• In case of snow – Snow Brush
• Hiking shoes – Men | Women
• Day hiking backpack – Best day bags
• Down Jacket – Men | Women

Further Reading: The essential road trip packing list

Where To Stay On Your Utah Road Trip

Let’s take a summarized look at the top rated hotels in the most popular Utah road trip destinations to help get you organized. Don’t forget you can click the links below to read complete hotel guides on our sister site Best Hotels Anywhere .

Each hotel listed below is a hotel we have either stayed at or would stay at because they have excellent ratings.

Springdale (Zion)

• Cable Mountain Lodge
• Red Rock Inn
• Watchman Villas

Further Reading: The best hotels in Springdale UT

Bryce Canyon City and Tropic (Bryce Canyon)

• Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
• Bryce Canyon Log Cabins
• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn Bryce Canyon

Further Reading: Where to stay near Bryce Canyon National Park

Torrey (Capitol Reef)

• Capitol Reef Resort
• Broken Spur Inn
• Red Sands Hotel

Further Reading: Best places to stay near Capitol Reef National Park

Moab (Arches and Canyonlands)

• Aarchway Inn Moab Utah
• My Place Hotel Moab Utah
• Hoodoo Moab Utah

Further Reading: Where to stay in Moab Utah

• La Quinta Kanab Utah
• Kanab Suites In Kanab Utah
• Canyons Boutique Hotel Kanab Utah

Further Reading: Best places to stay in Kanab UT

Camping Special

Are you planning to camp during your Utah road trip?

We’ve teamed up with The Dyrt to offer our readers an exclusive no strings attached 30 day free trial with The Dyrt PRO .

This is our favorite camping app because it helps you find the best campgrounds along your specific driving route with benefits including no booking fees and free camping spots.

You can also use a fantastic new feature called Dyrt Alerts to receive notifications when sold out campgrounds have cancellations so you can snag near-impossible spots.

In Conclusion

Utah is home to some of the most scenic and exciting road trip routes in the US. Unique rock formations, dramatic canyons and adventurous hiking trails make Utah the perfect road trip destination for hikers, photographers and lovers of nature. It’s great for solo travelers, couples, groups and families alike.

After exploring most of the US, we can confidently say that Utah is one of our favorite states to visit. Hiking and landscape photography are our two favorite things to do when we travel, and Utah has both in abundance!

More Road Trips

• Las Vegas to Death Valley day trip
• Kancamagus Highway fall road trip
• Mt Rushmore to Yellowstone road trip
• New England fall road trip
• San Francisco to San Diego road trip
• Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip
• South Dakota road trip
• Best road trips in the USA
• Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip

Want more Utah content?  Head over to our Utah Travel Guides to explore the Mighty Five national parks and beyond.

We hope this Utah road trips guide helps with planning your visit to the Beehive State!

Please let us know if you have any questions about any of the routes in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

13 thoughts on “10 Best Utah Road Trips: Unique Itineraries + Maps”

Dear Mark and Kristen, my boyfriend and I are thinking of having a 3-week vacation (we are coming all the way from Europe so less doesn’t really make sense for us) doing the classic national parks road trip in Utah and Arizona at the end of May. We are planning 2 days in each park (1 in Capitol Reef), and around 4 days in Kanab and Page each, trying to see and do as much as possible as most likely we will never come back to that part of the world again. We love hiking and active holidays, but we are not extreme hikers and we are not going to do the most challenging (even if they are the most famous) trails such as Angels Landing, the Narrows, or the Wave. I extensively used your website picking out the best trails and things to do and trying to estimate how much time is needed for each 🙂 The rough plan is this:

Day 1 – travel from Europe, arrive in Las Vegas the evening Day 2 – Valley of Fire, evening drive to Springdale Day 3 – Zion main canyon (Emerald pools & Kayenta trails, Watchman trail, Riverside walk, Zion Canyon overlook) Day 4 – Zion Colob canyons, evening drive to Kanab Day 5-7 – Kanab guided day tours to 1) Grand Canyon North Rim Toroweap Viewpoint, 2) White Pocket, 3) Peekaboo Slot Canyon, The White Wave, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, 4) Grand Staircase Escalante Day 8 – Kanab guided day tour (see above), evening drive to Bryce Canyon city Day 9 – Bryce canyon (Scenic drive viewpoints, Fairyland loop trail, Queen’s garden & Navajo loop trails) Day 10 – Bryce canyon (see above), afternoon/evening drive to Torrey Day 11 – Capitol reef, afternoon/evening drive to Moab Day 12-14 – Arches (Delicate Arch trail, Devil’s garden trail, Balanced Rock, Park Avenue trails, The Windows trail & Double arch) and Canyonlands (Island in the sky, Mesa Arch, Grand View point, Green river overlook, Needles/Chesler Park loop trail) Day 15 – Arches/Canyonlands (see above), afternoon/evening drive to Mexican hat/Monument valley Day 16 – Monument and Mystery valley full day Navajo guided tour OR Monument valley half-day guided tour and Natural Bridges national monument, evening drive to Page Day 17-19 – Page (Upper & Lower Antelope canyons guided tours, Secret Antelope Canyon guided tour & Horseshoe bend outlook, Antelope Canyon X guided tour, Navajo canyon boat tour, Horseshoe bend rafting tour, Paria Rimrocks Toadstool Hoodoos) Day 20 – Page (see above), afternoon/evening drive to Grand Canyon village Day 21-22 – Grand Canyon South Rim (all viewpoints, beginning of Bright Angel trail, South Rim trail, Shoshone point trail) Day 23 – morning drive to Las Vegas Day 24 – Las Vegas Day 25 – morning travel back to Europe

As you can see, the ideal plan is a bit longer than 3 weeks and we will have only 22 days (including traveling to/from Europe, which uses up 2 whole days). So we will have to cut 3 days our of our plan, and we are not sure what to sacrifice. I’m thinking the following: – 1 day in Valley of Fire → instead combine as day trip from Las Vegas on day 24 – 1 day in Kanab → which of the 4 tours do you think is the least interesting? – 1 day in Page → scrap Navajo canyon boat tour and Horseshoe bend rafting tour? Is there anything else you would suggest?

In addition, I wanted to ask if it’s worth visiting Natural Bridges national monument compared to all the other sites, and if a full day Navajo guided tour of Monument and Mystery valleys is worth it?

We will appreciate any advice that you can give us!

Hi Petia, thanks for getting in touch and we are more than happy to help. This sounds like an amazing travel plan but let’s trim it a bit so you can make it work.

To answer you final questions first:

1. Valley of Fire – If you don’t mind losing that last day in Vegas, then you can definitely do Valley of Fire as a day trip on your last day. But if you want the day in Vegas, you should still include Valley of Fire early in your itinerary because it is unique. We recommend trying to arrive at Fire Wave Trail as early as possible because sunrise here is the park’s top highlight. 2. Kanab – They all sound great, but we would skip Grand Staircase because the others have the best balance. Kanab is a nice little town. 3. Page – It sounds like you are more interested in the canyons, so yes skip the rafting and boat tour. It doesn’t take long to see Horseshoe Bend from the overlook. You will end up with a lot of spare time in Page because the canyon tours don’t take long. Maybe look around Lake Powell or hike a portion of Buckskin Gulch. 4. We haven’t been to Natural Bridges yet. It looks great but you can get a similar theme at all the national parks in Utah, so we would skip it. We have been to Monument Valley and we drove the self guided tour, which was cool but again we would skip this if we were doing your trip. You can see Monument Valley from the main road you will drive anyway. Tip – Monument Valley is best seen early in the day if driving from Moab to Page which you are.

That is 3 full days saved already (or 4 if you decide to combine VoF into your last day in Vegas). Here are our other tips:

1. By skipping the 4th tour in Kanab, you can travel to Bryce Canyon on the morning of Day 8, spend the day hiking and driving the scenic roads, watch sunset, stay over and then watch sunrise in the morning. There’s not much else to do and Bryce is small so you can leave early on Day 9, spend 6-8 hours in Capitol Reef and drive to Moab. It would be a long day but it would also save another full day on your itinerary. 2. You have loads of time for Arches and Canyonlands. If you wanted to, you could probably save a day at Arches by doing Devils Garden Trail, Windows, Park Avenue and Delicate Arch in one day. That’s Arches done. Canyonlands isn’t as easy because it is split into regions but unless you plan to go hiking long distances, you won’t need much time there either, you can do Mesa Arch, Green River and Grand View in a few hours. So overall for Moab you could save a day. Probably skip Dead Horse State Park because it is another $20 and is similar to Canyonlands. 3. Two days is more than enough time for Grand Canyon South Rim if you don’t intend on hiking down into the canyon. You can see the viewpoints on both Desert View Drive as you enter Grand Canyon and Hermit Road in one day. So again, you could save time here if necessary.

If you haven’t already got one, definitely buy an America the Beautiful Pass for $80 which will get you into all National Parks on your trip.

There are plenty of places you can cut or save, but it will depend on exactly what you both want to do. You will also need some downtime because this is a full on adventure! The driving and hiking gets tiring after a few weeks, so you might end up needing a half day to relax and take it easy.

Hope this helps but if you have any more questions send us an email which you can find on our Contact Page. Have a great trip!

Thank you so much for the feedback, we will definitely consider your advice! I find it very difficult to estimate how much time is needed for each park, probably they could be done in shorter time as you said, but we also need downtime between intense days as you said 🙂

Hello. If you had to choose between taking a Utah road trip in the spring months of April or May vs the end of October, which would you choose? We would like to see Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and go on into Arizona for the Grand Canyon. Thanks for your help!

Hi Jane, both Spring and Fall are the best times to visit the Utah/Arizona parks so either time will be great. We personally prefer traveling the US southwest in Autumn, through September and October. However, if you are only able to do the very end of October, you may run a risk of temperatures cooling significantly in the morning and at night as you approach November (sunrise / sunset photography, long day hikes). If you are able to go in April or early – mid May, you are more likely to see more comfortable conditions for hiking (late May onward can be challenging for hiking with heat). Late October would also mean you may just about miss Utah’s considerable fall colors. With that said, hotels in Springdale, Moab and Grand Canyon will likely be more affordable in late Oct than in May. Finally, it’s impossible to avoid crowds in these parks, but late October will likely be slightly less busy than April / May. The balance between crowds, cost and weather is similar at either time. If you can make it slightly earlier in Oct, we’d say go for that, otherwise the beginning of May. April can have extreme weather in the US Southwest, which is something else to consider. Have a fantastic time whichever season you choose!

We’re planning a trip round trip Vegas through southwest Utah national parks to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. We’ve got two weeks. How would you split the time and what are the best roads to take. We’d like to see Bryce, Hoseshoe Bend, Arches, Canyonlands, up through Salt Lake City to Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. We don’t hike as we’re seniors but love photography. Any assistance would be appreciated. It’s feels so overwhelming! Btw….your website is fabulous!

Hi Marie – sounds like a fantastic trip and we know how overwhelming it can be with so many amazing places to see in just two weeks. You’re right to avoid Zion, it is a wonderful place but is more of an adventure hiking park. When visiting Horseshoe Bend in Page, you might want to try nearby Antelope Canyon if you can book a slot for a photography tour. If you’re planning sunrise photography – Bryce Canyon amphitheater, Mesa Arch in Canyonlands and Mormon Row / Schwabacher Landing in Grand Teton are our top 3 recommendations for your trip. Grand Teton is extremely photogenic and we’re sure your cameras will get a serious workout here! You’ll have an action packed driving itinerary here but this is roughly how we would do it:

D1 – Bryce, D2 – Bryce sunrise, drive to Page and HS Bend, D3 – Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley and arrive in Moab, D4 – Arches, D5 – Canyonlands, D6 – Drive to Salt Lake City, D7 – Morning in SLC and Drive to Jackson, D8 and D9 – Grand Teton, D10, 11, 12 – Yellowstone, D13 and D14 – Long drive back to Vegas, maybe break it up in SLC.

Roads – 89, 163 Monument Valley, 191, 6, 89 through Afton, 191 again through Yellowstone, then 20 and I-15 back to Vegas.

Hope this helps but let us know if you need any more info and have the best trip!

Hi! Could you please share your itinirerary from google maps? It isn’t loading anymore! Thanks!

Hi Agnes, thanks for getting in touch and sorry to hear you can’t load the map. Just checked and I can load all maps on both mobile and desktop on my end. I’ll shoot you an email to see if we can get the map working for you!

Thank you so much! It works for me now. We are planning to do the mighty 5 and do a big counter clockwise loop, and was wondering what you think the best order/road is. We are planning to start from the Grand Canyon and to finish with Zion and drive back to LA from there.

Perfect, glad it’s working. Sure, from Grand Canyon, drive to Page, AZ and do Horseshoe Bend / Antelope Canyon, then onto Monument Valley. Head up to Moab for Arches and Canyonlands, from Moab take UT-24 down into Capitol Reef, then drive the stunning UT-12 through Escalante to Bryce Canyon (don’t miss this one). Down US-89 to Zion / Springdale and maybe end with a night in Vegas?!! Have a great trip!

Omg Utah is now definatley on my bucket list to visit now.

That’s what we like to hear! Utah is an awesome US road trip destination Graham!

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The Ultimate 10-Day Utah Road Trip Itinerary | Best Utah National Parks Road Trip (2024)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Plan the ultimate Utah road trip with our 10-day itinerary that will take you through all 5 Utah National Parks and leave you ready to return for another adventure!

There’s an inescapable allure to the open road, and nowhere does it beckon more enchantingly than the dusty trails and expansive landscapes of Utah’s five extraordinary National Parks, better known as the “Mighty Five.”

Welcome to an odyssey filled with towering red-rock monoliths, deep winding canyons, and the symphony of the winds dancing around ancient stone arches.

As you buckle up and hit the road, expect to be humbled by the grandeur of Arches, awed by the wild backcountry of Canyonlands, enamored by the lush woodland haven of Capitol Reef, entranced by the unique geological wonders of Bryce Canyon, and blown away by the raw magnificence of Zion.

Each park is a world unto itself, unique in its geological formations, yet united in their haunting beauty.

Get ready to wear yourself out hiking, enjoying the warm sun on your skin and the occasional rush of cool canyon breezes.

This is a journey of discovery, exploration, and most importantly, immense fun. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride – our Utah National Parks road trip starts now!

READ MORE: Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Salt Lake City !

Table of Contents

Beginning in Las Vegas

Beginning in salt lake city, how much time is needed to see the utah national parks, when is the best time of year to visit utah’s national parks, rving through the 5 utah national parks, book (everything) in advance, america the beautiful national park pass, pack in layers, start early, nearby hotels – springdale, rv campgrounds in zion national park, what to see and do in zion national park, if you have more time in zion national park, nearby hotels, rv campgrounds in bryce canyon national park, what to see and do in bryce canyon national park, if you have more time in bryce canyon national park, nearby hotels – torrey, rv campgrounds in capitol reef national park, what to see and do in capitol reef national park, if you have more time in capitol reef national park, nearby hotels – moab, rv campgrounds in arches national park, what to see and do in arches national park, if you have more time in arches national park, what to see and do in canyonlands national park, if you have more time in canyonlands national park, rv campgrounds in canyonlands national park, returning to salt lake city, returning to las vegas, continuing on your road trip, southern utah, central and northern utah, wrapping up your utah national parks itinerary, the ultimate utah national parks road trip.

Utah is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. And whether you plan to stay for each of our recommended ten days or want to extend the road trip, know that you are in for one of the most hyper-scenic experiences in America.

We’ll cover all of the best places to visit and things to do in each of the 5 national parks.

But even the drive between national parks merits time of its own to enjoy the scenery along the way.

The Best Route Through the Utah National Parks

Although you can begin and end this Utah National Parks road trip on either end of our suggested itinerary, we recommend that you begin in Zion National Park and end at either Canyonlands National Park or Arches National Park, both located just outside of Moab.

To reach Zion National Park you can begin at either Las Vegas with all its crazy things to do, or Salt Lake City.

The best place to begin this epic Utah road trip is by starting in Las Vegas. This will give you the shortest distance to reach Zion National Park, at just over 2 hours of driving along Interstate 15.

Traveling from Las Vegas will also give you plenty of opportunities to take some side trips to amazing places like Lake Mead National Recreational Area, Valley of Fire State Park and the open country of Northern Arizona and Southern Utah where you could even add on a stop at the Grand Canyon National Park.

However, if you have your return trip planned out of Las Vegas, know that it will take nearly 8 hours to drive from Moab, where you’ll finish this itinerary at either Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park, back to Las Vegas.

So if you have a roundtrip in and out of Las Vegas, you should consider adding a few extra days to this Utah road trip itinerary and consider stops at Monument Valley in Southern Utah and Grand Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon in Northern Arizona as you loop back toward Las Vegas.

Of course, if you are on a long road trip that extends beyond these few days in Utah’s national parks, then you can continue on from Moab into Colorado or carry on further north to explore the more remote and less-visited beauty of Northern Utah, such as Goblin Valley State Park and Dinosaur National Monument.

Have extra time in Las Vegas? Check out our top day trips from the city!

If you want to make a roundtrip road trip through Utah, consider beginning and ending your adventure in Salt Lake City.

Although you’ll have to backtrack south along Interstate 15 for around 4 hours, beginning in Salt Lake City will give you the chance to take your time visiting all the national parks while working your way back toward Salt Lake City.

Salt Lake City has a lot of great things to do in itself. So you could add a few days to this Utah road trip itinerary to spend in Salt Lake City itself.

But if you plan to make the most of this 10-day Utah national parks road trip then you’ll want to hit the road immediately upon arriving in Salt Lake City and head south to begin in Zion National Park.

Of course, you can also follow this road trip itinerary in reverse from Salt Lake City as it is approximately the same driving time from Salt Lake City to Moab, where you can begin your adventure at either Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park.

Related: Consider heading north into Wyoming to spend time exploring Jackson Hole .

To truly immerse yourself in the grandeur of Utah’s five National Parks, it’s recommended to set aside at least 10-14 days for your road trip.

This timeframe gives you about two to three days in each park, allowing you to savor the park’s iconic spots and venture a bit off the beaten path.

Don’t forget to factor in drive time between parks, ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours, and occasional rest days. This leisurely pace gives you plenty of opportunities to not only appreciate the majestic scenery and diverse ecosystems, but also to try out various activities such as hiking, biking, or stargazing.

However, if you’re pressed for time and simply want to soak in the iconic sights, a minimum of 7-10 days can provide a taste of each park’s unique beauty. Allocate a day or two for each park, with a focus on hitting the main highlights.

While this doesn’t allow as much time for long hikes or exploring the more remote corners, you’ll still witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes the American Southwest has to offer.

We have built this road trip itinerary to span 10 days and consider this the barebones minimum to truly enjoy every scenic drive and all of the great hiking trails you will find along the way.

Ultimately, the best itinerary is the one that aligns with your interests, travel style, and the time you have available. Regardless of how much time you spend, a road trip through Utah’s National Parks is an unforgettable journey of discovery and awe.

It is no longer a secret that Utah houses extraordinary scenery all throughout it. As such, trying to time your road trip around the crowds will be a challenge even if you’re not interested in visiting national parks for more than a day or two.

The best time to visit Utah’s National Parks largely depends on what you’re looking for in your journey. If mild weather, fewer crowds, and a vibrant explosion of colors sound appealing, then spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are your best bet.

In spring, the parks are painted with wildflowers, and the weather is usually comfortable for exploring. Similarly, in the fall, the parks showcase a dramatic play of autumn hues, and the daytime temperatures are perfect for hiking.

Summer (July to August) in Utah can be intensely hot, with temperatures often reaching over 100°F (38°C) in the daytime. Despite the heat, this is the busiest time at the parks due to the school holidays.

If you plan a summer visit, aim for early morning and late afternoon activities when temperatures are cooler, and be sure to stay hydrated. Summer also brings the advantage of longer daylight hours, giving you more time to explore.

Winter (November to March) presents a different kind of beauty in Utah’s National Parks. While some areas may be closed due to snow, the ones that remain open are truly enchanting, with dustings of snow adding a magical touch to the red rock landscapes. The parks are quiet and peaceful, and lodging can be much cheaper.

If you don’t mind the cold and are adequately prepared, winter can be a unique and serene time to experience Utah’s natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant colors of spring, the quiet serenity of winter, or anything in between, Utah’s National Parks are a spectacular destination year-round.

Embarking on an RV journey through Utah’s five magnificent National Parks – Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands – is an experience like no other. It allows you to carry the comforts of home while you traverse through mesmerizing landscapes filled with soaring cliffs, fascinating rock formations, sweeping vistas, and brilliant night skies.

The versatility of RV travel offers an all-in-one transportation, dining, and accommodation solution, freeing you from the constraints of hotel check-in times, restaurant reservations, and packing or unpacking at each location.

But do remember that you will still need to book your campground reservations far in advance as this Utah national parks road trip is just as popular with RVers.

But there’s a unique freedom and flexibility that comes with RVing. Instead of rushing to make it to a hotel before nightfall, you can stay out late for stargazing, knowing your comfortable bed is just a few steps away. Early morning hikes become much more accessible when your starting point is in or near the park.

Moreover, an RV’s kitchen facilities mean you have the option to cook your meals, catering to dietary preferences or restrictions and saving you money on dining out.

If you don’t own an RV, fear not, there are numerous rental options available that cater to different needs and budgets. You can conveniently pick up an RV in major cities like Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, both excellent starting points for your Utah National Parks road trip.

Our favorite RV rental company, RVShare , offers a variety of RVs, from compact camper vans perfect for couples to larger motorhomes suitable for families or groups.

Opting for an RV, whether owned or rented, provides an immersive way to experience the captivating beauty of Utah’s National Parks while enjoying the convenience and comfort of having your accommodations on wheels.

Related: Don’t forget to spend some extra time in the adventurous town of Moab !

Tips For Planning A Utah Road Trip

You won’t be the only one planning your epic Utah national parks road trip. But if you plan it right, you can make the most of your time there. These are our best tips for helping you to enjoy your road trip.

Planning a road trip through Utah’s five National Parks is an exciting endeavor, but it’s crucial to book your travel arrangements well in advance. These parks are immensely popular and accommodations, whether you’re opting for campgrounds, RV parks, or nearby hotels, tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

The same applies to guided tours , which can offer invaluable insights into the parks’ geology, history, and ecosystems. By booking ahead, you not only secure a place to rest after a day of exploration, but you also avoid the stress of last-minute planning.

Additionally, some parks require advanced permits for specific hikes or activities, so early planning ensures you won’t miss out on these unique experiences. Remember, a well-planned journey paves the way for a relaxed and fulfilling adventure amidst Utah’s stunning landscapes.

If your travel itinerary includes the spectacular quintet of Utah’s National Parks, purchasing the America the Beautiful National Park Pass is not only cost-effective but also convenient. Each individual park has an entrance fee, ranging from $20 to $35.

The American the Beautiful Pass, priced at $80, covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges, as well as day-use fees at national forests and grasslands. This means that if you’re visiting three or more parks, the pass quickly pays for itself.

Plus, it eliminates the need to deal with payment at each park entrance, allowing for smoother transitions between your destinations. Keep in mind, the pass is valid for a full year, so any other national parks you decide to visit within that time are essentially free entries.

The America The Beautiful national park pass is an excellent investment for explorers setting their sights on America’s wealth of natural beauty.

Read More: Check out our list of the best day trips from Salt Lake City !

One of the key aspects of a successful trip to Utah’s National Parks is packing and dressing in layers. The state’s desert climate means there can be significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, sometimes exceeding 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

In the peak of summer, days can be scorching hot, while evenings bring a refreshing coolness. On the other hand, winter can see sunny, mild afternoons followed by crisp, chilly nights.

Layering your clothing allows you to easily adjust to these changes and maintain comfort throughout the day. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, add an insulating middle layer for warmth, and top with water and a wind-resistant outer layer.

Remember, a comfortable explorer is a happy explorer, and the right clothing is essential in making the most out of your Utah National Parks adventure.

Check out our list of hiking tips for more ideas about what to pack and how to plan your adventures!

Starting your activities early when visiting Utah’s National Parks offers several advantages, and it’s a strategy veteran park visitors swear by.

First, you’ll avoid the peak daytime temperatures that can make strenuous activities like hiking not only challenging but potentially dangerous, especially in the summer months.

Second, many popular spots in the parks can get crowded as the day progresses. An early start allows you to beat the crowds, secure parking spaces, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of these natural landscapes at a leisurely pace.

Additionally, the soft morning light provides exceptional opportunities for photography. Lastly, many of Utah’s wildlife are most active during the cooler morning hours, offering a chance to spot and appreciate these creatures in their natural habitat.

So rise before the sun, soak up the serene morning vibes, and get a head start on your day of adventure in Utah’s stunning National Parks.

Utah National Parks Itinerary – Visiting The “Mighty 5”

Utah is hyperscenic. And following our itinerary below will give you the best chance to see and experience a taste of Utah’s national parks that will leave you ready to return to explore more of your favorite places.

We’re beginning this Utah national parks road trip in Las Vegas. But remember, you can swap out Day 1 with a start from Salt Lake City if you find that is better for your overall plans.

Day 1: Las Vegas to Zion National Park

As you leave the neon glow of Las Vegas behind and hit the road toward Zion National Park, prepare for a journey that’s as much about the drive as it is about the destination.

The roughly three-hour drive will take you through an array of landscapes, from the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert to the pastel-colored cliffs of Virgin River Gorge in Arizona.

If you have the time, make sure to stop at the Valley of Fire State Park, an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, which gets its name from the red sandstone formations that look as if they’re on fire when reflecting the sun’s rays.

Here, you can hike, explore ancient petroglyphs, and take stunning photographs of the landscape.

Upon reaching Zion National Park, you’ll find an array of activities to keep you entertained.

You can start with the Scenic Drive, which provides an excellent overview of the park’s main attractions, and the park shuttle makes it easy to hop on and off at different points.

We don’t recommend that you do too much on this first day as you will have plenty of time to explore Zion National Park the following day.

But simply driving through Zion National Park will give you an overview of the splendor and beauty of the area and set you up for what to expect from the other Utah national parks.

If you’re staying in the park, be sure to arrive at your accommodations early on this first night. This will give you time to set up and enjoy an incredible star-filled night .

But perhaps even more importantly, it will allow you to get a good night’s sleep so that you can plan for a very early start the next day.

Remember, although this is the first national park on your national parks road trip, you are not the only one with the idea to visit Utah national parks.

Get your sleep and be ready for an action-filled day as you explore Zion National Park from one end to the other!

Where to Stay Near Zion National Park

Unless you’ve made arrangements to stay in Zion National Park, the town of Springdale is about as close as you can get to the park. Here are a few great options:

• Pioneer Lodge – This rustic-style lodge offers a range of amenities including a restaurant, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the park, making it a convenient base for visitors eager to explore the stunning landscapes of Zion.
• Holiday Inn Express – Nestled in the majestic red rock cliffs of Zion Canyon, the Holiday Inn Express in Springdale, Utah offers modern amenities and comfortable accommodations. With its outdoor pool, fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and breathtaking views, it serves as a comfortable and convenient hub for travelers exploring the marvels of Zion National Park.

There are a few RV campgrounds in Zion National Park. But these will fill up quickly. So be sure to book as far in advance as possible to ensure that you have a campsite:

• Watchman Campground
• South Campground

Check out this National Park site for information on booking your campsite.

Day 2: Zion National Park

Welcome to Zion National Park, a nature lover’s paradise nestled in the southwestern corner of Utah.

Revered for its impressive sandstone cliffs radiating hues of cream, pink, and red, Zion is a place where landscape meets the sky creating an awe-inspiring backdrop like no other.

The Virgin River, the architect of the park, has carved its way through the rock, sculpting the canyon over millions of years, and creating an oasis of sorts in the desert where diverse plant and animal life thrive.

Zion National Park isn’t just about breathtaking vistas; it’s an invitation for adventures.

With over 200 square miles of exploration, the park offers rugged hiking trails, such as the iconic Angel’s Landing and the narrows of the Virgin River.

It’s a land of discovery, where every corner turned unfolds a scene of stark beauty, a land where one can truly grasp the magnificence of the natural world.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or a casual traveler seeking the serenity that comes with immense natural beauty, Zion is a world-class destination that promises to captivate your spirit.

As a brief overview, here are the top things to see and do in Zion National Park. We’re not telling you where to begin or end.

And some activities may not be suitable for everyone. And you really can’t truly see the park without including at least one Zion National Park Hike.

However, when deciding what to do in Zion National Park, this is our list of the absolute best things to do!

• Angels Landing Hike : This famous hike is not for the faint of heart due to its steep and narrow path, but it provides some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Zion National Park.
• The Narrows : This unique hike takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon in the Virgin River itself, so be prepared to get a little wet!
• Emerald Pools : This trail leads to a series of picturesque pools and waterfalls. There are both lower and upper trails depending on your preference for difficulty and distance.
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive : This drive provides stunning views of the park. You can access the park’s shuttle system which stops at multiple points along the route for easy exploration.
• Canyoneering : Zion is known for its excellent canyoneering routes. This adventure sport combines route finding, rappelling, problem-solving, swimming, and hiking.
• Watchman Trail : A relatively easy trail offering impressive views of Zion Canyon, Springdale, and the Watchman Spire.
• Weeping Rock : A short hike that leads you to a rock alcove where water seeps out of the rock, providing a cool respite during hotter months.
• Kolob Canyons : Located in the northwestern section of the park, this area provides a quieter experience with equally stunning canyon views. Don’t miss the Taylor Creek trail.
• Wildlife Watching : Keep an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife, including mule deer, wild turkeys, and the rare sighting of a bighorn sheep.
• Stargazing : With limited light pollution, the park offers fantastic opportunities for stargazing . Zion regularly offers ranger-led stargazing programs as well.

While most of the activities in Zion National Park involve getting out on the hiking trails, there are also some great viewpoints of the national park and a great visitor center where you could spend hours learning about the rock formations that gave rise to such a spectacular place.

Although visitor centers are typically great places to start, unless you stopped by on your first day traveling to Zion National Park, you won’t want to spend too much of your time there as this will eat into your less-busy time exploring the park itself.

If you have additional time in Zion National Park, consider exploring some of the less-trafficked areas of the park.

The Kolob Canyons, a lesser-visited section of the park, provides quieter trails and equally magnificent scenery.

Here, the Taylor Creek Trail is a delightful hike leading to the Double Arch Alcove.

If you’re up for a challenge, try the trail to The Subway, a unique tunnel-shaped canyon and geological marvel, though do note that this requires a permit. Also consider a horseback riding tour of White Mountain for a unique experience!

Alternatively, explore the Zion Human History Museum to learn more about the park’s cultural history or simply find a peaceful spot by the Virgin River and enjoy the serene beauty around you.

If you’re there in the right season, you might even partake in a peaceful bird-watching session, as Zion is home to over 290 species of birds.

Day 3: Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park

Don’t rush away from Zion National Park! Take your time and get one last hike or scenic drive in before heading north toward Bryce Canyon National Park.

The drive to Bryce Canyon National Park from Zion National Park will take a little less than 2 hours… unless you find yourself stopping to take in some of the incredible views along the way.

Taking Highway 9 out of Zion National Park, you’ll travel a few miles east before turning north onto Highway 89, arguably one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in America.

These 43 miles will lead you between the mountains that separate Zion National Park from Bryce Canyon National Park and there are places you may want to pull over to take in views of both.

Depending on how early you arrive in the area, you may want to check into your accommodations and grab a hearty meal to prepare you for a full day of exploring Bryce Canyon National Park.

To reach the park itself, you will turn off Highway 89 and go through a small stretch of hotels , restaurants and tourist shops and attractions in the small towns of Bryce and Bryce Canyon.

If you have time, you can park and take a shuttle through the national park or give yourself a quick self-guided driving tour . Be on the lookout for wildlife in the evening hours.

Remember, while Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular as Zion National Park or Arches National Park, it is sure to be crowded the next day.

So head to bed early and get your rest so you can wake up early ready to spend a full day exploring the best that the national park has to offer!

Where To Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park

Most of the accommodations near Bryce Canyon National Park are located in either Bryce, Bryce Canyon City or the town of Tropic.

While Tropic has more hotel offerings, it will require you to backtrack a little to return to the national park the following day.

ere are a few great options for where to stay near Bryce Canyon National Park:

• Best Western PLUS Ruby’s Inn (Bryce Canyon City) – Best Western PLUS Ruby’s Inn, situated just a mile from the entrance of Bryce Canyon National Park, offers cozy accommodations complemented by rustic decor reminiscent of the region’s pioneer heritage. It features a range of amenities including an indoor pool, on-site dining, a general store, and even horse riding activities.
• Bryce Pioneer Village (Tropic, Utah) – Bryce Pioneer Village, located in Tropic, Utah, offers a charming and rustic lodging experience just a short drive from the park. With options for motel rooms or individual cabins set in beautiful gardens, along with amenities like an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant, it provides a comfortable base for visitors to unwind after a day of exploration.

There are a few RV campgrounds in Bryce Canyon National Park. But these will fill up quickly. So be sure to book as far in advance as possible to ensure that you have a campsite:

• North Campground
• Sunset Campground

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Las Vegas Itinerary

Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a geological wonderland located in southwestern Utah. Not quite a canyon in the traditional sense, Bryce is rather a spectacular series of natural amphitheaters filled with a maze of spire-shaped rock formations called hoodoos.

These towering limestone sculptures, painted in shades of pink, orange, and white, stand tall against a crisp blue sky, creating a whimsical landscape that appears to be more fantasy than reality.

The magic of Bryce Canyon extends beyond its otherworldly daytime views. Designated as a Dark Sky Park, Bryce offers one of the best celestial displays in the country once the sun sets.

Trails for every level, from the relatively easy Navajo Loop to the more strenuous Peekaboo Loop, lead visitors into the heart of the hoodoos, promising an intimate encounter with the park’s unique geology.

Whether you’re there to watch the sun cast its first light on the hoodoos or to gaze upon the star-studded sky, Bryce Canyon National Park is a place that both humbles and inspires with its majestic natural beauty.

As a brief overview, here are the top things to see and do in Bryce Canyon National Park. As with other Utah national parks, we’re not telling you where to begin or end.

And some activities may not be suitable for everyone. However, when deciding what to do in Bryce Canyon National Park, this is our list of the absolute best things to do!

• Sunrise/Sunset Point : Witness the breathtaking sight of the hoodoos glowing in the soft light of sunrise or sunset at this viewpoint.
• Hiking the Navajo Loop Trail : This popular trail descends from Sunset Point through the slot canyon of Wall Street and the Silent City formations.
• Bryce Point : Famous for its extraordinary sunrises, panoramic views of the Bryce Amphitheater can be seen from this point.
• Ride the Scenic Drive : A 38-mile round trip drive with over a dozen viewpoints to pull over and admire the park’s stunning landscapes. Or explore by ATV for an adventurous twist!
• Hike the Rim Trail : This relatively easy trail offers some of the best views of the park and can be hiked in sections.
• Peek-A-Boo Loop : A longer and more strenuous hike that offers stunning views of the park’s iconic hoodoos.
• Visit Mossy Cave : A less-visited part of the park where you can see a waterfall, a mossy overhang that’s cool even in summer, and hoodoos up close.
• Stargazing : Bryce Canyon has some of the darkest night skies in North America, making it an excellent place for stargazing.
• Horseback Riding : Experience the park’s trails from a new perspective with a guided horseback riding tour .
• Winter Sports : In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing for a different view of Bryce’s spectacular hoodoos.

If you find yourself with some extra time in Bryce Canyon National Park, consider venturing into the lesser-visited areas of the park. The Fairyland Loop Trail is a longer and less crowded trail that offers fantastic views of the hoodoos, towers, and walls for which Bryce Canyon is famous.

You could also explore the Bristlecone Loop that takes you to Yovimpa Point and Rainbow Point, the highest points in the park, with views extending over 100 miles on clear days.

Another option is to spend a leisurely afternoon horseback riding through the park’s canyon trails, soaking up the unique geological wonders around you.

And, if your visit falls during a new moon, don’t miss one of the ranger-led Full Moon Hikes or a guided astronomy program, as Bryce Canyon is renowned for its clear, dark skies, perfect for stargazing.

Day 5: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park

Don’t rush away from Bryce Canyon National Park! Take your time and get one last hike or scenic drive in before heading north toward Capitol Reef National Park.

The scenic drive to Capitol Reef National Park will take approximately 3 hours. But with the cute little town of Escalante positioned right in the middle of the road trip, plus all of the beauty around, you may want to give it more time.

There are some great slot canyons to hike just north of Escalante if you enjoy finding yourself wedged between sandstone layers of rock that stretch upwards toward the sky.

Take a side trip down the dirt road (sometimes graded) on Hole In The Rock Road to visit Zebra Slot Canyon and Peekaboo Slot Canyon.

Both offer the opportunity to enjoy some open-country hiking that leads into the narrow slot canyons.

Depending on the time of day and season, you may find yourself slogging through water in either canyon and the opportunity always exists to do a little amateur rock climbing as you work your way further back into each canyon.

Zebra Slot Canyon doesn’t require any technical climbing skills. But to see the famed “zebra stripes” in the canyon you’ll want to do some scuttling up and through some very narrow slots.

Be sure to arrive at your accommodations with plenty of time to enjoy the evening. Pick up food in Escalante, or give yourself enough time to cook a meal in your RV if you’re traveling in one.

Then catch some great shut-eye before heading out into Capitol Reef National Park for a full day of adventure the next morning.

If you’re a night owl, you may consider stepping outside after sunset to take in the many stars that blanket the sky.

It’s likely that you’ll be able to very clearly see the Milky Way Galaxy with your bare eyes, depending on the season and timing.

Where To Stay Near Capitol Reef National Park

Your options for staying near Capitol Reef National Park are limited with most of the accommodation options being in the small town of Torrey, Utah, just a 15-minute drive to the national park entrance.

There are other options that lie further west away from the park. So we’d recommend considering the following options when it comes to where to stay near Capitol Reef National Park.

Both are highly rated and we think you’ll appreciate all they have to offer in addition to their proximity to the national park.

• Broken Spur Inn and Steakhouse – Located in the heart of Torrey, Utah, the Broken Spur Inn and Steakhouse offers comfortable lodging and an on-site steakhouse, ensuring guests enjoy not only scenic views of Capitol Reef National Park but also satisfying meals before or after a day of exploration.
• Skyview Hotel – Skyview Hotel in Torrey, Utah, pairs modern comforts with breathtaking views of the red cliffs and canyons of Capitol Reef National Park. Enjoy the pleasant charm and nice amenities such as a heated outdoor pool and a spacious picnic area.

In Capitol Reef National Park there is only one campground and it is likely to fill up quickly due to the remote nature of the campsite. Be sure to book far in advance to ensure that you have a campsite:

• Fruita Campground

Day 6: Capitol Reef National Park

Welcome to Capitol Reef National Park, an enchanting realm nestled in the heart of Utah’s red rock country.

Named for its white domes of Navajo Sandstone that resemble the U.S. Capitol building, and the water pocket fold, a ‘reef’-like geologic wrinkle extending nearly 100 miles, Capitol Reef is a dazzling display of colorful cliffs, massive domes, soaring spires, and twisting canyons.

The park’s unique geologic features tell a story of ancient environments, from lush tropical forests to arid deserts, that existed here millions of years ago.

Venturing into Capitol Reef is like stepping back in time. The park is home to the historic Fruita Rural Historic District, where lush orchards and rustic buildings offer a glimpse of the area’s pioneer heritage.

The rich human history, dating back to the ancient Fremont people, is inscribed on the sandstone cliffs in the form of petroglyphs, a silent testament to the park’s past inhabitants.

Whether you’re exploring its scenic byways, hiking through its dramatic landscapes, or picking fresh fruit in one of the maintained orchards, Capitol Reef National Park offers an unforgettable journey into a lesser-known, but equally captivating, corner of Utah’s impressive national park system.

As a brief overview, here are the top things to see and do in Capitol Reef National Park. As with other Utah national parks, we’re not telling you where to begin or end.

And some activities may not be suitable for everyone. However, when deciding what to do in Capitol Reef National Park, this is our list of the absolute best things to do!

• Scenic Drive : A 25-mile round trip that takes you through the heart of the park’s Waterpocket Fold, offering magnificent views of cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges.
• Hickman Bridge Trail : This moderate trail leads to the impressive Hickman Natural Bridge, one of the largest in the park.
• Fruita Historic District : Explore this old Mormon settlement with its charming orchards where you can pick fruit in season, a historic schoolhouse, and the Gifford Homestead which sells locally made pies and breads.
• Cassidy Arch : A strenuous hike leading to a large, spectacular natural arch named after the famous outlaw Butch Cassidy.
• Petroglyphs : Just east of the Fruita oasis, view petroglyphs inscribed in sandstone by Native Americans of the Fremont Culture.
• Cathedral Valley : A remote, less visited area of the park, featuring stunning monolithic sandstone formations.
• Sulphur Creek Route : A water hike through a narrow canyon, featuring three waterfalls to bypass. Best done in warmer weather.
• Chimney Rock Loop : A moderately difficult trail offering panoramic views of the Waterpocket Fold and the surrounding area.
• Goosenecks Overlook : A short walk to a viewpoint where you can see the deep, dramatic meanders of Sulphur Creek.
• Stargazing : Like many of Utah’s national parks, Capitol Reef offers incredible stargazing due to its status as an International Dark Sky Park.

With some extra time at Capitol Reef National Park, diving deeper into its hidden treasures can make your visit even more unforgettable. A great way to start is by exploring the Cathedral Valley, a less frequented but equally breathtaking region of the park, known for its monolithic formations.

If you’re an avid hiker, consider the strenuous but rewarding Upper Muley Twist Canyon trail, which offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the park.

Take a step back in time by visiting the old Fruita Schoolhouse, a one-room building that served the small community from the 1890s to the 1940s.

If you’re visiting during the right season, don’t miss the chance to pick some fruit in the historic Fruita orchards, a unique experience that harks back to the area’s pioneer past.

Looking for more epic road trips? Check out our guide to driving from Las Vegas to Los Angeles !

Day 7: Drive to Moab for Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park

Next you’ll be heading north toward Moab, where you’ll encounter the spectacular Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

Moab itself merits a little extra time if you have it. From a quaint downtown area that offers all sorts of places to eat and shop to some side trips to places like Corona Arch just outside of town, the area around Moab is worth the time if you have it.

From Capitol Reef National Park, you’ll drive just under 3 hours to reach Moab. Unfortunately, the backroads of this epic Utah national parks road trip ends for a brief stint on Interstate 70 straddling Green River, Utah before ducking back down on Highway 191.

Arches National Park is just as popular, if not more, than Zion National Park so it’s unlikely that you can enjoy too much with the late afternoon arrival into the area. Instead, use this time to head out toward Corona Arch and enjoy that afternoon or early evening hike instead.

Be sure to check in with your accommodations as soon as you can and get settled in for a quiet night. You’ll want to be ready to wake up early to hit Arches National Park before droves of other people do.

But if you are truly committed, consider waking up well before sunrise to head into the park and hike out to Delicate Arch for sunrise, arguably the most iconic arch in the entire national park.

Where to Stay Near Arches National Park

Almost all accommodations for visiting both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park will be in and around the small town of Moab. Because Arches National Park is arguably just as busy, if not busier than Zion National Park, the town of Moab has grown up to support a massive influx of visitors and there are ample options for accommodations in the area.

Here are a few of the best options:

• Archway Inn – Complete with an outdoor pool, hot tub, spacious rooms, and a fitness center, this lovely hotel furnished with classy sandstone architecture is a top-rated place to stay near the park.
• Hotel Moab Downtown – Located in the heart of Moab with incredible mountain scenery, this full-service hotel is surrounded by the best restaurants and shops in town. The gorgeous hotel interior doesn’t hurt either!

In Arches National Park there is only one campground and it is likely to fill up quickly due to the popularity of the national park. Be sure to book far in advance to ensure that you have a campsite:

• Devil’s Garden Campground

Day 8: Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a captivating world of stone located in eastern Utah. As the name implies, Arches is a testament to nature’s power and creativity, hosting over 2,000 natural stone arches, the greatest concentration in the world.

These striking formations, along with an array of colossal pinnacles, balanced rocks, and expansive fins, are artfully carved from a vibrant red sandstone landscape, creating a visually stunning panorama that ignites the imagination.

Arches National Park invites visitors to delve into a world where the surreal becomes tangible.

Trails of varying lengths lead you up close to the park’s star attractions, like the Delicate Arch, one of Utah’s most famous icons, or the Landscape Arch, one of the world’s longest.

Whether bathed in the fiery glow of sunrise or sunset, shimmering under the midday sun, or glowing in the soft light of the moon, the arches offer an ever-changing, always mesmerizing spectacle.

Arches National Park is not just a place to see, but a place to savor and experience through adventures like mountain biking , backpacking, ATV driving, and more.

As a brief overview, here are the top things to see and do in Arches National Park. As with other Utah national parks, we’re not telling you where to begin or end.

And this park is PACKED year round, so you may not be able to fully enjoy every experience we have listed.

However, when deciding what to do in Arches National Park, this is our list of the absolute best things to do!

• Delicate Arch Hike : A moderately difficult hike to the park’s most iconic and most photographed natural arch.
• Devils Garden : A network of trails leading to several arches including the Landscape Arch, the longest natural arch in North America.
• Fiery Furnace : A labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons requiring a permit or a ranger-led tour to explore, to ensure minimal impact on the environment.
• Windows Section : Easy trails that lead to some of the largest arches in the park, including the North and South Window Arches and Turret Arch.
• Park Avenue Trail : This trail provides views of towering sandstone monoliths reminiscent of skyscrapers on a big city street.
• Balanced Rock : One of the park’s most popular features, a massive boulder balanced on a slender pedestal.
• Courthouse Towers : A collection of tall stone columns that showcase the park’s unique geology.
• Double Arch : Two impressive natural arches that share a common end. The trail to reach them is relatively short and easy.
• Sunset at Delicate Arch : A popular activity is to hike to Delicate Arch at sunset to witness the stunning transformation of colors on the rock formations.
• Stargazing : Arches National Park is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent place for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.

If you’ve budgeted some extra time for exploring Arches National Park, consider delving deeper into its off-the-beaten-path wonders.

The Fiery Furnace, a labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons, offers a more challenging but rewarding experience – just remember to either join a ranger-led tour or get a permit if you plan to navigate it yourself.

If you’re up for a longer hike, the seven-mile Primitive Loop at Devil’s Garden will reward you with views of some of the park’s less-visited arches.

Consider also a visit to the petroglyphs at Wolfe Ranch to appreciate the history and culture of the park’s earlier inhabitants. Or go stand-up paddleboarding or white-water rafting on the Colorado River if you’re looking for a break from land-based activities!

Day 9: Canyonlands National Park

Welcome to Canyonlands National Park, a captivating wonderland located in the heart of southeastern Utah.

Spanning over 337,000 acres, Canyonlands is a vast desert ecosystem sculpted by the Colorado River and its tributaries into a rugged panorama of mesas, canyons, and remarkable rock formations.

The park’s unique geology unfolds millions of years of Earth’s history, with layers of sedimentary rock that document time like pages in a book.

Yet, Canyonlands is more than just a geological showcase; it’s a place where the sheer scale of the landscape and the silence of the desert can create a profoundly stunning experience.

The park’s expanse is divided into four districts – Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves – each boasting its own distinctive character and array of outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re standing on the edge of a towering mesa overlooking the winding river canyons, exploring the cryptic messages left by ancient Native American civilizations, or star-gazing in the crystal-clear night skies, Canyonlands offers an exploration into a beautifully rugged and untamed corner of the world.

Canyonlands National Park is a vast wilderness of stark yet breathtaking beauty characterized by its dramatic desert landscapes.

Featuring a diverse array of towering mesas, deep canyons, and the converging Colorado and Green Rivers, the park provides an awe-inspiring panorama that reveals millions of years of geologic history.

Here are a few of the best things to see and do in Canyonlands National Park:

• Island in the Sky : This is the easiest district of the park to access and offers breathtaking views from numerous overlooks along the paved scenic drive.
• Mesa Arch : A short hike leads to this poetically named natural arch, a popular spot for photographers, especially at sunrise.
• White Rim Road : A 100-mile dirt road loops around and below the Island in the Sky mesa, providing spectacular views for those up for a 4WD adventure.
• The Needles : This district offers extensive hiking trails through a landscape punctuated by colorful sandstone spires.
• Horseshoe Canyon : This detached unit of the park is home to the famous Great Gallery, one of the best examples of prehistoric pictographs (rock art) in America.
• Upheaval Dome : Visit this unique geologic feature and decide for yourself whether it was created by a salt dome or a meteor impact.
• Green River Overlook : A popular spot that provides panoramic views of the Green River in the Island in the Sky district.
• Rafting on the Colorado River : Experience the thrill of rafting through the park’s spectacular canyons.
• Elephant Hill Trail : This challenging 4WD trail in the Needles district leads to some of the most remote and beautiful places in the park.
• Stargazing : Canyonlands National Park has been designated a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park, making it an exceptional place to stargaze and contemplate the mysteries of the universe.

With additional time at Canyonlands National Park, your adventures can extend beyond the iconic Island in the Sky district.

Consider exploring the more remote Needles district, where colorful sandstone spires tower above extensive hiking trails and large, park-like clearings.

If you’re equipped with a 4WD vehicle, a journey along the White Rim Road will present stunning, up-close views of the park’s complex geology.

Another remarkable but less-visited area is the park’s Maze district, one of the most remote areas in the United States, offering solitude and a maze-like network of canyons to explore.

If you’re keen on prehistoric culture, the Horseshoe Canyon contains some of the most significant rock art in North America, including the breathtaking Great Gallery panel. Just remember, some of these activities require permits, so plan accordingly!

There are a few RV campgrounds in Canyonlands National Park. But these will fill up quickly. So be sure to book as far in advance as possible to ensure that you have a campsite:

• Islands In The Sky (Willow Flat) Campground
• The Needles Campground

Day 10: Return trip

On the final day of your Utah road trip, you will spend a good portion of it driving back to either Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, depending on your final destination.

Both of these drives can be road trips on their own, with plenty of other stops along the way.

The drive from Moab to Salt Lake City will take approximately 4 hours. This will be mostly along backroad highways that continue to offer the kind of beauty that makes anyone want to visit utah.

Here are a few points of interest along the drive back to Salt Lake City:

• Price Canyon Recreation Area : This is a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the stunning views of the surrounding canyons and plateaus.
• Nine Mile Canyon : Known as the world’s longest art gallery, this canyon contains extensive petroglyphs and pictographs from ancient Native American cultures. It’s a slight detour off the main route, but well worth the extra time for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
• Helper, Utah : This quaint mining town has a charming Main Street with historic buildings, antique shops, and the Western Mining & Railroad Museum.
• Provo River Falls : Nestled in the Uinta National Forest, the Provo River tumbles over a series of scenic waterfalls. There are plenty of spots to picnic and trails to explore.
• Soldier Hollow : This venue was home to cross-country skiing and biathlon events during the 2002 Winter Olympics and now offers year-round outdoor activities. Take a break here to appreciate the beautiful mountain views, and if you’re passing through in winter, enjoy some snow sports.

Driving to Las Vegas from Moab will take around 7 hours and will be primarily along the interstate. You’ll spend much of the time on Interstate 70 until it meets Interstate 15.

If you head along this route and want to split the drive into two days, here are a few points of interest along the way:

• San Rafael Swell : Located near Green River, Utah, this is a large geologic feature known for its scenic sandstone formations, deep canyons, and expansive panoramas.
• Fishlake National Forest : Close to Richfield, Utah, this national forest is home to the Pando, an enormous grove of quaking aspen which is considered the heaviest known living organism.
• Cove Fort : Near Beaver, Utah, this historic site is a well-preserved pioneer-era fort. Guided tours offer insight into life in the 19th century American West.
• Cedar Breaks National Monument : Just off Interstate 15 near Cedar City, Utah, this park offers breathtaking views of a naturally formed amphitheater canyon filled with colorful hoodoos and rock formations.
• Valley of Fire State Park : Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, known for its vibrant red sandstone formations, petrified wood, and ancient petroglyphs. It’s about an hour off the route, but its otherworldly landscapes make it worth the detour.

If you want to take a more scenic route, you can head south out of Moab and follow highway 191 in Utah through Monument Valley and into northern Arizona. This will lead you to Page, Arizona where you can take a detour to visit Grand Canyon National Park, which is worth the detour in our opinion!

From Page you can also see famous landmarks and national monuments such as Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

Carry on toward Kanab and take a little detour to hiks some great slot canyons or connect back to Zion National Park for a second visit before returning to Interstate 15 for the short drive back to Las Vegas.

Plan to explore more of Arizona? Check out our list of the best things to do in Tucscon !

If you are continuing on your road trip from Moab, you can easily cross into Colorado and enjoy all that the Centennial State has to offer.

A short 2 hour drive east along Interstate 70 will take you to Grand Junction, where you can decide which direction you want to go to enjoy the beauty of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Of course, road trips in Colorado are a whole other opportunity and the state is well worth exploring over the course of several weeks.

And although not as close as Colorado, you could continue your Utah road trip north and enter remote areas of Wyoming where you’ll come across vast stretches of land that seem to stretch on forever.

This route will put you in Rock Springs, Wyoming and in a direct route toward Grand Teton National Park and the adjoining Yellowstone National Park.

Other Utah Road Trip Destinations

Visiting Utah national parks is a bucket list item of its own. However, if you feel like tacking on a few extra days (or weeks!) on your Utah road trip, then there are some other great destinations nearby that offer great alternatives to Utah’s parks.

Two regions that deserve your attention and do not require too much deviation from this core Utah national parks road trip are in southern utah and northeastern Utah.

If you aren’t in a rush and/or are making your way back to Las Vegas along the scenic Southern Utah route, consider spending a few extra days taking in all of the beauty of this region. Here are a few top places to stop along the way:

• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park : This iconic landscape, featuring stunning red sandstone buttes, is located within the Navajo Nation on the border of Utah and Arizona.
• Antelope Canyon : Near Page, Arizona, this mesmerizing slot canyon is renowned for its swirling sandstone walls and ethereal light beams.
• Lake Powell : A reservoir on the Colorado River, straddling the border between Utah and Arizona, this is a prime spot for boating, fishing, and exploring numerous sandstone canyons.
• Glen Canyon National Recreation Area : Encompassing over 1.25 million acres from Arizona to southern Utah, this area offers opportunities for water-based and backcountry activities.
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park : Located in Utah, this park features a stunning expanse of reddish-pink sand dunes that you can explore on foot or with off-road vehicles.
• Horseshoe Bend : Just outside Page, Arizona, this iconic bend in the Colorado River is famous for its dramatic views from the cliff edge.
• Grand Canyon National Park – North Rim : While most visitors head to the South Rim, the North Rim offers a quieter and equally stunning view of this iconic landscape in Arizona.
• Vermilion Cliffs National Monument : Located in Arizona, this area is known for its colorful, undulating rock formations, including the renowned Wave formation in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Remember, visiting The Wave requires a permit obtained through a lottery system.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona

If your Utah road trip continues north from Moab there are some great places that will seem even more remote than any you have seen amonth the Utah national parks itinerary.

Here are a few of those places that can extend your utah road trip a few extra days:

• Dinosaur National Monument : While technically designated a national monument, this area in northeastern Utah is famous for its wealth of dinosaur fossils. The quarry exhibits a wall with over 1,500 dinosaur bones still encased in rock.
• Goblin Valley State Park: Renowned for its thousands of whimsical and eerie sandstone formations, often referred to as goblins, which create a surreal, Goblin Valley State Park offers Mars-like landscape that’s perfect for hiking and exploration.
• Little Wild Horse Canyon: Located near Goblin Valley State Park in Utah, the area is a popular non-technical slot canyon that offers a stunning, family-friendly hike through sculpted sandstone walls where you can day hike or continue on multi-day treks.
• Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area : This beautiful area, featuring a massive dam and reservoir, offers boating, fishing, camping, and plenty of trails with panoramic vistas.
• Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest : The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway runs through this forest, offering stunning views, hiking trails, fishing spots, and campgrounds.
• Steinaker State Park : Located near Vernal, this state park has a reservoir for boating and fishing, along with camping facilities and picnicking spots.
• Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum : Also located in Vernal, this museum offers exhibits about the area’s geology and prehistory, including dinosaur fossils.
• Red Fleet State Park : This park offers a reservoir for water activities, hiking trails with dinosaur tracks, and camping facilities.
• Fantasy Canyon : This unique area features one-of-a-kind, small-scale sandstone formations that have been eroded into fantastical shapes, creating an almost otherworldly landscape. It’s off the beaten path but well worth the visit for photography or geology enthusiasts.

Wrapping up our expansive Utah road trip, it’s clear to see why this state’s stunning landscapes have captivated the hearts of travelers worldwide.

From the grandeur of the Mighty 5 national parks, each with their unique charm and attractions, to the countless additional points of interest along our journey – including state parks, monuments, and charming towns – Utah offers an abundance of natural beauty and history that makes it a premier destination for road trippers.

Whether you’re an adventurer seeking the thrill of hiking rugged terrains, a history enthusiast keen on immersing yourself in cultural and geological tales from millennia past, or simply a nature lover wanting to bask in some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth, Utah’s diverse terrain has something for everyone.

Remember, this itinerary is just a guide – take your time, explore off the beaten path, and make your own discoveries. After all, that’s the beauty of a road trip: the journey is just as important as the destination. Safe travels, and enjoy your Utah exploration!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The Best 8-Day Utah Road Trip Adventure Itinerary

One of the most iconic road-trips in America is the drive through Utah’s desert! With bright red rocks, orange sand, massive canyons and mountains we learned that Utah really has it all. This road-trip takes you through epic desert landscapes in the USA, to the best National Parks in America and on incredible desert trails. This is the most popular road-trip routes in the USA for a reason!

We drove all the way from Vancouver, BC, Canada to see explore Utah and will never forget this trip of a lifetime. Our itinerary included 4/5 of Utah’s National Parks as well as some exclusive permit-only hikes and hidden gems off the regular path! We had the most epic road-trip through Utah and I’m here to share our 8-day adventure itinerary with you!

Table of Contents

What you need to know before your Utah road-trip

Before you start your trip, plan ahead! Utah has 5 incredibly famous National Parks and most people try to see them all in one road-trip. Know that you will need to have an America The Great Parks Pass before entering the parks or purchase at park gates. Also, make sure to map out your route and download offline maps! Some of the places we visited were remote and did not have cell service. Make note of any off-roading and make sure your vehicle is prepared.

The best time of the year to visit Utah would be in early Spring. It gets very hot in Utah during the summer and most people try to avoid the months of June, July and August for extreme temperatures. We planned our visit for April and it was perfect! Try to plan for March, April or May, but know that early Spring could have cold temperatures and even snow. Utah has some incredible hikes with permit systems in place ( The Wave , Angels Landing, The Narrow) so try to plan permits and campgrounds ahead of time!

Where to start your Utah road-trip

We drove all the way from Vancouver, BC so our travel route might look a little bit different from yours. Whether you flew in and are renting a vehicle to road trip, or road-tripping from home, there are a few different ways to approach this trip. If you’re looking to fly in, I would recommend flying into either Salt Lake City, Utah or Vegas, Nevada to start your trip. If you add Vegas to your trip you can stop at The Valley of Fire on your way.

We decided to start our trip by driving to Twin Falls, Idaho and then to Salt Lake City and begin our Utah adventures in Zion National Park. Starting in Zion National Park meant we were going to be travelling in a loop from the Southwest across Southern Utah stopping in Kanab, through Arizona to Monument Valley, up to Moab and looping back through Hanksville and back to Salt Lake. You can do our route in reverse by starting in Hanksville and ending in Zion.

Some of our plans changed last minute (when we won permits to The Wave) and we visited 4/5 of Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks. We also travelled with our dog so that meant most of the hikes we wanted to do were not accessible in the National Parks with a dog. We drive a capable 4×4 vehicle, however, Utah’s off-roading is completely different and some off-roading spots weren’t possible for us! There is so much more for us to see in Utah!

Our Actual 8-day Utah road-trip Itinerary

I’m sharing the itinerary we used for an 8-day trip around Utah all the way from Vancouver, BC! It took us an entire day of driving to get to Twin Falls, Idaho and the next morning we started at Meadow Hot Springs near Meadow, Utah. On our way home we stopped in Salt Lake City and the Salt Flats before sleeping in Twin Falls and driving all the way back to Vancouver, BC. This was an 18 hour drive and we didn’t make any other notable stops along the way! Our actual trip including travel was 10-days.

You might also notice that our itinerary doesn’t visit all of the National Parks in Utah (we missed Bryce Canyon National Park and didn’t get to hike in Zion) this is because we were travelling with our dog! Dogs are not allowed in National Parks in the USA and we had to get creative with hotel stays in order to see 4/5 of Utah’s National Parks. Our itinerary includes hidden gems, stops that most people don’t visit, and a special hike that requires you to win permits. If you have a 4X4 vehicle you can reach even more epic spots in Utah, but start here for our ultimate adventure itinerary!

Day One: Hot springs & Zion National Park

We started our day at a free campsite near Meadow, Utah. This was at Meadow Hot Springs , a beautiful property with 3 natural hot spring pools. The person who owns the land permits public use and asks that you clean up after yourselves and no dogs/pets in the pools. This is a free camping spot if your vehicle can make it down the bumpy road. We enjoyed a sunrise dip in the third hot spring and had coffee and breakfast before driving to Zion National Park!

We drove into Zion National Park to spend the rest of our day. This was definitely our favourite park and its beauty is something you need to see in person once in your life. Zion National Park is home to some of the most exclusive hikes in the USA (Angels Landing, The Narrows) but since we had our dog with us we only had one option to hike. The Pa’rus Trail is found at Zion Canyon Visitors Centre and is a 5KM out and back trail. We stopped at Feel Love Cafe for iced coffees!

During our visit in April, most of the road through Zion was closed so we opted to drive the Mt Camel Scenic Drive on Scenic Byway-9. We explored this incredibly beautiful drive of Zion by our car and stopped many times for photos alongside the highway. We found free camping for the night and slept right outside of Zion National Park.

Day Two: Kanab, Utah

We woke up and drove through Zion National Park again for sunrise, this time heading all the way out to Kanab, Utah! This charming town is full of activities and we spent the entire day outside. The first stop was to hike Buckskin Gulch , one of the only slot canyon hikes that you can bring a dog with you. This slot canyon is the longest in the world, so although the trail is 15KM long you do not have to hike the entire trail to see the epic slot canyons. It’s an easy hike and one of the coolest things to be surrounded by the orange rock walls towering above you.

Our next stop in Kanab was to hike the Sand Caves . These sand caves are found right off the highway and involve a quick, uphill hike to see them. Once you’re at the top, there are about 3-5 different cave areas and plenty of space to take photos. The unique sand cave openings were really cool to see and require little effort!

Our final stop of the day was a quick drive off of Highway 89 to Paria Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness area for sunset, dinner and a free camping spot. We had a tiny bit of cell service and found out that we won permits to The Wave this night. We watched the sun go down over the Rainbow Mountains and couldn’t sleep because we were so excited.

Day Three: Monument Valley & Valley of the Gods

Day Three was a long day of driving but ended up being one of our favourite parts of the trip. We had to come back to Kanab to hike The Wave the next day, so we decided to do a 4 hour drive to Monument Valley. This was a total of 8 hours of driving and was a last minute decision that was so worth it! The beautiful drive brought us past the iconic Utah sign when we drove into Arizona, past Glen Canyon Dam, through Page, past Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell and through Navajo Valley.

Driving through Monument Valley was incredible and nothing like I’ve ever seen before. That’s why I HIGHLY recommend adding this scenic route to your Utah road trip. The large, sandstone structures are truly iconic and the landscape was truly like a different planet. We drove to the famous “Forrest Gump Road” on Highway 163 and took a photo in the exact same spot as the movie!

From there, we continued to the Valley of the Gods to have dinner until sunset. This off-road trail doesn’t require 4X4 and the free camping spots are the best I’ve seen in the USA. You don’t have to drive very far on this road for epic sandstone views, but the further you get the taller the stones get!

Day Four: The Wave, Arizona

We didn’t originally plan to hike to the famous Wave on our trip to Utah, but while we were in Kanab we applied for the daily lottery. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, read our blog on “The Wave, Arizona: Everything you need to know before hiking” . There was a 2-5% chance of winning and somehow we won on our first try! This meant that we had a once in a lifetime opportunity to hike The Wave, and we spent our entire day doing so. We camped at the trailhead so that we could be the first ones on the trail.

We hit the trail before sunrise, and we spent under an hour hiking to The Wave. Make sure to check out our full trail report for a detailed review and photos! This was truly one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done in my life and the sandblasted stone shaped like waves in the sand was truly a sight to see. The morning light made the rocks a bright red colour and we spent the entire morning exploring and taking photos by ourselves. We hiked further beyond The Wave to Melody Arch and The Alcove, which made the trip even more incredible. We hiked back to the vehicle around 2PM and spent the rest of the night driving 5 hours to Moab, Utah.

Day Five: Canyonlands National Park & Moab, Utah

Canyonlands National Park was such a crazy underrated park in Utah. I know that Utah is full of incredible national parks but I really loved the vastness of Canyonlands! We started our day with an attempt at a sunrise hike down a 4X4 road that got too crazy for us to pass with our vehicle, so we found a spot alongside the highway near Schafer Point to pullover and watch the sunrise.

At this point we decided to book a hotel and explore Moab, Utah. We stayed at Quality Suites Moab to take advantage of their cheap price, free breakfast and dog-friendly rooms. For the rest of the afternoon we explored Moab and checked out a few second-hand hiking gear shops. We had dinner at Pasta Jay’s and decided that Moab is one of our favourite cities in the USA.

For sunset, we decided to leave our dog at home and go back to Canyonlands to watch the sun go down at Green River Overlook . There is a viewing platform right beside the parking lot, but we hiked off the path to the right for this incredible view!

Day Six: Arches National Park & Capitol Reef National Park

Since we were staying at a hotel in Moab, we planned a sunrise hike to the famous Arches National Park. We’ve always wanted to see the incredible Delicate Arch , and we knew that the crowds would be smaller if we hiked in the dark and made it there for sunrise.

We started our hike early and made it just before the sun came up and got to watch the first light hit the Delicate Arch. This arch was huge and it was crazy to stand underneath it! Our next hike had to be a quick one, so we opted to see Sand Dune Arch before heading back to our hotel.

We were sad to leave Moab, but our next stop was 3.5 hours away to Capitol Reef National Park. We wanted to see the Temple of the Sun and Moon which are found in a remote part of the park where you can only access by driving down a really fun, bumpy dirt road.

4×4 isn’t required but highly recommend some clearance and AWD. We got here just in time for sunset and took some incredible shots. From here, we drove a little over an hour to our next incredible camp spot…

Day Seven: Hanksville & Capitol Reef National Park

We drove here in the dark, and woke up on the moon. Moonscape Overlook is one of the craziest free camp spots I’ve ever stayed in. The badlands of Utah have some of the most deep, vast and textured canyons I’ve seen in my life.

Getting here will require a bit of off-roading but we saw plenty of camper vans who made it. There is a famous lookout where you can stand on the scariest ridge I’ve ever stood on! Watching the sun come up over the badlands canyons was a crazy view.

We spent the rest of our day driving through Capitol Reef National Park and exploring stops along the highway. The best recommendation I have is to stop at Gifford Homestead on your drive through Capitol Reef National Park for the best pie of your life! Gifford Homestead is found in Fruita Valley, a beautiful drive, and they sell out of their famous pies every day. Make sure to get here early!

Day Eight: Salt Lake City & Bonneville Salt Flats

Our final day in Utah before driving home was spent in Salt Lake City. We decided to stop in Salt Lake City for the first time and prepare for a long drive home. This meant trying the famous Utah soda shops like Thirst and trying Raising Cane’s chicken because we don’t have fast-food options like this in Canada! I wish we could have spent more time in Salt Lake City but we will definitely stay here someday.

On our way home, we made one final stop at the Bonneville Salt Flats. This unique landform is a huge area covered in literal table salt and we were lucky enough to see them flooded. Since it was a windy day, we didn’t get to see any epic mountain reflections in the floods but the Salt Flats that weren’t flooded were still beautiful. This scenery at sunset can’t be beat, and was the perfect final stop on our Utah road trip.

Best Places to Camp/Stay on your Utah road trip

One of the best things about our Utah road trip was the free camping. We saved so much money by sleeping in our tent at free over-landing spots across Utah. You cannot camp for free in any National Parks, however, you can usually find campgrounds within the parks for a fee or find spots outside of the parks for free camping. I’m going to share some of our free spots and best campground recommendations since we only paid for one hotel on our trip!

• Our first free campground was at Meadow Hot Springs, we stayed in our tent with plenty of other vehicles.
• Zion National Park was the most difficult to find somewhere to stay, Watchman Campground was the most beautiful but busy. If you use iOverlander, look for spots just outside of Zion for free camping.
• Just outside of Kanab, you’ll find free camping at Rainbow Mountain off Highway 89.
• Our next free camping spot was in the Valley of the Gods outside of Monument Valley.
• In Moab, we stayed for 2-nights at a hotel called Quality Suites Moab.
• Outside of the Temple of the Sun you’ll find iOverlanding spots that are not in Capitol Reef NP.
• The most incredible free camp spot was Moonscape Overlook outside of Hanksville.

Final Thoughts on our Utah road-trip Itinerary

Our 8-day road trip was one of the greatest of all time and there’s still so much more for us to see in Utah! This road trip brought us to the best National Parks in America and I can’t wait to be back here someday soon for more epic hikes. This is definitely one of the most unique and crazy road trips we’ve ever done and it’s easy to see why it’s the best in the USA.

I hope we’ve inspired you to take this adventure yourself and explore Utah! Check us out on Instagram @yakeandmarie or TikTok @yakeandmarie for all of our story highlights and Reels from Utah. If you’re looking for more info on the most exclusive permit-system hikes in Utah check out our other blog on The Wave, Arizona: Everything you need to know !

Comments (3)

December 26, 2023 at 8:37 pm

Wow! What an amazing itinerary! So fun to read and great photos!

February 7, 2024 at 8:42 pm

Hi! Can you share the itinerary starting from Vancouver? Like where did you stop before you got to Zion/how many days did it take etc?

Dion Carmichael

April 18, 2024 at 2:40 pm

How much did you spend overall?

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Bucket-List Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

February 6, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   18 Comments

Are you trying to plan the best Utah road trip possible? I am here to help!

I have done road trips in Utah both as a kid and an adult and absolutely love this state! With five epic national parks and otherworldly landscapes, Utah is a nature lover’s dream come true.

My Utah itinerary is unique since it is full of tips from someone who has spent months road-tripping the state and slow traveling through Utah’s Mighty 5.

A Utah national parks road trip includes Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. I highly suggest purchasing a National Park Pass beforehand to save money on entrance fees.

Along with the national parks, this itinerary for Utah will feature other beautiful nature spots!

For this Utah road trip itinerary, I am not going to specify an amount of time so you can make the drive as time allows for your schedule.

Don’t forget to check out my detailed road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials!

Now, let’s look at my top Utah road trip ideas!

Utah Road Trip Map

Some of us are more visual and that is okay! I’ve created this Utah national parks road trip map so you can see where everything is located across the state.

As you can see, once you drive away from Salt Lake City, everything is only within 30-120 minutes of each other. This means more time to enjoy everything on your Utah road trip and fewer hours in the car!

Click Here For The Utah Road Trip Map

Stop 1: Begin Your Utah Road Trip In Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is the largest city in Utah and the most accessible to fly into to begin your Utah road trip. Both affordable international and domestic flights fly into this city.

I recommend checking out Skyscanner to find the best and most affordable flights. I use this tool to discover the best flights because you can easily compare rates.

When you fly into SLC, consider buying a one-way ticket. Depending on how you structure your Utah road trip, you may want to fly into Salt Lake City and fly out of Las Vegas.

This itinerary will end at Zion National Park so I recommend flying out of Las Vegas which is closer.

If you choose to follow this itinerary exactly, all you have to do is decide if you want to drive 2.5 hours to Las Vegas or 4.5 hours to Salt Lake City.

Compare prices on flights out of both cities so you can find a deal that is best for you!

Best Hotels In Salt Lake City:

• Affordable: Holiday Inn Express Downtown . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Mid-Range: Hilton Garden Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Moab, Arches, and Canyonlands National Parks

I have so many memories surrounding Moab from growing up traveling around that area! It is a truly fantastic little city and a family favorite. It has only gotten better over the past few decades.

Moab is around a 4-hour drive from Salt Lake City. It is a bit of a drive but that is okay! This is hands down the best place to start your Utah road trip!

I recommend spending 2 to 3 days in Moab if you have the chance. Utilize Moab as a home base to explore the nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

These are two of the best national parks in all of the United States and you will NOT be disappointed. They are family-friendly with many things to do and will transport you to an otherworldly landscape.

The Moab area is one of the best stops on your Southwest USA road trip itinerary!

Best Hotels In Moab:

• Affordable: Moab Valley Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Moab. Check Rates: Booking.com
• Family Fun: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab . Check Rates: Booking.com

Visiting Arches National Park

Arches National Park is the ultimate way to begin your Utah road trip. Arches is just outside of Moab and is ideal for your first national park of the trip.

The arches are beyond incredible and visiting will not disappoint!

I would like to caution you to please be careful and NEVER carve your name into the arches or take rocks. Please think of the future and REFRAIN from harming this beautiful nature in any way!

There is one road in and out of Arches National Park and it is 18 miles long. This means you can easily see Arches in one day on your Utah Road trip.

That being said, if you can spend more than one day here, I highly recommend it. It is very close to Moab so you can always come back if you missed something! This region is one of the best places in Utah !

Best Hikes In Arches National Park

If you can only do one thing at Arches National Park, I suggest hiking to Delicate Arch . This outstanding rock formation is the icon of the park. You will see photos and imagery of it all over the place.

This Utah hike is family-friendly and is around 3 miles round trip. If you are hiking during the heat of the day, make sure to wear sun protection and take plenty of water!

Delicate Arch is something I remember from growing up and now is your chance to make family memories too!

I also highly recommend the Windows Hike . It is shorter than the Delicate Arch hike and will get you up close and personal with many arches.

This hike is short, easy, and very rewarding. It is a 1.2-mile loop trail and the most popular in the park.

Another favorite is Double Arch which is a really short and fun trail! The trail to Double Arch is an easy 0.5-mile, well-maintained loop. It is accessible from the parking lot of the Windows Hike.

Finally, you must pay a visit to  Landscape Arch as it is the longest natural arch in the entire world! It spans a whopping 306 feet long!

You can reach Landscape Arch from the Devil’s Garden Loop Trail. It is on an easy, maintained part of the trail so don’t go past Landscape Arch unless you want to embark on a harder 7-mile hike.

Visiting Canyonlands National Park

While I love the Grand Canyon, Canyonlands National Park is just so incredibly special! The canyon formations are beyond insane and will blow your mind.

Canyonlands National Park is located 36 minutes away from Moab so it is a tad bit further than Arches but the drive is worth it!

Canyonlands is divided into four distinct sections. These include the Green and Colorado Rivers, the Maze, the Needles, and the Island in the Sky districts.

Having a basic understanding of how Canyonlands National Park is laid out will help you see the “big picture” when planning your Utah road trip.

Best Canyonlands Scenic Drives

If you aren’t the hiking type, don’t worry! Canyonlands is home to some wonderful scenic drives!

Island in the Sky  offers some amazing Utah road trip sightseeing by car. The overlooks and pull-outs along this 34-mile scenic drive are not to be missed!

It is perched 1000 feet above the canyon floor and offers breathtaking, memorable views! If you want to drive this route, plan for at least an hour.

If you want to hike some short trails and picnic, plan longer! This is the perfect thing to do if you don’t want to do a lot of hiking!

Another great scenic drive in Canyonlands is  the Needles.  It begins at the Canyonlands Visitor Center and is 6.5 miles long. It concludes at the Big Spring Canyon Overlook.

As with Island in the Sky, there are multiple pullouts and picnic spots along the way. It is also the way to access several of the more popular Canyonlands hikes.

It is important to note that Island in the Sky and the Needles are about two hours apart from each other. Keep this in mind when planning how much time to spend in Moab on your Utah national parks trip.

Best Hikes In Canyonlands National Park:

If you can only do one thing during your Utah road trip in Canyonlands, make sure you hike to Mesa Arch . It is located in the Island in the Sky district.

It is an easy 0.6-mile round-trip trail and is perfect for families. If you are a photographer looking for some fantastic sunrise or sunset photos, make sure to prioritize Mesa Arch!

The arch is located on the rim of the Plateau so you will have some incredibly stunning viewpoints.

Another one of our favorite easier hikes is the Cave Spring Hike. This hike is located in the Needles district. It is an easy 0.6-mile loop and provides some incredible views.

You will see prehistoric rock art, a cowboy camp, and more. The trail is easy, but you have to climb two short, wooden ladders.

If you are looking for some of the best canyon views, the Aztec Butte Trail is the perfect trail for you. It is an easy 2-mile loop trail and provides outstanding views of the surrounding canyons once you arrive!

The hike will end at Butte Summit which is where you can see these fantastic views. This hike is located in the Island in the Sky area of Canyonlands.

Stop 3: Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park is one of the lesser-known stops on this Utah road trip itinerary. It is located roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Moab.

The landscape will make you feel like you have entered another planet. The formations create small structures that look like goblins, hence the name!

Goblin Valley State Park is home to the incredibly unique valley itself as well as some easier hikes, a disc golf course, and plenty of pullouts for viewing.

This state park can be a day stop along your Utah itinerary or you can choose to spend the night. If you want to stay here, you will have to camp as the only hotel options are around 45 minutes away.

This stop can also be done as a day trip from Moab if you want to wake up early and drive. Using Moab as your home base is an easy possibility.

If you could choose one thing to do here, I recommend the easy Three Sisters Hike.  It brings you to the most iconic “goblin” formation in the entire park.

Most people view Three Sisters from the road, but if you pull off, there are small trails that go up to it.

You can also see down into the Carmel Canyon Drainage System 100 feet below from this hike too so it is two for the price of one hike!

The beauty of Goblin Valley State Park is that you can drive around and explore at will. It is a beautiful and unique stop to add to your Utah road trip itinerary and you won’t want to miss it.

Best Hotels Near Goblin Valley:

• Cute Cabin: Duke’s Slickrock Cabins . Check Rates: Hotels.com
• Mid-Range: Pet-Friendly Cabins in Hanksville Utah . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Capitol Reef National Park

When my family visited Capitol Reef National Park a few times in the early 2000s it was the “weird” thing to do and a strange national park to visit.

Now, Capitol Reef is all over Instagram and social media, and for a good reason! It is pretty neat to see a remote national park surge into the limelight in the past 20 years!

Although it has become more popular lately, it is still off the main tourist trail when compared to places like Arches and Zion. I suggest checking it out if you want to complete your Utah Mighty 5 road trip.

This national park is defined by the “Waterpocket Fold” which is essentially a 100-mile warp in the Earth’s crust. This is an incredible and unique feature!

There are various things to do in Capitol Reef National Park on your road trip in Utah. You can choose to hike, explore by car, pick fruit like apples, or go on a tour. There is truly an option for everyone!

Best Hotels At Capitol Reef National Park:

• Affordable: Days Inn Capitol Reef . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Affordable: Capitol Reef Resort . Check Rates: Booking.com

Best Capitol Reef Hikes

One thing I remember from childhood is the Capitol Gorge Trail . This trail is incredible and the views are breathtaking. You will have to exit the main road and then turn onto a dirt road to get here.

On this trail, you’ll walk along a dried-up river bed through a massive gorge. The rock walls tower on either side and it really makes you feel small among nature.

If you want to see yet another arch,  Hickman Bridge  is one of the more popular hikes in Capitol Reef.

It is a moderate hike with an elevation gain of 400 feet, but it is still easy for families or amateurs to complete. It is a 1.8-mile hike round trip. Once you reach Hickman Bridge, you will love the views!

If you want to walk on an arch without going hiking in Sedona , I recommend Cassidy Arch Hike. This is one of the hikes in Utah where you can walk on top of the arch itself, instead of just walking under it!

Of course, this is a very unique feature and it makes the hike worth it. It is 1.7 miles each way and there is a 700-foot elevation gain.

The gain comes from the fact that you have to climb up on top of the rocks to walk across the arch. It is totally worth it and still an easy-to-moderate hike with some incredible payoff at the end!

Stop 5: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Another awesome memory from my childhood and teen years? Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument!

It is only 1 hour away from Capitol Reef yet many people don’t even know about it or decide to skip it on their Utah road trip. I am here to tell you that is a huge mistake!

First off, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument covers an absolutely HUGE expanse of land. You could take a week just to explore this area alone.

I will narrow it down to the best things to see. For example, did you know you can see slot canyons in Utah? You don’t have to go to Arizona to see these incredible features!

Want more arches? Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is at your service there too!

I really can’t recommend this national monument enough if you are looking to get off the main tourist trail during your Utah road trip. You are going to love it!

Best Hotels In Grand Staircase Escalante:

• Affordable: The Inn At Escalante . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Unique: Escalante Yurts . Check Rates: Booking.com

Best Hikes In Grand Staircase-Escalante 

If you want to visit slot canyons in Utah , the Zebra Canyon Hike is the place to be! It is an easy 5.3 miles round trip and takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete.

There is another slot called Tunnel Slot that you can continue on to if you want but then the hike will take around 5 to 6 hours.

Zebra Canyon is epic enough as it is! This hike is in the northern part of the national monument so it is easy to reach on your Utah road trip.

There are two more slot canyons you can visit! Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulches are just 3.5 miles round trip, perfect if you are looking for a shorter hike.

These slot canyons are near Zebra Canyon so you can easily do them both in a day. This is one of the more surreal hikes in Grand Staircase!

If you are a serious hiker and plan to trek or camp during your Utah road trip, this next hike is for you.

Coyote Gulch Hike is around 12 miles round trip and generally takes between 8 to 12 hours depending on how fast you walk and how many times you stop. You will see some stunning and remote scenery.

It is entirely possible to hike this trail in a single day, as long as you start early and pay attention to the weather.

Stop 6: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is still one of the most incredible landscapes I have EVER visited in my entire life. You are going to agree! Do NOT skip Bryce Canyon. It will not let you down!

Hoodoos are rock formations formed by erosion. In Bryce Canyon, they are formed by winter frost eating away at the rock.

The rocks are weathered and eroded to create the incredible formations known as hoodoos. They are tall and thin and unique to arid areas such as the desert. They are fantastic to behold!

One of the best parts about seeing Bryce on your Utah road trip is that many areas are accessible by car. You can drive throughout the whole park and see stunning views!

If you have accessibility challenges, this is a wonderful Utah national park to visit as you can still experience a lot of what it offers because you don’t have to hike to see many things!

Bryce Canyon is one of the most popular stops on this itinerary for Utah’s national parks. You can park your car and take the shuttle if you want.

If you go during the off-season, you can find parking more easily. If you are completing this Utah road trip during the summer or high season, I recommend taking advantage of the shuttle.

Best Hotels Near Bryce Canyon:

• Affordable: Bryce Canyon Pines . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Luxury: Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Best Hikes In Bryce Canyon 

Possibly the most famous hike in Bryce Canyon is the Navajo Loop/Queens Garden Trail . This takes you down into the canyon so you can walk among the hoodoos.

There is one switchback area of this trail called ‘Wall Street.” I highly recommend walking DOWN this section. You get a better view and the experience is just better overall.

Most people don’t know this and do the opposite. This is the premier hike in Bryce, so do it while you are here! It is a 2.5-mile heavily trafficked loop trail and it is popular for a good reason!

If the park is busy and you want to do something fun, I love the Mossy Cave Waterfall hike. You must leave the park a tiny bit, but you get to see a waterfall and a sleeping bear cave.

This is a slightly different landscape than you are used to seeing in Utah so it is something fun and different to do. It is an easy, 1-mile trail.

I also recommend Bryce’s Rim Trail. It is 0.5 miles to 5.5 miles one way and is located above Bryce Canyon. It connects all the scenic overlooks from Fairyland to Bryce Point.

If you do NOT want to hike, many of these viewpoints are accessible by car too!

If you want an accessible trail, there is a 0.5-mile section of trail between Sunrise Point and Sunset Point that is wheelchair accessible.

I love the Rim Trail because you can choose to do as much or as little hiking as you want without missing out on epic views!

Stop 7: Zion National Park

Zion National Park is easily the most famous and popular stop on this Utah Mighty 5 itinerary and for a good reason!

Often, you cannot drive in Zion unless you are staying in the campground. There is a shuttle that will take you in and out of the park. This is very important to know.

Many people do not know about the shuttle until they arrive and are in for a surprise. If you know about the shuttle, you can be prepared for your experience.

March through November, access to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is by free shuttle bus only. Private vehicles are allowed to access the Scenic Drive only when the shuttle system is not in operation.

If you are visiting in say, January, you will be allowed and able to drive your vehicle. This is one reason why I love doing a trip to Utah national parks in winter! Zion National Park in winter is a great time to visit.

The thing I love about Zion National Park is that it blends the red rocks with greenery! This is a sight for sore eyes after days of being in the desert.

There are very many cool things to see and do here during your trip to Utah.

While you end your road trip with Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, they are some of the highlights of the vacation.

Best Hotels Near Zion National Park:

• Affordable: Zion Park Motel . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Mid-Range: Zion Mountain Ranch . Check Rates: Booking.com

Best Hikes In Zion National Park

One of the most memorable hikes from my childhood is the Narrows Hike . It is very long and involved, but you can choose to just do the beginning portion of it which is what I did as a kid.

It is about 16 miles round trip and you must walk through the river and even swim at some points!

If you aren’t doing the whole 16-mile hike, you can go to the beginning and have fun walking through the water in the canyon for as long as you want. This is what I did and it was such a wonderful experience!

If you want to do the most popular hike in Zion, that is the Angels Landing Hike . People do this with kids quite often, but it is strenuous and around 5 miles long.

This takes you to the peak of Zion National Park and the views are beyond incredible! If you do one hike during your Utah road trip, choose this one! I recommend budgeting around 3 to 5 hours.

The Canyon Overlook Trail is another great option. This is only a 1-mile trail and provides stunning views. It is easy and you can access it to see some of the best views in the park.

Since it is so short and easy, it makes a great beginner hike for all ages when visiting Southern Utah’s national parks. This is the perfect introductory hike to do when you arrive in Zion!

Stop 8: Valley Of Fire And Fly Out Of Las Vegas

Once you finish in Zion, I suggest flying out of Las Vegas, Nevada, since it is just over a two-hour drive from the park.

As I mentioned in the beginning, though, you can also fly out of Salt Lake City which is 4.5 hours away from Zion. Choose whichever fits your needs or budget best.

If you choose to go to Las Vegas, I highly recommend stopping by Valley of Fire State Park on the way. I absolutely love this park’s landscapes and photography opportunities.

The deep red rocks and gorgeous scenery make the park one of the best things to do in Nevada!

How Long To Spend On This Utah National Parks Road Trip

You should take as much time as you can for this Utah trip itinerary since there is so much to see and do. I understand, though, that not everyone has the chance to take over a week off for a vacation.

When planning a trip to Utah, I suggest a minimum of 7 to 10 days to see everything on this itinerary without rushing. With more time, you can also easily fly roundtrip from Salt Lake City.

If you have less time, you can cut out anywhere you have been before or that does not strike your fancy. I recommend focusing on the five national parks and saving the other spots for next time.

Best Time To Visit Utah National Parks

You can do a national parks road trip in Utah at any time of the year, but each season does have its pros and cons.

Personally, I love to road trip Utah in winter! This is when I did my last Utah parks road trip and it was great! It can be cold, but the white snow adds a beautiful contrast to the red rocks.

I think national parks are best during the off-season. Winter means fewer crowds and cheaper accommodations and car rentals. Camping is easier with less competition at campgrounds.

Plus, in winter you do not have to deal with the shuttle in Zion and can drive through the park on your own.

Summer in Utah is hot and the national parks are crowded with families and other tourists. Spring and fall are shoulder seasons with the best weather for hiking in Utah national parks.

No matter when you road trip through Utah, you will love the amazing landscapes and the chance to make memories with family and friends.

I hope you have a fantastic time visiting national parks in Utah!

I am happy to answer any questions you may have about planning your Utah Big 5 itinerary in the comments below!

Please let me know how you got on and if you went to any of the places I suggested in this itinerary for Utah national parks!

Next, check out more of the best Southwest road trip itineraries .

Reader Interactions

October 1, 2019 at 11:56 pm

Many thx for all ur tips

it was perfect

best regards,

October 8, 2019 at 7:19 pm

I live in SLC and have only visited Zion NP and Goblin Valley. I am going to steal your list! Except I’ll just take I-15 home at the end instead of heading to Vegas.

October 9, 2019 at 2:46 pm

Yessss have fun!!!!!! Def head back home!

April 23, 2021 at 1:07 pm

This is an amazing itinerary. Based on the road conditions do I need a special vehicle (4WD) in order to do this route? Are the roads paved or gravel? Can this be done with a standard sedan?

June 3, 2020 at 2:58 pm

We have never been to Utah. Family of 4. I’m planning our whole trip based off of this. Thank you!

November 10, 2020 at 8:38 am

My wife and I just completed a 2 week trip through Big 5 Utah National Park and it was spectacular! We followed your itinerary and continued on to The Grand Canyon after a 2 night so over in Las Vegas. We turned 2020 into a trip of a lifetime!

November 10, 2020 at 1:51 pm

Thank you for sharing!!!! I am so glad you had an amazing time despite 2020!!!

February 2, 2021 at 11:06 pm

This looks amazing, and so helpful. Do you know how this would be traveling with a dog? I have heard that taking dogs hiking in National Parks can be very restrictive. Thanks in advance!

February 7, 2021 at 4:27 pm

Depends on the park! I just got back from Utah! Arches allows and Zion doesn’t allow! So weird! You just have to look!

March 9, 2021 at 5:49 pm

Soooo I have an adventurous husband that would like to do some ATVing. We are following your itinerary. Any spot along the way you could suggest to rent some equipment and have some fun?

March 29, 2021 at 10:49 pm

I love this itinerary. Would you be so kind to let me know how many nights and in which location(s) you recommend booking if I were to follow all of your stops? Would it just be Moab and Zion area for the hotels / accommodations or would you suggest another location as well in between, etc. Thanks again.

March 29, 2021 at 11:03 pm

Oh goodness! how many nights is up to you and how much time you have off!! If you want to do capitol reef, I would stay in that area too for sure! It is a long drive! I would do 3-4 in Moab and 2-3 in Zion at minimum, depending on the length of time you have!

April 30, 2021 at 10:24 am

HI- My husband and I had been talking about such a trip- he had some 1200 mile trip planned but I want to do more than just drive. This came up on my pinterest feed and I am SOOOOOO excited (we really enjoy hiking). I think we are looking at 2 weeks. We are thinking September – would that be a good time?

April 30, 2021 at 2:17 pm

Yes!!! September will be a great time to go!!! Enjoy!!!!

March 3, 2021 at 1:15 pm

is all this doable in 7 days?

March 3, 2021 at 1:56 pm

Yes it is doable, but we recommend a bit longer! With 7 days we recommend arches and canyonlands, bryce and zion! That way you can do what you want without rushing too much!!

March 14, 2021 at 11:53 pm

This is great! We are heading out on Thursday and using your itinerary for our first 10 day family trip to Utah with our teenagers. Sooo excited!

March 15, 2021 at 2:06 pm

It is so fun!!!

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Ultimate Utah Road Trip Itinerary – by a Local

Planning the perfect Utah road trip itinerary can be overwhelming. Utah is a perfect place for a road trip because there is so much to see, so it’s not surprising that it often ends up on travelers’ USA bucket list.

While I recommend doing this road trip for at least two weeks, especially if you enjoy hiking, you can skip some spots or shorten your itinerary to 7 days in Utah, 10 days in Utah, and extended as well.

I’ve lived in Utah for over 2 years so I know some secret places many visitors don’t and visited the popular ones on various occasions . If you have any more questions, feel free to comment on this post and I’ll answer as soon as possible. 

Utah Road Trip Highlights

• See the Big 5 National Parks
• Hike Zion National Park

Grand Escalante

Swim in hot springs.

• Visit the world’s largest living organism

Glamp in Moab

Get impressed by capitol reef, paddle on lake powell, walk among goblins in goblin valley.

Ultimate Utah Itinerary for 2 Weeks

Proposed itinerary (starting in st. george and finishing in salt lake city).

• this is a very intense itinerary if you want to squeeze everything in
• ideally, this itinerary should be extended to 3 weeks
• this itinerary can totally be done with kids
• if not camping, keep in mind that most hotels/motels on the road aren’t very luxurious
• total driving time – about 15.5h (excl. time from Las Vegas to St. George – about 1.5h)

🚙 For the best road trip you will need a rental car.  Discover Cars  has plenty of options including 4WD options for off-roading in Utah. 

Day 1 : Fly into Las Vegas Airport, rent a car or van and start your road trip by driving to St. George

Day 2 : St George

Day 3-5 : Zion National Park

Day 6 : Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 7 : Capitol Reef National Park

Day 8 : Arches National Park

Day 9-10 : Moab

Day 11 : Goblin Valley

Day 12 : Hot Springs & Pando Forest

Day 13 : Park City

Day 14 : Bonneville Salt Flats half-day trip from SLC, if you have time

Zion National Park

Famous for the Canyon Overlook Trail , Zion National Park is also home to the Riverside Walk near The Narrows, The Subway, The Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel, Kolob Canyons, the Emerald Pools, Lava Point Road, Mount Zion, and a lot more.

Angels Landing is one of the most popular hikes here.

There’s actually so much to do in Zion National Park that you can easily spend up to a week here.

Inhabited for over 8000 years , Zion National Park was home to the Anasazi and Fremont tribes till circa 1300 . As other tribes came and went, the Mormons settled here in the 1860s.

In 1909, in an attempt to protect the region, the area was named Mukuntuweap National Monument by President William Howard Taft . But it was later changed to the Zion National Monument in reference to the Mormom culture.

Zion National Park has 590 km 2 of mountains, canyons, deserts, and rivers, and is home to over 32 species of reptiles, 75 species of mammals, and 289 species of birds.

Hiking in Zion National Park will take you through a range of landscapes. If you want to trudge through the Virgin River that created the canyon you’re walking through, hike The Narrows . The trail is perfect for wading through from May to September, although some areas require a swim.

If you’re traveling with kids, Zion has a few easy trails to hike – The Watchman Trail, Water Canyon Trail, or The Emerald Pool Trails (Upper, Lower, and Middle). If your kids are above 4-feet tall, do a short bottom-up hike from the Temple of Sinawa into the Narrows.

The more adventurous can go further and explore Ordville Gulch and Kolobs Creek, or even spend a night under the stars . Or they could try the short but difficult East Temple Saddle or the Angel Landing trail !

The Sand Bench Loop Trail is another moderate trail that only requires you to be wary of horse droppings and gives you a great view of the Patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. You could do this trail on horseback too!

If you misjudged your time, and only have 45 minutes to an hour to see Zion, drive to Springdale and do the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail. This 0.9-mile (1.4 km) trail gets a bit crowded but offers spectacular views of the Canyon .

Other Important Zion National Park Info

• Entry fees to Zion are $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle
• Cyclists, hikers, and pedestrians pay $20
• Annual passes cost $70
• Parking is VERY limited so you need to get around with shuttle busses
• Zion National Park is 308 miles or 496 km from Salt Lake City
• Zion National Park is 160 miles or 258 km from Las Vegas, Nevada
• A permit is required to camp overnight in the Narrows (booking in advance is a must)
• There are 12 designated campsites in The Narrows
• The Subway is an intense hike that canyoneers will love
• Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is open all year round
• Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is best accessed from Springdale, Utah

Where to Stay in or near Zion National Park

Zion Glamping Adventures

Red Canyons Cabins, Kanab

Hampton Inn Kanab

Arches National Park

Home to more than 2000 arches including the Delicate Arch , the Arches National Park is famous for the 7-mile (11-km) Devils Garden Trail.

With the Green River Overlook Point, Landscape Arch, Balanced Rock, Fiery Furnace, Corona Arch, Courthouse Towers, Partition Arch, Elephant Butte, Parade of Elephants, and more; you can easily more than 2 to 3 days exploring the park at a slow pace.

Canyonlands National Park

Island in the Sky and the Mesa Arch are the highlights of Canyonlands National Park . Canyonlands is also famous for the Upheaval Dome, The Needles, Green River Overlook Road, Druid Arch, Labyrinth Canyon, Dead Horse Point, and Tower Ruin.

It’s also home to the Zeus and Moses rock towers that were made of sand almost 200 million years ago.

Capitol Reef National Park

Holding the remains of the Mormon town of Fruita that was once called Junction , Capitol Reef National Park is open all year. There’s more info about the town of Fruita below but if you wanted it in a nugget, Capitol Reef is perfect for fruit picking and short summer or autumn hikes with the family.

Other must-visits in Capitol Reef include the Water Pocket Feld, Cohab Canyon, Cassidy Arch, Hickman Natural Bridge, Thousand Lake Mountain, Chimney Rock, and the Grand Wash Trailhead.

Popular for the Navajo Dome that stands 1978-meters tall , Capitol Reef National Park in Wayne County, Utah covers an area of 978.95 km 2 . The dome is made of Navajo Sandstone that was formed 180 million years ago.

The park is famous for what’s called the Waterpocket Fold that extends from Lake Powell to the Thousand Lake Mountain . This 160-km long formation of rocks looks like a spine made of rock. Eerie or not?

You can also visit the old Mormon settlement of Fruita that was called Junction before 1902. You can still see the old schoolhouse built in 1896, a few old houses and the orchards.

Capitol Reef is quite popular for hiking – opt for any of these trails. Hickman Bridge Trail, Capitol Gorge Trail, Cassidy Arch Hike, Cohab Canyon Trail, Castle Trail, Fremont River Trail, and Frying Pan Trail.

And if you only wish to drive through, State Route 24 runs through the park . Take the Scenic Drive and you’ll see the some of the highlights of the park.

Capitol Reef National Park info

• Free entry with the America the Beautiful Pass
• Scenic Drive costs $20 for a 7-day pass
• Individuals and cyclists pay $10 each, bikes pay $15
• You have to apply for a free day permit for canyoneering, bouldering, and rock climbing
• Fruita Campground charges $20 per night

Where to stay in or near Capitol Reef

Capitol Reef Resort

Cougar Ridge Lodge

Red Sands Hotel

Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking like spires sticking out of the desert landscape, the hoodoos at Bryce Canyon steal the show.

Some points not to miss in Bryce Canyon are Inspiration Point, Wall Street, Bryce Amphitheater, Bryce Point, Black Birch Canyon, Agua Canyon Overlook, Fairy Castle and the Paria View.

Bryce Canyon is also popular for the Fairyland Loop Trail, Navajo Loop Trail, Mossy Cave Trail , and a whole lot more.

But before you head off on your adventures, here’s a great tidbit! Entrance with a car to the National Parks cost $30 each . Buy an America The Beautiful Annual Pass instead. This pass costs $80 a year and gives you free entrance not only to the Mighty 5, but also to dozens of parks and forests across America.

Declared a National Monument in 1996, the Grand Staircase Escalante is almost a museum itself. Named after the town of Escalante and the different layers of cliffs , the Grand Staircase is a natural wonder.

You could easily spend days hiking the Grand Staircase, right from the Kainab Plateau in Grand Canyon National Park , to the Chocolate Cliffs in Glen Canyon , to the Vermillion Cliffs, White Cliffs, and Grey Cliffs in Zion National Park , and finally the Pink Cliffs in Bryce Canyon National Park .

One of the large places in the US to be mapped, the Grand Staircase Esclante has yielded many dinosaur fossils, ancient rock art, and old Anasazi and Fremont campsites dating 950 to 1100 AD .

The rugged landscape is also a treasure trove of natural bridges and arches, slot canyons, and monoliths. Some of the best hikes in Escalante include the Devils Garden, Calf Creek Falls, Coyote Gulch, Spooky Gulch, Golden Cathedral Trail, Peek-a-boo Gulch, and the easy Escalante River Hike.

The 3.2 miles (5.14 km) roundtrip to Spooky Gulch is the perfect medium-sized hike to undertake if you want those Instagrammable pictures that you see fellow travelers posting.

Why is it named Spooky Gulch?

Well, because of how narrow the walls get at times and how dark it is in some parts of the slots.

The 14 miles (22.5 km) roundtrip on Death Hollow Hike takes you through the Old Boulder Mail Trail Cross Country Route . You’ll also come across waterslides, petroglyphs, and dramatic untamed wilderness.

More Grand Staircase–Escalante Info

• It’s the most remote area of the US
• There are three main regions: the Grand Staircase, the Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Canyons of the Escalante (Escalante River)
• With trails connecting different paths, you could easily group together a few of the hikes into one longer hike
• The hike to Calf Creek Falls is verdant and beautiful
• Escalante is also perfect for camping or horse back riding

Where to stay near the Grand Escalante & Bryce Canyon

Bryce Valley Lodging

Slot Canyons Inn Bed & Breakfast

Escalante Cabins

A contrast to the arid desert landscapes, the hot springs in Utah are perfect for cooling down after a long hike .

Diamond Fork and Mystic Hot Springs are the most popular hot springs. Others include Saratoga Springs, Baker Hot Springs, Filimore Crater, Crystal Hot Springs, and Meadow Hot Springs.

Getting to Diamond Fork requires an uphill walk of about 4 km (2.5 miles) , but the gorgeous pools that welcome you are absolutely worth it. And entry is free!

Mystic Hot Springs , also known as Monroe Hot Springs or Cooper Hot Spring are bit more rustic , with open-air bathtubs up for grabs at $25 per hour. Both the 2-feet shallow pool here and the 4-feet deep pool offer sulfur-free mineral-rich waters. Visit here if you like the sort of hippie vibe!

Where to stay near Mystic Springs, Monroe

Best Western Richfield Inn

Hampton Inn Richfield

Visit the World’s Largest Living Organism

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest living organism on earth is the Armillaria ostoyaem or honey mushroom in Malheur National Forest, Oregon. Aged between 2400 to 8650 years old, these mushrooms or actually “mushroom” occupy an area covering 1350 soccer fields or 2385 acres.

But is a mushroom a living organism or a fungi?

So according to the University of Colorado at Boulder, the pando or quaking aspen is the largest living organism . Covering an area of 108 acres, this clonal colony of Pando is known as the ‘trembling giant’ .

The colony of identical trees in the Fishlake National Forest just north of the Bryce Canyon National Park weighs 6,000,000 kilograms and includes 40,000 stems (or trees) from the same root system.

Although the roots are about 14,000 years old and the oldest trees are circa 130 years old, the National Park Service believes the quaking aspen might be 80,000 years old .

The hundreds of aspen are perfect for a scenic drive through!

Moab is situated partway between Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park . So it’s the perfect spot to set up base if you want to spend a few days at a single base while driving to and from the different parks in Utah.

Moab is also home to unique landscapes that include dinosaur tracks, and the Museum of Moab that’s home to dinosaur bones among other historical artifacts .

Stay in Moab if you want to go white water rafting on the Colorado River or canoeing on Green River. The forests and parks near Moab are perfect for 4×4 driving, ATV driving, canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, base jumping, and of course backpacking and hiking.

The Mesa Arch in Canyonlands is the perfect spot for Instagrammable sunrise pics .

Come winter and the La Sal mountains that you can see through the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park are perfect for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking .

You might also want to visit Dead Horse Point while in Moab. The Dead Horse State Park covering 21 km 2 was once a corral where wild mustangs roamed free . You can’t see the mustangs anymore, but you can get gorgeous views overlooking the Colorado River.

There are a few luxurious glamping locations in Moab that you’ll want to try. My favorite is the Under Canvas Moab. https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/moab-under-canvass.html? These beautiful tents set on 40 acres of land offer otherworldly views of Arches National Park .

The Fun Stays camps are a bit more affordable, but also quite good.

Where to stay near Moab if you don’t like glamping

Hoodoo Moab by Hilton

MainStay Suites Moab near Arches National Park

Red Cliffs Lodge

Expedition Lodge

Not a real lake, Lake Powell is a manmade reservoir covering 658 km² that looks like a river. The ‘lake’ was conceived in the 1950s and filled by 1963 by turning Glen Canyon into a dam.

This also led to the creation of the Glen Canyon National Park surrounding Lake Powell, which is the perfect spot for summer activities . You can go hiking around the park, to visit the Rainbow Bridge, Castle Rock, Antelope Canyon, Cha Canyon, Gregory Butte, or one of the many amazing rock formations.

Lake Powell is popular for water skiing, fishing, kayaking, or boating, or my favorite paddle boarding. Both kayaking and paddle boarding allow you to visit side canyons that boats sometimes find it difficult to enter.

If you want to spend the night in the area, there are some amazing houseboat rentals or luxury campgrounds surrounding Lake Powell.

Lake Powell Info

• Entrance fee to Glen Canyon National Park – $30 per car for 7 days
• Open all year, but the warmer months of April to October are the best time for water sports!
• For boating go to either Rock Creek Bay, Warm Creek Bay, Padre Bay, or Halls Creek Bay
• Lone Rock Canyon (Utah) and Antelope Canyon (Arizona) are the best paddle spots
• Paddleboard rentals average $65 a day

Where to stay near Lake Powell

Under Canvas lake Powell Grand Staircase

Lake Powell Resort

Pet-Friendly Adobe near Lake Powell

Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel

If you’re driving over to Page, Arizona, which is also a great base, stay at Courtyard Page by Marriott .

Featured as an alien planet in the 1999 science-fiction movie Galaxy Quest , Goblin Valley could be one of the last stops on your trip before heading back up to Salt Lake City to catch your flight out.

Goblin Valley was named after the many sand dunes called hoodoos that look like goblins . The goblins are created by the erosion of the soft rock bottom of sand dunes while the harder rock at the top stays intact.

A popular place to hike, Goblin Valley is also good for picnicking or camping at night. Out of the 14 hiking trails, the most popular hikes are to the Goblin’s Lair, The Three Sisters rock formations, Carmel Canyon Trail, and Mollys Castle Spur Trail.

If you have extra time, you can combine a visit to Goblin Valley State Park with a visit the San Rafael Swell that’s an hour’s drive North.

I recommend staying inside the State Park on the camping grounds (pictured below) but booking in advance is a must.

Goblin Valley Park Info

• Entrance Fees – $15 per vehicle
• Open All Year. No Closures.
• 10-minutes drive from Highway I-70
• Campground Access – $30
• Climbing on the goblins is not recommended!

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Jennifer M. Bell

Monday 30th of January 2023

Salt Lake City - visit Temple Square, Red Butte Garden, and the Natural History Museum of Utah.

Clark Andrews

Wednesday 9th of June 2021

Loved reading this blog! It has such details of all the places, really intriguing. Thank you for sharing this.

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Wild Junket

Utah Road Trip: A 2-Week Utah National Parks Itinerary

Last Updated on March 7, 2024

Dreaming of the perfect Utah road trip? Check out this epic 2-week Utah itinerary from national parks expert, James Ian from Parks Collecting . 

Welcome to the most rugged state in USA! From red-rock mesas to skinny slot canyons, powder-bound slopes and slick rock trails, Utah’s diverse terrain will stun you. Utah is best known for the “Big Five”:  five spectacular national parks including  Arches, Canyonland and the famous Zion National Park .  Throw in the legendary  Monument Valley , the iconic Antelope Canyon and the adventure capital of America, Moab — a road trip to Utah promises plenty of adventure and outdoor adrenaline.

As a national parks expert, I’ve compiled a perfect Utah road trip itinerary that packs in all of my favorite national parks. Join me as I show you the best hangouts in Salt Lake City, awesome hiking trails in Moab, awesome viewpoints in monument Valley, and scenic drives in Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef .

Table of Contents

•  How to Get to Utah

How to Get Around Utah

Best time to go on an utah road trip, wander around temple square, visit the capitol hill, where to stay in salt lake city, visit dead horse state park, try an adventure activity.

• Where to Stay in Moab

Stop at Park Avenue

Hike the windows section, do the fiery furnace hike, explore the devil’s garden, catch sunset at the delicate arch, visit the island in the sky, hike the needles, drive the valley of the gods road, monument valley instagram moment, see a panoramic view of the monument valley, hike the monument valley wildcat trail, where to stay in monument valley, do the monument valley scenic drive, visit the navajo national monument, where to stay in page, see the horseshoe bend at sunset, hike the narrows, where to stay in springdale, hike angel’s landing, observation point , do the bryce canyon scenic drive, hike the rim trail, walk the queen’s garden loop trail, where to stay at bryce canyon national park, fruita scenic drive, where to stay in capitol reef national park, visit the temples of the sun and moon, utah itinerary day 14: salt lake city, enjoy your utah road trip, utah road trip guide.

  How to Get to Utah

This Utah road trip itinerary starts and ends in Salt Lake City, the biggest city in Utah. Most major airlines fly to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC), including American Airlines and United. You can find cheap flights from New York to Salt Lake City for just $110 each way, and from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City for only $59 each way.

For those flying to Utah from Europe, you can get pretty good deals from London to Salt Lake City for around $650 return with a stopover in San Francisco.

Search for Flights to Salt Lake City

Utah is a road tripper’s dream. In order to drive on some of the dirt roads on this itinerary, it’s best to get a high clearance vehicle, preferably a 4WD.

A 2-week car rental in Utah costs around US$420 which equates to $30/day (with pick-up and drop-off at the Salt Lake City Airport). I always book my car rental on Discover Cars as they’ve consistently given me the best rates and customer service.

Nevada and Arizona are so close to Utah that you can easily extend your road trip as long as you have a car. Check out our recommended Nevada road trip itinerary .

The best time to travel Utah is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) . Late spring offers moderate temperatures in Utah with gorgeous weather for traveling in the rest of the state. It’s also a great time as you avoid the summer crowds.

Utah has pretty warm temperatures in summer. The average summer temperature in Salt Lake City is around 68 to 89°F (20 to 32°C). Winters can be snowy and cold. The average winter temperature is around 26 to 39°F (-3 to 4°C).

Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Utah itinerary days 1-2: explore salt lake city.

This Utah road trip will start in Salt Lake City. Take the first two days to relax and explore the city at a leisurely pace before heading out into the backcountry. Many people often underestimate the amount of things to do in Salt Lake City. It’s got plenty of history, great restaurants, entertainment & the arts, and scenic drives.

One of the most iconic landmark in Salt Lake City is to visit beautiful Temple Square, home to one of the oldest temples in church history. There are free tours of temple square  daily, or, if you aren’t interested in an organized tour it’s an absolutely beautiful place to walk around and enjoy the grounds year round.

Take a tour of the Utah State Capitol Building, the beautiful house of government for the state of Utah. Built between 1912 and 1916, this Corinthian style building sits atop one of my favorite neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Capitol Hill. You can walk the capitol grounds or better yet schedule a free tour, Monday thru Friday.

Nearby is the Pioneer Memorial Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of artifacts on one subject. Admission is free of charge and the museum is opened Monday through Saturday.

Budget: Comfort Inn Downtown Salt Lake City

This Comfort Inn has a great downtown location, comfortable rooms and indoor hot tub. Affordable prices and updated amenities. Check rates here.

Mid Range: The Little America Hotel Salt Lake City

A short five-minute drive to Temple Square, this mid range hotel has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, and onsite shops, spa and restaurant. Check rates here.

Luxury: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City

A great accommodation choice in Salt Lake City is this chic, five-star hotel (pictured) just a ten-minute walk from Temple Square. Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 3: Drive to Moab

This is the longest driving day you will have. The drive to Moab covers around 285-mile (450km) and takes around 5 hours.

If you leave Salt Lake City early in the morning, you should get to Moab around lunch time.  Check into your hotel — I recommend staying here for the next couple of days and do day trips to the nearby national parks. The town of Moab is a small desert city, but it’s a gateway to spectacular red rock formations.

If your main focus is to see the incredible nature in Utah, head to Dead Horse State Park . The view from Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the overlook provides a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ sculpted pinnacles and buttes.

The park is a 45-minute drive from Moab. It costs $20 per vehicle to enter. From the park’s Visitor Center, you can drive or hike to Dead Horse Point Overlook.

Moab is the self-titled adventure capital of the world. Some of the most famous and thrilling mountain bike trails in the country are around Moab, including the truly epic Slick Rock Trail .  If you prefer four wheels to two, there are also plenty of mind-blowing trails for off-roading. Book this 4×4 adventure at Hell’s Revenge !

If you seek a more vertical thrill, try your hand at rock climbing or rappelling/ canyoneering.  Expert climbers and canyoners travel from all over America to conquer the hills and canyons around Moab – but there are also rock climbing experiences for beginners too!

Where to Stay in   Moab

Budget: The Hotel Moab Downtown 

With a great location in the heart of Moab, this budget hotel offers good value for money with spacious rooms, an outdoor seasonal pool and cable TV. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Moab Springs Ranch 

For a few more $ per night, stay at this ranch with charming rustic cabins, a lovely garden with barbecue facilities and its own restaurant. Check rates here.

Luxury: Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton 

With an outdoor swimming pool, bar, restaurant and king-sized beds, this luxury hotel (pictured) not only has the best amenities in town, but it’s also got a location that’s hard to beat. Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip to Arches National Park

Next day, do a day trip to the first of Utah’s Big Five national parks. Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural arches and hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its sunsets.

The entrance to Arches National Park is just 5 miles (8km) from downtown Moab.  There is only one road in and out of the park, so get an early start and beat the crowds.

The first stop along Arches Scenic Drive is a small canyon called Park Avenue . From the first parking lot, there is a scenic overlook. If you are up for a short hike, you can hike down into the canyon and walk along a trail with the towering walls on both sides.  You will soon realize why the area was named after the skyscrapers of New York’s Park Avenue.

In the Windows Section of the national park, there are two easy hikes with huge payoffs.  In one direction, a short 1.2-mile loop trail takes you to North and South Windows, and the nearby Turret Arch.  Climb up to the bottom of North Window for views through the arch.

In the other direction, a 0.5-mile roundtrip trail takes you to the spectacular Double Arch.  Not one, but two, huge arches interlock in an amazing natural display.  Be sure to look up and through the arches.

The Fiery Furnace area of Arches National Park can only be visited with a special backcountry permit or on an organized ranger-led tour, which is not scheduled for 2021. You will need to squeeze through narrow cracks, leap over deep crevices and shimmy your way over large rocks.  Along the way, you will see Skull Arch and narrow passageways and fins that few visitors to the park get to see.

This section of the park is at the far end of the road.  If you visit all of the other areas in the park, you will probably only have time for the first section of this trail, the easy paved path to Landscape Arch . This is the largest single span arch in North America!

The full Devil’s Garden Trail takes about six hours.  If you are up for a longer and truly amazing hike, head straight here and skip some of the other parts of the park. You will see eight arches, including the breathtaking Double O Arch.

The most famous arch in the national park adorns the state’s license plate.  The beautiful 52-foot-tall free-standing arch is reached at the end of a three-mile round trip hike.  Time your trip for sunset, when the arch glows golden in the last rays of sunshine. Bring a headlamp or flashlight for each hiker to return in the dark. (Cellphone light is not enough.)

Utah Itinerary Day 5: Day Trip to Canyonlands National Park

Day 5 brings you on another day trip to second national park on your Utah road trip.  Canyonlands National Park has three distinct sections, which are not interconnected.  Two of them are close to Moab, so you can choose which section you’d like to visit.

The Island in the Sky region of Canyonlands National Park is the easiest to visit.  It’s just a 40-minute drive north of Moab. The main feature is the Island in the Sky mesa.  You can see the main highlights along the paved drive around the top of the mesa.  There are plenty of places to pull over and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding canyons.

This part of Canyonlands National Park is named after the thin natural rock spires that look like needles.  There are several canyons in this section that you can either hike or drive through.

A ten-mile hike takes you to Confluence Overlook , where there are views of the Colorado River and Green River as they join together.  As an alternative, an eleven-mile hike takes you to the Chesler Park Viewpoint , with amazing views of the needles.

If you have a 4WD drive vehicle, this is a great place for off-road adventures.  Elephant Hill and Horse Canyon are more advanced trails that require some off-roading experience. For an easier road, try the Colorado Overlook Road.  You can hike the last 1.5 miles to the overlook.

Utah Itinerary Day 6: Drive to Monument Valley

Check out of your hotel in Moab and prepare for the highlight of this Utah road trip. The 162-mile drive to Monument Valley takes about 3 hours, but you will break your trip with a scenic drive through the Valley of the Gods.

This 17-mile scenic drive near Mexican Hat is much less visited than Monument Valley, but totally worth it.  The dirt road loops through a wide valley with sandstone spires, buttes and mesas.  Allow at least a couple of hours to drive the Valley of the Gods road , as you will stop frequently for photos.

If there is one photo you need to take of Monument Valley, it is the classic shot of a long straight road stretching to famous shapes of Monument Valley in the background.  Approaching from the north as you do on this road trip, you will see this view very clearly.

There will probably be several other vehicles pulled up on the side of the road as people take photos.  The best photos are near the top of the hill , as you get more of the road in your shot that way.  If you want to pose in the middle of the road, watch out for oncoming traffic!

Monument Valley straddles the border between Utah and Arizona.  The valley is part of the Navajo nation and is officially called Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.  The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle or $10 per person (children under 10 are free).

Stop and enjoy the panoramic view of Monument Valley at The View , a complex with a hotel, restaurants, visitor center, cabins and campground. This is a good spot to freshen up and have lunch.

The only hiking trail in Monument Valley that you can do without a Navajo guide is the Wildcat Trail .  The trail starts near The View campground.  The 3.6-mile trail loops around the West Mitten butte.  Best done in the late afternoon, when the entire valley glows with the last rays of sun.

Budget: Wetherill Inn

The best budget option is the Wetherill Inn in Kayenta, just a 40-minute drive from Monument Valley. It has an indoor heated swimming pool and includes continental breakfast. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Goulding’s Lodge

Goulding’s is a comfortable 3-star lodge just outside the Tribal Park, with views of Monument Valley in the distance.  It’s a short drive to Monument Valley. Check rates here.

Luxury: The View

The best place to stay in Monument Valley is The View (pictured), since it is perched on the edge of the valley with breathtaking views from some of the rooms. I’ve stayed here several times and loved it! Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 7: Head to Page

This day of the Utah road trip dips into northern Arizona – but is a worthwhile addition to your Utah trip. Stay two nights in Page and do a daytrip from there the next day. If you have some extra time, I recommend extending your trip with this Arizona itinerary.

The main part of Monument Valley can be visited on self-guided scenic drive.  The 17-mile dirt road loops around the most famous buttes, including Merrick Butte, the Three Sisters, Elephant Butte, Totem Pole, and Artist’s Point.

A popular highlight is John Wayne’s Point.  Here, you can pose on a horse while gazing out from a cliff top, with Monument Valley spread out behind you.  The cliff is not tall and the horse doesn’t move, but no one will know that when they see your photos!

After lunch, hop back in your car and hit the road again. An hour’s drive from Monument Valley is Navajo National Monument .  The easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail takes you to an overlook where you can see the Betatakin Cliff Dwelling.

The Ancestral Puebloan people build their villages in alcoves in the side of cliffs hundreds of years ago.  It is amazing to see them, and Betatakin is very well-preserved.  You can see the cliff dwelling clearly across the canyon. From there, it is a 1.5-hour drive to Page.

Budget: Knights Inn Page

With a great location, seasonal outdoor pool and free WiFi, the Knights Inn Page is a solid budget choice.  Check rates here.

Mid Range: Desert Canyon Inn

This is my go-to place to stay in Page. This inn has clean rooms, with WiFi, private bathrooms and flatscreen TVs. Its location in downtown Page means you can walk to restaurants. Check rates here.

Luxury: The Lake Powell Resort

This upscale resort has its own marina and you can dine in their restaurant with a lake view or on a dinner cruise.  There is a seasonal outdoor pool, fitness center and they even have powerboats you can rent. Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 8:  Day Trip to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

In the morning, drive out to Antelope Canyon from Page.  This is quite possibly the most stunning slot canyon in the world.  A narrow winding canyon has been carved out of the layered sandstone by flash flooding over hundreds of years.

The canyon is a photographer’s dream.  The colors are mind-blowing oranges, reds, blues and purples.  The walls of the canyon swirl and swoop and form fantastical shapes.

From there, it’s a short hop to the picturesque Horseshoe Bend in the Colorado River, an icon of the region. Get here early if you want a good spot for sunset photography. It’s only about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the overlook itself. There are no railings, so be careful on the edges.

Utah Itinerary Day 9: Drive to Zion National Park

From Page, it is a 2-hour and 15-minute drive to Springdale, the gateway town to Zion National Park.  This route enters Zion National Park at the East Entrance.  The first section is along Checkboard Mesa, where natural rock formations create amazing straight checkerboard lines.

Do the Mount Carmel Scenic Drive

The 26-mile road is a stunning way to enter the park.  You’ll pass through the historic 1920’s Mt. Carmel Tunnel, which is an engineering marvel at over 5,000 feet (1524m) above sea level.

Soon after the tunnel, jaw-dropping views of the canyon spread out below you.  Take your time – there is a pullover where you can safely stop for photos.  There is also a short one-mile Canyon Overlook Trail hike that provides wonderful views.

The Narrows is a unique hike that involves wading through a narrow slot canyon in a river.  It’s not uncommon to hike beside a river, but much rarer to hike the length of a river in the actual water.  The sheer canyon walls rise right up next to the river on both sides.

First take the shuttle to the end of Zion Canyon and walk along Riverside Walk to the start of the Narrows slot canyon.  You then enter the water and spend the day crossing back and forth as you head upstream, constantly seeking the best route. The canyon gets narrower and narrower as you go.

In the narrowest section, called Wall Street , the canyon walls are hundreds of feet tall and just a few yards wide across.  This is where most people turn back and return to the start of the trail. Wear waterproof clothing and take a hiking stick to steady yourself in the flowing water.

Budget: The Holiday Inn Express Springdale

Springdale is a lovely town with great restaurants and plenty of accommodation options. This Holiday Inn has a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub and lovely terrace with a view. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Cable Mountain Lodge

This is a top mid-range option, with an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub with canyon views and a location right next to the park’s Visitor Center. Check rates here.

Luxury: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Zion National Park

This 5-star hotel (pictured) has a stunning restaurant/ lounge with a floor-to-ceiling glass wall looking on to Zion’s red cliffs.  There is also an outdoor pool and hot tub. Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 10: Hike in Zion 

For your second day in Zion, there are a couple of different hikes you can choose from. If you’re up for a challenging hike with steep drop offs, then opt for Angel’s Landing.  If that seems too intimidating, then hike to Observation Point.

Angels’ Landing is the most famous hike in the park.  If you have a fear of heights, this may not be for you.  The last section of the 4.8-mile roundtrip hike goes along a narrow ridge with steep drop offs.  You need to hold on to a chain as you inch along this narrow section.  The reward?  Absolutely stunning views of Zion Canyon.

A much easier trail but with even better views is the easy hike to Observation Point.  You need to drive out of the East Gate to the East Mesa trailhead.  From there, it is a flat easy 6.4-mile roundtrip hike to the rim of Zion Canyon.

This has arguably the best view in the entire park.  A 230-degree view along the entire length of Zion Canyon more than 2,100 feet below.  You will actually look down on to Angel’s Landing 700 feet below you.

There are some great restaurants in St George to visit after your hikes.

Utah Itinerary Day 11: Explore Bryce Canyon National Park

Today you’ll leave Zion and drive 86 miles (about 2 hours) to Bryce Canyon.  This leaves you most of the day to enjoy Bryce Canyon National Park . Definitely one of the best national parks in USA , Bryce Canyon is famous for the orange hoodoos (sandstone spires) that form a unique, alien-like landscape you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Start your visit to Bryce Canyon National Park with the 38-mile (61km) roundtrip scenic drive along the length of the canyon.  There are 13 viewpoints along the way, so allow about 3 hours for the whole drive.

Now it’s time to get out and hit the trails.  The most spectacular section of the park is the Bryce Amphitheater.  You can walk along the rim, taking in several stunning views along the way.

The entire trail is 5.5 miles (8.8 km), but you can just hike part of it, so that you have time to also head down among the hoodoos.  Highlights are Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point and Bryce Point.

Don’t miss the chance to hike down into the canyon, with the amazing hoodoos all around you and towering above you.  The best hike is the loop down to Queen’s Garden returning via the Navajo Trail .

The hike to Queen’s Garden takes you past several famous hoodoos including Thor’s Hammer. At the bottom, you can see a hoodoo that looks like a statue of Queen Victoria (hence the name).  The return trail goes up a series of steep switchbacks in a narrow section called Wall Street.

Budget: Red Ledges Inn

The cheapest option near to Bryce Canyon National Park is this refurbished motel that has a cool wild wild west exterior and renovated rooms. Check the rates here.

Mid Range: Bryce Valley Lodging

About a 15-minute drive from the park, this budget motel has air-conditioned rooms that feature comfortable beds and a small kitchenette. Check the rates here.

Luxury: The Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

Nestled among the red rock cliffs of  Bryce Canyon National Park , this hotel (pictured) offers exceptional amenities, including a free hot breakfast , a restaurant, fitness center and swimming pool. Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 12: Visit Capitol Reef National Park

The day starts back on the road as you drive from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef. The drive to the Fruita area of the park takes about 2.5 hours.  On arrival, check in at the park’s Visitor Center to check the state of the roads, river level, and flash flood warnings.

The Fruita valley is the heart of Capitol Reef National Park.  There are plenty of easy hikes to do, a short scenic drive and several historic buildings.  Be sure to visit the historic Gifford Homestea d and Fruita Schoolhouse.

This 8-mile drive on a paved road takes you past the main Capitol Reef escarpment.  The name of the national park comes from the rock formations along this escarpment that look like a series of domed capitol buildings forming a long ‘reef’.

There are two unpaved side roads you should take as part of this scenic drive. Grand Wash is a narrow canyon with steep walls.  Park at the end and hike into the narrowest part of the canyon.  Capitol Gorge is another short side road that takes you to some of the domed rock formations that inspired the park’s name.

Budget: The Rim Rock Inn

The Rim Rock is a comfortable motel just ten minutes from the Visitor Center.  It has nice views and an onsite restaurant, and reasonable prices. Check rates here.

Mid Range: The Red Sands Hotel

Just 3 miles from the national park, this mid range hotel has an indoor heated swimming pool and hot tub with awesome views. Check rates here.

Luxury: Capitol Reef Resort

Located at the entrance to Capitol Reef National Park , this luxury resort has unique accommodations such as teepees and Conestoga wagons. It’s also got an outdoor pool and hot tub. Best location! Check rates here.

Utah Itinerary Day 13: Drive the Cathedral Valley Loop

Within Capitol Reef National Park, Cathedral Valley is a large valley just north of Fruita with incredible red rock formations with white tops.  The best way to see this stunning part of Capitol Reef National Park is to drive the 58-mile scenic loop. You will need a high clearance vehicle, and a 4WD is strongly recommended, as the dirt road can be rough in parts.

It takes about 5 hours to drive the loop, but with stops and short side trips, it will take a full day. The drive starts from Highway 24 at Hartnet Road (mile marker 91), about 12 miles east of the Visitor Center. If you drive in a clockwise direction, you ford the Fremont River at the start of the drive.

There are many scenic viewpoints and places of interest along the way. Lower and Upper South Desert Overlooks are both reached by very short 0.25-mile walks and give great views for opposite sides of the valley.  Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook has perhaps the best panoramic views over the valley and its amazing red sandstone cliffs and church-like monoliths.

The Temples of the Sun and Moon, are enormous sandstone monoliths rising straight up out of the valley floor.  They are reached down a short side road. Other highlights include Gypsum Sinkhole and the historic Morrell Cabin.

The last leg of your Utah road trip itinerary is a 3.5-hour drive north back to Salt Lake City. I suggest driving back early to avoid the traffic and to catch your flight home. There are quite a few airport hotels at Salt Lake City in case you need one for an early morning flight.

Hilton Garden Inn – Salt Lake City Airport is the best hotel by the airport — rooms are on the top end and amenities are impressive. Holiday Inn Express Airport East is the nearest hotel to the airport. For budget traveler, Motel 6 Salt City UT West Airport is the cheapest option near the airport.

I’ve designed this Utah itinerary to include the best places this state has to offer: from outstanding national parks to Navajo land and cute charming towns. I hope this will help you plan your Utah road trip and allows you to see the best sights in the state!

If you’re interested in exploring more of the US, check out other articles I’ve written:

• Route 66 Road Trip Itinerary
• Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
• California Road Trip Itinerary
• Nevada Road Trip Itinerary
• Florida Road Trip Itinerary
• Weekend in Seattle
• Weekend in Los Angeles
• Weekend in San Francisco
• Weekend in Miami

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I make a small commission when you purchase something through my links, at NO extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

About the Author: James Ian

James Ian has been to 82 countries and more than 30 states in the US.  He is a national parks expert and helps people have incredible vacations to US parks through his website  Parks Collecting .

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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Kanab , Moab , Road Trips , Salt Lake City , Utah

The most epic utah road trip itinerary for 7-10 days.

Utah is home to 5 of the most thrilling and iconic U.S. National Parks known as The Mighty 5. People from all over the world travel here to experience a Utah road trip and explore these beautiful lands.

While the National Parks are great destinations, I’ve found that Utah is also home to some of the most underrated adventures. I’ve had the pleasure of taking several Utah road trips through the state, stopping at different locations every time and exploring its diverse landscape.

This road trip, however, was one of the most epic I’ve taken. Two other girls and I packed our bags, met up, and loaded our itinerary full of as much adventure as possible.

This was not a leisure type of travel. We hiked, kayaked, and adventured our way through Utah, leaving very little time to relax since we only had a certain time frame to fit it all in.

I’ve listed our entire road trip itinerary for you in this post with links to places we stayed, rented from, hiked, and stopped at. You don’t have to move as fast as we did or do everything that we did. Rather you can pick and choose to create your own epic road trip that fits your style.

I hope this itinerary gives you ideas and helps you plan your own epic road trip through Utah!

UTAH ROAD TRIP OVERVIEW

Length: 8 days, 7 nights (with options to make it longer!) Airports: Las Vegas and Salt Lake City

I know you are excited and probably wondering what the highlights of this Utah Road Trip are, so I’ve listed them below!

• Zion National Park
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes
• Peekaboo Slot Canyon
• Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park
• Monument Valley
• Salt Lake City
• Bonneville Salt Flats

THE BEST TIME FOR A UTAH ROAD TRIP

Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Southern part of Utah because the temperatures are still cool and there are less crowds of people. The National Park hike that close during winter start opening up but not all of them right away.

Parts of Utah will still have snow and be chilly , especially Salt Lake City and Bryce Canyon National Park in early spring. The water activities may not be as enjoyable in the cooler temperatures either.

The road trip can be done in spring, however you may want to skip some of the destinations/activities based on your preferences.

Southern Utah gets HOT during the summer and is also the most popular season for National Parks. If you can, I’d refrain from going during the middle of summer and choose a different season to visit.

This itinerary can be done during the summer, but I’d suggest beginning your days very early!

I think fall is the best time for this itinerary , which is when I road tripped through Utah! Middle of September to middle of October is when I visited and we had almost PERFECT weather the entire time.

The destinations weren’t too overcrowded, it was still nice out but not too hot, and it didn’t rain on us but once (and it was a sprinkle).

Salt Lake City and even parts of Southern Utah get snow. This road trip itinerary definitely is not for winter! A lot of the National Park trails close during the season leaving your hiking options scarce. Plus the water activities are more enjoyable during beautiful weather!

Quick tips for your Utah Road Trip

• You’ll be visiting multiple National Parks so I’d suggest purchasing the America The Beautiful pass beforehand to save money.
• Check each park’s website before you visit for weather alerts or closures and to check their shuttle schedules.
• Fill up the tank when it is half full and before heading into the parks because there are long stretches without services.
• Create playlists and download your music on your phone or Spotify app because you will be out of service for most of the trip!
• Stock up on snacks and beverages before hitting the road. This includes protein bars and trail mixes for your adventures.
• While you’re in the outdoors remember to leave no trace .

Read: Preparing for a road trip: 9 tips for a safer trip

EPIC UTAH ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Utah road trip day 1: vegas to zion national park.

Morning – Late Afternoon

The first day of our Utah road trip began in Vegas! The girls flew in and I picked them up with my car to head to Zion National Park.

If you don’t have someone nearby who can drive you can do a one way car rental and drop it off in Salt Lake City at the end of your trip.

Pro Tip: Stock up on supplies in Vegas or Springdale before you reach your accommodations near Zion.

Once we settled into our cabin suite, we quickly freshened up, grabbed dinner from the resort restaurant (more on that below), and met East Zion Adventures for our Sunset Jeep Tour! They took us on a thrilling Jeep ride to a mountain bluff and we watched one of the most beautiful sunsets!

Right after the Jeep Tour we embarked on their Star Gazing Tour. We were given blankets to bring and hot chocolate which warmed our experience under the stars. We laid down and learned all about stars, satellites, and constellations- such a blast! I’ve never seen Mars, Jupiter, or Saturn in the sky before.

Accommodations

While visiting Zion National Park for 2 nights we stayed at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort in a cabin suite. Their sister company East Zion Adventures has multiple tours that embark right from the resort property so it was a two for one deal!

You can read all about my review of the resort and view photos below.

Read: Zion National Park Airbnb: Cabin Resort

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 2: Canyoneering and Zion National Park

Morning – afternoon.

We woke up early to meet East Zion Adventures again for our half day Canyoneering Tour! They took us to the Huntress Canyon outside of Zion. This was my second time canyoneering with them and it was just as much fun as the first time.

The adventure totaled to be about 3 miles with 4-5 repels, the highest being 70-75 feet. It it is the perfect first canyoneering experience if you haven’t done it before or if you’re weary of heights.

You can read all about my experience and what to expect below!

Read: Utah Canyoneering Tour near Zion National Park

Afternoon – Evening

After canyoneering we quickly restocked our supplies at the cabin and headed into Zion National Park. We received recommendations for two short, un-popular hikes within the park so we started with those.

The first was to a wall that had petroglyphs dated up to 7000 years old. It took us two attempts to locate these but they were so worth it!

The second was to a waterfall .5 miles from the road! We hiked and boulder climbed our way to the Pine Creek Waterfall and sat to eat our snacks. The water was full of algae so we were careful not to touch it or go in, but with good quality water there is actually a rock you can jump off of into a deep pool below.

Before the sun went down we decided to hike the Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion which is 2 miles round trip. This trail was thrilling because it follows along the side of the mountain and provides epic drop off views along the way.

The views were a bit hazy at the top with the sun and wildfire smoke combined but it was still worth every step!

After hiking in Zion we drove through the remainder of the park into Springdale and had dinner at Oscar’s Cafe , a popular local Mexican restaurant. I had the Turkey and Avocado with Bacon Sandwich and sweet potato fries which was delicious!

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 3: Last hike in Zion, afternoon in Kanab, and drive to Lake Powell

This was one of our busiest days for we packed it as full of activities as we could! We woke up early to check out of our cabin suite and drove to the trailhead (right off of the resort property) for our last Zion National Park hike.

Totaling 7 miles, the morning hike to Observation Point was easy and enjoyable. There is a trail that begins at the bottom of Zion but we hiked an easier trail right from the resort into the park, ending at the top of the lookout!

Read: Hike to Observation Point in Zion National Park from Zion Ponderosa

After our morning hike we hopped into the car and headed to Kanab, Utah!

I HIGHLY suggest adding Kanab to any Utah road trip Itinerary. Our first stop in Kanab was the Moqui Cave. This cave is rich with history and yes, is actually a cave! The gentlemen who run the cave museum are extremely friendly and helpful.

If a museum isn’t your thing, they also have a small cafe truck outside you can order from or you can take one of their tours from Expedition Kanab. There are also some amazing sand caves a short walk up the road that are old mines from World War II! The caves are definitely worth visiting.

Be sure to ask them about nearby slot canyon tours and horseback riding! We did an UTV tour with them to the remote Peekaboo Slot Canyon and stopped to sandboard the dunes on the way back. It turned out to be one of the best things we’ve done!

After exploring canyons and playing in the sand, we backtracked just a little to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes. We wanted to visit these at sunset because that is when the sand turns pink!

We didn’t actually go into the park, however. Since we were cutting it close to sunset and we had already sand boarded, we decided to stop at this small parking lot just before the park to get our fill of sand dunes and watch the sun set. This is a great option if you don’t want to pay to get into the park!

After sunset we stopped again in Kanab for dinner at Escobars Mexican Restaurant (very yummy!) then drove through the dark to Page, Arizona!

It was a late check-in to our hotel in Page, AZ. We stayed at the Best Western View of Lake Powell for 2 nights, and it did in fact have one of the best views- even for sunset!

OPTIONAL DAY 3: Visit Bryce Canyon National Park

If you have an extra day or two to spare during your Utah road trip you can fit in Bryce Canyon National Park! It didn’t fit in our itinerary, but I do highly suggest it.

From the Ponderosa Ranch Resort it is approximately a 1.5 hour drive to the park. You can easily stay another night and take a day trip to Bryce. You could also stay the night near Bryce, then backtrack towards Zion and head to Kanab.

If you’re visiting during winter check out 6 Best Bryce Canyon Winter Hikes and things to do

If Kanab and Lake Powell don’t interest you, you can stop by Bryce and continue along the US-12 Scenic Byway, stop at Lower Calf Creek Falls , and meet up with us back in Moab on day 5!

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 4: Kayak Lake Powell and visit Horseshoe Bend

Are you ready for an epic day out on the water? Because we couldn’t wait to kayak Lake Powell and explore Antelope Canyon from the water.

First thing first, please take a moment to read over my biggest tips for going out on the water at Lake Powell. If you are not experienced it can actually get dangerous depending on the location and weather.

Tips for Kayaking Lake Powell

• The best time to visit is late summer / early fall because the water temperature is warmer.
• Begin your day EARLY because the weather changes quick in the area and the wind makes traversing the waters more dangerous.
• Pay attention to the sky- there is always a chance of rainfall here even without it being in the daily weather report. You do not want to be in a slot canyon during a rainstorm.
• Know where you are headed and check to see if the boats create a huge wake in that area. If so, you may not want to paddle board and kayak instead.
• Most importantly, HAVE A LIFE JACKET.

Now that we have that covered, I suggest booking your kayak rental in advance because all of the rentals in the area sell out quick. Yes, even on weekdays.

We rented from WazSUP Kayaks and Bill was extremely accommodating and helpful. We were provided the kayaks, life jackets, paddles, and directions on how to get to Antelope Canyon from the water!

This adventure was one of my favorites from the whole trip. The girls and I were able to kayak to the end of Antelope Canyon, dock our kayaks, and explore the canyon for a bit on foot.

You can read more about kayaking Antelope Canyon below!

Read: How to Kayak Antelope Canyon from Lake Powell

Horseshoe Bend is not far from Page, AZ and worth visiting for sunset! If you’re more of a morning person you could always get up for sunrise and do this before Lake Powell.

This attraction now has a $10 entry fee but you get restrooms, an actual parking lot, and a paved path down to the lookout over Horseshoe Bend. They say it is a 1.5 mile hike round trip.

I’ve been here several times now and the view never gets old! It makes you feel so small.

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 5: Drive to Moab and hike Canyonlands National Park

Another jam packed day! The drive to Moab/Canyonlands is somewhat long, so to break it up we stopped at the famous Utah State Sign along the way to take some photos. This is almost a requirement for any Utah road trip!

After twirling endlessly there, we continued to Forest Gump Hill in Monument Valley to take some more fun shots!

The drive from Page to Moab takes you past some epic areas such as Garden of the Gods and Natural Bridge Monument. If you have time these are worth exploring, but we wanted to get to Canyonlands so we drove right through.

Canyonlands National Park is massive! The closest entrance to Moab (where we stayed) is the Island of the Sky. We were chasing daylight since it was going to get dark in a few hours so we chose our hikes carefully.

We ended up hiking the short 1 mile round trip hike to Mesa Arch. The view from the arch is impressive and it is crazy to me how the arch is set right on the cliff’s edge.

After Mesa Arch we hiked 2 miles round trip to the Grand View Point. The views from here were incredible! And the entire way you hike along the ginormous cliff’s edge. It wasn’t too scary since they have the path far enough from the edge, but you still want to be very careful.

Nearby: If you have more time than we did, you can check out Dead Horse Point State Park which is on the way to the Island of the Sky entrance from Moab!

Day 5 was an extremely long day and we were starving by the time we got back into Moab. For dinner we ate at The Blu Pig which is known for THE BEST BBQ! It is truly some of the best I’ve ever had. They are rated high on Trip Advisor and I highly recommend trying them out when you’re in town.

We stayed in Moab for 1 night at the Hyatt Place in Moab. The hotel was styled very well and super clean.

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 6: Hike Arches National Park

This time we woke up extremely early and checked out of the hotel so we could miss the crowds in Arches and catch the sunrise.

If you plan on visiting Arches National Park you must get there for sunrise! The girls and I were glad we chose to do this. Once the sky starts to lighten up you are surrounded by massive arches and rock formations you had no idea of (because you entered in the dark)!

We chose to hike to Turret Arch for sunrise and had it to ourselves. I’m thankful we did, because after talking to other hikers, Delicate Arch was packed (and not worth it) and same news for the North and South Windows.

At Turret Arch we got to see the silhouette of The Windows come alive as the sun was rising which we felt was more exciting. We hiked to these after the sun rose since they are on the same path- two for one!

After that we hiked Double Arch which is another short hike off of the same parking lot as The Windows and Turret Arch.

Since a lot of these hikes are short we were able to knock out a bunch. We headed to the end of the park and hiked to Landscape Arch, Double-O Arch, Tunnel Arch, and Pine Tree Arch which are all off of the same trail.

On our way out of the park we stopped and hiked Delicate Arch (3 miles round trip) which ended up being more difficult than we thought but well worth it. Delicate Arch is by far the most impressive and popular one in the park!

We felt like we had done as much as we could in Arches, so for the afternoon we decided to grab lunch at the Moab Brewery and shop around downtown before leaving Moab.

I purchased a couple cute Moab shirts and we hit the road towards Salt Lake City!

We checked in late to our Hyatt Place hotel in downtown and stayed here for the remaining 2 nights.

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 7: Hike in Salt Lake City and visit Bonneville Salt Flats

The last full day of adventures during our epic Utah road trip!

Our day started early, as usual, because we decided to hike Grandeur Peak which is a 6 mile round trip hike, 7 if you have to park on the road like we did. It was really nice to get a taste of the crisp fall air and colors in the mountains!

This hike was difficult and took us several hours to complete combined with the wildfire smoke from a nearby wildfire, constant elevation gain, and seeing a rattlesnake slither across the trail. Yeah, this was an eventful last adventure for sure!

Pro Tip: Use the Gaia App and their new Wildfire Map Layer to keep on eye on any nearby wildfires while hiking!

After we conquered Grandeur Peak we went back to the hotel to get dressed up and drive to the Bonneville Salt Flats for a fun photo shoot.

The Salt Flats were amazing! Walking on them made me feel like I was on another planet. We chose not to drive on them for we’ve heard mixed reviews about the salt ruining the car, etc. You may also want to be careful to not set your phone or camera directly on the salt! It could potentially ruin those as well.

To get to the Salt Flats you’ll want to drive West from Salt Lake City towards Wendover, NV. There is a rest area called Salt Flats Rest Area West Bound where you will be able to pull over, park, and explore!

Pro Tip: Get gas and snacks before leaving the city. It is a long drive (approximately 1.5 hours) with hardly any services along the way.

OPTIONAL DAY 7: Hike more around Moab

We ended up wishing we had more time to spend in the quaint city of Moab. If you have extra time I’d highly suggest staying another night to explore more of the area. A couple good hikes outside of the park are Mary Jane Falls and Corona Arch!

UTAH ROAD TRIP DAY 8: Fly out of Salt Lake City

By the end the girls and I were starting to feel the exhaustion hit from our Utah road trip. We had considered grabbing brunch before their flights but it was easily a group decision to take our time in the morning to try and get an extra hour of sleep.

I dropped them off at the airport and since I drove my car I decided to stay an extra few weeks in Salt Lake City to tour around myself.

Check out 11 of the Best Salt Lake City Hikes to see the hikes I did during my time there!

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The Best 5-Day Utah Road Trip from Salt Lake City

There are many places on this planet that you can see the majesty of our creator’s great creation; Utah is a state that you get to experience God’s various contrasts of His beautiful planet. One of the best ways to experience God’s magnificent creation is to embark on a Utah road trip. However, with Utah being the 13th largest state in total area, you must plan and prepare your trip in advance.

In this article, we will share with you a 5-day Utah Road trip itinerary that we feel maximizes your time, to not only enjoy Utah but to see some of the best of what Utah has to offer in a very short time. Our 5-day Utah road trip itinerary starts and ends in Salt Lake City for those wanting to fly in and out of a location that makes this itinerary the most feasible for most people.

There are many other itineraries available, however, we have found this to be a great itinerary for first time Utah visitors, or those who have limited time to visit Utah. Our latest trip to Utah included this 5-day Utah road trip itinerary, so we hope this inspires you to visit this wonderful and integrating state.

Article Contents

Pre-Planning your UTAH ROAD TRIP

Before you book your flights, rental car, and hotel, it is probably best to do some preparation and pre-planning for your Utah Road trip. The first preparation you need to do is determine when you want to spend your time in Utah based on the weather. Because of the contrast in topography, weather can range widely depending on where you visit. According to Weather-us.com , Utah has a mainly dry, semi-arid, and desert climate. Summers are long and extremely hot, while winters are short and cold.

During this 5-day Utah Road trip, you will go through many different climates, so plan accordingly. The weather, precipitation, and temperature in Salt Lake City, Park City, and Moab can be so very different, so when you go and what you pack will be different based on when you go and what you do.

The best time to visit Utah

According to Weather-us.com , the best time to visit Utah is during the spring, from March to May, and autumn from September to November. These shoulder seasons are colder than the severely hot weather of summer but warmer than the cold winter. Spring brings unexpected precipitation in some parts of the state.

The fall is a colorful period in the high mountains of Utah when the landscape attains scenic beauty. The summer heat is oppressive, and the season is prone to thunderstorms. October has pleasant weather with comfortable days and nights, but diurnal temperature variations exist throughout the year.

The worst time to visit Utah

According to Weather-us.com , the worst time to visit Utah is in the winter from December to February, with severely cold nights and extreme temperature variations. Frequent snowfall leads to substantial accumulation in the highlands, with 1 to 3 feet of snow depth being standard. Arctic air escapes through the mountain passes to bring sub-zero temperatures in the state.

High-speed winds often exacerbate the effect of the cold. The light, fluffy, and deep powdery snow makes skiing popular in Utah in the winter season. Many visitors vie for experiencing ‘The Greatest Snow on Earth’ on the mountain slopes of Utah.

What to Pack When Visiting Utah

Packing correctly for your visit to Utah takes some intentionality. During our first visit to Utah, we did not prepare for what to pack and wished we had prepared a little more. However, after taking this 5-day Utah road trip, we feel so much more informed, from personal experience, of what to pack. Or, in some cases, what to purchase during your trip.

There are some great stores in Moab . Our favorite place to “gear” up in Moab is at the Moab Gear Trader . We highly recommend that you stop there, even if you think you packed all you needed. You actually might find something you need or want!

Here is a list of items we recommend you pack or pick up during your 5-day Utah road trip:

• Warm/Cold Clothes . With varying temperatures and precipitation, plan on being hot and cold on the same day, so pack in layers. Our first morning in Moab it was 55 degrees at 7am, then by 5 pm, it was 95 degrees.
• Sturdy Hiking Boots/shoes . If you plan on hiking, which is one of the must-do things on this trip, you will be walking on uneven terrain and on rocks and soil. It is important you have hiking boots or shoes that are supportive, waterproof, and have great traction.
• Rain Jacket/Poncho . Be prepared for a quick rain shower while you are on a trail or on a hike. Packing a lightweight rain jacket or poncho is a must.
• Water Bottle/Camel Backpack . It is important to keep hydrated when you hike. Add the dry climate and heat, you can easily become dehydrated. Pack a good water bottle or use a camel backpack to keep the water flowing. When you visit the welcome centers at the National Parks, they have filling states available. Another tip is to purchase a case of bottled water at the local grocery store in Moab, that way you have water available all the time. Just make sure to throw your plastic bottles away appropriately when you are doing. There are several recycling bins available in the park.
• Sun Screen . The sun is hot and direct, so a good sunscreen is a must, especially if you burn easily. A sunburn can ruin a short getaway.
• Sun Hat/Sunglasses . Along with sunscreen, pack a good wide-brimmed sun hat that can keep the sun off of your face. Sunglasses are also a must-pack item. And, because you will be hiking and exploring, some sunglass straps would be a great idea so you don’t lose your glasses as you take them on and off to take pictures to capture the magnificent surroundings.
• Cooling Rag . Keeping cool and hydrated are two things you will be wanting as you hike and explore. A good cooling rag or neck scarf is a great packing item.

Outdoor Clothing & Gear for Hiking, Camping, Sport, and Travel

• Facemask . At the time of writing this, facemasks were required in Utah due to COVID-19. And, because crowds can be large at different places on this itinerary, you want to make sure you have a good facemask you can wear for extended periods of time. Plus, it was required to wear on the flight to and from Salt Lake City, so park accordingly. Even if not required, there is dust everywhere and a good facemask can protect your lungs from the dust.
• Bug Spray/bug bite medicine . You will encounter bugs during your 5-Day Utah road trip, so make sure you pack or purchase some bug spray before you begin exploring or hiking. We were surprised at the gnats and flies at the Great Salt Lake stop. We were not prepared for the bugs; bug stray would have been great to put on before we explored. Also, pack some medicine to treat bug bites after the fact. You will get bitten, so be prepared. We especially like After Bit , which can be purchased from CVS .
• Day Bag/Backpack/Waist Pouch . Rain jackets, sunscreen, cooling rags, bug spray, and everything on this list has to go somewhere; they do any good sitting in the rental car in the hotel room. Make sure you take a lightweight day bag, backpack, or waist pouch . We used a day bag to put most of what we might need in and then I wore a waist pouch to carry my phone, car keys, and a few snacks. It was easier to put things in and out with a waist pouch vs a daypack or backpack .

Durable & Innovative Luggage, Business Cases, Backpacks & Travel Accessories

• Table Cloth/Utensils . There are many great places to do a picnic, and since you are going to be in the National Parks for many hours, you will want to eat. The National Park Service has done a great job providing covered picnic tables to use throughout the park. There are great places for you to eat a snack, lunch, or dinner (and even breakfast). However, covering the table will help to protect the food and the area around you. Also, unless you bring finger food, bring some plastic or campsite utensils with you.
• Wet wipes/Clorox wipes . In addition to the table cloth/utensils, you will want to bring some wet wipes or Clorox wipes (if you have them). This will help to wipe down the picnic benches, but can also be useful for when you want to clean your hands or other body parts.
• Hand Sanitizer . The National Parks have done a great job of having hand sanitizer stations near restrooms, however, having your own is a great idea.
• Cell Phone Charger . You will want to take a lot of pictures while you are on this 5-Day Utah road itinerary; especially during the National Parks visits. If you are on long hikes, the last thing you will want is to run out of juice with your cell phone. The cell phone coverage is spotty in many places, so your battery life could be drained quickly as it searches for signals. It is hard to charge in your car since you will more than likely be stopping often for a hike or to take pictures. Don’t let your memories be lost because you didn’t bring a cell phone charger!
• Walking Stick/Trekking Poles . While not a top item to pack, for those that like a little extra stability on uneven walking terrain, a good collapsable walking stick or two is a great item to pack. We recommend a few walking sticks from Outland USA .
• Flashlight/Headlamp . If you live in the city or a suburb, you don’t realize how dark it is on the top of a mountain or in the middle of a National Park. A flashlight or headlamp is recommended if you plan on visiting after dark. Pack one and throw it in your day bag or backpack just in case. We recommend visiting the National Parks after dark. You get a different perspective, plus the stargazing is out of this world!
• Plastic Bags . Pack some plastic bags that you can use for trash, or to pack some items you can then put in your day bag or backpack. We also pack extra plastic bags or ziplock bags when we travel, there are so many uses for them.
• National Park Maps . You can either download the National Park maps before you leave or pick them up at the visitor’s center. Either way, you will want them to reference. The National Park System does a great job with their maps. They are informative and they are great to map out your stay while you are there. Normally, as I am dring, my wife, Nikki , will be looking at the map and determining the best use of our time. They also make great souvenirs to take home with you. They can also help you remember locations and formations you saw when you get home for your picture and telling your friends about it!
• Guidebooks . There are many resources you can use to help navigate this 5-day Utah road itinerary, including this article. However, a good old trusted guidebook can be a lifesaver. This will help to enhance your trip and some great reading.
• Driving Tour App . If we did anything differently, we would have purchased a driving tour app before we started. We recommend the GyPsyGuide for this area. Being our first time, and wanting to experience all we could during our 5-Day Utah road trip, a driving tour app would have only enhanced what we already saw, and it would have helped us see other things we should have seen. For a very small cost, we could have had an even better experience to share with you. We will for sure purchase this next time or anywhere this app has available.

Utah Road Trip Map OVERVIEW

Since this 5-day Utah road trip itinerary is very short and the state of Utah is very large, you want to maximize your time in Utah, and at the same time see some of the best of Utah. This 5-Day Utah road trip itinerary starts in Salt Lake City and also ends in Salt Lake City, so the itinerary will focus mostly on day drives to each location and within one day drive back to Salt Lake City, to minimize your movements.

In total, the amount of drive time is less than 15 hours, with the longest drive times driving from Moab to Salt Lake City. The drives are easy and have wonderful surroundings. When we go through the 5-day Utah road trip itinerary, we will expand the itinerary and give you our recommendations and point of view from personal experience.

Below is an overview map of our 5-day Utah road trip itinerary:

5-DAY Utah Road Trip Itinerary

This 5-Day Utah Road trip itinerary is based upon flying in and out of Salt Lake City. For most visitors, this is going to be the best gateway to visit Utah. For the purposes of our road trip itinerary, we were flying from Indianapolis, so Indianapolis will be referenced as the bookends of this trip. However, you can easily include your gateway into this itinerary.

This was our first visit to Utah, so this itinerary was based on our initial research and planning. Within each day, you will find some suggestions and our thoughts on this 5-day Utah road trip itinerary. We hope you enjoy what we experienced and hope that it encourages you to do the same 5-day Utah road trip itinerary in the very near future.

Utah Road Trip – Day 1 (Arrival/Great Salt Lake/Salt Lake City/Park City):

• Fly from Indy to Salt Lake City – Southwest or Delta have good routes to Salt Lake City
• Pick Up Rental Car
• Visit Antelope Island State Park
• Drive Downtown to visit the Capital and city overlook at Ensign Park and Peak
• Drive to Park City Utah
• Stay overnight in Park City

Your first day in Utah begins will arriving in Salt Lake City from your destination. The airport at Salt Lake City ( SLC International ) is easy and quick to navigate. At the time we visited, the old terminal was operational. However, the new terminal will be opening soon (October 2020) and could even make navigating the airport even quicker.

Picking up a rental car is easy as well. There are many car rental companies at the terminal with an easy walk from the luggage from the Southwest terminal. We decided to rent a car from Fox Rental, only because of the cost. The cost was about half of those at the airport. Because Fox Rental Cars is not located at the airport, they offered a free shuttle to their lot. The shuttle bus was easy to find and took about 15 minutes to get to. At the time of this article, the shuttle bus was parked right in front of the rental car building at the airport.

Our first stop in Utah was to the Great Salt Lake at Antelope Island State Park . The drive to Antelope State Park from the airport is about one hour. It is an easy drive from the airport with many places to stop and eat or even to stop at a grocery store to get some food or snacks. Antelope Island was one of the highlights of this 5-Day Utah road trip. Not because of the Great Salt Lake, but because of the large population of Bison. We were not expecting to see so many bison in so many spots. We could have spent more time at Antelope Park hiking and touring the farm they have but opted not to.

Our second stop was a quick tour of downtown visiting the Ensign Park and Peak and the Utah State Capital . Since it was Sunday, the capital was not open, nor the nearby buildings. On other days, various tours of the capital and downtown are available. Some of the best pictures of the downtown and capital can be taken from Ensign Park , regardless if you go all the way to the top of the peak or the small picture sites.

After our Downtown visit, we drove to Park City Utah. The drive is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. The drive is easy and fun since there are many bends on the highway and the scenery is beautiful, especially as you get closer to Park City, Utah.

Once in Park City, we checked into our hotel. We stayed at the Marriott Summit Watch, which was right on the historic main street in Park City. There are many hotels or condos available in this area. Make sure you book early, they fill up fast. We highly recommend checking out the main street in Park City. Between the various shops and places to eat, it was a good time!

Utah Road Trip – Day 2 (Olympic Park/Provo Canyon/Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway):

• Explore Park City downtown and area
• Visit Utah Olympic Park
• Drive the Scenic Provo Canyon from Park City to Provo
• Have lunch in Provo
• Drive from Provo to Moab via Utah-6 and then the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway via Utah – 28.
• Spend the night in Moab, Utah

After a good night’s sleep, you can take some time to explore the city of Park City and the adjacent area. There are some great coffee shops and places to eat breakfast in the historic main street. If not, pick up something from a local grocery store. We visited during the summer, so the crowds and traffic were not bad. However, during the winter, plan to spend some extra time getting around the area due to traffic.

After exploring, or driving around Park City, drive to the Utah Olympic Park . This is only 8 miles north of Park City. Depending on the traffic, it could take 15 minutes, or much longer. There are some alternative routes to get there, so check out your GPS.

Being summer, and during the COVID Pandemic, there was not much activity at the park, however, we were able to go into the visitor center and take some time exploring the museums they had. We especially enjoyed the second-floor museum where they had items from the Olympics. It brought back some great memories. Make sure you check out the museum in the visitor’s center.

The park does have some activities , so check them out and purchase ahead of time since they are limited to the size and time of the activities .

Once you are done at the Utah Olympic Park, it is time to make your way to Provo via the Scenic Provo Canyon . Provo Canyon connects Heber City to Provo and is the starting point for several attractions including Bridal Veil Falls , Sundance Resort, Timpanogos Cave National Monument, and Cascade Springs.

This is a beautiful drive and we were surprised at how beautiful it was. This is a wonderful drive and will take about 1 hour, depending on where you stop, and you will for sure want to stop at a few places. The scenery really starts to get wonderful after you go through Herber City . We did not take time to stop in Herber City , but if we did it over, we would, just to explore; it is a neat town. My wife, Nikki, loves waterfall, so a stop at Bridal Veil Falls is a must for waterfall lovers!

Bridal Veil Falls has a viewing area right off the highway. You can even hike a short trail to the bottom of the waterfall. For those a little more adventurous, you can hike up to different levels of the falls. Either way, it was very surprising to find this gem in the very arid climate of Utah, so soak it in!

After visiting Bridal Veil Falls , you are not far from Provo Utah. The highway takes you downtown and near the Brigham Young University. Being a college town, Provo has some great places to eat, so plan on eating lunch here. We highly recommend eating at the Black Sheep Cafe . This cafe, while small, has some great menu items and the food is delicious. Simply the best food we had on the ENTIRE 5-Day Utah road trip. Then, if you want some dessert, there are a few bakeries around the same area.

After leaving Provo, you will now head to Moab. This stretch of the drive is the longest of the entire 5-Day Utah road trip itinerary. The drive is a little shy of 4 hours. Plus, there are very few places to get gas or food, so fill up BEFORE you leave. If you have a small bladder, like me, be careful to drink too much. While there are a few rest stops, they are few and far between. Utah-6 is a great drive with many different colors and landscapes. You will be amazed and will for sure see the many contrasts of Utah.

As you approach I-70, we recommend you once again fill up and gather some snacks, drinks and take a break before you complete your trip. Instead of taking the standard Highway 191 directly to Moab, as most do, instead, continue on I-70 to the next exit, 204, and take Highway 128. At first, you will say to yourself, where is everyone and what did I do. The road is windy and barren but just wait.

Highway 128 was the gem on our trip. There is very little traffic and the views are magnificent. There is plenty of places to stop, hike, and picnic if you wanted to. Just make sure you fuel up before you do this since there are no places to stop to get gas. It will be worth your time to do this route!

By far, the best part of this 5-Day Utah Road trip itinerary was the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway . This scenic byway gets better with each mile. It has several views that you just want to stop and enjoy. There are also several trails you can hike if you have the time. Make sure you take time to stop and enjoy as much as you can. The byway ends in Moab, just in time to check into your hotel.

There are several hotels/motels to stay in Moab, with new ones being built. You can choose from national chains (Mariott, Hampton, ect.), or some local motels. Moab is not large, so the availability could be limited based on when you travel. For that reason, we recommend booking early.

We personally stayed at the Fairfield on the north end of Moab. This is the PERFECT location for this 5-day Utah road trip itinerary since it is the closest hotel to the Arches National Park and the Canyonland National Park. There is also a Springhill Suites right next door that shares the same outdoor activities area. And, if you have kids, they have a great pool area with several hot tubs and a kiddy pool.

Utah Road Trip – Day 3 (Arches National Park/Moab):

• Spend the day at Arches National Park  
• Dinner in Moab
• Star Gazing at Arches National Park

Your third day of this 5-day Utah road trip itinerary will mostly be spent at Arches National Park . Since most of the day will be spent at the park, make sure you are prepared to spend the entire day there. The park is large but not too large for you that you will need to take multiple days to see everything unless you plan to do every trail.

This is also the day you will utilize most of what we recommended in the “What to Pack” section. We recommend two things before you leave for the park if you have not done so far (you can also do this the day before if you want to get to the park early):

• First, go to the local grocery store. We recommend the City Market . This grocery store has just about everything you might need from food, water, etc. And, since it is affiliated with Kroger, most will have a loyalty card to get discounts. We used it to get deli food and purchase bottled water for our day at the park.

• Second, pick up additional hiking supplies before you leave. Or, if you think you have them all, still stop at the Moab Gear Trader . You will find what you are looking for, plus a few other items. Make sure you check out their entire store before you leave. Since the Moab Gear Trader is very close to City Market , it will not take too long to stop at both.

Arches National Park is only a few miles north of Moab so the drive is not long. There will be a fee to enter the park. Since you will be visiting more than one national park on this 5-day Utah road trip itinerary, we highly recommend purchasing the annual pass to the Southeast Utah Parks . The Southeast Utah Parks Annual Pass admits the pass holder, a passenger of one motorcycle, or up to 15 passengers of a single, private (non-commercial) vehicle to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, & Hovenweep National Monument. Also, make sure you take the map available at the entrance.

Once inside the park, there is a lot of things to do and see. We recommend stoping at the visitor’s center as your first stop. The visitor’s center will be within a mile of the entrance and easy to spot. At the visitor’s center, you can see more details about the trails and activities going on in the park. This will also be a place to get water (they have a fill-up station), any final gear (hats, sunscreen, etc.), go to the restroom, and even talk to a park ranger. It is worth the stop!

Now time to explore the Arches National Park . Use the park map as your guide or use a GPS driver’s guide. Here are a few tips we have regarding your visit to the Arches National Park :

• Take and DRINK plenty of water during your entire stay
• Drive to the back of the park (Devil’s Garden Trailhead) first to start your day. This has limited parking and will fill up fast. We did NOT do this, but recommend it after visiting the park.
• Take the hike to both the Upper and Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoints
• Make sure to stop at Panorama Point. This is a 360-degree view of the park, a must stop. There are restrooms and picnic benches at this stop.
• Have a picnic at Panorama Point.
• Take the short hike to see both the north and south window and Turett Arch. The double arch is also in this area. Parking for all 3 is in the same spot and it fills up quickly. You can park at the Double Arch and easily walk to the other arches. You get the biggest bang for your buck at this stop.
• Make sure to stop at the La Sal Mountains Viewpoint. You will see the La Sal Mountains that loom over the Arches National Park .
• Take lots of pictures
• Hike to the Sand Dunes Arch, especially if it is a hot day. You will be rewarded for this short hike!

View our entire photo album of Arches National Park on SmugMug .

After a day in Arches National Park , it is time for dinner back in Moab. There are many places to each in Moab, especially Mexican dining. We recommend eating at El Charro Loco if you are in the mood for Mexican. While there are many other dining venues, we really liked the food quality and quantity here. There are not many chain restaurants in Moab, so you will experience some unique food options than in most locations.

If you are not tired after dinner, plan on going back to Arches National Park to do some stargazing. We recommend going back to Panorama Point for this activity. There are plenty of parking spots there and they have benches you can lay on to stargaze. Make sure you take your flashlight and a jacket so you don’t get cold.

Now it is time to get back and have a good night’s stay and sleep at the Fairfield Inn.

Utah Road Trip – Day 4 (Canyonlands National Park/Moab): 

• Spend the day at the Island in the Sky – Canyonlands National Park and the Dead Horse Point State Park

Day four of your 5-day Utah road trip itinerary is where you will spend time at the Canyonlands National Park. The Canyonlands National Park has various locations you can go to. Because the Island in the Sky is only 30 miles, or 40 minutes away from your hotel, it makes it a perfect stop for your trip. And, because Dead Horse Point State Park is right on the way, you can visit both parks on the same day.

Both of the Island of the Sky and Dead Horse Point State Park are much different than Arches National Park. While there are a few trails, the trails are much longer and are much more involved. Most of the parks can be driven by several places to stop and view the sites. The Park system has done a great job with its road network and viewing areas. They are clean and they are maintained well. Plus there are fewer people in this park vs. Arches.

View our entire photo album of the Island in the Sky – Canyonland National Park on SmugMug .

You will find several people with jeeps at this park because of the various off road trails that are avialble.

Because you will be driving most of this park, it will not take a full day to experience the entire park. For us, we were a little tired from the day before so just driving around ended up being really nice for us.

Here are few tips we have regarding visiting the Island in the Sky – Canyonland National Park :

• Take the small trail to see the Mesa Arch. Make sure you take the alternate path on the way back
• Have a picnic at Upheavel Dome. Parking is limited, so do an early lunch. There are plenty of picnic benches and restrooms here
• Be prepared to stop at every lookout. The views are breathtaking.

As mentioned before, you will not spend the entire day at these parks, so you can spend the rest of the day back in Moab exploring the downtown area where there are many cute shops and eating establishments. You can easily walk most of the downtown after you find a parking spot close to it. We decided to eat dinner at Zax Restaurant and enjoyed the atmosphere and food.

Because it was a great evening and still a little hot, we spend our last evening, after dinner enjoying the pool at the Fairfield Inn.

Utah Road Trip – Day 5 (Drive back to Salt Lake City):

• Drive back to Salt Lake City via Utah-6
• Return Renal car

After a good nights sleep, it is time to head back to Salt Lake City to end your trip 🙁 Grab some coffee from one of the local coffee shops, like Love Muffin Cafe , then hit the road. You are going to want to take the quickest route back to Salt Lake City from Moab. This means you will take Utah-191 to I-70 then Utah-6. This is a long trip, 238 miles, or a little under 4 hours. Make sure you stop around Price, Utah for gas, restrooms, and snacks. Some stretches of Utah-6 are long with no place to stop for gas, restrooms, or snacks.

Make sure you make time to take the rental back before you go to the airport. Security was not long and they have CLEAR available is if you want to bypass the security.

Booking Resources for your Utah road Trip

There are many tools you can use to plan and book your 5-day Utah road trip itinerary. You can always reach out to a qualified Travel Agent to help you make sure all the details are taken care of for you, or you can book several components yourself.

If you are the do-it-yourself type, here are some tried and true booking resources we recommend:

• Airport Parking
• Airport Parking Reservations
• Google Flights
• Scott’s Cheap Flights
• Priority Pass
• Fox Rental Car
• Dollar Rental
• GotRental Cars
• Airport Rentals
• RentCars.com
• Marriott Hotels
• Radisson Hotels
• Hilton Hotels
• Great Value Vacations
• Intrepid Travel
• American Tourister
• Trusted Housesitters
• Camping World

Conclusion of the best 5-Day Utah Road Trip Itinerary

With the right planning, preparation, and booking in advance, you can make your trip to Utah magnificent! The sights are magnificent, so there is no reason for you not to enjoy God’s magnificent creation!

While there are several other things to see in Utah, we feel this 5-Day Utah road trip itinerary gives you a quick view and experience of some of the best things about Utah. And, because you are mostly driving and experiencing the National Parks, this quick getaway or vacation can be economical for you.

View our ENTIRE photo album of our 5-Day Utah Road Trip from Salt Lake City trip on SmugMug .

In short, we had a great time, and we are sure we will do it again since we are sure there are things we missed. For that reason, we would like to return with our entire family next time.

Tell us if you have done a similar 5-day Utah road trip itinerary. What did you do? What would you recommend? What were your favorite thing you did and your favorite food? Comment below or, contact us and let us know and we would love to add it to this article.

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Utah Road Trip Ideas: 12 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Courtnie Erickson

From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.

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Utah is a mesmerizing state with all types of terrain. From mountains and deserts to red rocks and blue lakes, the sights throughout the Beehive State are sure to take your breath away. While there are several different ways to explore the vast landscapes offered in Utah, a scenic drive is one of the best. There are countless Utah road trip ideas and if you are feeling a little overwhelmed, that’s where we come in. Here are 12 of the best road trips in Utah and believe us, each one will make you fall in love with the Beehive State all over again.

For road trip planning and packing tips, check out OnlyInYourState’s Ultimate Road Trip Packing List . And, whether you’re leaving for a single day or a week-long road trip, you can’t forget the snacks: here are 50 on-the-go snack ideas perfect for traveling.

1-Day Road Trip In Utah

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• Route: Kanab > Panguitch > Big Rock Candy Mountain > Manti > Spring City
• Distance: 255 miles
• Trip Time: 4 hours driving time

• Route: Zion National Park > Bryce Canyon National Park > Canyonlands National Park
• Distance: 330 miles
• Trip Time: 5.5 hours driving time

• Route: Toquerville Falls > Red Cliffs Recreation Area > Zion National Park > Cedar Breaks National Monument > Panguitch Lake > Bryce Canyon National Park > Fish Lake
• Distance: 275 miles
• Trip Time: 6.5 hours driving time

• Route: Arches National Park > Canyonlands National Park > Natural Bridges National Monument > Capitol Reef National Park > Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument > Bryce Canyon National Park > Zion National Park
• Distance: 830 miles
• Trip Time: 15 hours driving time

• Route: Legends Motor Co > Young Living Lavender Farm > Yuba State Park > Cluff’s Carhop Cafe > Cove Fort > The Creamery > Red Reef Trail
• Distance: 273 miles
• Trip Time: 5 hours driving time

• Route: Hatch Family Chocolates, Salt Lake City > Carol’s Pastry Shop, Salt Lake City > Spilled Milk, Salt Lake City > Flake Pie Co., South Jordan > The Scoop!, West Jordan > Blox Dessert Bars, American Fork > Simply Cheesecake, Provo
• Distance: 54 miles
• Trip Time: 1.5 hours driving time

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• Route: Battle Creek Falls > Scout Falls > Stewart Falls > Bridal Veil Falls > Grotto Falls
• Distance: 66 miles
• Trip Time: 2 hours driving time

• Route: Big Cottonwood Canyon > Guardsman’s Pass > Midway > Heber Valley > Sundance > Alpine Loop > Little Cottonwood Canyon > Top of Little Cottonwood Canyon
• Distance: 100 miles
• Trip Time: 3 hours driving time

• Route: Ogden > Roy > Layton > Salt Lake City > Park City > Midway > Heber > Provo > Spanish Fork > Helper
• Distance: 192 miles

• Route: George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park > Natural History Museum of Utah > Museum of Ancient Life > Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry > Utah Field House of Natural History Museum > Dinosaur National Monument
• Distance: 295 miles

• Route: Dead Horse Point State Park > Delicate Arch, Arches National Park > Goblin Valley State Park > Waterpocket Fold, Capitol Reef National Park > Pando, Fishlake National Forest > Bryce Canyon National Park > Coral Pink Sand Dunes > Zion National Park >Buckskin Gulch
• Distance: 550 miles
• Trip Time: 11 hours driving time

• Route: Mountain Green > Morgan > Coalville > Wanship > Oakley > Kamas > Francis > Heber > Midway > Alpine
• Distance: 117 miles
• Trip Time: 3.5 hours driving time

Have you experienced any of the above road trips? What is your favorite road trip through Utah? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to include your Utah road trip map!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Road trips in utah.

What are the most popular landmarks to visit in Utah?

Utah is a state that is full of popular landmarks. From our national parks to some of our historic sites, there are so many breathtaking and interesting places to visit. Some of the most popular landmarks to visit in Utah include:

• Zion National Park
• Bonneville Salt Flats
• Great Salt Lake
• Temple Square, Salt Lake City
• Monument Valley

What are the most popular state parks to visit in Utah?

There are state parks dotted all around Utah and several are quite well-known and popular. Some of the most popular state parks in the Beehive State include:

• Antelope Island State Park
• Bear Lake State Park
• Sand Hollow State Park
• Goblin Valley State Park

What are the major highways in Utah?

Some of the main highways and freeways in Utah include:

• U.S. Route 89

However, Utah is also home to several incredible scenic drives. One of the most popular, and a favorite among Utahns and out-of-state guests alike, is Scenic Byway 12 in southern Utah.

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Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: How to Plan a 7-Day Trip to the Mighty 5 in 2024

Planning a Utah national parks road trip? I’ve got the ultimate Utah itinerary, based on my own travels in this beautiful state. And to make your planning easier, I’ve even included a handy downloadable trip planner!

With five national parks to explore, hiking trails galore and some epic scenery, a Utah national parks road trip is something you’ll never forget.

Hitting the so-called Mighty 5 – Utah’s five national parks of Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef – is possible in just a week, and you won’t believe how different and beautiful each national park is .

Here I’m sharing the Utah road trip itinerary my husband and I took. This itinerary allowed us to see the Mighty 5 in just seven days – and we even snuck in a quick side trip to Arizona .

This is one of my favourite adventures of all time in the United States, so here’s how you can follow the Utah itinerary we took.

I’ve even created a printable planner so that you can plot out your own Utah national parks road trip itinerary, so download a copy here .

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

How to do this Utah road trip

This is a road trip, so of course you’ll need your own wheels . You have a few options here:

• Rent a car through Discover Cars and either camp or stay at hotels/Airbnbs along the way.
• Rent a campervan or RV – this is what we did and it made the trip even more fun! You’ll combine your transport and accommodation costs, saving some dollars as well. RVShare is a good option for this; it’s like the Airbnb of RVs. Escape Campervans is another great option for campervan rentals. I’ve listed campground throughout this post and you can use apps like iOverlander or US Public Lands to find free campsites .

A question I get asked: Do you need a 4×4 for this road trip? If you follow this itinerary, you won’t need a 4×4 – a regular car is perfectly fine. The roads are all sealed and well maintained. Of course, you won’t be able to get out to some of the backroad locations – but you probably wouldn’t have time to do that in this short itinerary anyway.

Utah Mighty 5 road trip routes

To do this bucket list USA Utah national parks road trip, I’d recommend at least a week . This itinerary will give you a day in each park (two days in some parks) so there isn’t a lot of room for downtime.

If you have 10 days or two weeks to road trip Utah’s national parks, that would be even better. This will allow you to really explore all the natural beauty this state has to offer.

There are several ways you can visit all five Utah national parks in a week , depending on where you’re starting from. The best places to start and end this trip is in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City .

We did option number 1, but if I was doing this trip again, I’d probably take the Las Vegas to Salt Lake City (or vice versa) route to save on a bit of backtracking.

For option #2, check that your rental company allows you to return a vehicle to another location (there may be an additional charge).

For option #3, you could even add in a side trip to the Grand Canyon if you have one or two extra days.

These three Utah road trip route options include a side trip into Arizona to Monument Valley. But if you’re short on time, you can cut this out of your Utah itinerary.

National parks road trip itinerary

As mentioned earlier, we did a loop starting and ending in Salt Lake City , so that’s what I’ll get into in this article. You can easily take the information here and adapt it to the alternative routes listed above.

This 7-day Utah road trip itinerary that loops from Salt Lake City is:

Day 1: Salt Lake City to Zion National Park

Day 2: zion national park, day 3: bryce canyon national park, day 4: monument valley.

• Day 5: Canyonlands National Park and Moab
• Day 6: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park
• Day 7: Back to Salt Lake City via Capitol Reef National Park

Map of Utah national parks

Before I get into the nitty gritty of the Utah national parks road trip itinerary, here’s a map of where you’ll be going if you follow the route we took. You can download a map of national parks in Utah on the Visit Utah website or they’ll even post one to you if you plan ahead.

Alright, it’s time to hit the road!

Driving time: 4.5 hours / 308 miles

First up on this 7 day Utah national parks itinerary: pick up your car or campervan . Pick up any supplies you may need (including plenty of road trip snacks!). I have a handy road trip checklist so you don’t forget anything important.

You could check out of a few of the best things to do in Salt Lake City , but I’d recommend jumping straight on the road and heading for Zion National Park . It’s about a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City.

Zion National Park is the busiest Utah national park , with more than 5 million visitors. Despite the crowds, it’s a must-visit on a Utah parks road trip.

Springdale is the town just outside of the entrance to Zion, and it has several great options for your first dinner on the road.

Zion National Park quick reference guide

Entrances: The main entrance is the South Entrance, near the town of Springdale Entrance fee: Private Vehicle, $35, valid for 7 days Website: Zion National Park Tips: Access to cars through the park is limited during high season (March to November), but Zion National Park has a fantastic free shuttle bus system to get around. The shuttle stops at all the key trailheads and loops around fairly frequently.

There’s also a shuttle bus that links to the Zion Canyon Shuttle from Springdale, which is convenient if you’re staying in town.

Where to stay in Zion National Park

Zion national park campgrounds.

Zion National Park has three campgrounds : South, Watchman and Lava Point. You can reserve South and Watchman in advance (campsites are $20 per night, $30 for powered sites at Watchman). South Campground can be reserved up to 14 days in advance, while Watchman can be reserved up to 6 months ahead of time. (Update: As of December 2023, South Campground is partially closed for rehabilitation works.)

If you can’t get a reservation in advance, you can still plan to arrive at the campgrounds at around 10 or 11am just in case a site becomes available. That’s how we got a site for the night.

Lava Point only has six basic campsites and is more remote, with no cell reception. Reservations can be made online. It’s open May to September only.

Hotels near Zion National Park

• Zion Lodge is the only hotel inside Zion National Park
• For something partway between a hotel and camping, try the luxury, safari-style tents at Under Canvas Zion
• Cliffrose Lodge is close to the entrance to Zion National Park
• Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites has comfy rooms with mini fridges and coffee makers – and great views

Vacation rentals near Zion National Park

If you can’t get a hotel room, plan ahead and look at vacation rentals instead. VRBO has several options to suit all group sizes and budgets. Check vacation rentals near Zion National Park .

Wake up early (I’m talking, like, 5am) to get a head start on the Angel’s Landing hike . This hike is very popular on most people’s Zion national park itinerary, and starting early helps to avoid both the crowds and the heat of the day. It’s a beautiful but fairly strenuous hike with some pockets of shade.

The final ascent to Angel’s Landing is a narrow ridge with steel chains as the only barrier to keep you falling hundreds of metres off the side.

I’m not shy in admitting that I just couldn’t bring myself to do this final section – it was too scary for me. I stayed below while my husband did the final section. He said that it was hairy in some parts, but the views are worth it if you don’t have a fear of heights .

Later in the afternoon, take off on your next hike along the Riverside Walk .

If you can brave the icy water, end the day by wading through the start of The Narrows hike . We only did a small portion of this, and I would love to come back and do it completely. You can hike as far as Big Spring without a permit. It’s a 10-mile round-trip, so you’ll need the whole day to tackle this.

Best hikes in Zion National Park

• Angel’s Landing (5.4 miles, strenuous)
• Observation Point (8 miles, strenuous)
• Canyon Overlook Trail (1 mile, moderate; easier alternative to Angel’s Landing)
• Riverside Walk (2.2 miles, easy)
• Weeping Rock Trail (0.4 miles, easy)
• The Narrows (10 miles (to Big Spring) return trip, strenuous; high water levels and the risk of flash flooding can mean this is closed at some times during the year)

Driving time: 1.5 hours / 75 miles

Leaving Zion National Park on your way to Bryce Canyon , traverse the scenic 12-mile Zion-Mt Carmel Highway , passing through the historic tunnel. It’s a beautiful, winding road that exposes the red rocks of Zion.

It’s time to see just how different Bryce Canyon National Park, with its orange and white hoodoos , is to the deep red rocks of Zion National Park.

In my opinion, Bryce Canyon is the best national park in Utah . The landscape is out of this world and when we visited it was far quieter than Zion.

Hike the  Navajo Loop / Queen’s Garden trails which take you down into and back up the canyon and past Thor’s Hammer . Later, hike a section of the Rim Trail , and stand above the hoodoos to get an idea of what Mars surely must look like.

Sunset at Inspiration Point is a must, watching the colours of the hoodoos change as the sun goes down.

Best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

• Navajo Loop / Queen’s Garden (2.9 miles combined, moderate)
• Rim Trail (up to 11 miles, easy; paved from Sunset to Sunrise Points)
• Fairyland Loop (8 miles, strenuous)

Bryce Canyon National Park quick reference guide

Entrances: The only entrance to the park is via UT 12; you’ll pass through the small town of Bryce Entrance fee: Private Vehicle, $35, valid for 7 days Website: Bryce Canyon National Park Tips: Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the free shuttle bus that operates through the park

Where to stay in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce canyon national park campgrounds.

There are two campgrounds in Bryce Canyon: North Campground and Sunset Campground (sites $30 per night). Both are close to the visitor centre.

Campsites at both campground can be reserved between mid-May and early October. For the rest of the year, they operate on a first-come, first-served system.

Outside of Bryce Canyon, Ruby’s Inn has an RV park and campground, which is where we stayed.

Hotels near Bryce Canyon National Park

If you’re not camping, try one of the hotels near Bryce Canyon National Park .

• Ruby’s Inn Best Western Plus is a popular option outside Bryce Canyon National Park (we stayed at the adjoined RV park and campground)
• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is located inside the park, with 114 rooms and an on-site restaurant
• Stone Canyon Inn has several cabins onsite

Vacation rentals near Bryce Canyon National Park

• This charming country home on a large property – with fruit picking available in the fall
• This incredible chalet halfway between Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Driving time: 4.5 hours / 275 miles

On day four of the Utah national parks road trip, we’re actually heading into another state: Arizona !

As I mentioned earlier, you can skip Monument Valley if you want to stay in Utah and spend more time at the Mighty 5 national parks. But it’s a great detour.

It’s a long day of driving from Bryce Canyon south into Arizona. Stop for pie at the retro Thunderbird Restaurant at Mt Carmel Junction. As an Australian, this place is exactly how I always pictured American diners to be!

Stop at Page , home to the highly Instagrammed Horseshoe Bend , and nervously watch everyone as they perch on the edge to get the perfect selfie.

It’s a hot and dusty walk to the viewpoint, so bring adequate shoes and lots of water and sunscreen . To manage the huge influx of visitors that Horseshoe Bend has recently experienced, you’ll now need to pay an entrance fee of $30 per passenger vehicle.

Another popular site in Page is Antelope Canyon . Here you can visit Upper Antelope Canyon, an incredible slot canyon. Reservations are a must. We unfortunately didn’t have time, but photos I have seen are spectacular. If you can make the time, there are tours of Lower Antelope Canyon and Upper Canyon .

If you have even more time, many people add on a trip to the Grand Canyon to their Utah national parks road trip itinerary. You’ll need at least two days, though, to see the park properly.

Continue on to Monument Valley , famous from oh-so-many movies. Drive through the valley ($8 per person, per day; Monument Valley isn’t covered under the America the Beautiful national parks annual pass ) in the late afternoon as the sun is going down for some spectacular silhouettes of the buttes . Early morning is another option for nice light.

You need two to three hours to do the 17-mile self-guided driving tour through Monument Valley (maps available at the Information Center).

There are a few hiking trails (permit required) or you can take an organised tour which will allow you access to a traditional Navajo hogan, a small house. Here’s a good option for a sunset tour , or a 2.5-hour trip with backcountry access  where you’ll learn more about Navajo culture.

Be respectful of the land at all times and stick to the trails – this is Navajo land .

Hotels near Monument Valley

There are a couple of hotels near Monument Valley :

• We parked our campervan at Goulding’s Lodge , which has both a hotel and campground. It’s also got a restaurant, gas station, laundry, trading post and a museum highlighting the history of the area, including about the films that have been shot there. The theatre shows John Wayne movies nightly
• The View Hotel is located within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. As the name suggests, it has great views over the valley

Day 5: The Needles, Canyonlands National Park

Driving time: 5.5 hours / 238 miles

Day five will see you heading back into Utah on your way to Moab . Before you get too far, stop at mile marker 13 on highway 163 for the classic road jumping shot with Monument Valley in the background.

Before getting to Moab, take the long detour to The Needles area of Canyonlands National Park . It’s a side trip off the main road and does add extra time to this Utah road trip itinerary, but it’s worth it. If you’re short on time, then you can skip this and head straight to Moab.

Canyonlands National Park is actually split into three distinct areas by the rivers that run through the park: The Needles, Island in the Sky and the Maze. The Maze is only accessible by 4WD and is very remote. I haven’t included it in this Utah national parks itinerary because we didn’t visit it.

The Needles is far less touristy than the other national parks in Utah. To get a taste of the park, hike the Slickrock trail , which will take you over smooth, mustard-coloured rocks as you follow the cairns-marked trail.

After that, hit up another hike like the Cave Spring trail . This one winds through old cowboy hangouts and up ladders. Again, you’ll be marvelling at just how different the landscape is compared to the other national parks visited on this trip.

We only wish we’d had more time to do some of the longer, more challenging hikes. Unfortunately, there was a spectacular lightning storm starting up as we began hiking, and we didn’t want to be exposed.

Continue on to Moab and have a late lunch of burgers and peanut butter milkshakes at Milt’s Stop and Eat .

Best hikes in The Needles, Canyonlands National Park

• Chesler Park Viewpoint (6 miles, strenuous)
• Slickrock Trail (2.4 miles, short)
• Big Spring Canyon to Squaw Canyon (7.5 miles, strenuous)
• Cave Spring (0.6 miles, short)

Canyonlands National Park quick reference guide

Entrances: The entrance to Island in the Sky is about 40 minutes from Moab, while The Needles entrance is about a 90-minute drive Entrance fee: Private Vehicle, $30 Website: Canyonlands National Park Tips: Moab is the best place to base yourself to see the two main sections of the park

Where to stay in Moab

Moab campgrounds.

• We stayed at the KOA campground in Moab . Staff were friendly and they have a pool and shop onsite.

Hotels in Moab

Moab is a small town, but its reputation as an action hub means that it’s full of hotels and campgrounds.

• The Gonzo Inn is a popular place to stay in Moab. There’s an outdoor pool which will be a huge relief in the heat of the afternoon – Moab gets really hot
• Red Cliffs Lodge has 115 simple rooms, some with balconies with great views over the river

Vacation rentals in Moab

There are plenty of vacation rentals in Moab , so you’ll have lots of choices. I like the look of:

• This light-filled cabin with a great patio with grill (and it’s dog friendly!)
• This property would be good for groups of up to 6 people

Day 6: Arches National Park and Island in the Sky

Arches National Park is just outside of Moab, and is famous for its variety of sandstone arches.

Tackle some of the shorter hikes to Broken Arch and Sand Dune Arch in the morning.

In the afternoon, hike to Delicate Arch . This is a must-do on your visit to Arches National Park. Be aware that this hike has no shade, and the last part is around a cliff face with a sharp drop off. It’s one of the most photographed spots on any trip to Utah.

Best hikes in Arches National Park

• Delicate Arch (3 miles, strenuous)
• Double O Arch Trail (4.2 miles, strenuous)
• Park Avenue Trail (1 mile one-way, moderate)
• Devil’s Garden (7.2 miles, strenuous)
• Windows Trail (1 mile, easy)
• Fiery Furnace (reservation necessary, guided by Park Ranger)

Arches National Park quick reference guide

Entrances: The entrance is just a 10-minute drive from Moab Entrance fee: Private Vehicle, $30, valid for 7 days Reservation needed: Between 1 April and 31 October, you’ll also need to book a timed entrance. Book online here Website: Arches National Park

Before sunset, drive out to the other section of Canyonlands National Park, the Island in the Sky . From the viewpoint, gaze out over the land, which looks like a giant dinosaur has left its footprint behind.

If you’re in luck, you might even have Mesa Arch all to yourselves for a few minutes. Most people recommend to visit Mesa Arch at dawn, but we found it to be just as beautiful at sunset.

Moab is one of the best places to visit in Utah for adventure lovers , so if you’ve had enough of hiking, you can try mountain bike riding , offroading , 4×4 adventuring , rappeling  or rafting on the Colorado River . There are companies throughout Moab that offer all sorts of outdoor adventures.

Best hikes in Island in the Sky, Canyonlands National Park

• Mesa Arch (0.5 miles, easy)
• Grand View Point Trail (2 miles, easy)
• Neck Spring (5.8 miles, moderate)
• Gooseberry Trail (5.4 miles, strenuous)

Day 7: Capitol Reef National Park and back to Salt Lake City

Driving time: 5.5 hours / 369 miles

On the last day of the road trip, return to Salt Lake City via Capitol Reef National Park .

As the smallest of the five Utah national parks , you can easily drive through it via the 9-mile scenic drive and stop off to do shorter hikes. We only spent a few hours here, the shortest visit of our trip.

The park also has an old Mormon mission and you can stop by the historic Gifford Homestead to enjoy a fruit pie in the shaded grounds. The perfect sweet way to finish your Utah national park itinerary!

Best hikes in Capitol Reef National Park

• Sunset Point Trail (0.4 miles one-way, easy)
• Hickman Bridge Trail (0.9 miles one-way, moderate)
• Chimney Rock Trail (3.6 miles, strenuous)
• Rim Overlook Trail (2.3 miles, strenuous)

Capitol Reef National Park quick reference guide

Entrance fee: Private Vehicle, $20, valid for 7 days Website: Capitol Reef National Park

Where to stay near Capitol Reef National Park

If you do decide to stay longer than a few hours or one day, here are a few options for sleeping.

Capitol Reef National Park campgrounds

There’s only one developed campground within Capitol Reef, and that’s the 71-site Fruita Campground . The fee is $25 per night, and sites are reservable only between 1 March and 31 October. The rest of the year it’s first come, first served.

Hotels near Capitol Reef National Park

• For something  truly unique, book a night in a Conestoga wagon! Peek out your wagon at Capitol Reef Resort in the morning for stunning red rock views. Or, choose from luxury teepees and cabins
• Broken Spur Inn and Steakhouse (located in Torrey) is a simple hotel only a 10-minute drive to the entrance of Capitol Reef National Park

Vacation rentals near Capitol Reef National Park

• This cute cabin is great for couples or small families
• This 2-bedroom home with a great deck in the nearby town of Teasdale

Finally, return your car or campervan in Salt Lake City – 7 days in Utah goes by quickly! This will be a trip you won’t quickly forget – and if you’re like me, you’ll be wanting to go back very soon.

Tips for planning a Utah national parks road trip itinerary

Buy a national parks pass.

If you’re planning to road trip to Utah national parks, buy the America the Beautiful annual pass , which costs $80. Each national park costs between $20 and $35 to visit, so if you visit three or more parks on this Utah mighty 5 road trip, this pass will save you money .

The pass is also valid at any national park in the entire United States so you can use it at other parks for the rest of the year.

Book accommodation in advance

Hotels, lodges and camping sites around the national parks can be booked out months – even a year – in advance, so book accommodation in advance . (I use Booking.com and Expedia to book accommodation, comparing prices across both sites before I book.)

Each campsite has different processes for booking. Some can be booked online in advance, others can only be booked in person on the day, so you’ll need to factor this in to your planning.

Research each park before you visit

Do your research on each park’s website in advance – there’s a huge amount of information available online. This will help you plan your days to get the most out of each park.

And when you arrive at each park, stop by the visitor centre to pick up a map and talk to the rangers . They know the best time to visit each location for the perfect photos and which hikes to do to maximise the time you have.

Best time to visit Utah national parks

We visited in early June and found it to be a great time to visit the Utah Mighty 5 – just before school vacation so the crowds were not quite in full force, and the weather was warm and sunny, but not yet suffocatingly hot.

Spring and autumn/fall

These are the best seasons to visit the national parks in Utah – but also the most popular. Temperatures are milder, so hikes will be more manageable, but you’ll have to battle the crowds.

It goes without saying that summer is the hottest time to visit the national parks of Utah, with temperatures often creeping toward 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). If you must visit during these months, plan your visit carefully and aim to hike either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. And always have plenty of water with you.

The winter months can bring temperatures below freezing at night – and snow . I’ve seen photos of some of the national parks during winter and it looks stunning with snow-dusted peaks and few crowds, but make sure to come with adequate winter clothing.

What to pack for a Utah national parks road trip

When you’re visiting the national parks in Utah, come prepared. Here are a few items I’d recommend packing, and I have a longer road trip packing list guide with more ideas:

• An America the Beautiful annual pass to save you tonnes of money!
• A cell phone mount is helpful for hands-free navigating. Remember to download maps as you’ll encounter areas without service.
• Bring a good backpack for all your gear, and a daypack for hiking.
• Use a water bladder to stay hydrated while tackling the hiking trails.
• Pack sturdy hiking boots . 
• Don’t forget plenty of  sunscreen ! It gets hot out here, and the sun can be brutal, even in winter.
• If you’re travelling in a campervan like we did or camping in Utah national parks, you may go several days without a shower (pee-yew!). Pack some body wipes to stay fresh.
• If you’re camping or in an RV, pack a power inverter to keep your electronics charged while you’re driving.
• Don’t forget a good first aid kit .
• Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Southwest USA  or Lonely Planet’s national parks guidebook   so that you can learn more about Utah . 

For other items you’ll need to bring on this Utah national parks itinerary 7 days, check out this packing list for camping in the national parks .

Utah national park road trip: FAQSs

How many days do you need to see the national parks in utah.

You need at least a week to see all of the national parks in Utah. With 7 days, you can visit each of the state’s five national parks. This will give you 1-2 days at each of the national parks.

Can you see all 5 national parks in Utah?

The great thing about the Mighty 5 is that you can see all of them in a week. Follow my itinerary and you’ll be able to visit all 5 national parks in Utah in just 7 days.

How many national parks are there in Utah?

Utah has 5 national parks: Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef National Park.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Have you visited Utah? Which is your favourite national park? Let me know in the comments below.

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Before you go… you might like these USA road trips:

• New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary: Discover the Land of Enchantment
• Plan a Deep South Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do and Eat
• Mississippi Road Trip: 7 Fascinating Places to Visit in the Magnolia State
• 17 Fun Things to do in West Texas: An Unmissable West Texas Road Trip

USA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around the USA online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in the USA. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout the USA on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to the USA will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

7 DAY ITINERARY UTAH NATIONAL PARKS: PIN IT FOR LATER

Don’t forget to save this Utah national parks road trip itinerary to Pinterest and guide so that you can plan your own road trip!

About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

17 thoughts on “Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: How to Plan a 7-Day Trip to the Mighty 5 in 2024”

Hi Rebecca, I am looking to do a SLC to LV of the Mighty 5 plus GC, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon in October. I have 15 days including fly days. Ideas on an itinerary? Thanks so much!

Hi Amy! You could do something like: Salt Lake City (spend a day there if you haven’t already visited), then Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Moab (for both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks), The Needles portion of Canyonlands, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Zion, LV. Plan to spend 2 days at least in each of Bryce, GC and Zion, plus 3 days in Moab. That should stretch you out to two weeks without feeling rushed. I’m jealous you’ll have so much time exploring this beautiful part of the world!

Hi…I love this post but I am looking to do LV to LV including a brief visit at GC, Antelope and Horseshoe and then travel on to the Utah parks. I have 10 days including flying. Any ideas on an itinerary?

Hi Joan, how fun! The most efficient route, then, would be Las Vegas – Grand Canyon – Horseshoe Bend/Antelope Canyon – Arches NP/Canyonlands – Capitol Reef – Bryce Canyon – Zion NP – Las Vegas. You could easily do that in 10 days, with one day at each stop (or two days in places you really want to spend a bit more time in). Have fun!!

Dynamite photos, loved looking at them.

Thanks! It’s such a beautiful state, so fun to drive around.

Enjoyed reading this very much. Thanks! Since you did a fair amount of driving around where I’m planning to go, wondering if you had any info/advice to share about using an RV for this trip in the winter. Curious about accessibility with the roads, whether any of the segments between parks make driving difficult because of vehicle clearance, or whether the roads are not paved and may be difficult to traverse in a larger vehicle.

Hey Patrick! So excited that you’re heading this way – it’s a beautiful part of the world. We visited in early June and had no issues with the roads – and there were so many RVs out as well. In winter, I’d say it’d be much the same. The roads between all the parks are paved and well-maintained. Even within the parks the roads are really good so I wouldn’t think you’d have any issues. The only limitation I can see is if you want to get offroad at any time. For example, driving through Monument Valley was quite bumpy in our small campervan, and it might be tough in an RV (depending on how big it is) – check first whether they even allow RVs inside the monument. Happy travelling and let me know if you have any more questions!

Just got back from Zion, but I want to see them all!

What I loved about all the parks in Utah is just how close they were to each other – so it is possible to see several in just a few days!

Such incredible photos – Zion National Park looks like a different planet!! What an adventure – definintely one for the bucketlist!

Absolutely! Was such a great trip 🙂

Rebecca!! Seriously, I cannot thank you enough for opening my eyes to the world of camper vans! We leave in two weeks and last minute Chase wanted to camp (and we pretty much have no camp supplies, although it’s been on my list to get for this summer – to start small and camp close to home LOL, he was ready for a 3000 mile away camp trip), so it left us scrambling to figure out how to get a tent on a plane, oh and then buying a tent, and yadda! We already reserved a rental car, but believe we are returning it and going with the camper van. This post made me even more excited!

Thank you again! <3

Oh I’m so glad I saw your post and commented. It really does make life easier – you don’t have to lug a whole lot of stuff on to a plane, and buy stuff that you might not use again. It will be a bit cold while you’re there, too, so sleeping inside a van will make it a little warmer. Have so much fun – can’t wait to see your pics!!

This post reminds me of your adventure to see Mt Fitz Roy in Patagonia for you took some really great shots at both places! Weather plays an important role in making an outdoor adventure pleasant or not, and you seem to always know when to go. I have to say your photos of those national parks in Utah are some of the best I’ve ever stumbled upon! Btw, in that photo of you and other hikers wading through the icy water at the start of The Narrows, it’s not easy to spot which one your husband is. That bird of paradise reminds me of the days when you were still living in PNG. 🙂

Bama, you always leave the nicest comments!! This really brightened up my day when I first read it and I was in a slump about blogging in general. Thank you! And the fact that you noticed the bird of paradise tattoo! 🙂

Wow Rebecca this is a wonderful blog. I have really enjoyed reading it and will read the others. Elly just told me about it. Glad she did as it gives me an heads up on how you and Matt spend your rec time. Great stuff.

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Traveling The World Through Nature

The perfect 4 day southern utah road trip itinerary.

Every year millions of visitors explore the natural beauty that Utah has to offer. The vast landscape has many different types of geographic structures depending upon the region you are in. Utah is renowned for the “Mighty 5,” which are the 5 national parks that the state offers. All the parks are amazing and should be on your list to see, however they are not all located next to each other.

If you’re limited on time, consider this great southern Utah road trip itinerary, which lets you visit 2 of the 5 national parks that comprise the Mighty 5, along with a state park that many people often choose to skip.

The Perfect Time to Head on a Southern Utah Road Trip

I would argue that this itinerary could work year-round, however the winter months can make some of the trails in the following destinations inaccessible due to snow and cold temperatures.

The best time to visit is between late spring and early fall, this is also the time that most tourist flock to the southern region of Utah. Holiday weekends can be some of the worst time for traffic and trails can be heavily crowded.

If you can be flexible with time, I would suggest going on the shoulder seasons. The shoulder seasons are early May and October and early November. These months offer perfect hiking temperatures during the day with it cooling off at night (perfect for campfires). You are also a lot less likely to deal with crowds and it will feel less chaotic.

Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 - southern utah road trip itinerary.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a great destination to start your southern Utah road trip at. This park is great for everyone from families just looking to hang out to adventure seekers that want to conquer some of the most popular hikes in the world.

The park is full of trails that will allow you to see so many different types of landscape.

To start the day take the shuttle to the Zion Lodge and get off. From here you will be able to do your first hike of the day, the Emerald Pools. You have a few options, there is the lower, middle, and upper Emerald Pools. Each hike has varying difficulty and length. I would suggest doing either the lower or middle Emerald Pool. Depending upon the time of year you are visiting the pools may have little to no water, this is okay! The hike is still worth it to see the amazing structure. This hike should only take an hour or so.

Once you have finished and are back at the lodge get back on the shuttle and head upwards, you are going to want to get off at stop #6, the Grotto. This is where you will start the ascent to Angels Landing, one of the most well known hikes in Zion National Park and a must do on a Southern Utah road trip. Make sure you are prepared for this hike with plenty of water and snacks. It is 5 mile hike round-trip with steep inclines and a chain section at the top. This trail is heavily trafficked, so do not be shocked to see many others. It takes around 4 to 5 hours to complete to do this hike.

Once you’re back down its time to head back to your accommodations, but first stop at the Zion National Park Visitor Center. It has a lot of interesting history about the back.

Day 2 - Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Zion National Park 

For the second day at Zion National Park, you will want to get up early and take the shuttle to the last stop where you will be at the start of “The Narrows”, one of the most iconic hikes that can be found in the park. I have also published a in-depth guide to hiking The Narrows , but here are a few quick tips;

• The bus ride will take longer than you think, about 45 minutes to the top.
• Rental gear is overpriced and not noncapillary needed.
• Pack plenty of snacks because you will use a lot of energy hiking up stream.

This hike will most likely take you all day! So be prepared to spend your time wading through water. At the beginning of the hike, you can expect it to be very crowded, but as you proceed farther up, you are less likely to encounter people.

When coming back down, you’ll likely be exhausted. However, if you still have the energy, another hike is a must. Canyon Overlook Trail is a one mile hike that is outside of the valley. It offers stunning views looking into Zion National Park.

Accommodations Near Zion National Park

There are plenty of accommodation options when visiting Zion National Park during your Southern Utah road trip. Most people, myself include would like to stay within Zion National Park. There are a few campsite options , or even the Zion Lodge that you can stay in. Both of these are popular and will fill up fast during the busy season, so grab a reservation as soon as you can.

If you are wanting to stay outside the park or the reservations are full there is the town of Springdale. Located just minutes from the entrance there are plenty of hotels, inns, and even a few campgrounds. If you are a points member the Springhill Suites by Marriot is a great option.

Day 3 - Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Coral Pink Sand Dune State Park

[Drive Time: 35 minutes /28 miles]

Located just 35 minutes from Zion National Park is Coral Pink Sand Dune State Park. This is a destination that you might not have heard of before, at least I had never heard of it. I discovered the park by mistake, when I was driving, I happened to notice a sign saying only 5 miles to the park entrance. I decided I would stop and check out the park and visit for a little bit, I ended up spending the rest of my day here.

The park features sand dunes covered in stunning pink-toned sand that will leave you in awe, both figuratively and literally. The hike to the top of these sand dunes can be strenuous, especially in the heat. Prepare to allocate more time here than you initially think you’ll need.

Make sure to take advantage of all the fun activities you can do here, one of my favorites is sandboarding. This is a rare activity to find in the United States and there are not many other places that you are able to do this in.

While there are not many designated hiking trails, there are plenty of dunes to roam around in, or even ATV if you are up for it.

Overshadowed by both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park this is a hidden gem that must be on your road trip itinerary.

Accommodations Near Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

There is a campground located at the Coral Pink Sand Dunes which is nice, however there is not too many other accommodations nearby. If you are planning on trying to stay at a hotel, continue up towards Bryce Canyon National Park as this will be the destination for Day 4.

Day 4 - Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Bryce Canyon National Park

[1 hour 30 minutes/74 miles]

Bryce Canyon National Park is a relatively small National Park, however, do not let the size fool you because it is full of beautiful trails. This is a great destination to end your southern Utah road trip on because the hikes are mellow and not as strenuous.

These giant red-orange hoodoos will have you staring in awe, especially during sunrise or sunset.

If you are a morning riser plan on starting your day early by heading to sunrise point. The sunrise will give you the perfect picture opportunities, during the shoulder months it can be quite cold so dress warm.

Once the sun has risen and you are ready to start your day plan on hiking the Navajo Loop and Queen Garden Trail. This hike will take you down over 500 feet into the canyon below. This is one of the most common hikes because of the hoodoos. While hiking, you’ll witness the progression of how a hoodoo forms. This hike starts and Sunrise Point and ends at Sunset Point, and takes about 3 hours to complete.

From here you will then drive out of the park and head to do Mossy Cave Trail. This trail is on the shorter side, only about 0.8 miles round trip. Over the past few years this hike has become more popular. The hike does not have much elevation change, but ends at a really cool cave with a small waterfall inside.

Accommodations Near Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is similar to Zion National Park. A lot of people will either try to stay at the campsites, or the lodge. Especially if they are planning on doing an early morning hike.

Right outside of Bryce Canyon National Park is Ruby’s. Ruby’s has both a campsite and hotel. There is even a shuttle stop right outside of the campsite making it easy to get to the park.

Day 5 - (Optional) Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary

[1 hour 30 minutes/78 miles]

If you have the chance and the opportunity an extra day to dedicate to hiking The Wave is worth it. You can enter this spectacular hike through a lottery system, and there are two different methods to participate. The first is online, the lottery opens 4 months prior to the actual hike date, so plenty of time to plan if you do win. The lottery cost is $9 and can be found on recreation.gov

The second option to getting permits is by visiting in person. I would only suggest doing this if you are in the area, because the chances of winning are still pretty slim. They have recently allowed more hikers to visit every day, increasing from 16 to 64 people.

This is another hike for which you need to ensure you’re well-prepared. There’s very limited shade, and there isn’t really a designated “trail,” so it’s crucial to bring a map or GPS with you.

 This adventurous road trip through the captivating landscapes of Bryce Canyon National Park, the distinctive beauty of Pink Coral Sands State Park, and the grandeur of Zion National Park proved to be an extraordinary experience.

The journey led us through the enigmatic hoodoos, the surreal pink sand dunes, and the towering red rock canyons. The enduring memories, conquered challenges, and the awe-inspiring scenery have left an indelible mark on the soul. This road trip was not merely a physical voyage but a profound adventure that ignited the spirit, leaving an indelible chapter in our lives.

4 Replies to “The Perfect 4 Day Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary”

[…] Although now one of the busier trails in the park, I had no time finding parking in the winter. I visited Bryce Canyon National Park for two days in the winter, and thought that this was the perfect amount of time. There are many other National Parks to visit in Utah and they can be combined into one trip. If you are interested in seeing more check out my Perfect 4 Day Southern Utah Road Trip. […]

[…] There are several ways to enjoy a trip to Bryce Canyon in the winter. One option is to stay overnight, another would be to take a day trip from Las Vegas, or you could try my favorite way to travel and make it a National Park road trip. […]

[…] The Perfect 4 Day Southern Utah Road Trip […]

[…] The Perfect 4 Day Southern Utah Road Trip Itinerary  […]

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The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

With its otherworldly landscapes, Mighty Five national parks, fascinating slot canyons, and its seemingly endless number of state parks and other beautiful natural spots, Utah is, without a doubt, one of the most unique states in the USA–and nothing puts that uniqueness on display quite as well as a Utah national parks road trip.

Utah was made for road tripping: there is no shortage of dirt roads to meander down, quiet corners to explore, stargazing to enjoy, and iconic landscapes to seek out.

We’ve taken several road trips in Utah at this point, and every time we visit, we end up even more enchanted with a state whose landscapes encompass the word “otherworldly” so perfectly that I will no doubt overuse it in this blog post.

Planning your first (or third) Utah Mighty Five road trip and want to make sure you make the most of your time in southern Utah?

We have you covered: t his Utah national parks road trip itinerary covers all of Utah’s Mighty Five national parks, along with several state parks, small towns, and interesting side trips.

Here’s how to structure the ultimate road trip through Utah’s national parks!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Getting around during your utah national parks road trip, getting to utah’s mighty five (where to fly into + out of), other places to add to your utah national parks road trip, essential tips for a utah mighty five road trip, southern utah road trip itinerary map, what to pack for a utah road trip.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We structured this Utah road trip itinerary not as a loop, but as a trip with different starting and ending points.

Since this Utah national parks road trip takes place in primarily very rural areas, you’ll need to get yourself to the starting point of Moab if you fly into the region–we’ll cover more on how to do that later–and back to the airport (or a different airport) from Zion National Park after your trip is over.

Later, we’ll also cover possible additions to this road trip, including in neighboring states, if you’d like to consider turning your trip into a Utah and Arizona road trip or even a general southwest road trip .

This blog post is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above in order to navigate through different sections!

We also have many, many more blog posts about exploring Utah’s national parks and the southwest in general here on Our Escape Clause.

While we’ll link them throughout the post, you can also use the search bar in the top right of the screen (on desktop) or on the pop-out menu (on mobile) to search for blog posts about various parks and topics!

If you’re planning to rent a car for your Utah road trip, the best company to rent from will likely vary dramatically depending on exactly when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip.

We’ve taken several road trips in the southwest over the years, and have never used or needed a 4-wheel drive–but if you want to get far off the (literally) beaten path, you may want to consider renting one!

Check rates & book your rental car for your Utah Mighty 5 road trip!

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

The Utah national parks road trip outlined here takes place over 9 days.

In other words, it takes just enough time to take one week off of work and make a trip through the southern part of the state at breakneck speed, which is similar to what we did on our very first Utah road trip back in the day (no regrets).

However, any of Utah’s Mighty Five national parks could easily soak up more time, so if you have more days to work with, you’ll definitely find plenty to do!

Day 1: Kick off your Utah National Parks road trip in Moab.

Moab is the perfect starting place for your Utah road trip itinerary!

This small, outdoorsy town in southeastern Utah is perfectly positioned to access not one, but two of Utah’s Mighty Five national parks, as well as state parks and other highlights!

If you get into town early enough, consider spending the afternoon and evening kicking off your explorations of Arches National Park, which is located just outside of town!

Where to Stay in Moab

Moab has plenty of hotels and motels to choose from, but fair warning–it’s one of the priciest destinations covered during this road trip, so don’t expect to nab a great deal during high season!

Red Stone Inn — Centrally located in Moab, the Red Stone Inn feels like a callback to another era of American road trips.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive slice of Americana, the Red Stone Inn is a great option–and the swimming pool and laundry services located on-site are a selling point, too.

Check rates & book your stay at the Red Stone Inn!

Comfort Suites Moab — We stayed here during a recent visit to Moab, and couldn’t have been happier with the comfortable rooms, exceptional customer service, and great location in town.

Check rates & book your stay at Comfort Suites Moab!

Hyatt Place Moab — Moab isn’t exactly a destination that lends itself to luxury, but those looking for some great creature comforts during their trip will find them at the new, swanky Hyatt Place Moab, which is just a few years old!

In addition to its swimming pool, included breakfast, and great rooms, Hyatt Place Moab also boasts an exceptional location on the edge of Moab, just minutes from the entrance to Arches National Park.

Check rates & book your stay at Hyatt Place Moab!

Vacation rental.

My Place Hotel  — Need access to a kitchen while exploring the best activities in Moab? Consider the studios at the brand-new My Place Hotel!

We stayed here on our most recent trip to Moab and loved the kitchen access (though be warned, it’s not stocked, so bring your own plates/pans), the view, the extreme cleanliness, and beyond all, the location.

My Place Hotel is located on the edge of town, a short drive from Arches National Park, making it an ideal place to stay for hikers.

It’s also pet-friendly, a must for Ranger!

Check rates & book your stay at My Place Hotel!

Day 2: Explore Arches National Park.

On day 2 of your national parks road trip in Utah, head (back) to Arches to knock off at least one of its iconic hikes.

We have a full post detailing the best hikes in Arches here , so I’ll try not to repeat myself much, but the Delicate Arch trail and the full Devils Garden trail are among our favorites.

Even if you’d rather not go more than, say, a mile along a trail, though, Arches still has plenty to offer!

In the evening, head back to town to enjoy dinner at one of the great restaurants in Moab .

Day 3: Check out Canyonlands + watch the sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park.

Canyonlands National Park is enormous, and it is divided into three distinct sections: Island in the Sky , the Maze, and the Needles.

This Utah road trip itinerary includes a visit to Island in the Sky, both because it is the easiest section to access from Moab and because it is the district that is most accessible in general.

Be sure not to miss the iconic (and short) hike to Mesa Arch: it’s popular at sunrise for a reason, but even if you’re not willing to get up well before dawn, it’s still worth visiting at any time of day.

You’ll want to pack a picnic lunch for this part of your Utah road trip because after spending the bulk of the day on the Island in the Sky, we recommend stopping by Dead Horse Point State Park on your way back to Moab to enjoy the sunset from one of Utah’s best sunset spots.

If you’re on a strict budget, you may want to skip Dead Horse Point State Park as it’s an additional $20 fee per car to enter–but the sunsets are magical enough that we have visited more than once.

Day 4: Drive to Capitol Reef National Park + stop at Goblin Valley State Park.

Today, it’s time to leave behind popular Moab and head off to the least-visited of the Mighty Five national parks in Utah: Capitol Reef National Park. 

We recommend traveling along beautiful Highway 24–the scenic drive is worthy of being considered a tourist attraction itself!

Along the way, consider making a detour to Goblin Valley State Park .

This valley is populated by a unique set of hoodoos that look remarkably like goblins! 

A stop here doesn’t necessarily need to be longer than a couple of hours to be worth the effort, but be sure to come prepared for lots of heat and sun exposure: the valley floor is mercilessly hot and exposed.

Once you finish checking out the goblins, head to Capitol Reef to finish your day with some absolutely stunning views.

Where to Stay Near Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is located in a very rural area, but there are a decent number of nearby hotels to consider, particularly in Torrey.

We personally went for a more unique stay when we visited and stayed in a covered wagon!

If you’re looking for unique accommodation, Capitol Reef is a great place to look. Yurts, glamping tents, covered wagons, and beyond are fairly easy to come by!

Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse — We stayed at the Broken Spur during our time at Capitol Reef National Park and loved the novelty of sleeping in a covered wagon!

For those looking for a well-located property close to the national park with a few more creature comforts, though, the inn does also have more typical rooms available in the main building.

Check rates & book your stay at Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse!

Austin’s Chuckwagon Motel — With great reviews and plenty of southwestern curb appeal, Austin’s Chuckwagon Motel is a convenient and reliable place to stay near Capitol Reef National Park–and the views from the property aren’t bad, either!

Check rates & book your stay at Austin’s Chuckwagon Motel!

Capitol Reef Resort — Set on a beautiful property and boasting amenities like a luxurious pool with a view and a fitness center, Capitol Reef Resort is a choose-your-own-adventure style accommodation.

Whether you’d like to glamp in a tent, indulge in a memorable night’s stay in a covered wagon, or simply stay in one of the resort’s more traditional rooms, Capitol Reef Resort has an option for you!

Check rates & book your stay at Capitol Reef Resort!

Day 5: Enjoy Capitol Reef National Park.

Many Utah road trips skip past or barely touch Capitol Reef National Park, partially because it’s small and partially because it’s a bit out of the way, but that’s a mistake.

In our opinion, Capitol Reef is incredibly beautiful, and also has the benefit of being less crowded than parks like Arches and Zion!

The scenic drives through the park are stunning, and there are several cool hikes worth checking out, including the popular Hickman Bridge and the Cassidy Arch Trail, so named because it is said that Butch Cassidy once hid out there.

Be sure to also spend some time in the Fruita Historic District: this small village was built by 19th-century Mormon settlers, and the fruit trees there produce some truly remarkable things to eat.

Head to the Gifford House, now a small shop, where you can pick up homemade jams, pies, baked goods, and other desserts that are made from the fruit grown on-site.

The triple-berry pie is one of the best pies we’ve ever had in our lives, and it makes a delicious post-hike snack!

Day 6: Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park via Highway 12 + start exploring.

The scenic route from Capitol Reef National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park along Highway 12 will see you spending most of your driving time in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

In other words, the views are pretty incredible, and you may want to stop a few times along the way!

Once you reach Bryce Canyon, head directly into the park and start exploring: scenic viewpoints like Inspiration Point and Bryce Point are the perfect way to start exploring the park.

For sunset, head to the aptly-named Sunset Point to watch the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon shift color as the sun goes down.

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon City is located right outside Bryce Canyon National Park and is the best place to stay when visiting.

Here are a couple of great places to consider!

Bryce Canyon Pines — For basic, comfortable accommodation with a wildly popular restaurant on-site, Bryce Canyon Pines is an excellent option!

We stayed here during our most recent trip to Bryce Canyon and found it to be exactly as advertised: basic but decent enough for a quick stay.

Check rates & book your stay at Bryce Canyon Pines!

Mid-range/Luxury

Best Western Plus Bryce Grand Canyon Hotel — After staying in literally hundreds of hotels over the last several years, we still count this as one of our most memorable stays–in part because of the hotel’s absolutely phenomenal breakfast, and in part because of the excellent location and customer service.

This is our #1 choice of where to stay near Bryce Canyon, and we will always check if it’s available before booking anywhere else when we return to the park!

Check rates & book your stay at the Best Western Plus Bryce Grand Canyon Hotel!

Day 7: Spend the morning at Bryce Canyon before driving to Zion National Park.

This morning, we recommend hiking a combination of Bryce Canyon’s most popular trails: Navajo Loop to the Queen’s Garden Trail (via Wall Street if it’s open). 

If you get a prompt start, you can easily finish before lunch and be ready to head onto Zion, while still getting to see what are arguably the best views in Bryce Canyon first!

Once you reach Zion, if you have the energy for a second hike, consider knocking a short one off of your wish list–but be sure to leave enough energy for tomorrow, when you’ll tackle one of the most unique hikes in Utah!

Where to Stay Near Zion National Park

Springdale is the closest town to Zion National Park and the ideal place to stay when visiting–however, like Moab, it is popular and therefore pricey.

If you’re on a strict budget, you can also consider looking a bit further out in towns like La Verkin.

However, be prepared for a 30+ minute drive into the park each morning if you stay further out!

La Quinta Springdale — Located just a few miles from Zion National Park, La Quinta Springdale has comfortable rooms, great reviews, and a beautiful pool to cool off in to go along with its prime location.

Check rates & book your stay at La Quinta Springdale!

Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites — With fantastic reviews, great amenities, and a prime location in the heart of Springdale, this hotel is a reliable and comfortable option for visiting Zion National Park!

Check rates & book your stay at Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites!

Holiday Inn Express Springdale — With beautiful lodge-style architecture and phenomenal reviews, Holiday Inn Express Springdale is located less than 2 miles from Zion National Park and is the perfect place to cool off after a long day of hiking.

Check rates & book your stay at Holiday Inn Express Springdale!

Day 8: Go hiking in Zion National Park.

On your full day in Zion National Park , we recommend tackling one of Zion’s two most famous and incredible hikes: Angel’s Landing (which requires a permit as of April 2022) or the Narrows.

Angels Landing is a bit terrifying for people like me who are scared of heights, but ends in a positively stunning view of Zion Canyon, and it ranks among the best hikes in the USA for a reason!

The Narrows, in contrast to the soaring heights of Angel’s Landing, involves hiking directly in the Virgin River as you descend deeper and deeper into the canyon.

Both are utterly unforgettable, and while you can technically attempt both in the same day, that’s really only suitable for very athletic and determined hikers.

Other hikes to consider include the West Rim Trail (if you’re up for a big challenge), or if you’re lucky enough to nab a permit, the Subway.

Unfortunately, a few popular hikes in Zion, including Observation Point and the Weeping Rock Trail, are closed for the foreseeable future due to large rock falls.

Check here for updates before visiting.

Also, keep in mind that from March to October, you can’t drive your private vehicle onto Zion’s Scenic Drive–you’ll need to catch the shuttle instead!

Day 9: Say goodbye to Utah’s Mighty Five + head home (or to wherever is next).

On the final day of your Utah national parks road trip, say goodbye to Zion National Park and head home–or to wherever is next!

If you have time for one more quick hike before leaving Zion, we highly recommend the Canyon Overlook Trail for something fast and easy with a great pay-off at the end (and unlike most hikes in Zion, you can drive your own vehicle to the trailhead year-round).

As fantastic and rewarding as a Utah Mighty Five road trip is, this road trip does take a bit of effort to actually start, as there are no major airports in the direct vicinity of Moab.

That being said, it is slightly more convenient to get to/from Zion National Park at the end of the trip.

Of course, there’s no rule stating you need to follow this Utah national parks road trip itinerary exactly.

D epending on your flight schedule and what airport you choose, you may prefer to reverse this trip (though personally, I am partial to starting in Moab if you can).

Assuming you’re flying into the region for your trip, there are several cities that would work as a starting point–h ere are some that we recommend checking flight prices and times for.

Depending on exactly when you’re visiting and what your priorities are, the best (and most affordable) airport will vary, but that being said, Las Vegas is a very popular option.

In addition to those listed here, if you plan to extend your Utah road trip into a larger Utah and Arizona road trip and/or southwest road trip, you may want to check prices for Albuquerque and Phoenix as well.

For sheer convenience alone, St. George is arguably the best airport to fly into for this Utah national parks itinerary.

St George is about an hour from Zion National Park, and a little under 5 hours from Moab.

Las Vegas is often the cheapest and most convenient option when flying into the US southwest.

Flights are plentiful and typically affordable from a wide variety of initial destinations, and Las Vegas is about 6.5 hours from Moab and less than 3 hours from Zion National Park.

Salt Lake City

Utah’s capital city makes a solid starting point and is located under 4 hours from Moab and under 5 hours from Zion National Park.

If you want to extend your itinerary to include northern Utah, SLC is the clear choice for you!

At more than 5 hours from Moab and 4 hours from Zion National Park, Flagstaff isn’t the most convenient airport for this Utah road trip–but it is ideal if you’d like to add a stop at the Grand Canyon to your trip!

Have more time to spend on your road trip in the southwest?

The first thing we would recommend is adding additional time to your favorite national parks–Zion and Arches, in particular, could each use more time, especially for enthusiastic hikers.

Adventurous travelers with access to 4-wheel drive may want to visit other sections of Canyonlands and Capitol Reef, as well.

In addition to extending your time, though, here are a few other places to consider adding to your Utah road trip itinerary!

Within Utah

Grand staircase-escalante national monument.

This Utah national parks road trip already takes you right through Grand Staircase-Escalante–you’ll drive through it on Highway 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce–but it’s well worth spending some time in if you have a chance to spend longer in Utah!

There is plenty of diverse hiking in Grand Staircase-Escalante, but these days it’s known for its incredible slot canyons. 

Some of the most popular include Zebra Canyon, Peekaboo Canyon, and Spooky Canyon, where we took this photo:

Coral Sand Dunes State Park

Want to see some rolling sand dunes without leaving Utah?

At Coral Sand Dunes State Park, you can–and depending on the light that day, the dunes can indeed look a bit pink.

There are also several other fun things to do in Kanab that are worth checking out after your visit!

Monument Valley Tribal Park

Situated in Navajo Nation right along the Utah/Arizona border, Monument Valley is known for its soaring rock formations and its status as a popular place to film movies–including, perhaps most famously, Forrest Gump!

Natural Bridges National Monument

Home to 3 stunning natural bridges, those who fell in love with Arches National Park will also enjoy Natural Bridges National Monument!

Beyond Utah

Located just over the border in Arizona, the Wave is not easy to access–its permit system limits access to just 20 people/day.

If you manage to nab one of the elusive Wave permits , though, it’s worth rearranging your road trip itinerary to make it happen!

Valley of Fire State Park

If you fly into or out of Las Vegas, Nevada’s beautiful Valley of Fire State Park makes for an excellent stop along the way–even half a day is long enough to see some of the coolest spots in this park.

Horseshoe Bend + Antelope Canyon

Hop over the Utah/Arizona border, and you’ll immediately find Page , the small, unassuming town that is home to two of Arizona’s most popular attractions: Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

While Horseshoe Bend can be accessed spontaneously (it’s $10 per vehicle to park and visit), visiting Antelope Canyon requires some advance planning and a tour guide. 

The canyon is located on Navajo land, and you can check the availability of tours here , on the Navajo Nation’s national parks website.

Grand Canyon

Of course, no discussion of places to visit near Utah’s Mighty Five could skip over the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona, which is one of the most famous national parks on the planet!

Just be aware of the distance involved: the Grand Canyon may look close on the map, but in order to reach the popular South Rim from Utah, you’ll need to drive around most of the canyon!

Check to see if you need a reservation.

Starting in April 2022, Arches National Park is piloting  a reservation system  to enter the park between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

This applies daily between April 3 and October 3, so be sure to book your dates as soon as you can!

Other national parks have also been introducing reservation systems for hikes and even access in the last couple of years (such as Angel’s Landing in Zion or the timed access requirements for Rocky Mountain National Park), so it’s best to double-check to see what the latest requirements are as you plan your Utah road trip.

Grab an America the Beautiful Pass before getting started.

The America the Beautiful Pass is the USA’s annual national parks pass and is priced at $80/year for most travelers (there are discounts available for seniors and military personnel).

The $80/year covers daily use fees for all lands that the National Park Service controls.

And, considering that each of Utah’s Mighty Five costs between $20-35/car to enter, you’ll absolutely save money on this trip alone by having one!

Grab your America the Beautiful pass today!

Book your accommodation early!

If you’re traveling during high season, and especially on the weekends, it’s imperative to book your hotel stays ASAP.

Hotels do fill up, especially in places like Bryce Canyon where there are relatively few choices, and you don’t want to be stuck with a less-than-ideal place to stay or an extra-long drive to your park of choice!

We book all our lodging for Utah road trips on Booking.com .

Be prepared for a few dirt roads. 

You don’t need a 4-wheel drive vehicle for this Utah national parks road trip (though it would help you reach a few more spots, including Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef), but you very well might end up down a dirt road or two!

Check on permits if you have your heart set on exclusive hikes.

Some hikes you could potentially complete during your southern Utah road trip do require permits, including the Subway in Zion National Park, the Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park, and the Wave (technically in northern Arizona, but very close to the border).

If you have your heart set on anything in particular, be sure to do a bit of research on how to make it happen before you go.

You’ll probably want to do laundry along the way.

This isn’t difficult–most towns along this route, including Moab, have laundromats available, but to make life easier, you may want to bring quarters along with you instead of needing to track down cash during your trip!

Watch the weather carefully during your Utah national parks road trip.

The brutal heat of the desert summer, the snowstorms of the winter, and the potential flash floods throughout the year all mean that watching the weather during your Utah road trip is imperative.

Be sure to bring plenty of season-specific supplies when hiking in Utah, and as always, make sure to put safety first during this Utah national parks trip.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

America the Beautiful Pass — I mentioned this above, but it bears repeating: a national park pass is a must on a Utah national parks road trip!

If you don’t have one before leaving, each of the Mighty Five does sell the in-person.

Travel Insurance (For You) — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices for your trip here .

Sunscreen  — Keep your skin safe from sun exposure both in and out of the car by adding sunscreen to your road trip packing list!

Proof of Insurance (For the Car)  — If you’re driving a rental car, this may or may not be covered by either your rental company, your credit card, or your travel insurance–but you’ll definitely want to know exactly what the expectations are before leaving!

Rental Contract (If Applicable)  — If you’re renting a car for your road trip, be sure to keep your rental contract handy–we generally keep ours in the glove compartment.

Roadside Emergency Kit  — If you’re taking your own car on your road trip, hopefully you already have one of these packed and ready to go–but if not, now is the time to buy one!

Basic roadside emergency kits are extremely useful, very affordable, and a great way to stay safe on the road.

Windshield Shade — During the hot summer months, you’ll no doubt come back from a sweltering hike during your Utah road trip to find your car practically boiling.

Windshield shades aren’t practical for flying with, but if you’re driving your own vehicle to visit Utah’s Mighty Five, you’ll be glad you picked one up before setting off!

Downloaded Maps — You will undoubtedly lose cell signal at some point during this Utah national parks road trip, so make sure to download your essential maps before heading off!

Reusable Water Bottle(s)  — Cut down on plastic waste, save money, and make sure you don’t have to stop for water constantly: a reusable water bottle has lots of benefits on a road trip.

We personally love and use  these , and love both the look and the functional design!

Extra  USB Cables  and/or Phone Charging Cables  — Whether it’s to charge your phone, your camera, or even your portable USB charger, odds are that you’ll be glad to have a few extra cables lying around.

Hands-Free Phone Mount  — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary”

That sounds like a pretty kickass itinerary. I love the wild outdoors, and national parks are the one of the best ways to experience native natural history. Love this post wish I living in America right about now, only so I could take this on! lol

Thank you, it was a great trip!

Our National Park system is one of, if not the, top reason to visit the USA in my opinion–we have some incredible (and diverse!) landscapes.

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how many days should we alot for this kind of a trip to UTAH? We were just going to Bryce and Zion but I would want to do the waves. From Utah we were going to Las vegas for a meeting so what would be the most logical place as a last stop in Utah? Thank you for this escape memoir

The core itinerary outlined here takes place over 9 days, but the reality is that a southern Utah road trip can take up as much or as little time as you have!

As I’m sure you know, hiking the Wave requires winning the lottery, so to speak, so you’ll want to base yourself in/around Kanab for as long as possible to give yourselves the best chance of getting to go. Luckily there is lots to see in the area, including the Vermillion Cliffs, Coral Sand Dunes State Park, etc. It is a bit out the way if you’re focusing on Zion/Bryce though!

Driving from Zion to Las Vegas, you could stop around St. George before leaving Utah, or explore Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada.

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• Plan Your Trip
• Utah Itineraries

The Complete Zion Trip

6 Days   •   419 Miles

Discover a less crowded Zion by visiting during the shoulder season

Exploring The Zion Region Tucked into the southwest corner of Utah,  Zion National Park  is the centerpiece for a 6-day red-rock vacation that includes a little bit of everything that makes the state such a marvel to experience. Whether you’re flying into Salt Lake, Las Vegas, or nearby St. George, most visitors will enter the park through Springdale, a growing town that’s equipped to offer plenty of creature comforts in this otherwise wild region.

The Zion region exists at the intersection of many different ecosystems, each with their own treasures to uncover. From the red sands of the Mojave desert to the west, to the high alpine forests to the north, to the narrow slot canyons to the south, no matter where you turn, the classic red rock vacation you may have in mind will end up being more diverse than you’d ever expect. 

Because of this region’s close proximity to I-15, you’re never too far away from a city or town full of knowledgeable locals happy to help you get the most out of your vacation. This itinerary is full of suggestions that aren’t quite on the radar of the average visitor, but nonetheless offer memorable moments that rival a scramble up Angel’s Landing. For certain experiences we recommend taking advantage of guides that can help you explore like a local and find views rarely found in brochures or Instagram feeds, as well as make as little an impact on the fragile ecosystem as possible. This is a region that rewards taking the path less traveled, sure to leave you feeling like that one overlook was made just for you.

Prepare for your trip with these  how-to visit Zion tips . 

• Start:  From Salt Lake City drive roughly five hours south west to Springdale
• End:  From Kanab head back to Salt Lake City or extend your trip by visiting the Bryce Canyon region
• Hours of Driving:  21+ hours, including travel between the region and Salt Lake City

Zion Canyon From A Different Point Of View

• Watchman Trail
• West Rim Trail To Cabin Spring

Though Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country, the decision to restrict car traffic within Zion Canyon has kept it a picturesque place to explore. From March through November and during the holidays in December, daily shuttles run through the Zion Canyon Drive, giving visitors front-door access to all the “must-see” spots. The park entrance and first shuttle stop are within walking distance from anywhere in Springdale, so leave your car where it is and stretch your legs before the main event. First-time visitors will inevitably want to check out the Emerald Pools or the vertigo-inducing Angel’s Landing trails, but we suggest you stay flexible, hopping off the shuttle wherever others choose to stay on to find a trail or experience that offers a degree of solitude. You really can’t go wrong, no matter where you decide to roam.

Where to Stay Spend the night in Springdale before a second day of exploring Zion.

Tips for Prepared Travelers Soil Sleuth: Protecting Utah's Living Landscapes

Exploring the Perimeter of Zion

• Grafton Ghost Town
• Wire Mesa Loop Bike Trail

Day two is all about going against the flow. From mountain bike trails on the perimeter of the park, to literal ghost towns, there’s plenty to experience in the Zion region that still feels wild and unexplored. You’ll immediately notice the change of pace as you drive south against the flow of traffic heading into the park. 

Those already familiar with Utah know that Moab is a mecca for singletrack riding, but the area south of Zion National Park is also home to some seriously epic lines. Whether you’re bringing your own bike or renting from one of the local outfitters, there are trails suited for any experience level. 

After your two-wheeled adventures, return to Springdale for your last night in the shadow of the canyon walls. The sunsets in Springdale are worth lingering on a patio with a cold drink in hand as the night climbs its way up the eastern face of the nearby cliffs.

Where to Stay Make up for a day spent outside of the national park’s borders by reserving a camping spot within Zion, either at the Watchman or South campgrounds.

Tips for Prepared Travelers Hiking Southern Utah with Younger Children: Tips for Family-Friendly Adventure

St. George and Snow Canyon State Park

• Snow Canyon Climbing Guide
• Tuacahn Amphitheatre

It’s time to hit the road to nearby St. George , a city experiencing remarkable growth. Before you hit the town, you’ll detour to Snow Canyon State Park , a natural wonder that exists at the intersection of three different geologic zones — the Mojave desert, Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. Due to the confluence of forces shaping this land, you’ll marvel at the diverse landscape before you.

Rock climbers of all skill levels have learned to call these canyons home, with bolted routes scattered about, and cyclists that prefer tarmac to singletrack will find plenty to enjoy on the park’s scenic drive.

In St. George, summer visitors will have the opportunity to take in a show at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre. This stage is nestled within a red rock canyon, offering concertgoers a once-in-a-lifetime open air show under the clear desert sky. (Read: Exploring the Arts in St. George )

Where to Stay Spend the night in luxury digs at one of St. George’s resorts, or camping in the nearby Red Cliffs Recreation area.

Red Cliffs Recreation Area and Cedar City

• Sand Hollow State Park
• Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

After a relaxing night of culture, it’s time to get dirty! Depending on your tolerance for thrill-seeking, your morning can be spent riding ATVs and OHVs across the red dunes of Sand Hollow State Park , or floating across Quail Creek Reservoir on rented stand-up paddle boards. 

No matter your choice of morning activity, save plenty of time to explore the Red Cliffs Recreation Area for the remainder of the day. Again, you have a choice between the red-rock rimmed Upland area, and the fragile desert ecosystem of the Lowland zone. Visitors interested in ecotourism can carefully explore the Lowland area with a guide to learn about the sensitive species and microbiomes that hold this transition zone together. Those with kids in tow are welcome to comfortably explore the City Creek area (or the red rock playground of Pioneer Park) just north of St. George.

Where to Stay After a day spent ripping around Sand Hollow State Park, reserve a room in Cedar City for some well-deserved pampering (Read: 24 Hours in Cedar City ).

Tips for Prepared Travelers Things to know about Off-Road Vehicle Use

Brian Head to Dixie National Forest

• Brian Head in Summer
• Dixie National Forest
• Cedar Breaks National Monument

Now for something completely unexpected: a lush, green high alpine forest in the middle of red rock country. Dixie National Forest never fails to surprise travelers driving through the Zion region. One moment you’re looking out at mesas and buttes straight out of classic westerns, then you turn a corner to find yourself in an entirely different world. Because this area doesn’t fit with the “classic” national park vacation many visitors have in mind, it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. That makes it a perfect place to explore for anyone who loves actually “getting away” during a vacation. The centerpiece of the day’s activities is Cedar Breaks National Monument , another hidden gem that is often overlooked. Geologically similar to Bryce Canyon National Park , this natural amphitheater is a few million years older and slightly more weathered than its national park doppelganger. That said, it still scratches that itch to sample Utah’s iconic hoodoo spires in a more laid back, remote location — though at 10,000 feet above sea level can require taking your time to acclimate.

Where to Stay Camping under the crystal clear Milky Way in Cedar Breaks National Monument .

Slot Canyon Adventures Near Kanab

• Wire Pass Slot Canyon
• Lake Powell (Glen Canyon)

Spend the final day of your journey heading south for the border — with Arizona, that is — in search of slot canyons to explore. These canyons on the Utah-Arizona border range in difficulty from leisurely strolls to technical multi-day expeditions. No matter your comfort level with the claustrophobic walls of Utah’s slot canyons, they are always more enjoyable with the aid of a local guide. After enjoying breakfast in Kanab , join up with a tour operator to get the most out of the nearby slot canyons such as the family-friendly Peekaboo Canyon or a multi-day trek through Buckskin Gulch , the longest navigated slot canyon in the state.

Tips for Prepared Travelers Expert Tips for Your Next Canyoneering Adventure

Extend Your Stay Once you’ve reemerged into the desert sun, you can return to St. George for your flight home, or call in sick for a few more days and extend your vacation nearby at  Lake Powell .

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A Visitor's Guide to Zion's Kolob Canyons

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In the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, you’ll find a scenic wonderland with an adventure for everyone. Learn more about this unforgettable attraction and plan a visit.

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How To Stay Safe in the Outdoors

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Know how to stay safe and informed during your Utah trip and who is helping when you get into trouble.

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Off the Eaten Path: Dining Between the Mighty Five

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Women entrepreneurs in Utah have been particularly successful at honing their expertise. Find out about women-owned businesses you can support while adventuring in Utah.

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Utah’s most unlikely adventure family shows America that you don’t have to fit into the outdoors stereotypes to find your place on the trail.

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With so many destinations, and so many trails, it can be difficult to decide where to begin in Utah's Mighty 5® national parks. Here are 10 family-friendly hikes, two per national park, you cannot miss.

Utah Liquor Laws Visitor Guide — Yes, You Can!

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In preparation for your trip to Utah, here’s what you need to know about Utah's liquor laws, especially how and where to buy a drink in the city or in the rural parts of the state.

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As you explore St. George and Greater Zion seeking excellent food, coffee and drinks, you’ll want to add these top restaurants to your list.

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Yurt Camping in Utah: How To Have a Wintertime Yurt Excursion

Whether you’re glamping or choosing a simpler option, yurt camping in Utah during the wintertime is a fun, unique experience you won’t want to miss out on.

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

Best Road Trips From Salt Lake City

Top road trip destinations from salt lake city.

You will be dazzled by roaming bison, erupting geysers, and bubbling hot springs in Yellowstone. This national park has something for all kinds of visitors from wandering walkers to hardcore hikers alike.

For a bit of extra fun, you can visit Crystal Hot Springs , Idaho Falls and Harriman State Park on your way to Yellowstone.

Aspen is synonymous with luxury skiing, but there's pampering and adventure to be had here year-round. The town has miles of scenic hiking trails, a lively downtown with excellent spas and dining options.

On your way to Aspen, we recommend also visiting Provo Pioneer Village , Museum of Western Colorado in Grand Junction and Glenwood Springs .

Zion National Park features unparalleled scenery. Spectacular rivers cut through towering, red rock sandstone canyons make the perfect backdrop for epic outdoor adventures.

For an extended outdoor adventure, you can stop at Provo , Fishlake National Forest and Dixie National Forest en route.

The brilliant blue water of Lake Tahoe contrasts perfectly with the lush green forests surrounding it and the area has some of the best boating and hiking opportunities in the country.

To make the best of your road trip to Tahoe, spend some time at Bonneville Salt Flats , Northeastern Nevada Museum in Elko and Thunder Mountain Monument .

Known worldwide for its casinos and world-class shows, Las Vegas is sure to impress all visitors. Where else can you mingle with high rollers, play the slots, relax at the spa, party at the pool, take a selfie with Elvis?

There is plenty to see on this route such as Provo , Capitol Reef National Park and Zion National Park , so plan your time accordingly.

With stunning scenery of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks nearby and some of the best hiking, biking, and rock climbing in the world, Moab is an outdoor adventure hub.

A few of the amazing places you can discover en route are Museum of Natural Curiosity in Lehi , Provo and Price Canyon Recreation Area .

Relaxed urban sophistication meets outdoor adventures in Denver. This city is a superb jumping-off point for exploring Colorado's plethora of natural wonders, including world-class skiing.

Beautiful places you can visit en route include Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park near Moab . You can also hit the slopes in Vail and Breckenridge .

The larger-than-life carvings of four of America's greatest Presidents high atop the mountain are one of a kind. Here, you will see the granite faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln.

A few amazing new places to discover on the way to Mount Rushmore are Fort Bridger State Historic Site and Ayres Natural Bridge Park .

Grand Teton National Park is home to some of the country's best and most rugged wilderness. The park offers jaw-dropping vistas of dramatic snow-capped mountain peaks that jut out over the Snake River.

Get ready to make some stops en route to Grand Teton National Park to visit Ogden , Willard Bay State Park , Idaho Falls and Jackson .

History and culture come to life in Albuquerque and the surrounding rugged desert landscape offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. Make sure to check out Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

On your way, you will get to visit stunning national parks such as Arches , Canyonlands and Mesa Verde National Parks , and can make a detour to Santa Fe .

Located in the Heart of Utah's red rock canyon country, Capitol Reef National Park is immense and majestic. The landscape is full of cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges.

This is perfect for an extended day or weekend road trip, and you can add Provo , Yuba State Park and Dixie National Forest to your itinerary.

Santa Fe is a city steeped in art and history. Here, you can explore its Pueblo-style architecture and colorful markets. The city's top-notch cuisine sets it apart from other cities in the region.

This amazing drive has many places to discover, such as Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park , Telluride , Durango and Chimney Rock National Monument .

The beauty and sheer magnitude of the world-famous Grand Canyon will take your breath away. Whether it's hiking, biking, fishing, or rafting, this park offers something or everyone.

There is plenty to see en route, too! We recommend planning for stops at Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks as well as Antelope Canyon near Page on the way.

Page is the perfect hub for visiting all the natural wonders that surround it. Antelope and Water Holes' Canyons' almost intertwined rock faces are positively otherworldly!

As you drive to Page, take some time to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , Zion National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument .

Known as “Utah's Dinosaur Land,” Vernal is full of hands-on opportunities to see how dinosaurs once lived. But there's much more to Vernal than just dinosaurs such as amazing rock formations.

As you travel from SLC to Vernal, spend some time at the cute towns of Park City and Heber City , as well as visit Jordanelle State Park .

Goblin Valley is a departure from the normal state park experience. Here it's less about rigorous hikes and more about exploring the desert floor and taking selfies with its many hoodoos.

If you have some extra time, you can also visit Provo , Price Canyon Recreation Area and John Wesley Powell River History Museum in Green River en route.

If rugged exploration by day and pampering by night is your thing, look no further than Ketchum and Sun Valley. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, both towns offer a host of scenic outdoor activities for any season.

Traveling north, you will have the opportunity to visit Ogden , Crystal Hot Springs and Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve on the way.

You'll be surprised to discover white sand beaches on the largest of the Great Salt Lake islands and be amazed by the wildlife. Where else can you roam the beach alongside bison?

On this short drive perfect for a day trip, you can also extend to visit and spend some time at Bonneville Shoreline Trail , Lagoon Amusement Park and Emerald Pools .

Considered the best destination in Colorado for hot springs, a restorative stop in Glenwood Springs will have you ready to take on a myriad of outdoor adventures including hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing.

On your way to Glenwood Springs, we recommend spending some time in Provo , Grand Junction and Palisade to make the most of your adventure.

Boulder is an upscale mountain town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, whose vast wilderness offers tons to do in any season. Here, you can ski, hike, and hit downtown for shopping and amazing dining.

There is plenty of fun to be had on the drive, too! You can visit Grand Junction , Glenwood Springs , Vail and can even make a detour to Denver .

Visit Bryce Canyon National Park to be amazed by its incredible hoodoos and panoramic vistas. A hiker's paradise, this park offers stunning trails and breathtaking sunrises.

On your way to Bryce Canon National Park, you can also visit Provo , Salina , Capitol Reef National Park and Escalante Petrified Forest State Park .

It's easy to see why people are flocking to Provo, which has been named one of the best cities to live in the United States. Whether you're into art, culture, cuisine, hiking, or fishing, Provo has something for everyone.

Don't forget to check out the Museum of Natural Curiosity in Lehi on this short drive from Salt Lake City to Provo.

Ogden is a charming city with the heart of a beautiful small town and is a gateway to the great outdoors. From Historic 25th Street to ski resorts and hiking trails, you will find plenty to do here.

This relatively short drive to Ogden will take you past Lagoon Amusement Park , SeaQuest Utah and Hill Aerospace Museum .

Park City feels a world away from the big city life of Salt Lake. It's also packed with adventure and home to Deer Valley Resort so it's a perfect place to hit the slopes.

This is a short drive, so we recommend extending your road trip by making stops at Little Dell Recreation Area and Historic Railroad Trailhead .

Discover Heber City, a scenic town in the heart of Utah. This pretty town is known for its outdoor recreation, charming small-town atmosphere, and close proximity to Park City.

On your way, you can spend some time in Park City , hit the slopes at Deer Valley Resort , or Jordanelle State Park before arriving in Heber City.

If you are looking for a peaceful spot, explore Midway, a quaint town known for its Swiss-themed architecture and annual Swiss Days Festival. Enjoy outdoor activities and the local hot springs.

On the drive to Midway, make sure to check out Park City , the winter wonderland of Deer Valley Resort nearby, and Jordanelle State Park .

Longer road trips from Salt Lake City

Phoenix is a destination in and of itself but doubles as a great jumping-off point for tons of outdoor fun in the surrounding areas, including hiking, rock climbing, golf, and hot-air ballooning.

This quirky city is home to bike-loving nature enthusiasts that really appreciate good coffee, wine, microbrews, and food and hosts a vibrant art and music scene.

San Francisco is packed with activities, amazing food at every price point, and incredible views. Along the way, Yosemite is the perfect spot to soak in California's nature-loving vibe.

Explore the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park in Montana, famous for its breathtaking scenery and wildlife, it's a perfect destination for hiking and adventure.

With a beautiful coastline, amazing weather, and palm trees for days, it's easy to see why people flock to Los Angeles; opportunities for fun in the sun are endless!

Seattle is known for its coffee culture and as the birthplace of Starbucks, and the city is also a big tech hub and is home to Amazon and Microsoft.

Turn your travel photos into cherished memories with our Lightroom Presets! 

Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary from Las Vegas

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Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Sarah Puckett

Welcome to your bucket list guide on how to road trip Utah national parks. Stunning geological wonders, breathtaking vistas, and an unspoken connection with the forces of nature await on this one-week road trip itinerary through Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks.

In this blog post, we invite you to join us on a road trip through the remarkable Utah national parks. We’ll explore the must-visit destinations, share insider tips for maximizing your adventure, and offer insights into the rich history and geological significance that make these parks a true marvel of our world. So, buckle up, pack your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on a road trip that will take you deep into the heart of some of nature’s most extraordinary creations. Utah’s national parks are calling, and the road trip of a lifetime awaits – are you ready?

Follow the seven Leave No Trace principles: plan your hike in advance, stick to designated trails, carry out all your belongings, dispose of waste properly, leave natural areas untouched, minimize the impact of campfires, show consideration for fellow hikers, and avoid approaching or feeding wildlife.

Table of Contents

About our Experiences at Utah’s National Parks

My and Tim’s first trip to Utah was in 2013 when we spent a long weekend exploring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in Moab. It took us over 7 years to get back to road-tripping Utah’s national parks (mostly because we were out of the country on our long international jaunts!). When we came back in the winter of 2021, we spent 6 weeks visiting all 5 Utah National Parks, diving deep into each. In 2022, we repeated the adventure, but this time stayed for 8 weeks. In 2023, we ended up spending FOUR MONTHS road-tripping the Southwest. We’ve spent countless days exploring Utah’s national parks, and are excited to share our expertise with you!

Utah National Parks Road Trip At-A-Glance

Day 1: arrive in las vegas and drive to springdale, ut, sunrise hike on the watchman trail.

• Pa’rus Trail
• Zion Human History Museum

Emerald Pools Trail

Weeping Rock Trail

• Option 1: Hiking Angel’s Landing

Option 2: Hiking the Narrows

Canyon Overlook Trail

• East Mesa Trailhead/Observation Point Trailhead

Red Canyon Arch

Scenic drive to bryce point, lower inspiration point.

• Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail

Sunrise Point for Sunset

Gifford homestead, scenic drive, petroglyphs panels, rim overlook trail to hickman bridge, factory butte, sunrise at mesa arch, grand view point, white rim overlook trailhead, sunset at dead horse point state park, sunrise hike to delicate arch, hike to sand dune arch and broken arch.

• Hike Devil’s Garden

Walk the Windows Trail

Hike to double arch, visit the park avenue viewpoint, day 8: return to the airport and fly home, utah national parks road trip map.

Want this map in an interactive format at your fingertips?

This meticulously crafted interactive Google Map showcases an extensive  7-day itinerary through Utah’s 5 national parks , featuring over 50 handpicked locations, along with detailed information about each site. With the Utah National Parks Explorer Map, your exploration becomes a curated and unforgettable experience, guiding you through the awe-inspiring landscapes of  Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks.  Embark on your ultimate Utah adventure with confidence.

>>> Planning to visit more Utah National Parks? Buy the Utah National Parks Road Trip Map here ⬇

On Day 1 of your road trip to Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks, your main goal is just to arrive and drive to Springdale, Utah where you will be based for your explorations in Zion National Park!

In our experience, the Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada has the best flight options both in terms of price and in terms of fewer connections. Once you get to Las Vegas, it’s about a 3 hour drive to Springdale, Utah, which is the most popular base for visiting Zion National Park.

Note: You can also fly into Salt Lake City and drive to Springdale instead. The drive from Salt Lake City International Airport to Springdale, Utah is 4.5 hours.

>> Search flights to Las Vegas for your Utah National Park Road Trip here.

Once at the airport, you’ll need to rent a car for your Utah National Parks road trip.

>> Search rental cars from Las Vegas here.

Wondering what kind of vehicle to rent for your road trip through Utah’s national parks? Here’s our take: while a 2-wheel-drive vehicle is completely sufficient for this road trip, if you are able to rent an all-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive vehicle, you will have more options for some offroading adventures and side quests down dirt roads. If you plan on spending at least 10 days road tripping Utah, we think that is a good option. If you are only visiting for 8 days like in this itinerary, two-wheel-drive will be just fine!

Where to Sleep in Springdale

• Driftwood Lodge
• Flanigan’s Resort and Spa
• AutoCamp Zion
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Zion National Park

Where to Eat in Springdale

• Oscar’s Cafe : big portions and local favorite
• Camp Outpost : rotisserie and veggies served fast with a charming outdoor space
• Cafe Soleil : great sandwich choice and located right next to the park entrance

Day 1 At A Glance:

• Fly into Las Vegas or Salt Lake City
• Drive to Springdale, Utah

Day 2: Zion National Park

Zion national park entrance information.

Today you will be adventuring into Zion National Park! The park entrance fee is $35, but we recommend buying an America the Beautiful National Park Pass , which will save you money if you go to every park on this roadtrip through all five Utah National Parks.

  >>> Buy your National Parks Pass from REI here

Save Money at National Parks

Get a National Parks Pass

Entry to all US national parks at no additional cost for 12 months

This itinerary allots for 2.5 days of exploring Zion National Park. Because of its size and the array of types of activities and hiking you can do here, I wanted to give you enough time to hike both the Narrows and Angels Landing (if you are able to get a permit – more info below). Even without an Angels Landing permit, there is still plenty to see and do in Zion.

Zion National Park Itinerary:

At a high level, here is what 2.5 days in Zion will look like:

• Day 2: Rent an e-bike or take the shuttle to explore Zion Canyon. 
• Day 3:Take a short sunrise hike to the Watchman followed by a water hike adventure in the Narrows
• Day 4: Depart Zion NP via the Zion scenic drive and a spectacular sunrise hike on the Canyon Overlook trail. 

Note: If you have a permit for Angels Landing, spend one day of this itinerary doing that. You can simply swap it out for any of the other days listed above. Or, if you’re the high energy type, add it to Day 2’s activities on this itinerary. 

Getting Around Zion National Park

While you can drive your own vehicle on the Zion Scenic Byway and the Kolob Canyons regions of Zion National Park, private vehicles are NOT allowed in Zion Canyon itself during the shuttle season. The shuttle season, according to the National Park Service, is generally March through November and during the holiday season. So, if you plan on visiting Zion National Park most times of the year, you will need to plan for one of two options for getting around Zion Canyon: taking the shuttle, or renting an e-bike (electronic bike).

Zion Canyon Shuttle Option

The free Zion National Park shuttle is the most popular way to get around Zion Canyon. It makes multiple stops throughout the canyon and runs every few minutes. 

The shuttle system consists of two main routes:

• Zion Canyon Shuttle: This route takes visitors along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, stopping at key trailheads, viewpoints, and attractions. It runs from the park’s south entrance through the main canyon to the Temple of Sinawava, where you can access the trailhead for The Narrows hike.
• Springdale Shuttle: This route connects various lodging properties and campgrounds in the town of Springdale to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, providing visitors with convenient access to the park’s entrance and shuttle system.

Shuttles run frequently throughout the day, allowing visitors to hop on and off at different stops. The system operates from early morning until evening, accommodating both early birds and those who prefer to explore during the cooler hours of the day.

The shuttle system is designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. Accessible shuttle buses equipped with ramps or lifts are available to ensure that everyone can enjoy the park’s attractions.

If you plan to use the shuttle system, park your vehicle in Springdale’s designated parking areas or at the Visitor’s Center in Zion Canyon (but note parking fills up quickly). Many accommodations in Springdale also offer shuttle service to the park entrance.

You can find more information about the Zion National Park shuttle here.

E-Bike Option

Our favorite way to explore Zion Canyon, and what I recommend for you, is renting an e-bike in Springdale and biking into Zion National Park. Because private vehicles are not allowed in the canyon, the only vehicles you have to worry about sharing the road with are the shuttles. Each trailhead has a bike rack you can lock your e-bike to, so you can thoroughly explore each stop the shuttle goes to, plus any other location you feel inspired to check out during your ride!

We rented e-bikes from Zion Adventures on our most recent trip to Zion National Park and it was the PERFECT way to spend the day. 

Regardless of whether you e-bike or take the shuttle, here’s how we recommend spending your first day in Zion National Park and Zion Canyon.

Start your day with a sunrise hike at The Watchman . This is one of the only trails in Zion Canyon that doesn’t require using the park shuttle (or bike) to get to. The trailhead begins right by the parking lot at the Zion National Park Visitor Center. 

The trail is slightly steep as it traverses up the canyon walls via gradual switchbacks. At the top of the trail, you will be awarded spectacular views over Zion Canyon, including the Watchman rock formation for which the trail is named.

The Watchman Trail

• 3.1 miles round trip
• 636 feet of elevation gain
• AllTrails Link

Pa’rus Trail

After your sunrise hike at the Watchman, grab a quick breakfast at Soleil Cafe or one of the other shops within walking distance of the Visitor’s Center. Then, either walk or bike the paved Pa’rus Trail. This trail provides a great overview of Zion’s unique landscapes. 

It’s an incredibly pleasant trail, very flat, and provides awesome views of the red cliffs and Virgin River! 

• 1.6 miles one way
• 134 feet of elevation gain

The Emerald Pools trail leads to a number of waterfalls, some seasonal, at the Upper and Lower Emerald Pools. This hike is VERY popular and as such tends to be quite crowded. Plan to arrive very early to avoid most crowds, and be considerate of your fellow hikers. When we went, it was absolutely packed, but seeing a 90-year-old woman making the trek and loving every minute made any annoyance about the crowds completely evaporate. Smile, make friends, and enjoy the stunning views!

The best time to see waterfalls flowing at Zion National Park is in the spring when snow melt increases water flow. We were lucky to see three flowing during our visit.

• 3 miles round trip
• 620 feet of elevation gain

After your hike to Emerald Pools, make your way to Weeping Rock trailhead. On the shuttle system, this is Stop 7: Weeping Rock .

The short path to Weeping Rock is one of our favorite spots in the park because you get to go behind the waterfall! Like the waterfalls at Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock has the most water in the springtime. The paved trail leading up to the waterfall is steep but short.

• 36 feet of elevation gain

 After hiking the Weeping Rock Trail, either bike back to Springdale or take the shuttle back. Get a delicious dinner in town – we recommend Oscar’s Cafe – and stroll the shops in downtown Springdale. Then, return to your hotel for the night to rest up for another big day in Zion National Park tomorrow!

Day 3: Zion National Park

Today, you have options! How your second day in Zion National Park unfolds will depend on whether or not you are hiking Angels Landing.

Option 1: Hiking Angel’s Landing

Obtaining an angel’s landing hiking permit.

In order to hike Angel’s Landing, you need a permit issued in advance. You can obtain the permit (issued via online lottery) the day before you want to hike Angels Landing, or in a seasonal lottery ranging from 1-5 months in advance of when you want to hike.

You can find more information about obtaining a permit to hike Angels Landing here.

Sunrise Hike at Angel’s Landing

Assuming you have a permit for Angel’s Landing, start your hike as early as possible. The earliest shuttle departs from the Visitor’s Center at 6 am until September, and 7 am after that and before May. You’ll want to get off at Stop 6: The Grotto.

If you want an earlier start, plan to take a bike and lock it to the bike rack at the trailhead for Angel’s Landing.

The Angel’s Landing trail often wins the title of “scariest hike” among outdoor enthusiasts, because of the steep drop-offs on either side of you as you climb the chains portion of the hike. This is definitely not a hike I would recommend to those who are very afraid of heights, but if you take it slow and steady, this hike is not necessarily dangerous. With the permit system in place, the trail is also less crowded than it was in previous years. This is great news because some of the most unnerving experiences on the trail to Angel’s Landing occur when having to cross someone going the opposite way as you on the chains.

The views at the top are spectacular and worth the effort of tackling the over 20 switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles and conquering your fear of heights.

Angel’s Landing Trail

• 1827 feet of elevation gain

Temple of Sinawava

After hiking Angel’s Landing, take the shuttle or a bike to Stop 9: The Temple of Sinawava .

The Temple of Sinawava is where the popular Narrows hike starts, as well as the short and pleasant Riverside Walk trail. In spring, look for the ribbon waterfall on the cliffs! 

Riverside Walk

If you have some energy left over from hiking Angel’s Landing, take a short stroll on the Riverside Walk. We especially recommend hiking the Riverside Walk if you don’t plan on hiking the Narrows, since you can still get a sense of what the canyon is like as it narrows around the Virgin River.

Riverside Walk Trail

• 193 feet of elevation gain

If you don’t have the permit or the desire to hike Angel’s Landing, we recommend hiking the Narrows. This bucket-list Zion National Park hike is famous for its unique trail, which has hikers literally wading through the Virgin River, sometimes in water up to chest high (but usually around knee height), between towering cliff walls that become increasingly narrow as you continue your hike.

Preparing for Hiking the Narrows

Gear up! It’s time to tackle a bucket list hike through the iconic slot canyon Narrows of the Virgin River. Hiking the Narrows requires walking in the water pretty much the entire time, so it’s important to rent gear from a local outfitter in Springdale if you don’t have your own dry suits/bibs/boots. You also need a walking stick to help you keep your balance in the water! 

Here are some local shops we’ve used to rent gear in Zion National Park: 

• Zion Adventure Company
• Zion Outfitter

Additionally, the Narrows frequently closes in springtime and the rainy season when water flow is too high for hikers to safely hike the Narrows. Sometimes the Narrows will be open, but with a high risk of deadly flash floods. Under no circumstances do we recommend hiking the Narrows when there is a risk of flash flooding or any rain in the forecast. If you are unsure if it’s safe on the day of your visit, ask a park ranger!  You can also check for closures on the park’s official website here.

Don’t let this information scare you, though! The Narrows is a fun and safe hike in good weather conditions and with the right gear. 

Hiking the Narrows Bottom-Up

The trailhead for the Narrows starts at the Temple of Sinawava for those hiking “bottom-up”. The “top-down” route through the Narrows is a canyoneering route, so be sure you know what you’re getting into if you choose that option! We hiked the Narrows Bottom Up, so that is what this blog post will focus on.

You will first hike the Riverside Walk all the way to the end. There, you run out of trail and there’s nothing else to do but start walking in the Virgin River.

Hike the Narrows as long as you wish. Depending on how high the water is, making it all the way to the end may not be feasible or fun. The good news is, you don’t have to hike all the way to experience the towering canyon walls surrounding you.

Once you are ready, turn back the way you came. Don’t forget to drop off your rental gear back in Springdale when you return!

The Narrows Bottom Up

• 8.9 miles round trip

Day 4: Zion National Park and Bryce National Park

On your last day in Zion National Park, I recommend hiking at least one more trail, this time on the Zion Scenic Byway on your way toward Bryce Canyon National Park. The drive on the byway itself is incredibly scenic, and since it is not located within Zion Canyon, you may drive your own vehicle versus having to take the shuttle. Be sure to check out of your accommodation this morning, as you will be moving to your next overnight stay today.

The Canyon Overlook Trail is one of our favorites because it’s short with a huge view at the end, making it an ideal choice for early mornings. I recommend timing your hike for sunrise! Plus, the parking area for this hike is fairly small so it helps to get in super early anyway. 

Note that this trailhead is NOT in Zion Canyon, so the shuttle system does not run here. Instead, you should plan to self-drive your own vehicle. 

• 187 feet of elevation gain

Bonus: East Mesa Trailhead/Observation Point Trailhead

After your sunrise hike, we recommend driving to the trailhead for the East Mesa/Observation Point trail. You’ll technically exit the park and re-enter for this one. This trail is very off-the-beaten-path and delivers amazing views of Zion Canyon at the end. It rivals the views at Angels Landing, in our opinion! 

East Mesa/Observation Point Trail

• 702 feet of elevation gain

On your drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park, don’t miss this awesome landmark along the way. You will actually get to drive through two rock arches on the road to Bryce. There’s a small pull-off area where you can stop for photo ops. Just be careful of vehicles and don’t hang out in the road! 

Enter Bryce Canyon National Park

Welcome to Bryce Canyon National Park! The entrance fee to Bryce Canyon National Park is $35 per vehicle, or free if you have the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass.

Here’s how we recommend spending an afternoon and evening in the park as part of your Utah National Parks road trip from Las Vegas.

Drive the Bryce Canyon Road from the Visitor Center to Bryce Point. We recommend driving all the way to Bryce Point first and then stopping at each of the overlooks and viewpoints that will be along the right-hand side of your vehicle as you drive back towards the Visitor Center. 

Stop here on your drive back in the direction of the Visitor Center for a view over Lower Inspiration Point and the Grand Staircase! It’s also worth the short walk on the Rim Trail to Upper Inspiration Point nearby. 

Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail

The Navajo and Queens Garden Loop Trail is our favorite for seeing the highlights of Bryce Canyon National Park’s iconic orange hoodoos. It’s short and easy enough for families with kids, and makes the most of a short visit to the park! 

Note that Bryce Canyon National Park sits between 8,000 and 9,000 feet of elevation above sea level, which means you will likely feel the impacts of the altitude. Symptoms most frequently include shortness of breath, headache, and fatigue. Drink a lot of water and take your hike slow and steady if you find you’re feeling altitude sickness! And don’t worry, your symptoms should recede as your body adjusts or when you descend back down to lower elevations.

• 649 feet of elevation gain

After your hike, catch the sunset at either Sunrise Point or Sunset Point. Both are near each other, just a short walk apart from the same parking lot and provide slightly different facing views and angles.

After sunset, drive to Escalante, Utah, and check into your accommodations for the night.

Additional Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon National Park

Kodachrome basin state park.

Kodachrome Basin State Park is worth a visit if you have extra time on your Utah National Park road trip. This is a great place to see more of the unique geology of the “Grand Staircase”, which refers to the way the landscape descends in a stairstep-like pattern over the hundreds of miles south from the top of the staircase here down to the Grand Canyon. Note that the entrance fee for Kodachrome Basin State Park is $10 per vehicle.

Devil’s Garden of Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument

Another awesome and easy add-on to the portion of your Utah road trip between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks is the Devil’s Garden in Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. 

No hiking is required to appreciate the beautiful and bizarre rock formations here, but you are free to explore the unique hoodoos and arches along the trails that meander through the “garden”.

Lower Calf Creek Falls

While not within any of Utah’s National Parks, Lower Calf Creek Falls is one of the best hikes we’ve done in the state. If you have 3 hours to spare, we recommend stopping here for the moderate 6-mile hike to a stunning waterfall deep in the canyon. You will also see petroglyphs on the cliff walls along the way! This hike is also part of the Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. 

Note that there is a $5 parking fee for this hike. 

Lower Calf Creek Falls Hike

• 531 feet of elevation gain

Where to Sleep in Escalante

• Escalante Yurts Luxury Glamping (where we stayed)
• Slot Canyons Inn Bed and Breakfast
• The Inn of Escalante
• Canyon Country Lodge
• Yonder Escalante Glamping

Where to Eat in Escalante

• Ranch Dog Kitchen
• Circle D Eatery
• Kiva Koffeehouse
• Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm

Day 5: Capitol Reef National Park

With one full day in Capitol Reef National Park, we recommend visiting the Gifford Homestead, driving the Scenic Drive, hiking to Cassidy Arch and Hickman Bridge, and checking out the impressive petroglyphs. As with all of the other National Parks in Utah, Capitol Reef charges an entrance fee to visit. This fee is $20 per vehicle or you can use your National Parks Pass for free entry.

If you have extra time in the area as you make your way to Moab and your final two Utah National Parks, we recommend visiting Goblin Valley State Park as a bonus adventure!  

Steeped in history, the Gifford Homestead is a well-preserved pioneer-era farmhouse that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Built in the early 1900s, this historic homestead is now a charming country store and bakery. If you want to snag one of their coveted fruit pies, you should plan to arrive right when they open because they do run out!   

Allow an hour and a half to visit all the stops along the 8 mile Scenic Drive , the highlights of which are described below.

Cassidy Arch Trail

The hike to Cassidy Arch is one of the most popular day hikes in Capitol Reef National Park. It’s only 3 miles roundtrip with a little over 600 feet of elevation gain, and your reward at the end of the hike is an impressive rock arch! 

• 665 feet of elevation gain

Capitol Gorge Road

Our favorite part of the Scenic Drive drive is when you get to enter the narrow road in Capitol Gorge Spur Road. It’s like driving through a slot canyon, and is such a wild experience! Don’t do this drive in rainy conditions, however. 

After the Scenic Drive and back on the main road through Capitol Reef National Park, be sure to stop at the Petroglyphs Panels for an impressive display of rock art from the Fremont culture. Please respect the petroglyphs by not touching or defacing the rock. 

End your visit to Capitol Reef National Park with one last hike. The views along the Rim Overlook trail to Hickman Bridge are simply mind-blowing, and the natural rock arch at the end is impressive.

Hickman Bridge Trail

• 416 feet of elevation gain

While driving from Capitol Reef towards Moab, you can’t miss the tall towering butte on the left-hand side of the road. This rock formation is Factory Butte . Several dirt roads lead to closer vantage points, but this is just the tip of the iceberg for what this part of the Utah desert holds. 

Continue your drive to Moab, Utah, where you will check into your accommodation for the next 3 nights.

If you have time: Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park looks oddly like it sounds – a rock valley with small, stumpy hoodoos that look a bit like, well, goblins! We love this state park for sunrise photography and just exploring the formations. 

Enjoy the view from the viewing platform, or walk down the steps into the valley to explore amidst the hoodoos! 

If you visit, please follow the principles of Leave No Trace and do not climb, carve, or otherwise break/damage any of the rocks. 

Note that the Entrance Fee for Goblin Valley State Park is $20/vehicle.

Where to Sleep in Moab

• Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa
• Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Radcliff Moab
• Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown

>>Read our review from our stay at Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa

Where to Eat in Moab

• Sabaku Sushi
• Quesadilla Mobilla
• Desert Bistro

Day 6: Canyonlands National Park

One day is plenty of time to see the main highlights of Canyonlands National Park. We recommend three short hikes, that each provide a different experience and perspective over the canyon. The Entrance Fee for Canyonlands National Park is $30 per vehicle, or free with your National Park Pass .

Start your Canyonlands National Park visit with sunrise at Mesa Arch. It will likely be crowded (yes, even at sunrise), but when the light’s rays hit the canyon below it will all be worth it. It is just a short walk from the parking area to Mesa Arch. 

Mesa Arch Trail

• 98 feet of elevation gain

After sunrise, drive to Grand View Point and then walk the short trail to the Overlook. We absolutely cannot get over this view over the canyon because you can see a lot of the ridges and crevasses which highlight how dramatic this landscape is! 

Grand View Point Overlook Trail

• 3 feet of elevation gain

For another short but highly rewarding hike in Canyonlands National Park , check out the White Rim Overlook trail. This trail provides a different view and perspective over the canyon that the others you have seen so far today. 

White Rim Overlook Trail

• 160 feet of elevation gain

For sunset, visit Dead Horse Point State Park for one of Utah’s most iconic views. 

The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle. Note that National Parks Passes do NOT work at Dead Horse Point State Park (or any other state park). State parks are not part of the National Park Service and are not covered by the America the Beautiful Pass.

>> Do you want to explore ALL of Utah’s National Parks? Check out our Utah National Park Itinerary and Map here!

Day 7: Arches National Park

With one day in Arches National Park , you can explore all of the best hiking trails to unique arch formations, and catch a bucket-list-worthy sunrise and sunset. Make sure you have a timed entry permit if you are visiting during peak season and if you plan to enter the park after 7 am. As of 2023, timed entry permits are not required for entering Arches National Park before 7 am. All visitors must pay the $30 per vehicle entrance fee OR have a National Park Pass.

Kick off your visit to Arches National Park with a hike to the iconic Delicate Arch! Sunrise here is worth the early wake-up call. Plus, if you enter the park before 7 am, you don’t need a timed-entry reservation. By hiking to Delicate Arch for sunrise , you can beat the crowds (a little bit) and avoid having to have a timed entry permit! 

If sunrise isn’t an option for you, make your timed entry reservation here.

Delicate Arch Trail

• 629 feet elevation gain

After sunrise, drive back onto the Arches Scenic Drive and head to Sand Dune Arch trailhead. There are three arches you can see here, all on a short hike! 

Broken Arch Trail

• 165 feet of elevation gain

Hike Devil’s Garden

Devil’s Garden is a very arch-dense area of the park where you can see several arches of various shapes and sizes! This is one of the best low-effort/high-reward hikes in the park because you can hike as far as you’d like all the way to Double O Arch, or explore the arches closer to the trailhead like Tunnel Arch or Pine Tree Arch. 

Devil’s Garden Loop

• 1085 feet of elevation gain

The arches on Windows Trail are particularly photogenic and worth the short walk! 

Windows Trail

• 154 feet of elevation gain

Your last arch hike in Arches National Park is to Double Arch. This impressive and unique two-banded arch is a must-see in the park. 

Double Arch Trail

• 95 feet of elevation gain

Cap off your visit to Arches National Park with sunset at Park Avenue. Enjoy the view from the viewpoint, or hike down along the rock formations. 

Park Avenue Trail

• 298 feet of elevation gain

On Day 8, head to the airport from which you will be returning home, whether it be Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, or Grand Junction. Driving times from Moab to each location’s airport are listed below.

• Grand Junction Regional Airport: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Salt Lake City International Airport: 3 hours 50 minutes
• Harry Reid International Airport – Las Vegas: 7 hours

How many days do you need to visit Utah’s Mighty 5?

We recommend no fewer than a week to visit all five of Utah’s National Parks. The itinerary outlined here is 8 days long, which is really the fastest you can still see quite a bit in each park. If you have more time, we recommend extending your trip to 10 days or more and taking advantage of some of the additional nearby hikes and state parks along this route and outlined in the Utah National Park road trip map !

When is the best time of the year for a Utah National Parks road trip?

The best time of the year to road trip to Utah national parks is late winter through early spring. Summer sees triple-digit temperatures throughout the state, as well as peak crowds at the more popular parks. We always time our road trips in Utah to be from January through April, as this is when the climate is most mild and visiting the parks is most pleasant. Additionally, late spring sees heavy snow melt and surging water in the Virgin River, which can lead to the Narrows closing. This is why late fall through winter is best for hiking the Narrows (just be sure you rent the appropriate winter gear). Lastly, nothing beats the contrast of white snow against the orange hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park.

What are the entrance fees for Utah’s national parks?

• Bryce Canyon: $35
• Capitol Reef: $20
• Arches: $30
• Canyonlands: $30
• Total for all 5 Utah National Parks: $150
• Save $70 by purchasing an annual National Parks Pass (America the Beautiful Pass) instead

What should you pack for a Utah National Parks road trip?

Check out our comprehensive road trip packing list below and sign up for our email newsletter to get a printable road trip packing list PDF straight to your inbox!

Stuck in a packing quandary?

Check out our ultimate Road Trip packing list!

Final Thoughts on How to Road Trip Utah National Parks

I hope this blog post outlining the perfect Utah National Parks road trip has you feeling excited, inspired, and prepared for the adventure of a lifetime!

If you’re exploring more of the US Southwest, don’t miss these blog posts!

• Best Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
• Guide to Cathedral Valley Scenic Drive
• Colorado Utah Road Trip Itinerary
• Unique Things to Do in Sedona
• Best Easy Hikes in Sedona
• Ultimate Guide to Hiking Havasupai Falls in 2023
• Guide to the Wave (North Coyote Buttes Arizona)
• Sedona Hiking Itinerary

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Iowa State University Athletics

Main header, offcanvas scoreboard.

W : Charles, Karlie (3-6) L : Sapp, A. (4-11)

Cyclones Cap Road Trip with 4-2 Win Over UVU

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• Box Score (.pdf)

OREM, Utah –  In its final action of a four-game road trip in the Beehive State, Iowa State (17-25) downed Utah Valley (17-25) for the second time this season to get back on track.

Iowa State grabbed the lead early and held on to win its fourth road contest of the season. Karlie Charles hurled a complete game while Angelina Allen had three hits as they willed ISU to victory.

The Cyclones were led at the plate by Allen whose three hits were a game high. She was tied for the game-high in RBI with two and also was able to steal home during the game. Paige Nakashima recorded the lone other RBI for the Cyclones, as the sophomore from Hawaii made her first start of the season. Alesia Ranches , Ashley Minor , Tiana Poole and Olivia Wardlow also had hits on the day.

Charles (3-6) was the only Cyclone to see the circle, as the senior picked up her third complete game of the season. She allowed just two runs on six hits on the day, facing 27 batters and striking out a pair.

Utah Valley scattered six hits across six different athletes on the afternoon. Three of the Wolverine hits were bunt singles while Saige Nielsen had a home run. Nielsen's home run, a two-run blast, accounted for both Wolverine RBI.

Avery Sapp (4-11) started for UVU and hurled 4.1 innings of action against the Cyclones. Sapp allowed eight hits and two runs but was able to earn five strikeouts. Halle Morris would relieve Sapp and allow just one hit in 1.1 innings of work before Payge Armendariz entered and gave up two runs on two hits in her lone inning of work.

How it Happened It was a three up, three down inning for both sides in the first as Iowa State used a double play, spearheaded by Ranches – to escape the frame.

The Cyclones got on the board first in the second inning, thanks to a Paige Nakashima single. Tiana Poole got on with a single and was eventually able to take second on a wild pitch. With a 1-2 count, Nakashima singled into right field to plate Tiana and give ISU a 1-0 lead. Back-to-back singles from Kali Gose and Olivia Wardlow would then load the bases but ISU was unable to convert, leaving the bases stranded.

Iowa State added another tally in the third inning to extend its lead to two. Allen led the frame off with a double into left center field which was followed by a Ranches single to put runners on the corners. Ranches then went to steal second and when UVU threw down, Allen stole home as both runners – Allen and Ranches – stole successfully.

Each team would leave one stranded in both the third, fourth and fifth inning, as the game went to the sixth inning of action.

A pair of walks and a HBP would load the bases with two outs for the Cyclones in the sixth inning. Allen then stepped back into the box and ripped a single through the right side to plate a pair and extend the ISU lead to 4-0. One of the base runners, Angelita Fuentes , entered to pinch run and saw her first action of the season as she returned from injury.

Utah Valley attempted to rally in the bottom of the seventh, connecting on a two-out single before Saige Nilsen blasted a homer over the center field wall – her first of the season – to halve the ISU lead, 4-2. ISU was able to get the next batter to ground out though, snuffing the rally and earning its 17th win of the season.

Sunday Notes Home Runs Iowa State : N/A Utah Valley : Saige Nielsen 

WP – Karlie Charles (3-6): 7.0 IP, 6 hits, 2 runs, 1 walk, 2 strikeouts SV – N/A LP – Avery Sapp (4-11): 4.1 IP, 8 hits, 2 runs, 1 walk, 5 strikeouts

On Deck Following a four-game stint in Utah, Iowa State will return to the Cyclone Sports Complex on Tuesday, April 23, to face the St. Thomas Tommies for some midweek action. Tuesday's game is set to begin at 4 p.m. and the game will be broadcast live on Big 12 Now on ESPN+.

Players Mentioned

#23 Angelina Allen

#12 Karlie Charles

#25 Angelita Fuentes

#4 Kali Gose

#5 Alesia Ranches

#30 Olivia Wardlow

#29 Tiana Poole

#50 Ashley Minor

#33 Paige Nakashima

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Utah National Parks Road Trip: 10 Epic Days To Explore the Mighty 5

H ands down, there is nothing as exciting as a epic Utah National Parks Road Trip. Visiting the “Mighty 5” on a road trip through Utah was the highlight of our West Coast RV adventure. This article will take you through the best-of-the-best for your national parks excursion, with several options for people who like to travel a little differently than we do.

We’ve outlined the must-do activities for you in a 10-day itinerary, but it’s easy to take it to 7 days with the modifications we highlight below. We also take you off the national park scene a little with a few suggestions, if you’re up for it.

BEFORE YOU PLAN YOUR UTAH NATIONAL PARKS ROAD TRIP

Before you begin mapping your itinerary, there are a few things to need to consider:

• Which airport will you be flying into? Las Vegas and Salt Lake City are the most popular, so we’ve included drive times for those from each park below.
• How will you travel around? Before you book your flight, you might consider calling both airports about rental cars. They are very expensive and supply is low, so this might make a difference in where your adventure should begin.
• Another alternative is to rent an RV for your road trip. It will be more expensive, but can save you money on hotels, car rental and even food (if you have a kitchen in your rig).
• Order your American the Beautiful Pass if you haven’t already. It will save you money, and it will allow you to get in lines that move faster as you enter the park. Also, it covers far more than just the national parks. Finally, get it now because there is not a downloadable version available; it must be mailed.
• Pick the time of year for your visit. Small crowds and more friendly temperatures make April–May or September–October  the best time to visit Utah National Parks. We visited in Spring and found it to be idyllic, with plenty of wildlife sightings and blooming flowers on our scenic drives.
• After you plan your itinerary, make your park and/or activity reservations. Apply for the lottery for Angel’s Landing if you desire. Reservations might include Zion Adventure Company, Red Rock Astronomy, Cathedral Valley jeep rental, mountain bike rentals at Deadhorse, etc.

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE FOR YOUR MULTI-DAY JOURNEY

We’ve outlined 10 days of exploring on your Utah National Parks Road Trip, but you’ll also need a day prior and after for travel time. That is not included in this itinerary.

You might also choose to reorder the way you visit the parks. For example, if you fly into Las Vegas then you might decide to start with Zion. The park activities listed below are made to accommodate a shuffling of the order of experiences.

We’ve included our favorite side junkets, as well. If you have the time, we highly recommend extending your stay to explore beyond the national parks. It took us an entire month to visit all the side trips, and it was magical.

YOUR UTAH NATIONAL PARKS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY AT-A-GLANCE

Here is your 10-day Utah National Parks itinerary at a glance. Need to make it a 7-day Utah road trip itinerary? Remove days 3, 6 and 10.

DAY 1: ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

• Delicate Arch
• Landscape Arch
• Navajo Arch
• Fiery Furnace Viewpoint 
• Panorama Point, Balanced Rock and Courthouse Towers
• Redrock Astronomy

DAY 2: CANYONLANDS (THE NEEDLES) + ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

• Chesler Park Viewpoint
• Roadside Ruin and Wooden Shoe Arch
• Double Arch, Turret Arch, and North Window and South Window Arches
• Slickrock Trail
• Cave Spring Trail
• Pothole Point Trail
• Big Spring Canyon Overlook

DAY 3: MOAB AREA

• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Potash Road

DAY 4: CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

• Grand Viewpoint Overlook
• Green River Overlook.
• Aztec Butte
• Shaffer Canyon Overlook 

DAY 5: CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

• Cassidy Arch
• Gifford House
• Cohab Canyon
• Panoramic Point, the Goosenecks, and Sunset Point 
• Historic Fruita School, the petroglyphs, the fruit tree groves
• Hickman Bridge
• Rim Overlook

DAY 6: CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

• Cathedral Valley

DAY 7: BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

• Fairyland Loop
• Natural Bridge and Rainbow Point Overlooks

DAY 8: BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

• Navajo Loop to Queen’s Garden
• Rainbow Point or Peekaboo or Sheep Creek Hiking Trails
• Figure Eight Loop
• Rainbow Point

DAY 9: ZION NATIONAL PARK

• The Narrows

DAY 10: ZION NATIONAL PARK

• Emerald Pools
• Red Desert Adventure

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

Can’t-miss experiences at arches nps.

Website: Arches National Park

• Fiery Furnace Viewpoint
• The Three Gossips
• The Broken Arch, Sand Dune Arch, Skyline Arch balloon trail
• Double Arch
• North Window and South Window Arches

Ideal Itinerary

Arrive in Moab, grab a bite to eat and hit the sack early. You’ll be up well before the sun tomorrow.

Wake early and hike to Delicate Arch for sunrise. It will take you about 30 minutes to get to the trailhead from the park entrance. Add that calculation into your timeline once you look up the time for sunrise during your stay.

Even if you miss sunrise a few minutes like we did, it’s worth the effort because there are so few people there in the morning. If you’re lucky like we were, people will wait a good while before starting their “selfies” in front of the arch…it’s a magical time.

Eat breakfast there, grab your photos when it’s time, then head back to the car. Drive further into the park to Landscape Arch . Be sure to go the entire way on the trail because the view as you get closer is so much better.

From there add Navajo Arch to your itinerary.

Time to grab lunch outside the park. It’s hot and the park is very full now, so it’s a good time to take a break. On your way out of the park, stop to see the  Fiery Furnace Viewpoint  (it was closed for hikers when we visited),  Panorama Point ,  Balanced Rock  and  Courthouse Towers  (and see  The Three Gossips ).

In Moab, grab some lunch. We’ve got recommendations below.

Spend your evening with RedRock Astronomy , if you can. Depending on sunset times on the date of your visit, this adventure will start between 5pm and 9pm.

Morning and Afternoon

You’re going to visit another national park today — Canyonlands. The Needles section is located about 1.5 hours South of Moab.

Your visit here now because this section of Canyonlands isn’t accessible via the entrance you’ll go into to visit the “main” part of that park. Also, very few people see The Needles section of Canyonlands. It’s the ideal way to spend time that is “high peak” within Arches.

Just a note: You’re heading into No Man’s Land so pack extra water, lunch and plenty of snacks. And fuel up the car!

Option 1: A long hike and some overlooks

This is my personal favorite. Hike the Chesler Park Viewpoint trail. There are varying versions of this, but because of the long drive we suggest the short version – a 6 mile hike, round trip. It’s “moderately strenuous” so consider that in your time estimates.

Afterward, you’ll still have energy (and day light) to see Roadside Ruin and Wooden Shoe Arch

Option 2: Several shorter hikes

If you’re worried about daylight or you prefer several shorter hikes then you can stop to see R oadside Ruin and Wooden Shoe Arch .

After that, take the Slickrock Trail loop, which is 2.4 miles and takes about 2.5 hours. From this trail you can really get a beautiful view of The Needles.

Still have some time? Hike two additional easy .6 mile round trip trails: Cave Spring Trail and Pothole Point Trail . Then head to the end of the road to see views from Big Spring Canyon Overlook .

Head into Moab for some dinner (see our suggestions below) and then be sure to be in Arches about 45 -60 minutes before sunset. Why? Because Double Arch and the Windows are great this time of evening!

Take the 30-ish minute drive to the parking lot. You’re able to get to Double Arch ,  Turret Arch , and  North Window  and  South Window Arches from here. Start with Double Arch. End with the windows for sunset! It will take your breath away.

Drive Times

• From Salt Lake City Airport: 3 hours 40 minutes
• From Las Vegas Airport: 8 hours
• From Canyonlands NPS: 30 minutes
• From Capitol Reef NPS: 2 hours 15 minutes
• From Mystic Hot Springs : 2 hours 45 minutes

Where To Stay Near Arches National Park

There are no lodging options inside Arches. All the lodging (and restaurants) are in Moab, which is only about 5 minutes from the entrance.

Staying Outside The Park

• UPSCALE STAY: Moab Springs Ranch
• BUDGET-FRIENDLY: Homewood Suites by Hilton
• BOONDOCKING IN YOUR RV: Willow Springs Trail Dispersed Camping
• FAVORITE FROM OUR FRIENDS AT 2 TRAVEL DADS: Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection Hotel

Our Favorite Eats Near Arches

• Sunset Grill ; Amazing views of Moab and yummy dinner. Closed Sundays.
• Moab Brewery ; When you need a burger and beer after a long hike.
• Jailhouse Cafe ; Affectionately known as “Moab’s Breakfast Place”
• Josie Wyatt’s Grille ; Located inside the Diamond Hotel, but not your average hotel food.
• Moab Food Truck Park ; When your with a group and can’t come to a consensus.

Exploring Outside The Park

• RedRock Astronomy for taking in the amazing dark sky.
• Dead Horse Point State Park is amazing! We loved mountain biking the canyon rim with rentals from the park.
• Go white water rafting down the Colorado.

CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Website: Canyonlands National Park

Can’t-Miss Experiences at Canyonlands NPS

• Aztec Butte Trail
• The Needles
• Indian Creek Falls

It is most common to stay in Moab while exploring Canyonlands. There are no hotels or restaurants in the area near the park. However, if you’re in an RV, then consider moving to Dead Horse Point State Park to save commute time.

You can also grab a tent spot or yurt here, but you’ll need to figure out your plans for meal time.

We stayed in Dead Horse Point in our RV, but still drove in to Moab for dinner a few times. It’s about a 30-minute commute.

Morning/Afternoon

If you need to shorten this itinerary by a day then you can skip “Day 3” and head straight to Day 4. You’re not visiting a National Park today, but exploring an amazing state park.

You’re going to be visiting Dead Horse Point State Park today, starting with a mountain bike adventure.

Reserve your bikes from  Bighorn Mountain Biking , and pick them up inside the park right near the trailhead. You have to be at the rental pick-up location before noon, and you’ve got three hours to enjoy on the trails. We fully planned to spend all three hours out there, but as novice riders we were spent after about 2.5 hours. But, we saw everything we wanted to see in that timeframe.

The team here will give you a  trail map  and guide you on the path that suites your experience level. For those who like to plan ahead, consider the route we took: Intrepid to Raven Roll…Keep going to Big Chief (with the very best views) and then head back to home base via Pyramid.

I note for wary parents…this biking adventure allows you to bike along the rim of the canyon. I was very nervous about it, especially because my guys are new mountain biking. The truth is that the trails are not too close to the edge. I felt safe the entire time along the trails I mention above. Anxious parent? You got this!

Now, before you leave the park after your mountain biking adventure, be sure to follow the main road to the end of the park for a view of Head Horse Point. It’s a great place to have a picnic lunch.

Later Afternoon/Early Evening

If you’re visiting during spring or summer, with longer daylight hours then take a tour along Potash Road. Along this spectacular corridor you’ll find lush canyons, dinosaur tracks, ancient rock art, arches, and more.

Be sure to stop at Wall Street, so named because of the amazing canyon walls. Pull off and grab some fun views of climbers on the slickrock.

Look for the pullout with a sign that says  Indian Writing . You’ll find a 125-ft panel from the Formative Period (bring binoculars)  plus  if you keep your eyes peeled you’ll see three-toed allosaurus tracks on the north side of the road. The spotting tubes are a clue.

Further down you’ll also see a marker for the Gold Bar camping area. Find a parking spot in here for the Corona Arch trailhead. This trail is 2.4 miles and labeled moderate. It’s not too difficult, but there is an area on the slickrock that includes safety cables to help you climb, but it’s only one small section.

Afterward you can grab some dinner in Moab. If you’re staying in Dead Horse Point then be sure to look up when you get back for the evening. You’re far enough from Moab that the sky is pitch black and the stars put on a show.

You’ve already explored The Needles section of Canyonlands. Today you’ll explore the most popular section: Island in the Sky .

Much like Arches, getting up early is worth the effort. Start your day with a sunrise hike to Mesa Arch .

From there you’ll visit several overlooks. Start with Grand View Point Overlook  where you can take in the overlook and hike the easy but beautiful 1.8 mile trail.

Keep heading North on Grand View Point Road then continue North on Upheaval Dome Road to the  Green River Overlook .

Many people recommended  Whale Rock  trail to us since we were with the kids. You’ll keep going on this road to Whale Rock if you want to take on that 1 mile hike. We skipped it, though, in favor if  Aztec Butte , which is just beyond the Green River Overlook.

Aztec Butte is 2 miles, round trip..but it took us about 2.5 hours because we explored every nook and cranny along the route.

We didn’t make it all the way to the top of Aztec Butte because it was super steep and very very windy on the day we visited. It didn’t seem safe to do that last 10 yards with the kids…but WOW! It was still so beautiful.

A spur trail off the main trail takes you to ancestral Pueblo granaries are over 1,000 years old! They are a little hard to find because they are kind of “under” the trail. Don’t give up; it’s so worth it!

Finally, on your way out, visit Shaffer Canyon Overlook  near the Visitor Center.

We recommend you move this evening toward Capitol Reef. You’re going to want to get an early start tom

• From Salt Lake City Airport: 3 hours 50 minutes
• From Las Vegas Airport: 6 hours 45 minutes
• From Arches NPS: 30 minutes
• From Capitol Reef NPS: 2 hours 30 minutes
• From Mystic Hot Springs : 2 hours 55 minutes

Where To Stay Near Canyonlands NPS

There are no lodging options inside Canyonlands. Most people stay in Moab (the largest city in the area) and drive the half-hour to visit Canyonlands.

STAYING OUTSIDE THE PARK

• If you don’t want to stay in Moab, then consider a campground site or yurt at Dead Horse Point State Park .

Our Favorite Eats Near Canyonlands NPS

There are ZERO restaurants in the area. Bring your own groceries or head into Moab for good eats.

• Goblin Valley State Park , with its towering hoodoos is spectacular.
• The slots in Little Wildhorse Canyon in the San Rafael Swell are not technical and not too narrow, and very close to Goblin Valley.

CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

Website: Capitol Reef National Park

Can’t-Miss Experiences at Capitol Reef NPS

• Pies from Gifford House
• Panoramic Point, the Goosenecks, and Sunset Point overlooks
• Cathedral Valley Road

There are plenty of things to see as you enter the park, but much like Arches, you are going to come back to all of that later. First, head straight to the trailhead for Cassidy Arch.

No need to get up before sunrise, but you do want to start your day early because it can get super hot and crowded hiking Cassidy Arch . But man, is it worth it!

It was my favorite hike over all five parks in Utah. Every turn, every viewpoint, every rock…is just breath-taking. And if you’re not too scared, be sure to get a photo standing on top of the arch. It’s one of the few places you are able to do this.

After you’re done, head back to Gifford House for a few pies. Don’t wait until later, because they sometimes run out of pies in the peak season. These small pies have been making history here for decades. We left with an apple, wild berry and cherry. They will hold for you in the car just fine, but if you want to try them early then bring a fork with you.

Option 1 – Head into Torrey for lunch. After that, come back to the trailhead for Cohab Canyon , just a little South of your pie stop.

The Cohab Canyon trail is 3.5 miles, but you don’t have to do all of it to see the best parts. The first 15 minutes is very hard because of the elevation…but then it gets easier (Not easy, just easier.)

When you hit the junction with the Frying Pan Trail, be on the look out for two scenic overlooks: North Overlook and South Overlook. Don’t miss these for sensational bird’s-eye views of Fruita. After seeing those, you can head back or keep going until you reach Hwy 24 (the end of the trail) before turning back.

Use this hottest time of day to do some easy “hikes” by visiting the overlooks: Panoramic Point , the  Goosenecks , and  Sunset Point  are your must-dos.

Option 2 – Bring your lunch with you (but you still need pies – don’t skip that!) and hike the longer and more strenuous trail called Rim Overlook .

It’s 4.6 miles round trip, and the views of Fruit and the waterpocket fold are unmatched anywhere in the park. The waterpocket fold is the 10-mile “wrinkle” in the earth’s crust. Be sire to compare the left side to the right side…one of these is about 7,000 feet higher than the other!

If you’re visiting in Spring or Summer when the sun sets late, then you still have time for a few more stops like Historic Fruita School , the petrogyphs , the fruit tree groves and any overviews you missed.

If you didn’t hike the Rim Overlook then you’ll also enjoy taking the Hickman Bridge hike this evening. The Freemont River runs along the trailhead, and it’s a good place to cool off before and after the hike.

Today you’ll be exploring Cathedral Valley . This is a 4×4 road. Even though we have a 4WD truck, we heard this was a very bumpy road and didn’t want to take the risk with our primary vehicle. We opted to rent a 4WD Jeep from a nearby vendor and were very glad we did.

If you go this route then plan to pick up your Jeep in the morning. You won’t head back into the main entrance of the park, but to the Cathedral Valley road. Plan to spend about 6 hours exploring.

Highlights here include enjoying a picnic high above Cathedral Valley at the CV Overlook, Glass Mountain, Temple of the Sun (and Moon), the Bentonite Hills, and of course fording the Freemont River!

After you return your Jeep, it’s time to move to Zion for tomorrow’s adventure.

• From Salt Lake City Airport: 3 hours 30 minutes
• From Las Vegas Airport: 5 hours 20 minutes
• From Canyonlands NPS: 2 hours 20 minutes
• From Arches NPS: 2 hours
• From Bryce Canyon NPS: 2 hours 10 minutes
• From Mystic Hot Springs : 1 hour 30 minutes

Where To Stay Near Capitol Reef NPS

• There is no lodging inside the park, but Capitol Reef Resort is just outside. Pick from guest rooms, cabins, teepees or Conestoga wagons.
• We stayed at Duke’s RV Park and Campground and really liked it.
• The Noor Hotel is clean with great views and affordable.
• The Snuggle Inn is a little further out, but the rooms are huge and include a kitchen if you’re looking to save on meals.

Our Favorite Eats Near Capitol Reef NPS

• If you’re in Hanksville, Duke’s Slickrock Grill is fantastic….and across the street is Outlaw Roost , where we had drinks and dinner every night.
• Do NOT forget to pick up a pie inside the park at Gifford Homestead . Even if you don’t usually eat sweet treats, this is a must.
• In Torrey, Capitol Burger is where to fuel up! It’s a food truck, so check their FB page to see where they are parked.
• If you missed Goblin Valley and Little Wild Horse Canyon then its not too late to visit them.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Website: Bryce Canyon National Park

Can’t-Miss Experiences at Bryce Canyon NPS

• Navajo Loop Trail to Queen’s Garden
• Rainbow Point 

While you don’t have to get up before the sun this time, consider an early start as you head out to the Fairyland Loop. Parking here (and at the Navajo Loop tomorrow) is hard to get.

Fairyland Loop  is one of the best hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park and it’s one you have to do, if no other. It’s officially 7.8 miles, but we’ve heard others call it closer to 9 miles, and that’s what we experienced, too. You’ll walk through the hoodoos, see Tower Bridge , catch gorgeous views along the rim, and more.

Be warned: it’s not easy. The 2300 ft in elevation change is a doozy. But hey, even our kids were able to make it happen.

Your next hike actually starts outside the park, so plan to have lunch in one of the restaurants that line the road into the park…or in Tropic, which is the direction you’re heading.

After lunch, it up Mossy Cave . It’s a Bryce hike but it is outside the ticketing gate – super short, but oh so sweet.

We loved the water flowing here in the creek as well as at the waterfall. Be sure to hike up and see the cave (more like a grotto) and touch the moss, and then as you’re coming down, overlooking the waterfall, you’ll see Turret Arch . Even though this hike is only a mile, we were probably here about 2+ hours.

At this point, the crowds have dissipated. You can go back into the park and drive the long road through the park, checking out the overlooks, or you can decide to do that tomorrow afternoon.

The benefit of doing it today is that you can leave for your next destination tomorrow (after a long hike), but we also know from experience that by Day 7 of this journey an early evening is welcome for the family.

If (when) you take the drive, be sure to stop at  Natural Bridge  and get a selfie with the arch, and  Rainbow Point  (at the very very end) where you’re over 9,000 ft in elevation and can really see the rock layers change colors.

Today’s plan depends on a few things: Are you ready to hike another 7-ish miles, or do you want the “package” version of this hike in a short – but not easy – 3 miles? Did you drive the road to Rainbow Point yesterday, or are you doing that today? How early do you need to leave for your next destination?

One of Bryce’s can’t-miss hikes is the “ Figure Eight ” hike…but our kids would have killed us if we made them walk another 7-9 miles. Instead we hiked 2 of the three trails in the Figure Eight:  Navajo Loop to Queen’s Garden . If you’re low on time (or energy) then I recommend this approach, which is also a loop.

You can go either direction on this loop, but we  ended  our hike through the Queen’s Garden and I feel like that was the least strenuous direction. Don’t miss the side spur to see the Queen!

This hike includes the most important overlooks along the rim like Sunset Point , Sunrise Point , and Observation Point .

Afternoon/Evening

If you ask me, the very best itinerary option here is to drive the road (if you haven’t) and then pack it up and head to Grand Staircase Escalante (specifically Kanab) for two days before heading to Zion.

We’ve got a great article about Kanab that will show you what to do . Hike several of Utah’s best slot canyons: Peekaboo, Zebra and Buckskin Gulch. Ride a board down pink sand dunes, climb the Moqui caves…and more.

Can you add an additional week? From Kanab, it’s relatively easy to get to Antelope Canyon , Lake Powell and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Can’t extend your stay?

Hike another of the beauties in Bryce like Peekaboo Loop (if you didn’t do the Figure Eight), the Rainbow Point Hike , or Sheep Creek and Swamp Canyon Loop .

Read More: 13 BEST HIKES IN BRYCE CANYON FOR FAMILIES

• From Salt Lake City Airport: 4 hours
• From Las Vegas Airport: 4 hours
• From Capitol Reef NPS: 2 hours 10 minutes
• From Mystic Hot Springs : 1 hour 45 minutes

Where To Stay Near Bryce Canyon NPS

STAYING IN THE PARK

• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the only hotel inside the park. Reserve a cabin or several room types include suites and studios.
• We boondocked near the park at Tom’s Best Spring . It was fantastic!
• Try an affordable rental home with plenty of space only 6 miles from the entrance.
• This luxe rental sleeps 10 and is only 1 mile from the park.

Our Favorite Eats Near Bryce Canyon NPS

• Stone Hearth Grille was our go-to spot for steaks and meals to really fill up our belly.
• Hell’s Backbone Grill offers food from local farmers in the area.
• Boulder Mountain Guest Ranch ‘s Sweetwater Kitchen is a great lunch or dinner option, and you’re welcome to visit even if you’re not staying there.
• Grand Staircase-Escalante and Kodachrome Basin State Park are not too far. If you can add time on to your visit then I highly recommend a few days in Kanab to explore Escalante.

ZION NATIONAL PARK

Website: Zion National Park

Can’t-Miss Experiences at Zion NPS

• Angel’s Landing (though I admit to skipping it out of fear of doing it with my kids)

Today you’re hiking The Narrows of Zion. It’s an all-day event, so have a good breakfast and pack a lunch.

We hiked The Narrows in 2021 when the plague made things a little weird, so your experience may differ, but here are a few notes that will help.

• We rented shoes from Zion Adventure Company which kept our feet warm …highly recommend this
• Pre-booked tickets for the shuttle are no longer necessary. We walked right on to the shuttle in both directions with no issues (and there were 10 of us!), but I am hearing this is an anomoly.
• Parking in Springdale to get into Zion is not easy. It took forever to find a spot. Plan for that. Finding a parking spot, getting shoes for the hike, and riding the shuttle into Zion (to catch the park shuttle) took us about 2 hours.
• The Narrows is the last stop in the park shuttle
• There was a bacteria blooming at high levels in the river when we visited. It was still safe to hike, but keep your head out of the water and don’t drink it, even with a filter.
• We all agreed that the large, thick sticks worked better for staying dry than regular hiking poles would. And yes, I fell in. Kept my face out of the water but lost my phone for a while. Thankful I have the more water-resist iPhone 11. If you don’t, bring a waterproof case.
• The park is the most crowded we visited but don’t give up. The Narrows are worth it.

Unless Angel’s Landing is the reason for your visit then my recommendation is to skip it (especially if you have kids). In 2022, a permit system was enacted for the hike and only those who win the lottery will be eligible to hike it. There is a seasonal lottery and a day-before lottery. ( Permit application )

Spend the morning hiking to the Emerald Pools instead. To see all three pools is 6 miles round trip, and as you can imagine the furthest pool is the most gorgeous.

After your hike, head out of the park and grab some lunch, then meet up with the team from Red Desert Adventure . Yes, you’ll need to make a reservation ahead of time, so don’t forget that. But you’re going to LOVE a canyoneering adventure with them.

Our first two canyons were 75 feet drops, and the remaining ones were about 50 feet drops. Sometimes we went by ourselves, and other times two people went down at a time.

Even though it was a hot day, the canyons were cool and welcoming! The boys gave this day a 12 (on a scale of 1-10!)

Our guides really made a difference – and we could tell how great they were as we spied on other groups. They were fantastic with the kids…and they made sure that even though there were 10 of us we did tons of rappels – 5 total!

There were other groups of 2 that only did two rappels – I can’t even imagine! By the second one you’re a pro and ready for more more more!

• From Salt Lake City Airport: 4 hours 35 minutes
• From Las Vegas Airport: 2 hours 45 minutes
• From Capitol Reef NPS: 3 hours 10 minutes
• From Mystic Hot Springs : 2 hours 25 minutes
• From Grand Escalante (Hole in the Rock Road): 3 hours 10 minutes

Where To Stay Near Zion NPS

Staying In The Park

• Zion Lodge is a gorgeous in-park option with rooms, suites and cabins.
• Zion Wildflower is a little ways out but has adorable tiny homes and glamping tents.
• Cliffrose Springdale is a Hilton property with amazing views and gorgeous rooms.
• We boondocked at Hurricane Cliffs

Our Favorite Eats Near Zion

• There is nothing like the Classic Pad Thai at Thai Sapa .
• Cafe Soleil  offers vegan and vegetarian options.
• If you need a hearty meal after your hike, try King’s Landing .
• The Bit and Spur for live music, local beers and good eats.
• Canyoneering with Red Desert Adventur e is not inside the park (tour companies cannot run canyoneering trips there) but just outside. It was one of the highlights of our Zion adventure.
• If you ask my kids they will tell you that their favorite of all the things to do in the area was  sandboarding at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park . It’s about 45 min away.
• Snow Canyon State Park is about an hour away, and it was named the best state park in Utah. Just beware…it gets HOT here!

UTAH NATIONAL PARKS ROAD TRIP FAQ

• WHAT IS THE BIG 5 IN UTAH? This is what people affectionally call the five national parks in Southern Utah: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. It was the name given by the state of Utah as a marketing push in 2012 – and boy did it work. You can read more about how the name came about here .
• WHAT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PARK IN UTAH? Most people say Zion is the most beautiful, but I’d have to disagree simply because of the vast number of people visiting there. It’s almost impossible to see it for what it is. Capitol Reef was my favorite – for the beauty of the park and the lack of people.
• WHAT IS THE MOST VISITED NATIONAL PARK IN UTAH? Zion, which was also the state’s first national park. And the least visited? Canyonlands (Also the largest!) Which is a shame since it’s so close to Arches that you can knock them both out with one hotel stay.
• HOW CAN I SPEND 7 DAYS IN UTAH? Totally doable! Use our itinerary above for 10 days, but skip days 3, 6 and 10.
• WHAT ARE THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT ON A UTAH ROAD TRIP? Want to see more than just the national parks? Try Escalante (especially Kanab), Mystic Hot Springs, Goblin State Park and more.
• WHICH IS THE BETTER PARK: ARCHES OR ZION? Zion is the most popular and considered the most beautiful, so it might be considered “better.” I enjoyed Arches more because there were fewer people and more hiking opportunities for our entire family. I also really enjoyed the town of Moab and the other nearby attractions: Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands, Potash Road, and more.
• WHERE CAN I CAMP FOR FREE IN UTAH? We did this – a lot! It’s easy with the vast amount of BLM land in the state and around the parks. A good source for where to camp is Campendium , because it lets you know about cell service, dump stations (if you’re in an RV) and more.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO UTAH

• BUCKSKIN GULCH:  Tips & Tricks for Navigating Utah’s Best Slot Canyon
• ST. GEORGE: 12 Awesome Things To Do In St. George Utah
• BRYCE CANYON: 13 Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon for Families
• SALT LAKE CITY: 20 Fantastic Things To Do In Salt Lake City
• UTAH NPS: 13 Epic Utah National Parks