oregon to utah road trip

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Oregon to Utah drive

Oregon to utah road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Oregon to Utah. If you're planning a road trip to Utah, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start at Oregon drive for about 1.5 hours

11:40 am   Burns stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:40 pm drive for about 2 hours

2:30 pm   Vale (Oregon) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:30 pm drive for about 1 hour

4:43 pm   Boise stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:43 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

9:00 am  leave from Twin Falls drive for about 2.5 hours

11:31 am   Malad City stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:31 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:15 pm   Salt Lake City stay for about 2.5 hours and leave at 4:45 pm drive for about 2 hours

6:36 pm   Ephraim (Utah) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 7:36 pm drive for about 41 minutes

8:16 pm  arrive at Utah

day 2 driving ≈ 7 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Burns Vale (Oregon) Boise   (50 answers)     Idaho State Capitol Building   (2 mentions)     questions about Boise:         Best free things to do in Boise?         What do you do and where to eat in Boise, ID? Twin Falls   (13 answers) Malad City Salt Lake City   (110 answers)     Temple Square   (8 mentions)     Liberty Park   (5 mentions)     Tracy Aviary   (3 mentions)     Red Butte Garden & Arboretum   (2 mentions)     The Beehive House   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Salt Lake City:         Red Iguana         Maxwell's East Coast Eatery         Pig and A Jelly Jar     questions about Salt Lake City:         What is your favorite restaurant in Salt Lake City?         What's the best, cant-miss meal in Salt Lake City?         Centrally-Located Hotels in Salt Lake City?         Winter time activities in Salt Lake City         Places to bar hop and night life in SLC? Ephraim (Utah)

What are some things to do in Utah?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Utah. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Utah.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Utah to Oregon drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Oregon to Utah . Or get a full Oregon to Utah flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Oregon well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Oregon!

More info on this route:

road conditions

places to eat

flattest route

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36 Best Stops Between Portland and Salt Lake City

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How long is the drive from Portland to Salt Lake City?

The direct drive from Portland to Salt Lake City is 766 mi (1,233 km) , and should have a drive time of 11 hrs 23 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Portland to Salt Lake City, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Boise , Hood River , Mount Rainier National Park , Twin Falls , Walla Walla , and Ogden , as well as top places to visit like Whitman Mission Rd and Fort Walla Walla Museum, or the ever-popular Sacajawea Historical State Park.

Top cities between Portland and Salt Lake City

Mount rainier national park.

Walla Walla

Best stops along Portland to Salt Lake City drive

Sacajawea historical state park.

Whitman Mission Rd

Fort walla walla museum, kam wah chung state heritage site, hells canyon creek visitor center, warhawk air museum, gold fork hot springs, cascade raft & kayak, the peregrine fund's world center for birds of prey, idaho state capitol.

Boise River Greenbelt

Old Idaho Penitentiary Site

The springs, sawtooth wilderness outfitters, bruneau dunes state park, miracle hot springs, bald mountain.

Sun Valley Resort

Shoshone ice caves, perrine memorial bridge, shoshone falls park, museum of clean, lava hot springs foundation world famous hot springs, bear river migratory bird refuge, antelope island, utah state university, hill aerospace museum, snowbasin resort, powder mountain, bear lake state park, top searches in salt lake city, other popular road trips from portland, explore nearby places.

• Salt Lake City
• South Salt Lake
• North Salt Lake
• the West Valley City
• Taylorsville
• Woods Cross
• West Bountiful
• Cottonwood Heights
• West Jordan
• Centerville
• South Jordan
• Bingham Canyon
• Fruit Heights

All related maps of Salt Lake City

• Map of Salt Lake City
• Map of South Salt Lake
• Map of Millcreek
• Map of North Salt Lake
• Map of Murray
• Map of the West Valley City
• Map of Holladay
• Map of Taylorsville
• Map of Woods Cross
• Map of Bountiful
• Map of Kearns
• Map of West Bountiful
• Map of Cottonwood Heights
• Map of Midvale
• Map of West Jordan
• Map of Centerville
• Map of Magna
• Map of Sandy
• Map of South Jordan
• Map of Farmington
• Map of Draper
• Map of Riverton
• Map of Bingham Canyon
• Map of Fruit Heights
• Map of Snowbird
• Map of Alta
• Map of Herriman
• Map of Bluffdale
• Map of Solitude
• Map of Kaysville
• Map of Brighton

Salt Lake City throughout the year

• Salt Lake City in January
• Salt Lake City in February
• Salt Lake City in March
• Salt Lake City in April
• Salt Lake City in May
• Salt Lake City in June
• Salt Lake City in July
• Salt Lake City in August
• Salt Lake City in September
• Salt Lake City in October
• Salt Lake City in November
• Salt Lake City in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Salt Lake City?

Get inspired for your trip to Salt Lake City with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary
• 2-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary
• 3-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary
• 4-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary
• 5-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from portland to salt lake city.

Yes! You can drive from Portland to Salt Lake City.

How far is Salt Lake City from Portland by car?

The drive from Portland to Salt Lake City is 766 miles (1,233 km).

How long does it take to drive from Portland to Salt Lake City?

Driving from Portland to Salt Lake City should take you 11 hrs 23 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Portland to Salt Lake City?

Gas from Portland to Salt Lake City would cost around $67 to $157 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Portland to Salt Lake City?

You could check out Whitman Mission Rd and Fort Walla Walla Museum, or the always popular Sacajawea Historical State Park!

What are the best cities to visit between Portland and Salt Lake City?

People love visiting Boise, Hood River, and Mount Rainier National Park, among others.

What's the weather like in Portland?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Portland in January
• Weather in Portland in February
• Weather in Portland in March
• Weather in Portland in April
• Weather in Portland in May
• Weather in Portland in June
• Weather in Portland in July
• Weather in Portland in August
• Weather in Portland in September
• Weather in Portland in October
• Weather in Portland in November
• Weather in Portland in December

What are some other road trips from Portland?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Portland.

• Portland to Seattle drive
• Portland to San Francisco drive
• Portland to Vancouver drive
• Portland to Las Vegas drive
• Portland to Los Angeles drive
• Portland to Victoria drive
• Portland to San Diego drive
• Portland to Newport drive
• Portland to Astoria drive
• Portland to Banff National Park drive
• Portland to Monterey drive
• Portland to Bend drive
• Portland to Yosemite National Park drive
• Portland to Yellowstone National Park drive
• Portland to Banff drive
• Portland to Denver drive
• Portland to Olympic National Park drive
• Portland to Calgary drive
• Portland to Sedona drive
• Portland to Hood River drive
• Portland to Eugene drive
• Portland to Colorado Springs drive
• Portland to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Portland to Greater Palm Springs drive
• Portland to Whistler drive
• Portland to Salt Lake City drive
• Portland to Tucson drive
• Portland to Jasper National Park drive
• Portland to Phoenix drive
• Portland to Page drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
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• See time and distance between all your places

Road Trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon

If you're looking to go on a memorable adventure, consider a road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon. You'll get to visit some of America's most famous national parks, encompassing some staggering natural beauty - you might be surprised just how much there is to see.

The 1,250-mile road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon will take 20 hours to drive. Key stops include Boise, Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park as well as Antelope Canyon, Shoshone Falls, Las Vegas and Death Valley National Park.

To make the very most of your journey, we've set out the best routes and time of year to make it, great overnight stops along the way and our favourite things to do on the trip from Portland in Oregon to the Grand Canyon.

How far is the Grand Canyon from Portland and how long will the road trip take?

There are several great ways to drive from Portland, Oregon to the Grand Canyon. The quickest of our two recommended routes covers 1,250 miles and will take you around 20 hours to drive without stopping.

An alternative option, taking you via the cities of Boise and Salt Lake, is slightly further at 1,300 miles and will take you similarly 20 hours to drive. Neither of these routes can be achieved in a single day and you'll need a minimum of 3 days to get to the Grand Canyon.

However, we recommend spending at least a week on this road trip, as there is an impressive number of fantastic attractions to visit along the way, as well as some great cities to explore.

Best road trip route from Portland to the Grand Canyon

The best route for your road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon depends on the kind of scenery you want to see on your journey. That said, both options will take you across mountains and past national parks to one of the most amazing natural wonders of the world.

The Utah Route will take you through the lush forests of Oregon, past the famous Great Salt Lake and into the arid canyons of Utah and Northern Arizona. Although slightly further, there is very little difference between the two route options so time shouldn't be a factor.

If you'd prefer the Nevada landscape and fancy your luck in Las Vegas, then our alternative route might be preferable. Still offering great attractions and views along the way, including Death Valley National Park and Mojave National Preserve, it's a great option.

If you can spare the time, spend a week driving to the Grand Canyon following one route, and follow the other on the return journey. This way you won't have to rush, and you will get to see everything along the way.

How to drive from Portland to the Grand Canyon

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Portland and the Grand Canyon. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Utah Route

Take Interstate 84 east out of Portland, heading along the Columbia River Gorge. Stay on I-84 as it passes through Pendleton. At this point, you'll be passing alongside Umatilla National Forest and Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, two great places for a hike.

Continue on I-84 past Baker City before crossing the snake river and heading towards Boise, a great city to explore or an overnight stop where you can also explore Boise National Forest.

Remain on I-84 after leaving the city and head towards Twin Falls. Turn north at twin falls onto US-93 heading North. At Shoshone turn off US-93 onto US-26 which will lead you on a short detour to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.

After visiting the national monument, continue following US-26 which will take you to Interstate 15. Follow this south towards Salt Lake City, another great option for a rest.

Stay on I-15 south as it leads you past the Great Salt Lake to Interstate 70. Follow I-70 for a short distance east before heading south again on US-89. Follow this highway to UT-12, which will take you to Bryce Canyon National Park.

Retrace your steps to US-89 after you have visited Bryce Canyon. US-89 will then take you to Mt. Carmel Junction where you will join UT-9 for a short detour to Zion National Park.

After visiting Zion, return to Mt. Carmel Junction to join US-89 and follow it to Lake Powell and Page until the town of Cameron. Turn onto AZ-64 at Cameron. This will lead you directly to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

The Nevada Route

Our alternative route will see you leaving Portland on I-84 heading east, before taking US-26 and making a quick stop at Mount Hood National Forest.

Continue on US-26 east through to Prineville. There are several great forests you can take detours to here, including Willamette National Forest and Umpqua National Forest. Otherwise, turn left onto US-20 to Burns and alongside Malheur National Forest.

Follow OR-78 east through several smaller towns and beside Steens Mountain Wilderness. When you reach US-95 you will then start heading south and follow this road past McDermitt and Revel Creek, as far as Winnemucca.

Turn right and join Interstate 80 to Battle Mountain, before following NV-305 and merging onto US-6 and US-95. Keep heading south and make a short detour at Beatty to Death Valley National Park. You could also drive onwards to Kings Canyon National Park.

Continue on US-95 to Las Vegas, an incredible city that needs no introduction, famous for its great nightlife, entertainment and spectacular resorts. If you haven't stayed here before, this would make a great overnight city break.

Leave the city on Interstate 11 south before continuing on US-93 south to Kingman. From here you will join Interstate 40 east to Williams before taking AZ-64 north all the way to your destination of the Grand Canyon.

Best places to stop between Portland and the Grand Canyon

While a road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon could be driven in as little as 3 days, we recommend slowing down to give yourself time to see some of the beautiful sights along the way.

To help you plan our stops, we have recommended some incredible hotels that will make your road trip even more memorable.

Relax in style in Boise

Less than 7 hours from Portland on the Utah Route, the city of Boise is an excellent overnight option. The capital city of Idaho, Boise is surrounded by tree-dotted trails and parks which hug the Boise River.

The city itself is a great cultural hub, with its well-known art deco museum featuring contemporary works and an outdoor sculpture garden. There's also a grand, sandstone Idaho State Capitol Building worth visiting and the famous Old Idaho Penitentiary.

Located in downtown Boise, Grove Hotel is a modern and stylish hotel that combines great prices with an even better location. Featuring modern decor, rooms here are clean and luxurious and with an indoor pool, hot tub and sauna, you won't be needing much else to relax.

Trillium, the on-site restaurant, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They utilize local, organic produce to create classic American favourites with exquisite presentation. If you are looking for a quiet drink, the rooftop terrace is a cozy space with great views of the cityscape.

With plentiful amenities and luxury style, not to mention being in a great location to visit the nearby Boise National Forest or Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area, the Grove Hotel is an ideal place to stay in Boise.

Explore downtown Salt Lake City

If you're continuing to follow the Utah Route, then roughly two-thirds into your journey and just over 8 hours to the Grand Canyon, a second great city to spend the night is Salt Lake City.

As the capital city of the US state of Utah, Salt Lake City is a fantastic destination in its own right. Known as the gateway to five of America's most popular national parks: Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon, it's a city you could spend weeks exploring.

The Grand America Hotel is perfectly poised at the centre of downtown Salt Lake City to allow you to experience everything this city has to offer. This luxurious hotel oozes class and style and is sure to be a memorable stay.

The rooms are well appointed and quite large while some even boast fantastic views of the surrounding city and mountains. The hotel offers an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and gym, rounding out a set of amenities that will keep you feeling active and relaxed.'

The hotel sits at the center of Salt Lake City which means there are endless recreation options just minutes from the front door, such as visiting Temple Square or the fantastic Natural History Museum of Utah.

After a busy day exploring you can have dinner at the onsite Garden Café which serves American cuisine. If you want something more casual, then the Lobby Lounge restaurant may be perfect for you.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

A glitzy stay in Las Vegas

An obvious choice for an overnight rest on the Nevada Route has to be the fun city of Las Vegas. Despite being fairly close to the Grand Canyon, a short drive of under 4 hours and 30 minutes, the city offers a unique experience which you simply cannot miss.

A major resort city, Las Vegas is known primarily for shopping, fine dining, great casinos, entertainment and its incredible nightlife. As well as having a hugely popular and famous strip, complete with iconic buildings, it is also a great location to explore the great outdoors.

At the center of Nevada, Las Vegas is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Mojave National Preserve and of course, the iconic Valley of Fire State Park.

Nearby there's also Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and so many great resorts and casinos to explore. This is a city that you could easily spend several weeks in and still not get tired.

There are so many incredible hotels you could pick, but Four Seasons Hotel gives you a luxurious retreat amongst the neon lights of Las Vegas, with a pool and full-service spa to relax amidst the city bustle.

Adjacent to Mandalay Resort & Casino, Four Seasons Las Vegas stands out as a haven on the Strip, with luxury added extras including stunning mountain and Strip views, large private outdoor pool or in one of the eight private cabanas and great spa with on-site massages, nail services, or facial and body treatments.

READ MORE - Click here for great hotel options

Things to see on a road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon

The road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon is full of exciting things to see and do. With so many great things to see along the way, you could easily spend several weeks visiting them all.

To help you get started on your planning, here's a selection of some of our favorities:

• Columbia River Gorge - You will encounter your first sight only a few miles outside of Portland. Stop to admire the view of the Columbia River at any of the scenic viewpoints.
• Boise River Greenbelt - While stopping in Boise, why not spend some time enjoying its Greenbelt. This recreational trail is a great place to get some exercise after a day of driving.
• Shoshone Falls - Shoshones Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in America, situated in the city of Twin Falls. It's a great spot to cool off or just to admire this fantastic scenery.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve - Discover the otherworldly site in Idaho which was made from ancient lava flows.
• Natural History Museum of Utah - Located in Salt Lake City, take a tour to learn about a variety of natural subjects related to Utah and its unique location.
• Boat Tour, Great Salt Lake - One of the best ways to view the beautiful Great Salt Lake is by taking a guided boat tour. You might even get to spot migrating birds for which the lake is a critical habitat.
• Bryce Canyon National Park - Bryce Canyon is world famous for its crimson rock spires, known as "hoodoos" and is best explored by going on one of many available hikes.
• Zion National Park - Test your mettle by hiking to the top of Angels Landing, be warned that it is steep and very exposed. Alternatively wander through the Zion narrows and enjoy spectacular views. If you'd like to hike up to Angels Landing, you will need a permit and will need to make a reservation. Check the Zion National Park's website for more details.
• Lake Powell - Spend the afternoon cooling off at this popular tourist destination. Lake Powell is popular for water sports, cliff jumping, swimming, boat-hiking or just admiring the scenery.
• Antelope Canyon - Take a tour with a Navajo guide to see the enchanting Antelope Canyon which was shaped by millions of years of water and wind erosion.
• Horseshoe Bend - Head to Horseshoe Bend for an iconic view of the Colorado River, located near the town of Page in Arizona. It's also referred to as the "east rim of the Grand Canyon".

• Mount Hood National Forest - Extending across more than a million acres of forested mountains, lakes and streams, as well as the iconic Mount Hood itself, this park is hugely popular with those who enjoy hiking and being outdoors.
• Willamette National Forest - Home to eight wilderness areas, this stunning natural location includes mountain peaks, waterfalls and lakes.
• Steens Mountain Wilderness - This wilderness area in Princeton, Oregon, surrounds one massive mountain and is a great place for hiking, camping or nature spotting.
• Las Vegas - Best known for its casinos, nightlife, entertainment and popular resorts, Las Vegas is a great city to explore or as a base to visit the stunning nearby national parks.
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area - With striking landscapes and brilliant blue waters, Lake Mead is a year-round destination encompassing mountains, canyons and valleys.
• Death Valley National Park - One of the hottest and driest national parks, this below-sea-level basin is best known for Titus Canyon, with its colorful rocks and Badwater's Basin's salt flats.
• Kings Canyon National Park - Featuring a similar terrain to Yosemite Valley, Kings Canyon is home to the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world. It also has deep valleys, skyscraping trees and distinctive rocks.
• Mojave National Preserve - With fewer visitors, Mojave National Preserve still feels wild thanks to its dramatic terrain. It also offers a wonderful variety of natural adventures.
• Flagstaff - This Arizonian city is surrounded by mountains, desert and great forests. If you don't fancy a stay in Las Vegas, this quieter city is a great alternative as well as being a gateway to Arizona's tallest mountain, popular with those looking to ski.
• Kaibab National Forest - Enjoy camping, hiking, fishing or just enjoying the incredible scenery at this year-round national forest, just a short drive away from the Grand Canyon.

Best time to go on a road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon

You can go on the road trip from Portland to the Grand Canyon at almost any time of year. The roads in the route above remain open all year round, and much of the road trip takes place on interstates anyway, making this accessible no matter the weather conditions.

That said, the best time to visit will largely depend on what you'd like to get out of it. While the national parks along the route remain open all year, you should be prepared for cold temperatures and potentially snow.

The Grand Canyon can see temperatures as low as 17 degrees Fahrenheit in December, with an average high of 43 between November and March. If you aren't looking to ski on the mountains en route, and instead would prefer to enjoy the stunning lakes, winter isn't ideal.

In comparison, The Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon all get very busy in summer. If you aren't worried about crowds, this is a popular time to visit.

Just be aware that temperatures during summer months can get very hot, with July peaking 84 degrees, and there's a chance of late-summer thunderstorms.

Fall and spring are also great times to embark on this road trip. These seasons represent a balance between warmer weather, avoiding overcrowding and reasonable hotel prices. They also offer stunning foliage in the national parks en route.

If you'd like to add a fun festival to your road trip, you can combine your stay in Las Vegas with the nearby Mojave Desert's Rise Lantern Festival held in October, or the Sundance Film Festival held in Salt Lake City in January.

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How to Plan an Incredible Utah National Parks Road Trip

If you’re here, that means you’re probably in the early-ish stages of planning an Utah National Parks road trip. We have good news – you’re in the right place! In the guide below, you’ll find pretty much everything you need to plan a bucket list-worthy trip to all five of Utah’s National Parks.

We’ll begin with some important logistics, like where to start and end your Utah national parks itinerary and how many days to spend in Utah, and then get into the best stops, things to do and see, sunrise and sunset spots, hikes, places to stay, and more. 

Over the last three years, we’ve been to 18 national parks. And multiple Utah national parks make it into our top five list of America’s national parks (though we haven’t visited them all…yet).

We’ve now been twice in the past few years – fall and spring – and have updated the guide below with some of our latest discoveries. 

We absolutely love Utah, and think you will too. I, Matt, have been to Utah four or five times at this point, including two trips in the past few years. The diversity of landscapes in southern Utah – which is home to the “Mighty Five” national parks – is pretty mind boggling. 

You’ll find natural arches in, well, Arches National Park. Unique rock formations called hoodoos in Bryce Canyon. The vast and surprisingly lush canyon in Zion National Park. And there’s so much more – it would take a lifetime of exploring to see everything that Utah has to offer. 

If those incredible landscapes sound like something you want to experience, you’re in the right place. In this Utah national parks road trip itinerary, we’re going to cover – in detail – how to plan an amazing road trip through Utah. 

We love Utah, and think you will too. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need for a Utah National Parks Road Trip?

We think that you need a full 10 days to do the complete Mighty Five circuit . Less time means a lot of driving and not a lot of time dedicated to each park. With 7 days, you’d essentially only have one day for each. Which we don’t think is enough time. 

Some parks have more to see than others and are worth spending two to three days in to have the best experience.  

We’ve written this guide for someone with 10 days , which I think is the perfect amount of time to see all five national parks in Utah, and have an extra day to spend on the other things that make Utah special.

What if You Only Have 5-7 Days in Utah?

If you have a week or less in Utah, we’d strongly urge you to focus on EITHER Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon, OR Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef. 

When you include driving time, which totals around 10 hours or so over the course of the itinerary, 5-7 days BARELY gives you a day in each park if you were to do all five. 

Focusing your time on only a few of them will give you a little more time in each park, rather than spending less than one day in each. The key benefit of this approach is that you’ll be able to spend more time in the early morning and late afternoon, which is when the crowds are thinnest at these parks. 

Where to Start and End Your Utah Road Trip Itinerary

There are two options for getting to Utah – driving in from nearby, or flying in, renting a car, and driving. 

The two best starting points for this road trip are Las Vegas and Salt Lake City . Denver is a distant third. It’s still doable, but involves more driving.

If you don’t live nearby, like in Salt Lake City or Denver, you’ll need to fly to one of the gateways to Utah, rent a car, and drive to your first destination. 

The two easiest airports to fly into would be Salt Lake City and Las Vegas . 

From Salt Lake City, it’s going to take around four hours to drive to the start and end points on this road trip itinerary (Zion and Moab). 

From Las Vegas, it’s going to be just two and a half hours to Zion, but six and a half hours to Moab. 

The best way to do this road trip if you want to avoid long days of driving is to fly into Salt Lake City and out of Las Vegas , which is how we’ve organized the itinerary below. 

You could absolutely do it the other way around, but doing it this direction front loads the longer drive from Salt Lake City to Moab, versus having to do that drive at the end of your trip when your enthusiasm is waning and you only have your return flight to look forward to. 

You can also fly in and out of the same airport, it’ll just involve a few hours of extra driving on one end of the trip. 

Important Note : You need to check with the rental car company to make sure that it’s okay to pick up in one spot and drop off in another. You might have to pay a one way fee, but we think it’s worth it to avoid wasting a day of your vacation driving. See below in the rental car section to see what the tradeoff is between picking up / returning to the same place, and doing a one way rental.

You could fly into Denver and out of Vegas if you wanted to add on a few days exploring Colorado. It’s going to be five and a half hours of driving between Denver and Moab, but there’s plenty of things to do and see along the way. 

Good to Know : Book the earliest flight you can into Salt Lake City, and the latest flight out of Las Vegas to give yourself as much time as possible to explore. 

Tips for Your Road Trip Through Utah

Before we get to the full itinerary, a few general tips about planning a road trip through Utah. 

National Park Entrance Fees

It costs $30 per vehicle to enter each national park (good for 7 days), and you can either pay online in advance (be aware that you must print it out and bring it with you), or at one of the park’s visitor centers. 

If you are planning on visiting three or more national parks in the next 12 months, we’d highly recommend an America the Beautiful Pass , which covers entry to all national parks, national forest trailheads, national monuments, and more for 12 months. 

It costs $80, which means it pays off with three national park visits (or some combination of national parks, forests, and monuments). 

On this trip, you’re going to be visiting several national parks, which means it’s probably worth buying an America the Beautiful Pass before your trip. 

Crowds in the Utah National Parks

If you’re visiting the Utah national parks in the summer (or a weekend in the spring or fall), you’re going to experience crowds. 

There are a couple of things we’d say about crowds and how to avoid them as much as possible. 

First, get an early start, and plan on staying out late . Peak time is from about 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, which makes the hours from 7:00 am to 10:00 am and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm some of the best times to be out and about in the park. Plus, the rising/setting sun means the light will be better for pictures!

If You Want to Camp, Book Your Site Well in Advance

Camping inside the national parks is super competitive . For reservable sites, people book months and months in advance, and when there are first-come-first-served sites, they are snatched up immediately in peak season. 

The good news? There are tons of camping options outside of the parks that are affordable and accessible, and you’ll find some recommendations in the where to stay section for each park.

This is a Good Route to Test Out Van Life

If you’re not into sleeping in a tent, consider an RV or Campervan rental . It’s a good way to save money on accommodations by staying at campgrounds or RV Parks instead of hotels. For what it’s worth, we did this entire trip living in a Honda Odyssey. 

Think of it as a middle ground between camping and staying in hotels and vacation rentals. 

Escape Campervans is a good choice, and they have options for the exact route (Salt Lake City to Vegas) that the itinerary below has you on.

Book Your Accommodations Well in Advance

If you’re planning on staying in hotels and lodges, book several months in advance between May and October . That’s peak season, and things fill up FAST. 

Even outside of those months, you’ll still find that some places are full a few months in advance. You’ll find some hotel recommendations in each section to help you find the best place to base yourself to make the most of your time in each park. 

The Perfect 10 Day Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

Now, on to the itinerary itself! 

Below, you’ll find a detailed day-by-day itinerary for a 10 day Utah national parks road trip based on our personal experience over the course of multiple trips. We’ll give you our favorite stops, the best hikes, places to stay, and more. 

Grab a cup of coffee and strap in – this is a long one, but it has literally everything we could think of to help you plan an amazing adventure.

Here’s an overview of that road trip, plus a map to help you visualize the route.

Here is the 10 day Utah national parks road trip itinerary that you’ll find – in detail – below: 

• Day 1 : Arrive in Salt Lake City, Drive to Moab
• Day 2 : Arches National Park
• Day 3 : Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky)
• Day 4 : Around Moab + Drive to Capitol Reef
• Day 5 : Capitol Reef National Park + Drive to Bryce
• Day 6 : Bryce Canyon National Park
• Day 7 : Bryce Canyon National Park + Drive to Zion National Park
• Day 8 : Zion National Park
• Day 9 : Zion National Park
• Day 10 : Zion National Park + Fly Home from Vegas

If you have a full two weeks in Utah , you’ll be able to get a little bit off the beaten path, exploring places like Kolob Canyons in Zion National Park and the Needles District in Canyonlands National Park that most visitors never even realize exist.

Below the full itinerary, you’ll find our suggestions for extending the 10 day trip. 

With 7 days , rather than trying to fit in the entire Mighty Five Circuit, we’d opt for spending 7 days exploring EITHER Zion, Bryce, and Capitol Reef OR Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef.

Days 1 & 2: Arches National Park

On your first day, you’ll spend most of the day in transit between Salt Lake City and Moab, which is the jumping off point for this itinerary. 

We spent five full days in Moab , and loved just about every minute of it – minus the hour-long wait to get into Arches National Park to check into our campsite. A good reminder to make sure to enter the parks early (before 9:00 am at the latest!) to avoid long lines and crowds. 

We didn’t realize it before arriving, but there are an astounding number of things to do in Moab .

Between exploring the two national parks that are a stone’s throw away – Arches and Canyonlands – to hikes outside the parks, and more adventurous activities like whitewater rafting and 4WD-ing, there’s plenty to keep you busy even if you had a full week JUST in Moab.

What to Do in Arches National Park

Here are our favorite things to do in Arches National Park. 

Sunset at Delicate Arch

On your first day, you’ll be driving from the airport and you’re probably going to be arriving mid-afternoon depending on what time your flight was (try and get the earliest flight possible!). 

Check into your accommodations for the next few days and head up to Arches National Park for that sweet, sweet golden hour light and sunset at Delicate Arch . 

It’s a 3 mile hike (round trip) that was a little harder than we thought it would be, but that didn’t stop literally a hundred people – ages 5 to 65 – from doing it.

It will probably be crowded if you’re there anytime between April and the end of October, but it’s worth it. You’ll climb up a section of rock, so you’ll want to wear your hiking shoes with plenty of grip. 

There’s one short section of the trail right before you get to the arch that’s narrow with a steep drop off, so keep an eye on your kids. 

If you do that hike at sunset, make sure to bring a headlamp for the way down. It gets dark FAST, and the last thing you want is to be hiking down the slab of rock in the dark. 

The Windows and Double Arch

Start your day off your second day with an early morning at the Windows and Double Arch, which are quite possibly our favorite set of arches in the park. And they’re so close together that you can easily see all of them (there’s four arches here in total) in about an hour or so. 

The Windows are two huge rock formations that are on the southeast side of the parking lot. There’s a nice trail that connects the North and South windows, along with nearby Turret Arch.

Make sure to walk through the North Arch and look back through the window to get a nicely framed picture of Turret Arch. 

Double Arch is on the opposite side of the parking lot, and it’s the tallest arch in the park. There are two separate (huge) arches that you’ll be looking up at.

You can climb around inside the arch and marvel at the two arches sharing the same base structure. It’s about a quarter of a mile from the parking lot on a flat, sandy trail. 

Hike the Devils Garden Trail

The Devils Garden Trail is a must-do hike in Arches National Park . The best part about this hike? You can customize it based on your experience and fitness level. 

If you do the entire loop, including the fun primitive trail on the way back, it’s going to be just under seven miles, with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll see seven different arches, and you’ll do some light scrambling and trail finding on the primitive trail, which we thought was a lot of fun. 

You’ll want solid hiking shoes or hiking boots (Alysha loves her Columbia Newton Ridge boots , an excellent first hiking boot) with good traction for the scrambling sections, which have you making some steep climbs on rock that necessitate good footing. It’s nothing too crazy though if you’re an experienced hiker. 

If you’re not up for 7 miles in the desert, do the 2 mile hike to Landscape Arch or the 4 mile (ish) hike to Landscape, Navajo, and Partition Arches , which takes you a bit further than most of the hikers go. 

Whatever you choose, it’s going to be hot. Drink plenty of water, eat plenty of snacks, and wear sun protection. Sun exposure is no joke, particularly in the summer. 

Broken Arch and Skyline Arch

Stop for a quick picnic lunch near the Devils Garden trail (there’s a picnic area just south of the campground and trailhead), then do the short hikes out to Broken Arch and Skyline Arch. 

You can park in Devils Garden Campground ( here ) to start the hike out to Broken Arch . 

It’s a cool hike, which is why it’s on this list duh, and you’ll pass through a couple of cool canyons on the way back from Broken Arch. It’s about 1.8 miles round trip, and is basically flat. This is a good sunset hike too if you’re staying at Devils Garden Campground since you can leave from camp without driving anywhere. 

Skyline Arch is also worth seeing. You get there via a pull off just south of the campground, and it’s a short, easy hike out there. 

Where to Stay in Moab near Arches National Park (and Canyonlands)

You’re going to stay in Moab for the first three nights of this itinerary. You should try to stay in one place for all three nights UNLESS you’re camping, in which case we’d try to find a site in Arches for the first night. 

Pssst ! Make sure to read our guide to the best places to stay in Moab to find the perfect home base for exploring this incredible area.

Hotels in Moab

We were planning on staying in a hotel in Moab for a night to shower and take a break from the weeks of sleeping in our van, but later decided to stay at a campground for an extra night instead. 

There were exactly three places on our list of hotels that we wanted to stay in. 

• The first is Moab Springs Ranch , which has a range of rooms from bungalows to more lodge-style rooms, and has a great coffee shop onsite (Horsethief Coffee). Unfortunately, they were sold out for our dates (book early, people!), but we would have chosen to stay there given the opportunity.
• The second, which is a place we booked then later canceled, is the Expedition Lodge . It’s in a great location along the main drag in Moab, and it looks nice. It’s motel style, which was what we were looking for during the summer of 2020, and it has some nice retro touches like the mint green mini fridges in the rooms. They also have some unique room configurations, like two queen bunk beds, which are nice for a traveling family (nobody likes sleeping on the cot on a hotel room floor). Oh, and there’s a pool, which is always a bonus.
• The last option was Moab Under Canvas , which is less a hotel, more glamping, but still fits here. This is your chance to stay under the stars while still maintaining some semblance of the comforts of a hotel. It looks incredible.

Camping In and Around Moab

If you’re looking to camp, you’ve actually got a fair number of options both inside Arches and Canyonlands, and just outside the national parks. 

• Inside Arches, there’s only one campground – Devils Garden . It’s reservable in advance ( learn more here ), and it’s a really nice campground. We stayed there for three nights, and it’s a great base for exploring Arches for a couple of reasons. First, it’s at the trailhead for Devils Garden, so you can get an early start to beat the crowds and heat (staying outside the park means a 45 minute drive to the trailhead). Second, being inside the park means you’ll avoid the crazy lines at the entrance to the park. We waited an hour to get in one day because we had to leave the park to get ice for our cooler.
• Inside Canyonlands , you have only one option in the Island in the Sky District (which is the part of the park you want) – Willow Flat Campground . It’s first-come-first-served, and only has 12 sites. Unless you show up early AND get lucky, you’re probably out of luck. You could also camp at Dead Horse Point State Park , which is close to the entrance of Canyonlands, and is worth a visit in its own right, particularly for a spectacular sunset over the canyons. 

Outside the park, there are a surprising number of campgrounds on BLM land that are all first-come-first-served. There are two major areas where you’ll find them. 

• The first group are along Highway 128 northeast of Moab on the Colorado River, and they are competitive and you’ll need to show up relatively early for the first few campgrounds. They’re in an incredible location along the river and deep inside a gorgeous red rock canyon. Goose Island, Grandstaff, and Big Bend are the nicest based on our drive through the canyon.
• The other area is along Highway 279 northwest of Moab – check out Gold Bar Campground , which is near the trailhead for Corona Arch. 

Day 3: Canyonlands National Park

On your third day in Moab, head out to Canyonlands National Park , which is a very different experience than Arches. 

While Arches is about feeling small standing under the towering rock formations littered around the park, Canyonlands is about feeling miniscule while looking out over the deep fissures in the earth created over thousands (millions?) of years of tectonic plate action. 

There are three sections of Canyonlands: Island in the Sky (closest to Moab, most accessible), the Needles District, and the Maze (technically I think there’s a fourth called the Rivers, but I’m not quite sure about that one).

With just one day, you should focus on Island in the Sky , which is the most accessible part of the park coming from Moab. However, if you have more time, a trip down to the Needles District is worth your time. 

What Not to Miss in Canyonlands National Park

Here are some that we enjoyed in the Island in the Sky part of Canyonlands National Park. 

Early Morning at Mesa Arch

Start your morning at Mesa Arch just after sunrise. It’s a really short hike out to a low arch, through which you get a nice glimpse of the vastness of Canyonlands. 

Why just after sunrise, you ask? Because at sunrise, there will be hundreds – yes, hundreds – of photographers vying for the best position to take that picture-perfect shot of the natural bridge with the sunstar on the bottom. I bet you’ve seen it before – it looks like this: 

I took that around sunrise at Mesa Arch, where we’d arrived an hour before sunrise and still didn’t get a spot. Instead of jostling for position, we took a seat on a rock overlooking the arch and watched the sun rise, then I ventured down when the crowds started to thin. 

Here’s the behind the scenes view of the sea of photographers that you don’t see in the pictures on Instagram. 

The point is that going after sunrise is a much more pleasant experience. 

Hiking in Canyonlands

After experiencing Mesa Arch, head out on a hike in Canyonlands’ Island in the Sky District. 

Here are three options for various levels of hiking experience and fitness. If you’re up for it, you could totally do a couple of the shorter ones together as part of a little circuit along Canyonlands’ main thoroughfare. 

Aztec Butte (1.7 miles / 250 ft. elevation gain): This is a cool hike that has two distinct parts that form a “Y” shape. First, take the right fork to climb to a nice viewpoint over Canyonlands. Then on the way back, take the left fork and check out the ancestral Puebloan structures, which are pretty cool. DON’T TOUCH THE STRUCTURES – leave them be. 

White Rim Overlook (2 miles / 200 ft. elevation gain): A short and sweet hike to an incredible overlook that really illustrates the scale of Canyonlands. It’s a short, well-marked hike out to a little “peninsula” (for lack of a better word – there’s no water, but it’s a peninsula shaped part of the canyon rim). Follow the rock piles, known as cairns. 

The Gooseberry Trail (5 miles / 1,500 ft. elevation gain): This hike is no joke. You basically climb straight down the wall of the canyon to get to the lower plateau, which takes you to a nice overlook of the canyon forged by the mighty Colorado River. Just remember, the first part of the hike is a descent…which means what goes down must come back up. Try to get an early start so that you’re not out there in the heat of the day. 

Grand View Point Overlook

Next, head out to Grand View Point , which is another short stroll along the rim of the canyon that we DEFINITELY think you should do, no matter what. It’s mostly flat, with a little bit of up and down, but the end viewpoint is going to be well worth the small effort to get there. 

The Scenic Drive

Grand View Point is at the end of the road, which means you can make the drive back towards the visitor center a scenic drive by stopping at all the viewpoints along the way. 

The first stop, if you didn’t already tackle it, is the White Rim Overlook . We loved this short hike, and it’s worth mentioning again. 

Make sure to also stop at the Buck Canyon Overlook and, our favorite viewpoint on the drive, the Shafer Canyon Overlook , which has amazing views of the canyon, and of the steep switchbacks of Shafer Canyon Road, which descend from the rim down to the plateau via tight switchbacks that I would be too terrified to drive myself. 

It’s also worth venturing out on the road that leads to Upheaval Dome, aptly named Upheaval Dome Road . 

The turnoff is a little ways south of Shafer Canyon Overlook. Willow Flat Campground, the main campground in this part of Canyonlands, is out there, but stay on Upheaval Dome Road to get to Upheaval Dome, Whale Rock, and Aztec Butte – three great short hikes just off the road. 

Day 4: Exploring Around Moab

Spend the morning and afternoon around Moab, exploring what we think are two of the best hikes in the area – neither of which are inside a national park – and then make your way over to Capitol Reef National Park. 

Things Not to Miss Around Moab

Here are some things we really enjoyed near Moab (that aren’t within national park boundaries).

Corona Arch

We did the hike out to Corona Arch at sunrise, and sat on a rock watching the light creep down, illuminating the arch about an hour after sunrise. Because of the rock walls here, we actually think the best time to be here is just after sunrise. 

It’s only 2.5 miles long (round trip), but there are some sections of scrambling along slickrock, and a ladder that you have to climb. As long as you’re prepared with sturdy footwear, you should be fine, but you should know what you’re getting into before you leave the parking lot. 

The arch itself is enormous, and is one of the more impressive arches we saw in Moab, including the ones in Arches (Delicate Arch and Double Arch might be the only two ahead of it). 

The trailhead is along highway 279, just a twenty minute drive northwest of Moab.  

Just down the road from Corona Arch is another amazing hike that most people probably skip since it’s not inside one of the nearby national parks – and that’s Jeep Arch .

You’ll park in the small dirt parking lot along the road. We were there mid-morning after our hike to Corona Arch, and we were only the second car in the parking area. 

This hike is a bit longer at 3.6 miles (1,000 ft. of elevation gain), and it is COMPLETELY exposed. No shade to speak of, except right at the base of the arch. 

You’ll start by hiking up through the water pipe, which we didn’t realize on our way out and ended up hiking up to the railroad tracks, crossing the tracks, and then scrambling down the other side. Only to look through the other end of the pipe and say “ah, that’s the way you’re supposed to go.”

From there, you’ll follow a trail that is somewhat well marked by cairns across the rocky landscape, surrounded by the towering red rock walls of the canyon. It’s a loop, and after doing it both directions, we really don’t think it makes a huge difference which direction you go. 

We will say that the arch will sneak up on you. We were very worried that we were going the wrong way because the map showed the arch just ahead of us, and we couldn’t quite see it yet.

It’s carved into the towering canyon wall, and if you squint, it looks a little bit like a jeep, hence the name (Matt’s not convinced). 

Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

After a day of exploring Moab, head out to nearby Dead Horse Point State Park for sunset. Dead Horse Point is on the way back to Moab, which makes it a perfect last stop of the day before retiring to your hotel or campground for the night. 

You’ll need to pay the entrance fee, since it is a Utah State Park and is not covered by your America the Beautiful Pass. It’s $20 a vehicle as of 2021 – double check the up-to-date fees here . 

If you’re up for it and have some extra time before sunset, it’s worth doing one of the short hikes along the west rim. Our pick would be to park at the main parking lot and hike out to the Rim Overlook, and back along the rim to the parking lot, with a short detour to the Shafer Canyon and Meander overlooks along the way.

It’s about 2.5 miles there and back, and it’s flat. 

After that, pick your spot, plop down, and watch the sunset over the canyon. 

Day 5: Capitol Reef National Park

Be honest – before you started researching for this trip, had you ever heard of Capitol Reef National Park?

We hadn’t either. 

But I understand why. Sandwiched between Arches and Canyonlands to the east, and Bryce and Zion to the west, it is the runt of the litter. Not that it isn’t a great stop and well worth your time, it’s just that the rest of the national parks in Utah are spectacular. 

The most unique part of Capitol Reef in my book is the amount of green you’ll see. Coming from Moab, it’s pretty surprising to drive around a corner with red rocks towering above you and see… an orchard? Several orchards, actually.

And you can freely walk through them and eat the fruit in the late summer too! You have to pay if you want to take it to eat later though. 

What Not to Miss in Capitol Reef National Park

Here are some things not to miss in Capitol Reef National Park. 

Capitol Reef Scenic Drive

Stop at the visitor center to grab a map and a hiking guide, then it’s time to tackle the 10 mile scenic drive out to Capitol Gorge . 

Take your time on the drive – it’s a gorgeous road through the red rock formations that are Capitol Reef’s specialty. 

Eventually, you’ll arrive at the end of the paved road, where there’s a small parking lot and picnic area. If you continue on the dirt road, you’ll end up at the trailhead for Capitol Gorge , which is the beginning of a short one mile stroll through the towering canyon along the original path into the Fruita Valley. 

Be careful with weather in the summer – afternoon thunderstorms and rain showers can cause flash floods, and you definitely don’t want to be stuck in the gorge during a flash flood. 

Head back the way you came, making a right onto the dirt road that will take you to the Grand Wash Trailhead. 

Cassidy Arch

Head to the Grand Wash trailhead, which includes a short drive on a well-maintained dirt road, to hike to Cassidy Arch . 

In high season, you might have to wait a few minutes to get a parking space, since the lot is small and the dirt road makes it hard if not impossible to park on the side of the road. The wait will be worth it – you’ll climb the wall of the valley to an arch that you can actually walk on! 

It’s a steep climb up some stairs for the first bit of the trail, but it mellows out as you wind between the cairns (those are the little rock piles that mark a lot of the trails) up to the arch.

It’s a pretty stunning hike, as you’ll get views of the surrounding valley and beyond as you make the ascent. All in all, it’s a three mile hike with 660 feet of elevation gain. 

You should know that it will be hot in the afternoon, so bring tons of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection. 

Hike Hickman Bridge + Rim Overlook Trail

We really enjoyed the hike to Hickman Bridge , which is another natural bridge (which is similar to an arch, but slightly different). It’s a short one mile hike up, and it’s another spot where the trail actually takes you up and through the arch, which is pretty cool. 

From the Hickman Bridge, it’s another 2 miles to the Rim Overlook , which is an incredible hike that takes you to a high point on the canyon walls and looks over the entire valley. It was one of our favorite spots not only in Capitol Reef, but on our entire Utah road trip. Well worth the effort. 

All-in, if you go all the way up to the Rim Overlook, it’s going to be between 5 and 6 miles, with a moderate elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. 

Fruita and the Barn

Post-hike, head to Fruita and hit the Gifford House for a fresh baked fruit pie as a reward for finishing the morning hike. They don’t have gluten free options, so we ended up skipping the actual pies, but the historic Gifford House is worth a stop regardless. 

It’s a good representation of the original Mormon Settlement in Fruita Valley, though it has definitely been updated and renovated since it was built in 1908. Grab a mini pie and take it out to the picnic area outside. 

Don’t miss walking up the road towards the campsite to get a picture of the Fruita Barn with the red rocks in the background – I love the contrast between the dry red rock canyon, and the lush field (with horses, if you’re lucky) where the barn stands. Super unique. 

Sunset Point for… Sunset

A little over an hour before sunset, head out to Sunset Point / the Goosenecks for the second most breathtaking panorama in the park (don’t worry, you’ll tackle the best viewpoint tomorrow morning). 

The Goosenecks are an okay view of the river winding through the valley below, and they’re basically at the parking lot. 

But the star of the show is Sunset Point , which has a view across the Fruita Valley with all sorts of interesting terrain as far as the eye can see.

It’s spectacular about a half hour before sunset, when the golden light brings out all the different colors in the surrounding landscape, particularly the red in the canyon walls. Here are a few pictures for you from our trip, if you’re not convinced. 

Where to Stay at Capitol Reef National Park

There are really not many options near Capitol Reef – you can either camp inside the park, or stay in the nearby town of Torrey, Utah. 

Camping in Capitol Reef

The best option, by far, is Fruita Campground , which is the only place to stay inside the park that you can reserve in advance. It’s a super nice campground, set in between red rocks and orchards.

We were discussing whether it was the nicest campground we’d stayed in on our four month road trip, and it’s definitely in the top five. Check availability here .

You could also stay at Cathedral Valley Campground , which is near the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon, but it’s a journey to get there and it’s super remote with no amenities.

That being said, it’s free, so there’s that. Make sure you have a 4WD, high clearance vehicle or you’re going to have a bad time.

Hotels near Capitol Reef

You’ll have to head to nearby Torrey to find a place to stay that isn’t camping. It’s only about a 15 minute drive to the park entrance, so it’s a perfect stopover before heading onwards to your next stop, Bryce Canyon National Park.

As far as hotels and resorts go, the leaders of the pack are Capitol Reef Resort – which is also the closest place to stay near the park (and their two bedroom cottages have a kitchen) – and Red Sands Hotel .

Vacation Rentals near Capitol Reef

If you want a vacation rental with more space and access to a kitchen, there are a couple of good options around Torrey . 

For couples, we like this cozy house .  

For families and groups who need a bit more space, look at this modern two bedroom flat .

Days 6 & 7: Bryce Canyon National Park

We spent two and a half days in Bryce Canyon, and I didn’t quite realize just how compact this national park is. Unlike places like Yellowstone and Yosemite, where you can literally drive for hours and still not leave the park, there’s essentially one 19 mile road that makes up the entirety of Bryce Canyon National Park. 

Bryce Canyon really isn’t that big, so we think that a day and a half is enough to see the highlights.

For that reason, if you’re time constrained and only have ten days, I’d only spend one day in Bryce Canyon National Park , plus a portion of the next morning before driving to Zion.

If you’ve got more than 10 days, this is the first place I’d add time (an extra day would be perfect). 

One thing you should know for Bryce that I didn’t know before my trip: the best light for photos is in the morning . 

In the afternoon, the sun is on the opposite side of the canyon from most of the interesting stuff, which leads to long shadows that really mess with your pictures because of the extremes of light and dark in the photo. 

In the morning, the sun lights up the hoodoos and other formations, making them that much more spectacular.

The Best Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Here are five things not to miss in Bryce Canyon National Park. 

Sunrise at … Sunrise Point

Start your time in Bryce Canyon with sunrise at Sunrise Point . This is a popular spot, so get there early. 

You’ll have views of the hoodoos to your right, which is the direction you want to be facing, and the horizon on the left, which is where the sun will come up.

Again, it bears repeating, make sure to watch the rising sun light up the hoodoos – most people will be looking at the horizon to watch the sunrise, which would be a mistake!

As the sun comes up, it brings out all the different hues of the hoodoos, making for some spectacular photos.

Sunset Point and Thor’s Hammer

Next, walk along the rim to Sunset Point , which is another good viewpoint to see the hoodoos from a slightly different angle.

Hike down a little ways to get a good view of Thor’s Hammer , a unique rock formation that looks like the Marvel hero’s signature hammer.

Hike the “Figure 8” Loop

After you’ve taken ALL the photos, you should embark on our favorite hike in Bryce Canyon – the Queen’s Garden / Navajo / Peek-a-boo Loop, which we’ll call the “Figure 8” loop because it sounds cooler and is less of a mouthful. 

It’s a six mile hike with 1,500 feet of elevation gain. You’ll start at Sunset Point and end along the rim near Sunrise Point. 

Make sure you’re fueled up with coffee and breakfast before heading out. To really take in the beauty and scale of Bryce Canyon, you HAVE to get below the rim. This hike takes you through canyons, between hoodoos, and to viewpoints with sweeping views of the magnificence of this park. 

You’ll start by descending Wall Street – a set of (very photogenic) steep switchbacks that take you down, down, down into the canyon. Try to get started early, because this spot gets very, very congested. 

You’ll wander through the canyon for a bit before you reach a junction – veer right to tackle the peek-a-boo loop, ending back at the exact point you veered right. From there, you’ll climb back up to the rim of the canyon via the Queens Garden trail, which is not an easy hike, especially if it’s hot, but it’s totally doable for most people. 

After the hike, take a break from being in the sun and eat some lunch to refuel, either a picnic lunch, or at the Bryce Canyon Lodge are your best options. 

The Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

One thing you definitely shouldn’t miss in Bryce Canyon is the scenic drive along the 19-mile road that runs from one end of the park to the other. It’s a good afternoon activity, and it will only take you about an hour or so. 

Make sure to check out Natural Bridge and Bryce Point , our two favorite stops, and stop at any viewpoints along the way that catch your eye.

You’ll want to start this drive at least two hours before sunset, before the sun drops behind the canyon wall and takes all the color out of the hoodoos for the night.

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park

There’s exactly one place to stay in the park (plus two campgrounds – scroll down to read about those) – the Bryce Canyon Lodge . The location is great, but it’s going to be expensive and it’s a little dated. That being said, it’s a solid choice if you want to stay in the park and aren’t on board for camping. 

Staying Outside the Park

If you’re looking for more options, you’ll need to look outside the park to the towns of Bryce and Tropic . 

The best place to stay to be close to the park is in the town of Bryce . It’s as close as it gets to the entrance of the park, and you’ve got a few options. Unfortunately, the selection isn’t great. 

The Best Western Plus Canyon Grand is, by far, the best place to stay. I know what you’re thinking – “really Matt? Best Western? That doesn’t seem like you.” I hear you, believe me. I had the same reaction. But this is a NICE Best Western.  

Tropic, Utah is another place you could stay, and it’s about 15-20 minutes outside the park entrance, which means it’s about 30 minutes from Sunrise Point, which is where you’ll start the next morning. Generally, Tropic is going to be the cheaper option between the two, but also the less convenient option. 

Camping in and Around Bryce Canyon

There are two campgrounds inside the park. 

Sunset Campground is the bigger of the two campgrounds inside the park. You’ll need to book well in advance, or be prepared to check the availability daily for a cancellation, which is how we ended up getting a spot for a night.

The location is great, right across from Sunset Point, which will mean you can walk over and skip dealing with the parking nightmare that is that parking lot in the morning. Oh yeah, and the bathrooms are heated, which I’ve never encountered before at a campground. 

North Campground is basically right on the rim of the amphitheater, which also means that you will be able to leave the car at camp and walk to the two best hikes in the Bryce Canyon National Park (more on that in a second). There are 99 sites, and for 2023 (May through October) you’ll need to reserve in advance. 

The best option for camping (and RV sites) outside the park is Ruby’s RV Park and Campground , which is where we stayed for the rest of our time in Bryce Canyon because we couldn’t get a reservation in the park. 

Days 8 – 10: Zion National Park

Zion is the park I’ve spent the most time in on road trips growing up, and finally we made it back in the spring to marvel at both the canyon itself, and the ingenuity that went into constructing the Mt. Carmel – Zion tunnel, and the trail up to Angels Landing. 

Both were built during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps , and are amazing feats of engineering, especially when you consider they were made almost a century ago. 

Zion is one of the best national parks in the country, let alone Utah, so you’re ending your trip on a high note. 

There’s tons to do and see, and two days in Zion is not nearly enough time to see all there is to see, but you can get a great taste of the park that will leave you hungry to return and spend more time exploring the canyons, rivers, and hanging gardens that make Zion a special place.

The best thing to do in Zion National Park, by far, is hiking. And there are two iconic hikes in the park that you should tackle – one on each day. 

They are the Narrows and Angels Landing – you’ll do Angels Landing on Day 1, then the equally-iconic Narrows of the Virgin River on Day 2. In between, there are some great shorter hikes to tackle. 

A note here for RVs and trailers: if your vehicle is higher than 11’ 4” or wider than 7’ 10”, you’ll have to pay a $15 “escort fee” to pass through the Zion-Mt Carmel tunnel (which you’ll have to do to get into the park from the east) which basically means that a ranger will stop traffic in the tunnel and make it one-way so that you can pass through to avoid accidents. More information can be found here .

The Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

Here are some of our favorite things to do in Zion National Park. 

Hike Angels Landing

Get an early start on your first day in Zion to make your way out to Angels Landing (shuttle stop is the Grotto ). It is, along with the Narrows, one of the best and most unique hikes in Utah if not the entire western United States.

It’s only 5.4 miles long, but it’s a steady climb of over 1,500 feet, which is going to feel like A LOT at this elevation and temperature. Seriously, the trail starts flat for about a quarter of a mile, but then it starts climbing steadily for the rest of the hike up to Angels Landing. 

You need to pack plenty of water (more than two liters per person), sunscreen, and a hat. If you’re afraid of heights, the tail end of this hike is going to test your willpower. You’ll need to do some scrambling and climbing with the help of chains, but the sweeping views at the top will make it all worth it. 

However, you should know that we stopped before the serious part of the chains started. There are essentially two sections of chains – one that traverses the side of a ridge, and another that makes the ascent to the summit. We did the first section, and turned around before the second section. 

It had rained the day before, which created a fine sand that coated every rock surface on the hike. We weren’t super comfortable with our footing as we were traversing the first set of chains, and the unbearable crowds didn’t help with the anxiety. Know that it is perfectly okay to stop and turn around if you’re not feeling comfortable. We did, and we regret absolutely nothing. 

I mean it when I say to start early. It gets hot in Zion, and the last thing you want is to be stuck at one of the sections with chains waiting for a slow group to go up or down while you, quite literally, roast in the desert sun. 

It’s going to take you most of the morning and part of the afternoon to do this hike. Afterwards, head to the Zion Lodge to eat lunch – either a pre-packed picnic, or a meal at the lodge’s cafe – and relax before tackling some other short hikes in the afternoon. 

Note : in 2023, you need an advance reservation to hike to Angels Landing. It’s meant to control crowds, which we experienced and literally said to each other on the way down “they should really permit this hike.”

Sunset at the Watchman

This was one of our favorite hikes in Zion, though we did it at sunrise, when the light wasn’t at its best thanks to the towering rock wall behind you that blocks the sun from lighting up the Watchman. 

That’s why we have it here, at sunset instead.

It leaves from the visitor center, and climbs pretty gently to a mesa that is directly across the valley from the Watchman, one of the most famous rock formations in the park. It’s a good spot to pack a picnic and a couple of beers after a long day of exploring. 

Hike The Narrows

Today, hop on the shuttle early and head up the canyon to the Temple of Sinawava stop to do the ten mile hike (roundtrip) to the Narrows. 

This hike is through a canyon and river, which means it is CRUCIAL that you check with the rangers about conditions and flash flood warnings before you start the hike . In the spring, heavy water flow from snow runoff might mean that this trail is closed. 

Seriously, flash floods in canyons are no joke. Stop by the visitors center to make sure you’re good to go. 

Don’t let that scare you – the hike through the Narrows is the #1 Zion experience that I think you should have on your trip.

The hike follows the Riverside Walk for the first bit, then continues on when that trail ends. You’ll pass through narrow canyons, deal with knee-high water, and do some bouldering en route to Big Springs, where the hike ends and you’ll turn around to head back the way you came.

It’s going to take you five to six hours, maybe more. To make it as smooth as possible, bring plenty of water, tons of snacks, proper footwear (not flip flops – either hiking sandals like Chacos , or real hiking shoes), a dry bag , and a pair of trekking poles for stability.

After that, recharge for a second and catch your breath. Maybe take a nap. It has been a whirlwind of a couple of days!

East Zion Scenic Drive

The eastern side of Zion National Park is one of the more unique landscapes in the country. Checkerboard Mesa, in particular, is pretty impressive. It’s a huge, textured cone-like formation that has checkerboard textures all over its surface.

The drive through the eastern side of the park, from the East Entrance to the tunnel, is spectacular. You should do it in the late afternoon if you can, so that you’re well-positioned to do the Canyon Overlook Trail at sunset. 

The Canyon Overlook Trail

Parking for this one is a bit of a pain due to all the people vying for a very limited number of spots. You’ll need to park along the road and walk to the trailhead. 

The hike itself is short, but a little steep, and takes you up to a spectacular view out over the canyon. Below, you’ll see the road switchbacking its way up to the tunnel, and the iconic, impressive rock formations of Zion Canyon across the valley below. 

Last light on the canyon from the setting sun is amazing, and it’s worth hanging out up here for a bit until after sunset. 

Where to Stay near Zion National Park

Unlike a place like Capitol Reef, where it’s hard to find a place to stay that’s close to the park, Zion has some great options nearby in Springdale, Utah . 

Whether you’re looking for a campground or you want a comfortable hotel, there are plenty of great places to stay near Zion.  

Inside the park, your options are splurging on a lodge room or private cabin at the iconic Zion Lodge , or snagging a campground at either Watchman Campground (we stayed here and it’s great) or South Campground .

Both are walkable to the visitor center, which is where you’ll need to catch the shuttle if you’re here between March and November. 

In Springdale , which is immediately outside the entrance to the park, you’ve got a wide range of options, from budget to bougie. Here are some picks based on what you’re looking for. 

• On a budget : I have stayed at the Holiday Inn Express , and it’s nicer than most Holiday Inns, and there’s a shuttle that will take you to the park entrance right outside the front door. The Best Western is another option, and it’s slightly closer to the park  entrance.
• Mid-Range : I love the cottages at the Red Rock Inn Cottages , and that’s where we would have stayed if we weren’t camping. Flanigan’s Inn is an eco-friendly hotel with nice rooms, a beautiful property, and a great onsite restaurant. The Desert Pearl Inn is a good choice if you need a kitchen (and the rooms all have nice patios overlooking the pool).
• Best of the Best : The Cable Mountain Lodge is the best place to stay near Zion thanks to its location RIGHT OUTSIDE the park entrance. It’s a nice boutique hotel, so it’s not the cheapest, but it’s worth every penny for the location alone. In the same complex, there’s a small grocery store, a coffee shop, a brewery, and an outfitter that rents bikes and gear for the Narrows if you need it. 

You could also stay in a vacation rental in Springdale , which there are plenty of. That’ll give you more space to spread out and relax, which is particularly helpful if you’re traveling with a group. Nobody wants to cram four people in a small hotel room with two queen beds. 

For a once-in-a-lifetime glamping experience, stay at Zion Under Canvas . It’s a little further out – 45 minutes from the South Entrance – but it’ll make up for the distant location with the superb facilities.

They have a range of options – from simple “safari tents” that are basically a bed with a shared bathroom (they’re single-occupancy and nice, though) to “Stargazer” (private bathroom and deck!) and Suites. Some even come with a separate kids tent – perfect for families.

Psst ! We have a whole guide dedicated to helping you find the perfect place to stay at Zion National Park – you can read it here . 

What to Do with More Time in Utah

Here are three things to add to your Utah itinerary if you are lucky enough to have some extra time. 

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Time required : 1 full day

Before heading to Bryce, it’s well worth a stop in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument , home of some of the best slot canyons in Utah that don’t require a permit lottery to access.

The best way to do it is to tackle one or two of the hikes (if you’re ambitious) on the way to Bryce Canyon, staying overnight either in nearby Boulder, Utah, or completing the hikes and heading into Bryce at the end of the day. 

There are at least three hikes that are worth your time in this area, and which ones you choose basically depends on your ability to navigate a long dirt road with some questionable spots for passenger vehicles and your willingness to navigate tight spots in slot canyons. 

The road to get to the trailhead for Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Canyons is a 26-mile long dirt road called “Hole-in-the-Rock Road”. It’s passable in a passenger vehicle, but you’ll need to take it slow and it’s going to take you about an hour. I’d recommend a 4WD, high clearance vehicle to get to the second two hikes on the list. 

We skipped them all because Homer, our Honda Odyssey, was sick of unpaved roads after some misadventures in the Pacific Northwest. 

Here are those three hikes, with a short description of each. 

• Lower Calf Creek Falls (6 miles roundtrip): This is right along Scenic Byway 12, which means you don’t have to survive a dirt road to get to the trailhead. It’s a lovely hike through a surprisingly green canyon to a 126 foot waterfall, Lower Calf Creek Falls, which is in a grotto-like setting. Bring a swimsuit on a warm summer day to take a dip in the pool underneath the falls.
• Zebra Slot Canyon : This trail is not always accessible, since the entry point fills with water after storms. But if it hasn’t rained in a while, it’s a worthy five mile trip. I haven’t personally done it, but I’ve seen plenty of pictures on Instagram of the wave-like textures in the Zebra slot.
• Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons : This hike includes a 15 foot climb on rock walls, and a 20 foot descent with assistance from a rope, along with some very tight spots (12-18 inches wide) through a slot canyon. We didn’t make it here because the 26 mile long dirt road scared us and our minivan off, but I’ve heard from family members and friends who have done it that it’s amazing. The reward is two of the best slot canyons in Utah, which means it’s a busy trail. Be careful in slot canyons if there’s an incoming rainstorm – flash flooding is no joke.

If you’re looking for an awesome overnight backpacking trip, look no further than the 11.5 mile journey to Coyote Gulch . It has quite a bit of elevation gain, which makes it a little much for a day hike. But the destination is pretty epic. Permit information here . 

If you’re not up for the 26 mile drive on a dirt road, do the hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls on the drive from Capitol Reef, then head to Bryce Canyon National Park that night. 

Add a Detour into Arizona

Time required : 3-4 days

If you’ve got two weeks and you’re looking for a great addition to your Utah road trip adventure, a mini Arizona road trip would be a great option. 

Zion is just two hours away from Page, Arizona, which is home to two amazing natural wonders – Horseshoe Bend (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram) and Antelope Canyon . 

Horseshoe Bend is a giant picture-perfect bend in the Colorado River that makes for an amazing sunset location, while Antelope Canyon is one of the most picturesque slot canyons in the Southwest, but is only accessible by guided tour (check out this company , which is Navajo-owned). 

On the way to Page, make a stop at Paria Canyon to hike to Buckskin Gulch. The Wave is also here, in Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, but you’ll need to apply in advance to get a permit to hike it. More information here .

After Page, continue on to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, and spend two days at the Grand Canyon in constant awe over the natural beauty and scale on display. Make sure to drive Desert View Road at sunset , hike the South Kaibab Trail , and catch sunset at Hopi Point along Hermit Road while you’re there.

From the Grand Canyon, it’s a four hour drive west to Las Vegas. You’ll pass by Hoover Dam along the way, which is worth a stop for the sheer scale of the dam. 

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Sitting just north of Zion (an hour and a half drive) is Cedar Breaks National Monument. It’s even higher than Bryce Canyon at 10,000 feet above sea level, which means the ecosystem is very different from most of the places you’ve seen so far in Utah. It’s most similar to Bryce Canyon, with its orange-tinted rocks and ponderosa pine forests. 

It’s also shaped kind of like Bryce, forming an amphitheater, but unlike Bryce you can’t hike below the rim because it’s steep and dangerous. As a result, there aren’t a whole lot of long hikes here, so a half day is probably enough time. 

Similar to Bryce, morning is the best time to be here for the light since the sun sets behind the canyon and mid-afternoon it’s shrouded in darkness. While you’re there, make sure to hike both  the South Rim Trail and the Alpine Pond Trail . Both are short and relatively easy. 

How to Plan a Shorter Utah National Parks Itinerary

If you have less time in Utah, like we mentioned above, rather than trying to fit in the entire Mighty Five Circuit, we’d opt for spending 7 days exploring EITHER Zion and Bryce OR Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef.

The first itinerary might look something like this (you’ll want to fly in and out of Las Vegas for this one).  

• Day 1 : Arrive in Las Vegas, drive to Zion
• Day 2 : Zion National Park
• Day 3 : Zion National Park
• Day 4 : Bryce Canyon National Park
• Day 5 : Bryce Canyon National Park
• Day 6 : Day trip to Grand Staircase-Escalante (Calf Creek Falls)
• Day 7 : Drive Back to Las Vegas

If you’re more interested in spending your time in and around Moab (which is where you’ll find Arches and Canyonlands), here’s what it might look like. 

• Day 1 : Arrive in Salt Lake City / Moab
• Day 3 : Arches National Park
• Day 4 : Canyonlands National Park
• Day 5 : Around Moab
• Day 6 : Capitol Reef National Park
• Day 7 : Drive Back to Salt Lake City / Moab

The Best Time to Visit the Utah National Parks

In general, we think fall and spring are the most pleasant times to be in Utah (we were there in October and April, and it was lovely). 

Visiting in the Fall and Spring (March – May / September – October)

Fall and spring in southern Utah, which is where the national parks are, are fairly similar. We’ve been in both October and April over the past year, and both were very pleasant times to be there. However, the weather is certainly more unpredictable than the summer – it was 80 degrees and sunny one day, and then snowed the next day on our trip in April. 

On our road trip to the Mighty Five in the fall (October), we found temperatures in the 70’s and 80’s during the day, and between 50 and 60 degrees at night. This varies by park – Bryce Canyon is at 8,000 feet above sea level, and is much cooler than Arches and Canyonlands, for example. 

The parks are still busy, so you’ll need to reserve things early – it’s actually still considered high season.

Visiting in the Summer (June – August)

Summer is crowded and blazing hot. In the United States, a lot of families plan summer vacations because that’s when the kids are out of school. The result? Parks are packed, camping reservations are few and far between, and good luck getting a parking spot at the most popular trailheads in the park. 

Usually, the weather is the most predictable in the summer, where it’s often warmer and drier than other times of year. There’s also going to be afternoon thunderstorms, which are a phenomenon that we’ve run into multiple times in the southwest and in Colorado. 

Summer isn’t the best time to visit Utah’s Mighty Five national parks. You’ll find unbearable temperatures in the heat of the day, often reaching over 100 degrees, which basically means you can’t do much during the middle of the day. You’ll need to plan on being out early in the morning and late in the afternoon and drink plenty of water. 

That being said, I’ve been on two separate versions of a Utah road trip in the summer growing up, and I’m still here. It’s doable, but not preferable. 

Visiting in the Winter (November – February)

In the winter , the parks are basically empty, but it’s going to be freezing cold. You might even get a little bit of snow, which is a particularly beautiful way to see the Mighty Five in Utah. Pack a warm jacket (we basically wore this jacket every night on our road trip) and some long underwear and you’ll be fine. 

It’ll be in the 30’s and 40’s during the day, and drop below freezing at night. You might even get treated to a nice dusting of snow covering the parks, which is stunning. If you’re planning on visiting in the winter, I’d avoid camping (although we’ve camped in Yellowstone when it was below 20 degrees before) and plan on staying in hotels and vacation rentals along the way. 

The best part? You won’t have to brave the crowds – you’ll have the major sights virtually all to yourself. The worst part? Some roads and hikes might be closed due to snow and ice, so you might miss out on an experience or two. 

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

This has been by far the most imformative review I have ever had the pleasure of reading on any vacation. Awesome, Thank you so much for the detailed description and personal tips. This is helping us plan for our trip next summer, I’m taking some of your advice and hope for a great trip with out teenage boys. Thanks again

Hey Paul, thanks for the kind words! Glad you found it helpful – we plan (and pay for) all of our own trips, so we do our best to include all of those important tidbits that come from personal experience on a route. You’re going to have an amazing trip next summer. Cheers!

Hello Matt and Alysha – this site is amazing and full of info. My hubby and I and another couple are thinking of visiting Utah from Wisconsin. Our plan is to drive from home so no flying. We are all retired. If we visit in April are hotel/motel reservations still necessary? My thoughts are traveling ‘on the fly’ so to speak and when we are tired we stop and get a hotel room. Possible? Thanks.

Hey Pam! April is actually high season for the Utah parks, so yes you will probably want to reserve in advance. With the huge rise in number of visitors at national parks over the past couple of years, it’s really tough to do it “on the fly” these days between hotel reservations and park entrance permits (those haven’t quite hit the Utah parks yet, but I imagine they’re coming at some point!). Enjoy!

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Ultimate Itinerary: The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Posted by Arthur McMahon August 31, 2020 Updated May 21, 2024

The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip is an epic journey that showcases the PNW’s most iconic scenery as well as a number of hidden gems.

This trip has it all. Get ready to embark on a grand tour of the region encompassing all that makes the Pacific Northwest a special place beloved by adventurous people. The coast, the Cascades, the desert, the rainforest, and every town along the way all add to the magic of the PNW. It’s time to see it all for yourself.

Related Read: The 10 Best Scenic Drives in Oregon

The Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Traversing the most epic territories within Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, this road trip leaves plenty of room for customization. This is an excellent route broken down into several sections. For each section, you’ll find highlights, interesting side trips, places to stay, plus some place where you can save some time if you’re on a tight schedule.

This epic PNW road trip includes:

• 54 Hours of driving
• 14 National Forests
• 4 National Monuments
• 4 National Parks

The journey as we put it together starts and ends in Seattle, but the road also passes through other urban areas including Portland, Boise, Bend, and Spokane. You can start this loop from wherever you’d like.

Take a look at the complete route on Google Maps  to follow along as you read the guide below. At a comfortable pace, the entire journey will take about two weeks. Make it your own, though, and enjoy the ride.

Related Read: The Ultimate Portland to Seattle Road Trip Itinerary

PNW Road Trip Section by Section

Seattle to Spokane

This first stretch of the Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip starts off in the skyscraper canyons of downtown Seattle. Our chosen route travels northward along the eastern edge of the Puget Sound and then turns east as it winds through the magnificent Northern Cascades.

Once you’re done exploring the evergreen mountains, you’ll drop down to the Columbia Plateau and cross over an early stage of the grand Columbia River at Chief Joseph Dam before arriving at The Lilac City of Spokane.

Related Read: 14 Vanlife Hacks: How to Make Van Living Easier

North Cascade National Park

The rugged mountain landscape and heavy snowfalls of North Cascades National Park severely limit winter exploration of the area, but the roadside views are spectacular throughout the year. The entire park is mostly protected as wilderness. There are wondrous hikes and backpacking trails aplenty for the most intrepid of explorers.

Ross Lake National Recreation Area

Ross Lake is a popular recreation destination in the Northern Cascades. It’s a 23-mile long reservoir that extends beyond the national border into Canada. There are camping and hiking opportunities galore, and the lake is renowned for its stellar fishing. You can also opt to spend some time at the unforgettable floating Ross Lake Resort.

Lake Chelan

Certainly worthy of its own mention, Lake Chelan is the largest lake in the state of Washington and is the 26th deepest lake in the world with a maximum depth of 1486 feet. Visitors can stay at the remote tourist town of Stehekin which can only be accessed by long-distance hikers, such as those that arrive via the Pacific Crest Trail or by boat. The Lady of the Lake passenger ferry is a relaxing and romantic trip that carries travelers across the lake.

Where to Stay

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Spokane to Boise

Incredibly scenic and remote, this section of the Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip starts with a short drive to the beautiful lakeside town of Couer d’Alene. Leaving the city behind, the road turns south and hugs the Salmon River as it threads its way between three different national forests.

Our route loops out to eastern Idaho to include the Sawtooth Mountains and the Craters of the Moon National Monument . Though these are stupendous places worthy of a visit, this part can be easily cut out to save a full day or more of driving by rerouting directly to Boise.

Related Read:   10 Scenic Drives in Washington State That’ll Blow Your Mind

Coeur d’Alene

The waterfront district of Coeur d’Alene is a delightful place to grab a meal or stay the night. The marina, golf course, restaurants, and parks allow for hours or even days of entertainment. Tubbs Hill is a fantastic urban hiking area along the waterfront with easy trails and excellent views of both downtown and the lake.

Take a Hike: Guide to the Best Hikes Near Spokane

Craters of the Moon National Monument

Craters of the Moon is an awe-inspiring destination. It is literally a vast ocean of lava rock. Here you can explore 410,000 acres of basalt floodplain filled with lava caves, gigantic cinder crags, and, of course, plenty of extraordinary volcanic craters.

Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Full of hiking and backpacking trails, the Wallowa Whitman National Forest stands out because of its sky-high granite peaks and the lush diversity of its flora and fauna. It’s an expansive forest that includes the Eagle Cap Wilderness within its borders, a hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest reminiscent of California’s Sierra Nevada.

Wallowa Lake

Taking a detour a Lewiston, Idaho will lead you toward Joseph, Oregon and Wallowa Lake, as well as the primary entrance into the grand Eagle Cap Wilderness. The town of Joseph is named after Chief Joseph, of the Nez Perce Tribe . The area is rich in indigenous history. The lake is gorgeous, and there is a spectacular tramway that can take you straight to the mountain tops.

Save Time: Stay the course due south on Highway 55 and head straight to Boise.

Boise to Bend

This is an arid trek through Eastern Oregon with many geological oddities to see and plenty of pioneering history to explore. The route we chose travels north to Baker City and cuts through John Day. The southern Highway 20 is a quicker route, but the northern passage is much more interesting.

You’re on the historic Oregon Trail now, and there are plenty of points of interest in the early stages of this section for history buffs to discover. Most of the towns on this road have the look and feel of the Old West, and that’s because some of these places haven’t changed much in the last 100 years.

Baker Historic District

Located smack dab in the middle of downtown Baker City, this district is rife with artifacts and properties that date back to the 1800s. The Baker Heritage Museum is a treasure trove of interesting stories to absorb, and the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center lies just 5 miles down the road.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is actually divided into three sections, two of which are on this route. The Sheep Rock Unit features a mesmerizing canyon drive and an awesome fossil museum filled with animals that no longer exist which were discovered in the nearby John Day Fossil Beds. The Painted Hills Unit is another spectacle deserving of a pit stop.

Lake Owyhee State Park

If you’re interested in a remote, lightly-visited state park to spend some time exploring, Lake Owyhee is a gorgeous place to stay. It’s a long lake that fills a deep canyon, the walls of which are vibrant with colorful volcanic rock. Bighorn sheep frequent the area, and there are several varieties of fish to catch in the reservoir.

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock is known as the birthplace of rock climbing, but you don’t have to scale the cliff faces here to enjoy their beauty. This is a relatively small park with a 4-mile loop trail that covers most of what there is to see, but it is absolutely stunning. There are often dozens of climbers at a go which can be just as interesting to observe as the lovely scenery.

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Bend to Crescent City

Outdoor lovers could easily spend a week or more in Bend without running out of fun things to do and places to explore. From backpacking around the Three Sisters to skiing to slopes of Mount Bachelor and kayaking the white water of the Deschutes River, the recreation opportunities are truly endless.

Yet there is so much else out there between Bend and the coast that you’ll have to whittle down your options to make the most of your time. Your mind will be blown the first time you see Crater Lake in person, Cave Junction has awesome spelunking tours, and a walk through the Northern California redwood forests can be a life-changing experience.

Crater Lake National Park

Oregon’s crown jewel, Crater Lake ‘s sapphire waters are breathtaking to behold. This is the only national park in all of Oregon. It is a natural wonder that one could see from every possible angle without growing tired of its presence. There are trails and roads all the way around its rim to explore.

Take a Hike:  Guide to the Best Hikes in Crater Lake National Park

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

For as much time as you spend looking down at Crater Lake, you’ll be spending an equal amount of time looking up at the mighty redwoods at Jedediah Smith . These behemoths are a world apart from any other type of tree on this road trip, and they are a marvel that can only be truly experienced in person with your own eyes. This park contains 70% of all the old-growth redwood trees remaining in the entire world.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

If you chose to skip over Craters of the Moon, you still have miles upon miles of lava to explore just outside of Bend. This monument features the Newberry Caldera, a large walk-thru lava cave, two lakes, the Deschutes River, and many hiking trails. Here you’ll also find the High Desert Museum which succinctly encapsulates the area’s geological and biological diversity.

Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve

Near the Oregon town of Cave Junction lies the Marble Halls of Oregon. There is a massive marble cave to check out, parts of which are family-friendly, ADA-accessible, well lit, and offer interpretive signage. Cave tours are given by rangers. Within the cave lies the River Styx, the only designated subterranean Wild and Scenic River, which was named after the underground river from Greek mythology.

Save Time: Head northwest from Crater Lake toward Eugene and cut over to the coast at Florence, or head straight up to Portland.

Take a Hike:  Guide to the Best Hikes Near Eugene, Oregon

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• 11 Best Campgrounds Near Eugene, Oregon

Crescent City to Portland

The Oregon Coast is special not only for its pacific beauty, but also because all 362-miles of coastline are designated as public land. From the sea up to the existing line of vegetation, all ocean beaches in Oregon are open to the public. This scenic coastal drive is made all the better by the fact that you can pull over at any of the countless waysides to dip your toes in the sand and surf.

And each town along the coast offers its own unique experience to travelers. Coastal towns are welcoming to tourists because tourism is a large part of the coastal economy. There are dunes for off-roading all up and down the coast, lighthouses and state parks aplenty to visit, and numerous charming seaside shops and restaurants to try with excellent seafood fare and cute beach town gifts.

At a glance, most people who see Astoria on a map would assume it’s just another coastal town, but it’s not actually on the pacific coastline. Astoria is a historic port town set on the southern bank of the Columbia River Delta. Nearby Fort Stevens State Park is a popular beachside park and campground, and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park is another historic park worth a visit.

The big city has its appeal too, and it’s a nice change of pace after a long trip up the laid back coast. Portland has its own vibe, and it’s generally a pretty friendly city to explore on foot. If you’ve still got the itch to get outside and hike, though, you’ll want to take a look at our article on the best hikes in and around Portland .

The Beach, Everywhere

No two stretches of beach are the same in Oregon. Some are riddled with dazzling agates to collect, others are home to mini-ecosystems like tidepools and sea caves, while others are loaded with piles of driftwood, broken apart by freshwater streams, or adjacent to lively boardwalks. You’re sure to find something special about each beach you visit along this route.

Shore Acres State Park

Once a lavish estate of a wealthy timber baron, Shore Acres State Park is a beautiful combination of both natural and human-made wonders. Much of the park rests atop tall sandstone cliffs above the raging ocean where waves crash against upturned strata. A large, manicured botanical garden is maintained on the property, and there are multiple magical beach coves to discover.

Take a Mailboat up the Rogue River

This is less of a side trip and more of a thing to do, but you can turn this into an overnight or multi-day excursion. The Wild and Scenic Rogue River is mostly accessible only to hikers, rafters, and these mailboats. You can take a ride over 100 miles long and stay at a remote lodge far upriver from civilization and deep within the Wild Rogue Wilderness.

• 12 Stunning Oregon Coast Cabin Rentals
• 18 Best Camping Spots on the Oregon Coast
• 21 Best VRBO Rentals on the Oregon Coast

Portland to Seattle

It’s all about those snow-capped Cascade peaks, baby! This final stretch of the Great Pacific Northwest Road Trip winds through the region’s tallest mountains. Starting with a scenic drive up the Columbia River Gorge, the road skirts past awe-inspiring Mount Hood and then crosses the river to weave between Washington’s regal giants.

Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier are the climax of this grand tour. But the final leg of the journey sweeps back over to the coast for one last glimpse of the Pacific Ocean and a tranquil ride through the temperate rainforests of Olympic National Park before arriving back at the Seattle Metropolitan Area.

Columbia River Gorge

A scenic drive unlike any other, the Historic Columbia River Highway follows the gorge upriver as the scenery transitions from temperate rainforest to arid grassland. Attractions along this road include dozens of plummeting waterfalls , volcanic geological oddities, and the ever-present looming peaks of Mount Hood and Mount Adams.

Mount Adams and Goat Rocks Wilderness

Driving by Mount Adams, you may not be able to help yourself from finding a trail to hike. There are several popular paths up to sky-high trails on Mount Adams and within the neighboring Goat Rocks Wilderness . Here, on a clear day, you’ll find alpine lakes, wildflowers, goats, marmots, and epic views of the surrounding mountains.

Olympic National Park

Return once again to the coastal beauty and dark rainforests of the Pacific Northwest’s coastline, but crank all of it up to 11 here at the national park. Olympic National Park is a verdant wonderland set just outside of Seattle. It’s wet, wild, and everything is covered in green. Moss and lichen abound, as do the terrific ocean views.

Take a Hike:  Guide to the Best Easy Hikes at Olympic National Park

Mount Hood and the Timberline Lodge

You’ll miss much of the majesty of Mount Hood by bypassing it along the Columbia River Gorge. If you have a spare day, we suggest heading up to the mountain from the town of Hood River. The lodge is quite an interesting place, and it provides access to year-round ski slopes as well as the Timberline Trail which circumnavigates Mount Hood.

Take a Hike: Guide to Best Hikes at Mount Hood

Mount Rainier National Park

The pinnacle of the Pacific Northwest’s Cascade Range, Mount Rainier reigns above the region and can be seen from all across Washington and Oregon on a clear day. The national park provides a closer view of this iconic monolith. The mountain is what you make of it. There are miles of trails, suburban tourist attractions, scenic gondola rides, and so much more to discover on this mountain’s slopes.

Take a Hike: Guide to the Best Hikes at Mount Rainier

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Known for its destructive eruption from a few decades past, Mount St. Helens offers a unique experience for adventurous folks who seek to climb or hike around the active volcano. You can experience first hand the remnants of the recent lava flow, the newly formed glacier, and numerous lava caves.

Save Time: Cut out either the mountains or the coast, or both, by heading up I-5 directly to Seattle.

• 7 Epic Treehouse Rentals in Oregon
• 10 Best Campgrounds Near Portland

Enjoy the Pacific Northwest

13 outdoorsy things to do on the washington coast.

Top 5 Pacific Coast Trail Section Hikes in Oregon and Washington

Hit the Trail on These 12 Epic Waterfall Hikes in Washington

17 Best Lake Camping Spots in Oregon

8 Stunning Waterfall Hikes Throughout Oregon

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Seen in: Idaho , Oregon , Road Trips , Washington , West

Posted by Arthur McMahon

Arthur loves to walk. It’s as simple as that. Whether it be in the mountains, on the beach, or along the city streets — he believes walking is the best way to experience the world. Thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail was his first backpacking foray, and he hasn’t stopped crushing miles since. Arthur and his wife now regularly travel into the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest seeking new trails to hike.

Coastal History: A Guide to the Oregon Coast’s Lighthouses and Historic Sites

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10 Best Utah Road Trips: Unique Itineraries + Maps

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: July 16, 2020

UPDATED: December 19, 2023

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

Enjoy This Utah Road Trips Guide? Pin It For Your Visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

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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Driving Utah National Parks: 7 Day Road Trip (Map + Itinerary)

Use our Utah National Parks road trip map and itinerary to plan the perfect one week driving tour through some of America’s best National Parks of the West.

Our 2 Utah National Parks road trips

Our first trip to Utah National Parks was during a one-month National Parks camping road trip in 2011, before starting our Peace Corps service. 

We loved it!

Utah’s beauty is so different from where we grew up (Oregon and Hawaii). But I think that’s what makes Utah’s Parks especially captivating: they feel like they’re not of this world!

Reds and oranges. Textures like thousand-layer pancakes cut through with a sharp knife, or blobs of wet sand plopped in columns as big as buildings.

From an aerial view, this part of Utah may look dry and bland. But up close, every corner has new shapes and shades of the rainbow.

In 2020, we revisited the Utah National Parks in October on a 7 day road trip . This time we stayed in Airbnbs, while practicing responsible, social distance travel .

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

Utah National Parks Road Trip Map + PDF

* Get our Utah National Parks map & itinerary PDF pack *  

Best Utah Road Trip Itinerary

The ideal Utah National Parks tour includes: – Arches National Park – Canyonlands N.P. – Bryce Canyon N.P. – Zion N.P. – Capitol Reef N.P. – Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

That is a lot to cover in a 7 day Utah Parks itinerary! But yes, it can be done.

When limited to one week, most travelers skip Grand Staircase, as many of its attractions are more remote.

Capitol Reef and Canyonlands are not as well known and many skip these as well.

That being said, if you wish to avoid crowds in the Utah National Parks, you may want to spend more time at Grand Staircase-Escalante, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands.

Let’s take a look at each of these Utah National Parks one by one, then we’ll answer some Frequently Asked Questions about Utah Parks road trips.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is most famous for having the greatest concentration of hoodoos on Earth. Hoodoos are irregularly eroded columns of rock. It’s a beautiful geological wonder to behold!

Bryce is one of my all-time favorite National Parks and definitely deserves a top spot on your Utah National Parks itinerary. That being said, you can easily see the best of Bryce Canyon within half a day if needed.

Check the Bryce Canyon National Park website for visitor information

Bryce Highlights:

– Hiking among the hoodoos – Sunset and Sunrise viewpoints – Ranger talks and astronomy programs – Canyon horseback rides

Best Hikes in Bryce:

– Queen’s Garden and Navajo trails (2.9 mile loop, moderate difficulty): A must see! Bryce’s most popular hiking trail packs a punch, with gorgeous vistas and fascinating geological formations.

– Peekaboo Loop (5.5 miles, strenuous): Combine this in a figure-8 with the Queen’s/Navajo loop above for a spectacular half-day work out.

– Rim Trail:  For folks with less mobility, or short on time, walk from the parking lot on this wide, paved path above the canyon. View Sunrise and Sunset points, about 1 mile apart.

Recommended Accommodations for Bryce Canyon:

Bryce activities:, zion national park.

Zion is Utah’s first and probably most popular (read: crowded) National Park.

On our Utah National Parks road trip map, you’ll see Zion is in the southwest corner of the State. This makes Zion National Park an ideal place to start a trip, especially if you’re coming from Las Vegas or California.

Zion’s main canyon boasts colorful, epic scenery and wildlife . But you can also visit a separate corner of the park, Kolob Canyon, that’s much less crowded.

Check the Zion National Park website for visitor information

Zion Highlights:

– Hiking in Zion Canyon or Kolob Canyon – Driving through the mile-long Mt. Carmel tunnel – Cycling the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

Best Hikes in Zion:

– West Rim Trail to Angel’s Landing (5.4 miles, strenuous): Switch back climb with epic views. For those with fear of heights, skipping the final section to Angel’s Landing is still a great hike.

– The Narrows (up to 9.4 miles): A trek through the river itself, inside a narrow gorge with walls a thousand feet high.

Recommended Accommodations for Zion National Park:

Zion activities:.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef is the most underrated Utah National Parks trip destination, in my opinion.

It’s also centrally located between the Western Utah parks (Bryce and Zion) and the Eastern parks (Arches and Canyonlands). Plus it’s next door to Grand Staircase-Escalante. With this location, Capitol Reef can make a great home base for a Utah National Parks vacation.

After a too-brief visit on our first trip, I made sure to spend extra time at Capitol Reef the second time around.

With such striking, unusual landscapes and relatively few crowds, Capitol Reef National Park is a hiker’s paradise . 

Check the Capitol Reef National Park website for visitor information

Capitol Reef Highlights:

– Hiking through unusual geologic formations – Scenic drive into Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge – Petroglyphs and pictographs by Fremont peoples – Historic pioneer farmstead in Fruita

Best Hikes in Capitol Reef:

– Grand Wash (up to 4 miles, flat): A dry streambed trail through the narrows of a sculpted canyon with fascinating rock colors and textures. Option to add on a climb to Cassidy Arch.

– Hickman Bridge (1.8 miles, moderate): Canyon views and a grand rock arch/bridge.

Recommended Accommodations for Capitol Reef:

Budget Alternatives: Capitol Reef campgrounds ($), Wonderland Cabins ($/$$) Luxury Alternative: Cougar Ridge Lodge villas ($$$)

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase-Escalante is actually a National Monument, which covers almost a million acres. Full of cliffs, slot canyons, river gorges, rock arches, fossils, and native artifacts, these public lands rival the other National Parks in Utah.

Unfortunately, these attractions are extremely spread out and not as accessible .

For convenience on a Utah road trip, we recommend visiting the area around Escalante, UT . This includes part of the Scenic Byway 12.

Check the Park website for visitor information

Grand Staircase Highlights:

– Scenic Byway 12 viewpoints and overlooks – Hiking diverse terrains

Best Hikes in Escalante:

– Lower Calf Creek Falls (6 miles, moderate): The stunning waterfall at the end is matched by fascinating terrain along this relatively flat but sandy out-and-back trail – pictured above.

– Coyote Gulch (11.5 miles, strenuous): A semi-narrow canyon that snakes its way through incredible red rock landscapes and arches.

Recommended Accommodations:

Budget Alternative: Calf Creek Campground ($) Luxury Alternative: 40 Acre Retreat ($$/$$$), Escalante Yurts ($$$)   Escalante Activities:

Canyonlands National Park

Adding Canyonlands to your Utah National Parks driving tour may depend on how much time you have. With its primitive desert landscape, it’s not quite as flashy as Arches, Zion, or Bryce, so some visitors choose to skip it.

That being said, Canyonlands National Park is a short drive from Arches , so it’s easy to make a day trip out of it.

Check the Canyonlands Park website for visitor information

Canyonlands Highlights:

– Horseshoe Canyon’s “Great Gallery” has some of the most significant rock art in North America – Impressive canyon vistas along the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive

Best Hikes in Canyonlands:

– Mesa Arch (0.5 miles, easy): A short loop trail to Canyonland’s most iconic rock arch.

– Grand View Point (2 miles, easy): Great for panoramic views of Candlestick Tower, the Green River, and the White Rim Road.

Canyonlands campgrounds

See Arches accommodations below for more options outside the park.

Canyonlands Activities:

Arches national park.

No Utah National Parks road trip itinerary is complete without a stop in Arches. True to its name, this open desert landscape is home to thousands of red rock archways and other fun stone formations.

Arches National Park is located just outside of Moab, Utah , an outdoor adventure hot spot of its own. This is the closest park to Utah’s Eastern border with Colorado.  

Arches Highlights:

– Taking a scenic drive to countless viewpoints – Hiking among the arches – Rock climbing, canyoneering, biking, or horse-back riding

Best Hikes in Arches:

– The Windows (1 mile, easy): An easy climb to view massive rock windows and Turret Arch.

– Delicate Arch (3 miles, moderate): A steady uphill, passing a wall of Ute Indian petroglyphs, to get up close to one of the most iconic arches.

Budget Alternative: Edge of the Desert tiny houses , Devil’s Garden Campground Luxury Alternative: Modern Moab Villa (for 8) ; Exclusive Retreats 3bdr Home  

Arches Activities:

Utah national park road trip itinerary tips.

How many days do you need to visit Utah Parks?

Technically , you could see the Utah Big 5 in a five day road trip. Driving distance is short enough, but this would allow very little time to actually enjoy yourself.

We recommend at least a one week Utah road trip itinerary. Two weeks in Utah National Parks would be even more ideal to get off the beaten path and explore the best of all the parks.

Best Time to Visit Utah Parks

Generally, the best time to visit US National Parks is in “shoulder season” when the weather is still nice but there are fewer crowds. That means avoiding school breaks, hot summers, and freezing winters.

Typically, Fall is a great time to take a southwest National Park road trip through Utah.

Which is better: Bryce or Arches? Zion or Moab?

You’ll see on our Utah National Parks map that Bryce and Zion are closest to each other on the West side of Utah. Arches and Canyonlands are on the East near Moab, Utah.

The best Utah parks to visit is personal preference. They are each so unique, it’s difficult to compare.

If you’re short on time and can’t see all the parks, I would pick whichever are closest to you geographically, to maximize your time in the parks. Whichever you choose will make for an amazing trip!

What should you pack for a road trip in Utah? What should I wear?

If you’ll be camping, see our epic camping road trip packing list . Don’t forget good hiking shoes and light-weight, layered clothes for the outdoors. It does get hot in the summer but can cool off at night, so a light jacket is recommended.

In winter, bring a heavier jacket, hat, gloves, and moisture-wicking layers. Sunscreen and water bottle are also must haves.

Alos, don’t forget your National Parks Pass !

Do you need bug spray for mosquitos in Utah?

Fortunately, Utah’s dry climate means there are not many mosquitos around the National Parks. Mosquitos may be more common around Salt Lake City at some times of the year, but it’s not usually a significant concern Utah National Parks.

We hope this Utah National Parks trip planner has been helpful. Let us know in the comments if you have your own recommendations to add. And don’t forget to get your National Parks in Utah map and road trip itinerary PDF pack here .

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Exploring Utah

* Click to access our free Utah National Parks map & itinerary PDF *  Road Trip: Salt Lake City from Chamanson on Vimeo. After Salt Lake City, we started our big tour of Utah’s National Parks. Since the weather didn’t permit camping in Yellowstone, the parks in Utah ended up being our first chance to…

hello. we are planning a road trip in May with our well-trained pup. I checked out several of the lodging sites posted on your site and they all seem to be non dog-friendly. LaQuinta Moab and also in LaVerkin are pet friendly. Any suggestions for us? Also we are driving from the Olympic Peninsula in WA so would beginning in SLC be the best route? Thank you!

We are coming to Utah in November around the 6 to the 12. We are bringing my 11 year old granddaughter. Any suggestions for activities. We hike but don’t want difficult hikes. Are the activities still available I. November

Hi Ellen. There are plenty of easy hikes throughout the Utah Parks. If you’re not able to find the info you’re looking for in our post, each Park has up to date recommendations and calendars in a brochure that you can pick up at the entry or visitor center.

Thanks for the info. As seniors we need to see as much as we can without hiking. Which parks have the best scenic drives? Know we’ll miss a lot without hiking, but we are not physically able.

Thanks for visiting our blog! Several of the parks have well known scenic drives, which we’ve mentioned in this post. Capitol Reef and Arches come to mind as the best parks to view from your own car. Zion’s valley is not self-drive but you can take the park shuttle to experience that scenic drive.

Thanks for the information it is great. Which hikes would you recommend for beauty but avoiding dangerous hiking since my family are newbies and are afraid of heights in tight quarters. Also I’m thinking of let’s say doing 5 days or less, which would you avoid or if easier the must do’s.

Hi Fred. Great question. Most of the Parks have so many hikes, you’ll be able to find beginner-friendly non-scary hikes to suit your preferences. It might be easiest to start with Bryce and Zion, as both have great viewpoints without necessarily needing to hike up or down and your driving time will be minimal. You could add Arches as well for scenic drives and light hiking to see some of the best sights. Hope that helps!

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1 Week, 5 Utah National Parks: A Curated Road Trip Itinerary

In just one eye-popping, mind-blowing, camera-clicking week, experience all of utah’s mighty 5..

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You may have heard, Utah is home to some pretty amazing national parks. And by amazing we mean jaw-dropping, breathtaking, heart-racing stuff. Cliffs, hoodoos and pillars made of candy colored rock; slot canyons, natural arches and verdant valleys. The scenery goes on and on and on. 

So obviously you’d like to see for yourself, did nature really design a valley of castle turrets? Can a bridge of rock be held up by sheer willpower? Yes and yes, and we have a customizable Utah national parks itinerary to prove it. Use our free PDF map download to navigate your road trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 in one fell swoop. Well, a 1,000-mile scenic drive, gallons of drinking water and miles of hiking swoop. Tuh-MAY-toe, tuh-MAH-toe.

What's so great about that arch on Utah license plates? See for yourself in Arches National Park.

Travel tips

Before throwing your hiking shoes and sunhat into your carry-on, take care of a few details.

• Buy an America the Beautiful park pass; the $80 fee covers entrance to all the national parks, saving you some cash for souvenir T-shirts. Get your pass through the National Park Service .
• Make park reservations. Arches requires a timed-entry ticket from April through October; visit Recreation.gov to make your vehicle reservation. Some hikes in Zion have a permit lottery; sign up at Recreation.gov . 
• April to October is peak season: Make camping or hotel reservations well in advance.
• Check the weather . It gets HOT during the summer months; pack appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, reusable water bottles and plenty of sunscreen.
• Plan to start your days early. Most people visit the park between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; go during the off hours for cooler temps and fewer crowds. Plus, the lighting is better for your Insta pics.
• Remember, you can come back! It’s impossible to hike every trail in one park in just a day or two, let alone all five. So plan what you can reasonably do this time around. And don’t worry, the scenery has been around for thousands of years, it’ll be here for you next time.

Accommodations

You can experience the outdoor wonders in three ways: fully immersive, semi-immersive and I-need-a-good-night’s-sleep immersive. If you want the deep dive experience — dirt in your shoes, campfire smell in your clothes — you can set up a tent in or near the national parks.

If you want to dip your toes in the wilderness but still want a mattress, consider renting an RV, campervan or camper trailer . But, if you’re more of a hot shower, hot tub kind of traveler, there are hotels and cabins , either inside the parks or in nearby towns. Can’t decide? Try glamping , camping-like lodging with some luxury hotel amenities.

Arrivals and Departures

The national parks are located in the southern half of Utah, so the two closest international airports are in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. Plan your travel as a round trip, or fly into one city and leave from the other. Pick up your rental vehicle and let your Utah national parks road trip begin.

Introduce yourself to Zion along the Riverside Walk.

Day One: Airport to Zion National Park

• Salt Lake City to Zion: 313 miles, 4.5 hours
• Las Vegas to Zion: 168 miles, 3 hours
• Lodging: Camping (spots inside the park fill quickly), hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, glamping

We suggest starting your Utah national parks road trip at Zion , when your legs are the freshest; there are some serious hikes here. In fact, there are so many swoon-worthy hikes at this park, it’s hard to choose just one. Or two. Or three. There’s a reason Zion sees some 5 million visitors every year. Plan on spending at least two days, if you can, to soak up all the scenery. And hey, if you decide to stay even longer, we totally get it.

Temple of Sinawava

After checking into your accommodations, head over to the park to stretch your legs on a warmup hike. Catch a free shuttle at the Visitor Center; it travels the length of Canyon Scenic Drive, with stops at the Zion Lodge and the trailheads.

Stay on until the last stop, Temple of Sinawava, and take the Riverside Walk for the perfect introduction to the park. The paved, 2-mile (round trip) walk takes you along the Virgin River and into a canyon. You’ll see hanging gardens, weeping walls and maybe some wildlife.

This trail ends where the Narrows hike begins. If it’s open and you have sturdy shoes, step into the river and walk the first portion of the hike. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to catch the shuttle back or you’ll be walking an extra nine miles. Fuel up for tomorrow at one of Springdale’s many eateries.

• Grilled grub: Camp Outpost, Whiptail Grill
• Fancy fixin’s: Spotted Dog, King’s Landing Bistro
• Family fare: Zion Pizza & Noodle, Porter’s

Get the best view in Zion National Park from Angels Landing.

Day Two: Zion

If you can get a permit, hike Angels Landing . It has a lot of uphill, steep switchbacks and some sheer drop-offs, but the view of the canyon from way up there? Matchless. Plan on taking several hours for the 5-mile hike. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the top; it’s definitely a better view than any rooftop restaurant can offer. Be sure to pack out all your trash. Register for permits with the National P ark Service .

If you didn’t get a permit, there are plenty of other (and easier) hikes . We recommend Emerald Pools . You’ll see three natural ponds and some waterfalls, separated by a short climb through desert vegetation. The lower pool is a fairly easy hike; it’s a bit more work to get to the other two, but the trail is easy to follow. At the upper pool, cool off in the grotto surrounded by enormous, weeping rock walls.

If you still have some energy, you may want to try another short but noteworthy hike . When you're properly worn out for the day, head back to Springdale for dinner, then maybe catch a show at the Bumbleberry Inn .

Day Three: Zion to Bryce Canyon

• Zion to Bryce: 2 hours, 84 miles
• Lodging : Campgrounds, cabins, B&Bs, glamping

Next stop, Bryce Canyon . Drive back into Zion, heading east on scenic Highway 9 toward Mt. Carmel. You’ll drive through the mile-long Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel. In addition to gaining a mad respect for 1920s sandstone blasters, you may catch a glimpse of some bighorn sheep through the built-in windows.

Make one last stop before you leave the area: Checkerboard Mesa . Imagine a giant sat down to do his math homework and got a bit carried away drawing lines. Then, on to Bryce.

Note: Oversize vehicles, such as RVs, are only allowed through the tunnel during limited hours and must pay an additional fee. Read more about restrictions at the National Park Service .

Walk among sandstone towers in Bryce Canyon.

Bryce is Nice

Remember when you tried to make an epic sandcastle? Well, Bryce Canyon did it first. See an entire valley of the tallest, coolest, colorfulest hoodoos on a walk from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point. 

If your legs are still a bit wobbly from Zion, take the Mossy Cave Trail , an easy 1-mile round trip among the spires. Another option is the Bristlecone Loop Trail , which will give you a bird’s-eye view. A little more challenging, the Navajo Loop is the most popular trail in the park; you’ll descend 800 feet into the heart of the hoodoos.

Got more stamina than that bighorn sheep you saw on the drive over? Try the 8.3-mile Fairyland Loop . You’ll hike down into the pink and white canyons, see natural amphitheaters and be surrounded by hoodoos. No need for wings, but you may wish you had some.

Park your tired puppies back in the car and head over to the tiny town of Tropic for some tasty respite. Steaks, house specials, lavender sponge cake and a wine menu await you at Stone Hearth Grille . For more casual fare, stay in Bryce Canyon City for Ruby’s Inn Cowboy’s Buffet and Steak Room .

The vistas are wide and grand in Canyonlands. Photo by Chad Hurst

Day Four: Canyonlands

• Bryce to Canyonlands: 4 hours 20 minutes, 256 miles
• Lodging : camping, hotels, cabins, glamping

Are you ready to mumble? Under your breath in awe, that is. Definitely not because your quads and hammies are jiggly; they can rest on the drive. Pull out our map of Utah national parks and head toward Moab. It’s the home base for Canyonlands and Arches.

Where Bryce seems like fine handiwork, Canyonlands was made with broader strokes. Get an overview of Utah’s largest national park from the Grand View Overlook . The easy hike takes you up a 1-mile sandstone stairway — to heaven? Just about. It ends at a mesa with an unobstructed view of Monument Basin. Be aware, while the path is wide, there are sheer cliffs.

Catch a perfectly framed sunrise at Mesa Arch.

Mesa Arch is another sweet spot for sweeping vistas, evident by the dozens of photographers shooting here at sunrise. The 27-foot long arch is so obliging, it perfectly frames your photos of the La Sal mountains. It’s worth squeezing into your day no matter the hour, since the trail is only 0.6 miles round trip. Hint: Walk to the arch clockwise, then retrace your steps back to avoid some of the stone steps.

If you’re visiting Canyonlands in the spring or winter, consider hiking the Confluence Overlook Trail , a moderate, 11-mile round trip. You’ll do some scrabbling up and down rocky slopes but it’s mostly flat. The payoff is the vista, 1,000 feet above the spot where the Green River and Colorado River come together. We don’t recommend it for a summer’s day; the trail is fully exposed — no shade — and the heat can be brutal.

The Confluence Overlook Trail is long, but the views are unparalleled. Photo by Chad Hurst

Even if you’re camping, head to Moab for some dinner and a casual walk down its charming Main Street. For a small town, there’s a surprisingly large assortment of dining options, from traditional kebabs at Sultan Mediterranean Grill to curry from Thai Bella Moab.

Day Five: Arches

• Canyonlands to Arches: 29 minutes, 26 miles

Just half an hour away from Canyonlands, Arches has mesas, buttes and some wiiiide, gravity defying arches. The most popular — so popular it can be seen on one-third of Utah’s license plates — is Delicate Arch. It’s not an easy hike to see it; there are some steep stretches on the 3-mile trip. But you’ll be rewarded by a magnificent, solitary arch standing in a bowl of sandstone. Wax as poetic as you like, it’ll be fitting.

Visit one of the world's longest natural bridge in Arches.

Actually, rare beauties are a thing for Arches. You’ll understand what we mean when you head over to Landscape Arch ; it’s the fifth longest natural bridge in the world. The slab of rock spans 290 feet, but it is only 18 feet wide. How does it stay up? No idea.

Day Six: Canyonlands or Arches

Have time to stick around for another day? You could take another hike in Arches, or head back to Canyonlands. Or consider some activities nearby such as white-water rafting , kayaking and off-roading . 

Drive on to the town of Torrey, just outside Capitol Reef, for the night so you can get an early start in the morning.

Day Seven: Capitol Reef and Home

Park logistics.

Arches to Capitol Reef: 2 hours, 133 miles

Lodging : camping, glamping, hotels

The final stop on our Utah national park itinerary is Capitol Reef National Park . This compact park is no slouch in rock sculptures, either. 

Reach for the stars at Cassidy Arch, named for a local outlaw.

First hike: A moderate 3.5 mile climb to Cassidy Arch . It’s a big one — standing 400 feet tall. It’s pretty photogenic, too, much like the movie star who played the arch’s namesake, Butch Cassidy. 

Next up, a moderately easy jaunt up to the Hickman Bridge . The 2-mile round trip trek includes fantastic scenery along the way, culminating in not just one, but TWO arches.

Grab a late lunch outside the park at Capitol Burger, a food truck serving gourmet burgers (find its exact location for the day on its Facebook page). Then settle your trail-worn body into your vehicle, crank up the air, choose your playlist and head back to the airport.

Home Logistics

Capitol Reef to Salt Lake City: 3 hours 23 minutes, 218 miles

Capitol Reef to Las Vegas: 5 hours, 327 miles

On the long drive back, make your case for which national park deserves a second, longer look. Utah.com will be here to help you plan your next trip and all your other excursions around our state.

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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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Seattle to Salt Lake City Road Trip Through Oregon

• Post author: Rachel Pedranti
• Post published: July 24, 2021
• Post category: Travel
• Post comments: 0 Comments

A Seattle to Salt Lake City road trip is a great idea. Maybe you are heading home from or heading to a vacation or maybe you found cheap flights out of the SLC airport. Utah is home to some of the most unique landscapes in the U.S. in my opinion so a Seattle to Utah road trip is definitely a good idea for a fun family vacation. 

This Seattle to Salt Lake City road trip itinerary will take you through several beautiful Oregon sights to break up the road trip and provide ample opportunity to stretch your legs. I recommend booking your hotels or campgrounds a couple of months in advance, especially during the summer and on holiday weekends. Things will fill up!

Treat this guide or Oregon itinerary as a create your own adventure. If there is something you want to take out, take it out! If there is something extra you want to add in, then do it! This is a guide based on what we did on our trip with minor tweaks for things I think we could have done better.

This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. Thank you!

Seattle to Salt Lake City Road Trip Overview

• Seattle, WA
• Lincoln City, OR
• McMinnville, OR
• Salt Lake City, UT
• Baker City, OR

Activities and Highlights!

Day One: Leave Seattle

Day one driving distance: 332 Miles

Driving time: ~ 6 H 15 min

Morning: Leave Seattle early in the morning and head to Portland to grab some donuts from Voodoo Doughnuts. These unique and extremely popular donuts are a fun treat to start this road trip off right.

Afternoon: Next drive over to Cannon Beach to see the famous haystack rock formation. Spend some time on the rocky beach and enjoy walking in the freezing water! When you are ready for some lunch head over to the Tillamook Creamery for lunch. You get to see the tillamook factory where the cheese is made (plus samples!), shop at the gift shop and eat yummy food and ice cream! I loved the cheese curds and the hazelnut and salted caramel ice cream the very most.

Just make sure you leave the beach slightly before you’re super hungry because there is a one hour drive between the two.

Evening: By now you should be nice and full and ready for an afternoon nap. Drive the rest of the way to our first stop in Lincoln City. A quaint seaside city on the Oregon coast. Make dinner in your rental or hotel, or grab something from HWY 101 Burger .

While we were there we stayed near the water and had a fire on the beach and roasted marshmallows. It was a great time and I highly recommend it, just remember to keep the fire away from the drift wood and dress warm because it gets chilly in the evening, even in the summers.

Day 2: Explore Lincoln City, OR

Day two driving distance: 71 Miles

Driving time: ~ 2 H 10 min

Morning: First thing in the morning head over to the Lincoln City Glass Center . Here you can watch craftsmen make glass items, take a class to make your own glass souvenir and shop from a selection of premade items. If you want to make your own, sign up in advance online because their walk-up slots fill up extremely fast.

Fun Fact: the Lincoln City Glass Center makes and hides hundreds of their famous glass balls all over the local beaches for people to find. They have stopped temporarily due to COVID but hopefully they’ll start up again soon. Make sure you’re looking while out on the beach.

After the glass center if you have extra time you can walk over to Public Access Beach (by a restaurant named Mo’s) to see seals resting on the beach.

Afternoon: When you get hungry head to J’s Fish and Chips and grab their $6 lunch special of cod or chicken strips or burgers with fries and a drink. It was delicious and extremely affordable. Right next door is the outlet mall, they have great shops for brands like Columbia, Nike and more. If I didn’t have to fly home I DEFINITELY would have snagged some hiking boots from Columbia.

Next, head to Roads End Beach for a couple of hours to enjoy another west coast beach. They may have chilly water but the sand is still fun to play in and the waves are relaxing to listen too. You don’t have to stay long but it would be sad to miss out on seeing the beach during the day. 

Evening: Lastly for today, start driving towards McMinnville but stop by Drift Creek Falls on your way. This is a 3.2 mile out and back trail, super easy trail but with the fun reward of a beautiful waterfall at the end.

Then finish driving to McMinnville for the night. We ate easy snack-y foods on the trail and in the car but if you are looking for a fun restaurant then my brother (who lived in the area) recommends Alf’s Ice Cream and Burgers . The food is good but there is also a pet monkey named Elvis that lives in the lobby which is a fan favorite!

Helpful Road Trip Posts

• Road Trip Essentials for a Smooth Trip
• Customizable 2 Week Packing List

Day Three: Exploring Mcminnville

Day three driving distance: 184 Miles

Driving time: ~ 3 H 00 min

Morning: Today you get to see the world’s largest wooden airplane at the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum . This museum is HUGE. It is two separate buildings with dozens or real and replicated life sized aircraft. Along with the Spruce Goose (the largest wooden plane) there are many airplanes from different eras along with many signs telling you lots of fun facts about each of them. Then in the space portion of the museum there is a SR-71 Blackbird that my dad and brother geeked out over.

It was a fun museum and I was impressed by the exhibits.

Afternoon: for lunch head to McMenamins for lunch. This restaurant is located in Hotel Oregon, a haunted hotel on the main street of McMinnville. McMenamins is a chain that puts pubs and breweries in haunted buildings throughout Oregon!

After lunch, drive to the Tamolitch Blue Pool Trailhead . This is a 3.6 mile popular trail that leads to a bright blue pool of freezing spring water! It looks stunning. This was on our original itinerary but unfortunately we had to cut it from ours due to visiting friends in the area. However you should definitely do it and let me know if you loved it!

Evening: Now drive to Bend where you will stay the night. On the way make sure you stop in Sisters for dinner and dessert. In the corner of a small gas station is a mexican restaurant named Tacos El Comal run by an older hispanic gentleman. He makes all the food to order (not as fast as a fast food joint) and it is delicious! Plus the servings are huge, I recommend sharing each entree between two people.

Across the street is an ice cream joint that serves homemade ice cream! Sno Cap is another must visit place in my opinion. Both places close at 7 pm though so make sure you get there in time!

Day Four: One Day in Bend, OR

Day four driving distance: 60 Miles

Driving time: ~ 1 H 45 Min

Morning: If you’re feeling up to it, get up early and hike Pilot Butte . An easy 1.8 mile hike with a great view over Bend and a spectacular place to watch the sunrise.

Next grab some breakfast to fuel up for a fun and active day! We really enjoyed the baked goods at Great Harvest Bread Company but I would have loved to have found a locally owned spot to eat at. Last up for the morning is another easy hike. Tumalo Falls is an easy hike with a great view over a waterfall. There is a lookout point from down below that is easily accessible for people that enjoy nature but are physically unable to hike.

Afternoon: After hiking all morning I recommend grabbing something to eat! We did not and there is nowhere to buy food at the next location. Luckily we had car trip snacks that ( barely ) held us over till dinner! 

Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a fun and unique place to explore. Start with the Lava River Cave to escape the hot afternoon sun. This hike takes you through underground lava caves that are a chilly 40 degrees fahrenheit. It is DARK bring a lantern or rent one for $5.

Next head the visitors center and take the bus up to Lava Butte. It costs $3 per person but the view from the top is amazing. You can see the 7,000 year old lava fields from above, they are massive! Plus on clear days you can see the surrounding mountain peaks. The lookout tower has awesome signs telling you the names of each peak.

Last up, if you still have the energy, head over to the Molten Lava Field trail. This trail will take you a short way into the lava field and you can see just how desolate the lad is under all the rough black volcanic rock.

Evening: Now head back into town for dinner at Pine Tavern . They have delicious sourdough scones with honey butter. And when you are done eating head just up the street to Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream for some well deserved ice cream!

Day Five: Drive, Boise, Drive

Day five driving distance: 657 Miles

Driving time: ~ 10 H 15 Min

Morning: Get up and grab some breakfast, it is time to drive. Today will be heavier on the driving but there will be a nice break when you get to Boise. I recommend leaving about 7 so that you’re rolling into Boise just in time for lunch.

Afternoon: Stop in Boise for a bite to eat. CSGinger.com has a list of places that look AMAZING. Kind of makes me want to head back to Boise for a few days to try them all!

Evening: The last thing for today is to finish the drive to Salt Lake City.

Day Six: Explore Salt Lake City

Day fsix driving distance: 54 Miles

Driving time: ~  1 H 5 Min

Congrats you made it! From here there is so much you could do, and depending on how much time you have in Salt Lake City you could travel around the state a little or stick close by. This will describe a fun day in the city but there are also several day trips from Salt Lake City you could take. Or you could visit one of Utah’s five National Parks, or their 43 state parks, my favorite is Goblin Valley for its unique rock formations or Bear Lake for a fun water day!

Morning: Grab some breakfast and then head out the door to beat the heat on another hike! There are so many to choose from but a favorite is Bell Canyon Trail to Lower Falls , it is a moderately difficult 4.6 mile trail. It has a fairly steep last half mile but the rest of the trail isn’t bad and the payoff is great. You get views of the valley and a small waterfall.

Afternoon: Next grab some lunch and explore downtown. There is so much to see in downtown Salt Lake. From delicious food (hello Crumbl ) to sights like Temple Square, the capitol building (a must see in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom) to shopping at City Creek Mall.

Evening: After you are done exploring downtown, snag some dinner. Tucanos Brazilian Grill is a splurge but absolutely delicious or Red Iguana is a mexican place I only hear rave things about. Then head to a Jazz game or a theatre show at Hale theatre. Both fun options, it just depends on your preferences.

More To Do in Utah:

• Swimming in the Great Salt Lake
• How to Spend a Relaxing Day in Park City, UT
• One Day in St. George, Utah
• Top Winter Activities and Events in Utah

Day Seven: Road Trip from Salt Lake City to Seattle

Day seven driving distance: 832 Miles

Driving time: ~ 12 H 30 Min

The week is up so if that is all the time you had it is time to head home. If you have more time in Utah, YAY! Make sure you explore a state or national park for the day. Otherwise, here is my suggestion for the drive home.

It is a 12 and a half hour drive so I would just drive it all in one day. If you need to break it up due to timing then Baker City is a great spot almost exactly halfway between Seattle and Salt Lake City.

We ended up sleeping here on our way to Seattle to break up the drive since we had my 6 month old son with us. I looked up places to eat and left my list at home, so here they are if you want to try them as you drive through!

• Lefty’s Taphouse
• Oregon Trail Restaurant
• Sweet Wife Baking
• Geiser Grand Hotel

Lastly, the End of the Oregon Trail Museum is in Baker City, Oregon so if the kids need a place to explore maybe check that out too!

How Far is Seattle from Salt Lake City? What is the Drive Time?

The quickest route, straight through without stopping, from Salt Lake City to Seattle is 829 miles and takes 12 hours and 40 minutes to drive on average with no slow downs.

Where Should I Stop Between Salt Lake City and Seattle?

There are so many places you could stop when taking a Seattle to Salt Lake City road trip or vice versa. This post highlights one possible route through Central Oregon. You could also swing out east and stop in Grand Tetons National Park or Yellowstone National Park. Alternatively, you could road trip through different cities in Idaho like Boise, Rexburg etc.

Baker City, OR is halfway between Salt Lake City and Seattle so it is a great stopping point.

Tips for Your Drive

• Before you go on your trip make sure you take your car to the mechanic and have it checked out. They will check fluids, belts and bolts and it could potentially prevent your car from breaking down and bringing your trip to an unexpected halt.
• If you are traveling on a tight budget bring your own food and drinks in the car. Eating out and buying gas station food adds up quickly. This is an easy way to save a lot of money and eat a little healthier. A cooler is one of my road trip essentials .
• Get plenty of rest, especially before longer stretches of driving, and stay hydrated. It is important to be alert on the road for your safety and those around you.

This post on tips for road tripping with babies is very helpful if you are road tripping with babies or young kids! (Coming Soon).

Seattle to Salt Lake City Road Trip

I know you are going to have a blast on your Seattle to Salt Lake City road trip! I do just want to add that this could also be a road trip from Portland is you are in that area as well.

Most road trips I take tend to be straight through drives with no stops that I use to get me to my destination quickly. It was fun taking the opportunity to drive slowly and explore the different cities and towns we drove through on the way to our destination. If you have the time I would definitely recommend doing the same!

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Red Rock & Dark Skies: Stargazing the National Parks

This road trip through southwest Utah takes you to four of Utah’s best places to see the Milky Way — Capitol Reef National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Adventure, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Solitude, Stargazing

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Ski Southern Utah: High Alpine Trails + Red Rock Wonder

Southern Utah is home to two high-elevation ski areas that contain generous helpings of what we call (with authority) The Greatest Snow on Earth®. Things can be a little quieter down here this time of year. Give yourself at least five days to combine the thrills of Southern Utah skiing and boarding with exploring the wintertime wonders to be found in Utah’s red rock country.

Non-ski Winter Activities, Ski and Snowboard

• Brian Head Resort
• Eagle Point Resort
• Cedar Breaks National Monument
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Base Camp Kanab

From the vermilion, white and pink cliffs and wide expanses of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, to the twisting sandstone bottlenecks of Buckskin Gulch, even the vertigo-inducing views of Zion National Park if you've never been, this six-day itinerary will show you why Kanab is the perfect base camp for adventure.

Cycling, Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

• Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument
• Lake Powell
• North Rim Grand Canyon
• Zion National Park

Bears Ears Area Starter Kit

A pair of distinctive, towering buttes stand against beautiful scenery. We call them "Bears Ears." With the help of local expertise, respectfully explore ancestral cliff dwellings and massive natural bridges in a fascinating desert ecosystem.

Community, Hiking, History and Heritage, Native American, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Solitude

• Edge of the Cedars State Park
• Ancestral Puebloan Dwellings
• Hovenweep National Monument
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Powder Dreams

A three-day ski vacation itinerary with quick access to some of Utah's best ski resorts for fresh powder.

Ski and Snowboard

• Cottonwood Canyons Skiing
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Things To Do on Your Road Trip

“Slow down and smell the flowers. It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” Whichever cliché resonates, they often hold true — it can be tough not rushing from point A to point B. There are a lot of incredible places to discover. To make the most of your time traveling through Utah, follow these tips:

• Experience the Dark Skies  - Utah is home to the highest concentration of International  Dark Sky Parks and Communities  anywhere in the world. It pays to get up early and watch a sunrise, especially over a red rock horizon in Southern Utah. Once you reach your next stop, stay up late and spend some time gazing into the star-filled skies.
• Support Local  - Many of Utah’s most famous adventure destinations are surrounded by soulful basecamp communities. Skip the drive thru and stop into a local diner for a meal you’ll never forget. It’s these  local boutiques, outfitters, restaurants and museums  that will show you the heart and soul of a region.
• Fall Into An Audiobook  - A few hours between stops is the perfect opportunity to glean insights about Utah’s fascinating heritage, geology and ecology. Prepare for your journey by downloading a few of these  favorite books from Utahn authors .
• Download These Apps Beforehand  - Similarly, there are apps available to enhance your experience in Utah’s open spaces. Identify that desert wildflower, learn what left that track in the sand or discover a new constellation with these  must-have travel apps .
• Stay Flexible  - There’s a sense of freedom and independence that accompanies the southwest road trip. Utah’s destinations are best suited to the flexible — take a detour, pop into that intriguing store, and add a day to your trip if you find somewhere that captivates you.
• Take Pit Stops  - You’re doing it wrong if you think road trip  pit stops  are boring layovers on your way to more exciting destinations. You need to refuel, eat, answer the call of nature, and stretch your legs anyway, so why not make them into mini-adventures?

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Discover a new side of Arches National Park with this four day itinerary. Start exploring the hidden gems in the Arches region today.

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The Complete Bryce Canyon Trip

Planning a trip to Bryce Canyon National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Bryce Canyon region to make the most of your trip!

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Planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Capitol Reef region to make the most of your trip!

The Complete Zion Trip

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.

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The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip: 7 Day Itinerary for the Mighty Five

Jennifer melroy.

• Last Modified May 22, 2022
• First Published on December 6, 2020

Are you planning a road trip through the 5 stunning national parks of Utah ? Known as the Mighty 5, these iconic National Parks are perfectly spaced for a road trip. This Utah National Parks Road Trip stops at all the iconic sites of these magnificent National Parks.

This Utah Road Trip itinerary is perfectly designed for those who have one week of vacation and wish to explore these five national parks. There is time to take in the dramatic landscapes of Canyonlands and Capitol Reef, enjoy some of these park’s iconic hikes of Zion and monumental rock formations of Arches and Bryce Canyon.

Here is our guide for a Utah National Park Road Trip.

This post was published on Jun 27, 2018 and was updated on Dec 6, 2020.

Utah Road Trip Route Options

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This 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! Read the full disclosure policy here

Getting to Utah’s National Parks

If you live in one of the states surrounding Utah, it is possible to drive your own vehicle for this road trip. But if you are coming from more than 8-12 hours away, it is more time-efficient to fly in for your Mighty Five road trip.

It doesn’t matter if you fly or drive for this road trip. The stops on this road trip can either go:

• Zion – Bryce Canyon – Capitol Reef – Arches/Canyonlands
• Arches/Canyonlands – Capitol Reef – Bryce Canyon – Zion

The road trip is spectacular in either direction and the only change is the order of the parks. Arches and Canyonlands are close together so they can be easily swapped. I always recommend starting with the park further away from your ending point. This means the longest drive happens first and you have time at your last destination.

There are two great airport options when doing a Utah Road Trip. They are both large airports with a range of daily flights from around the US and a lot of rental car options. I recommend pricing all three options out work out which one is the most cost and time-efficient option.

The first airport option is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) in Salt Lake City, Utah. Salt Lake City is 4 hours from Arches/Canyonlands National Park and 4.5 hours from Zion National Park.

The other option is McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada. McCarran is 2.75 hours from Zion National Park and 6.75 hours from Arches/Canyonlands National Park.

When costing out both of these options be sure to include flight costs, rental car costs, and a one-way fee is applicable.

Option 1 – Salt Lake City / Las Vegas (Recommended Route)

This option is you flying into Salt Lake City and out of Las Vegas. This option has the least amount of driving and is recommend is you only have 7 days to explore these parks. Be sure to include the rental car one-way fee in the cost calculations.

Route:  Salt Lake City – Canyonlands – Arches – Capitol Reef – Bryce – Zion – Las Vegas

Option 2 – Las Vegas / Salt Lake City

This option is pretty much the same as option 1 except Canyonlands and Arches are swapped and its in reverse. Be sure to include the rental car one-way fee in the cost calculations.

Route:  Las Vegas – Zion – Bryce Canyon – Capitol Reef – Canyonlands – Arches – Salt Lake City

Option 2 – Las Vegas Loop

The Las Vegas Loop is a popular option for many because Las Vegas is a popular tourist spot with a larger airport than Salt Lake. McCarran International Airport is an entry and departure point for international visitors. Domestic visitors will find a wider selection of budget-friendly carriers flying into Vegas. The downside to this route is that the Arches/Vegas drive is a long haul.

Route:  Las Vegas – Arches – Canyonlands – Capitol Reef – Bryce – Zion – Las Vegas

Option 3 – Salt Lake City Loop

Salt Lake City doesn’t have a big airport but doing a loop out of here means your start or ending drives are about equal rather than one short and one long.

Route:  Salt Lake City – Zion – Bryce – Capitol Reef – Canyonlands – Arches – Salt Lake City

If you are going to do a Salt Lake City Loop consider rental doing an RV rental so have the comforts of a small apartment while staying in or near the parks. Click here for the best Salt Lake City RV rentals .

For this Utah Road Trip Itinerary, get whatever rental car you want. You do NOT need a 4×4 vehicle. If you decide you would like to do some off-pavement driving, I recommend getting a day rental from a place local to the parks. Most airport rental car agencies’ contracts specifically state that their vehicles are not allowed on dirt and gravel roads. This means that if you take the car on one of the roads and something happens, you will not be covered by insurance.

I book most of my rental cars through RentalCars.com . They have a great selection of rental cars from most major agencies and the best prices – check prices here .

If you would like to add a dirt/gravel road to your trip, get a jeep day rental from one of the rental agencies outside of the parks. These rentals are a little pricy for one day but they include insurance should something happen on the dirt roads and are outfitted for these roads.

This road trip to Utah’s National Parks is possible year-round. All five of these parks are open 365 days a year. During the winter or during flooding events, parts of these parks may close.

The best time to go on a Utah National Parks Road Trip is between April and May or September and October. The crowds are a bit smaller and the weather is a bit milder.

Park visitation is the highest from late May to August and holidays.

Here are the expected weather by season:

• Summer – Expect to see soaring temperatures and heavy crowds. Avoid hiking in the heat of the day.
• Fall and Spring – Moderate to mild temperatures. Slightly smaller crowds than summer
• Winter – Cool to cold temperatures. Come prepared for snow, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to readjust for trail and road closures. Significantly smaller crowds.

Where to stay on a Utah Road Trip?

With a Utah National Parks Road Trip, there isn’t a central location where you can book a hotel or campsite and spent the whole week doing day trip to these National Park. Not unless you want to spend half your day driving to the park every day.

If you are trying to minimize your campsites or hotel room moves, I suggest breaking your trip up into four areas.

• 3 Nights in Moab (Arches / Canyonlands)
• 1 Night in Capitol Reef
• 3 Nights in Orderville (Bryce Canyon / Zion)
• 1 Night in Las Vegas (pending flight time)

Below are my suggestions for places to stay if you are trying to minimize lodging moves for Moab and Orderville. The downside of this is that means you will often have an hour to hour and a half commute in the morning to that day’s activities. But you will not have to pack up and move nearly as often. If you want to minimize your commutes and are ok with the lodging moves, I have included daily suggestions with the Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary.

Moab Camping

There are a lot of camping options in and around Moab. I prefer to camp along Highway 128. There are 6 six small campgrounds located along the Colorado River. These campgrounds are small, quiet and a good cross between close to town and the parks without feeling like you are in a city. Learn more about Moab’s BLM campgrounds . There is also a range of RV parks in Moab.

Moab Hotels

• Red Cliffs Lodge  – A unique western resort where every room is a suite. There is a horse corral, Western film museum and winery on site.  Rooms from $150/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab  – Modern hotel with a outdoor pool, mini-fridge and microwave in every room.  Rooms from $89/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Sleep Inn & Suites Moab  – A mid-range hotel with standard rooms and a pool. Rooms from $63/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;

Moab Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Scalatore  – A unique rental in downtown Moab with a climbing wall.  Rooms from $96/night; book on Airb nb;
• Curtis La Vista  – A luxury house with access to a pool and hot tub. Rooms from $97/night; book on Airb nb;
• Petroglyph Place  – A luxury condo with a southwestern vide and a pool. Rooms from $83/night; book on Airb n b;

Orderville Camping

There are not a lot of public camping options between Bryce Canyon and Zion. The best public campground is Duck Creek Campground in Dixie National Forest. Duck Creek is about 1.5 hours from Zion Canyon and an hour from Bryce.

There are several RV and private campgrounds in Orderville.

Orderville Hotels

• Arrowhead Country Inn and Cabins  – Rustic farm and country inn and cabins with a pool and fireplaces.  Rooms from $149/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Best Western Thunderbird Lodge  – Modern budget-friendly with a pool.  Rooms from $74/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Apple Hollow Cabins  – Cute cabins with moutanin views and a BBQ.  Rooms from $169/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;

Orderville Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Adobe 3 at Zion  – Modern tiny house with a floor to ceiling windows and a killer view.  Rooms from $185/night; book on Airb nb;
• Treetop at East Zion Resort  – A hillside cabin with resort amenities, kitchen and a view   Rooms from $125/night; book on Airb n b;
• Rock Canyon Range Lodge  – A large ranch house where a family group can spread out. Rooms from $329/night; book on Airb n b;
• America the Beautiful National Parks Pass : Individually, entrance to Utah’s National Parks costs $150 per vehicle. You can save $70 by getting an America the Beautiful Pass and get entry to 3,000 other federal lands for 1 year. Get your pass.
• Learn more about the National Park Passport Program

• 20 oz engraved National Park map water bottle
• 40 oz Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Vacuum Bottle
• 32 oz lightweight Nalgene Bottle
• Buy a 3-liter hydration reservoir
• Fruit:   Pick hard fruits such as apples or pears.  These hold-up in the heat and in packs without getting squished to mush. Another option is freeze-dried fruit. Freeze-dried strawberries are the BOMB.  They are crunchy, sweet and the best part is they are lightweight and yummy.  These are my new favorite trail snack.
• Vegetables: Cucumbers and carrots hold up well during hiking and in a hot car.
• Granola Bars:   Take your favorite non-coated in chocolate granola bars.  Anything coated in chocolate will melt and be a sticky mess.  My favorite is a selection of Cliff Bars . They are great even when squished.
• Buy sunscreen.
• Buy Sunscreen Lip Balm
• Buy Polarized Sunglasses
• Buy a wide-brimmed hat
• Buy the MyMedic Solo First Aid Kit
• Buy the MyMedic MyFAK First Aid Kit
• Buy my headlamp.
• Pick out a quality hiking shoe.
• Buy quality hiking socks.
• Buy my REI Women’s Day Pack
• Buy REI Men’s Day Pack
• Buy Women’s Shirts
• Buy Men’s Shirts

If you are new to visiting the National Parks, check out our National Park Essentials Guide to get your started.

National Parks are on my Bucket List T-Shirts

Us national parks scratch your travels map, the national parks are calling and i must go shirt, how to spend 7 days in utah’s national parks.

This is a 7-day Utah road trip with a travel day on each end.  The road trip takes you on a Utah National Park Tour. This outline is set-up to begin in Salt Lake City and end in Las Vegas, but can easily be modified for a loop or done in the opposite direction.

• Travel Day – Arrive in Salt Lake City, drive to Moab
• Day 2 – Canyonlands and Arches National Park
• Day 3 – Arches National Park, drive to Capital Reef National Park
• Day 4 – Capitol Reef National Park; drive to Bryce Canyon National Park
• Day 5 – Bryce Canyon National Park
• Day 6 – Bryce Canyon National Park; Drive to Zion; East Zion National Park
• Travel Day – Drive to Las Vegas

7 Day Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Drive Time: The Drive time between Salt Lake City International Airport and Moab is just under 4 hours.

Today is strictly planned as a travel day since you will be flying in and having a 4-hour drive into Moab. There isn’t a time for much but if you are looking for something to do, Dead Horse State Park and enjoy the view.

Utah National Parks Road Trip Pro Tip : Stop by the grocery store and grab lunch fixing for the next 3 days. There are no food options in Canyonlands or Arches so packing a lunch is a must unless you want to spend hours driving back to Moab for lunch.

Recommend Places to Stay

Option 1 – same accommodation for 3 nights.

• Red Cliffs Lodge is a popular unique western resort where every room is a suite with a horse corral, Western film museum, and winery on site.  Rooms from $150/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Moab Airbnb – There are some amazing Airbnb options in Moab. Check out these amazing options starting from $50/night; Check Prices Now

Option 2 – Campers only

My suggestion for camping is to do one night at the Needles Campground, Hamburger Rock Campground, or dispersed camping along Lock Hart Rd.

The other new nights I suggest staying up at a Moab Campground or if you can get a reservation Devils Garden Campground in Arches. Devil’s Garden Campground is located in the heart of Arches and is amazing if you can get a reservation. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.

Drive Time: The Needles District is a 1.5 hour drive from Moab.

Canyonlands National Park is made of three main sections – Needles, Islands of the Sky, and Maze. Today, you will be exploring the Needles District and tomorrow is Island of the Sky. The Maze is a remote section of the park that requires a high-clearance 4×4 and off-roading experience.

If you want to watch the sunrise, head over to Big Spring Canyon Overlook. It’s one of my favorite non-hiking sunrise spots in the area. After sunrise (or if skipping sunrise), park at the Elephant Hill Trailhead.

From here, grab a picture of the trailhead map and head out to Chesler Park Viewpoint trail .  This trail is 5.4 miles long with 526ft of elevation gain.  It takes between 3-4 hours to hike.  The trail starts by crossing some Slickrock then across a red canyon then a very steep climb to the overlook.  If you are really ambitious you can add an extra 4.6 miles and do the full Chesler Park loop and hike thru the narrow fractures known as the Joint.

If you don’t want to do the full Chesler Park loop, but this want to do a bit more hiking there are a few short trails in the area.

Slickrock Trail is the longest of the short trails but it is a fun hike and has 360-degree views of the needles areas. Slickrock is 2.4 mile loop trail that takes about two hours to hike.

Cave Springs Trail is a short 0.6-mile trail there are two ladders to climb on this trail. The trail leads to prehistoric pictographs and a historic cowboy camp.

Pothole Point is a 0.6 mile trail that leads to an amazing view of the Needles.

Roadside Ruins is a 0.3 mile trail that leads to a storage structure built by indigenous people.

Be sure to check the sunrise times before you go head to bed.

Drive Time: Mesa Arch is about a hour drive from Moab. It is a 30 minute drive from the Canyonlands Island of the Sky entrance to Arches entrance.

Start your day watching the sunrise from Mesa Arch. There is a reason this spot is one of the National Park system’s premier sunrise spots. The rising sun hits this arch in a spectacular manner and it is well dealing with the crowd. Mesa Arch is reached by a short 0.5-mile trail.

Utah National Parks Road Trip Pro Tip: Plan on getting to Mesa Arch at least 30 mins before sunrise (if not an hour or an hour and a half.

After sunrise head over start driving towards the Grand View Point and White Rim Overlook. Stop and enjoy the many overlooks and the views of from the island and the Green and Colorado River.

Hike out the Grand View Point Rail to get an even better view of the Green River.  The trail is an easy walk along the canyon edge.  The trail is 2.0 miles round trip.

Keep driving to the Green River Overlook and check out the view. Head towards Upheaval Dome.  Upheaval Dome is a unique geological feature.  The Dome is a 1,000-foot deep crater that is 3 miles wide.  Scientists are not sure what created this dome.  It could be the pressure of other geological layers forces a layer of sand upward or a meteorite could have hit the area and this is what remains.  Geologists are still trying to figure out.   The Dome can be seen by hiking the Upheaval Dome trail.  The trail has two overlooks.  The first overlook is 0.4 miles and the second overlook is 0.9 miles from the overlook.  The trail provides some great views of the dome, but the trail has a few steep sections and should take about 1.5 hours to hike.

Start working your way out of the park, and if you didn’t get to yesterday, take a short detour to Dead Horse Point State Park and check out the Dead Horse Point Overlook.

Depending on the line, entering Arches National Park might take an hour or so.  Once in the park head towards the Delicate Arch trailhead.  Grab your pack, a to-go dinner, enough water, and headlamp in a bag and make the 1.5-mile hike up to Delicate Arch.  As the trail ascends, it moves on to Slickrock.  Follow the rock cairns as you hike out.  At the end of the trail, you are greeted with an excellent view of Delicate Arch and a great place to watch the sunset.  Claim your spot and enjoy the view.

Drive Time: Its 10 minutes from Moab to Arches. At the end of the day, it is an two hour and 15 minute drive from Archest to Capitol Reef National Park .

Hopefully, you managed to reserve an early morning ranger-led hike into the Fiery Furnace .  This is a special hike into narrow sandstone canyons, fins, and natural arches. The trail is marked but unless you have been into the Furnace before don’t go in without a guide.  The hike is about 2.5 miles and will take a couple of hours.

If you don’t or can’t get tickets for Fiery Furnace, don’t worry there is plenty of things to do. I’ll make a few suggestions below.

After the Furnace hike or as you enter the park, head over the Devil’s Garden Trailhead.

Utah National Parks Road Trip Pro Tip: Try to get to the Devil’s Garden Trailhead by 9 am for the best chance of finding parking.

At Devil’s Garden, you have two options. You can do a short 1.9 mile roundtrip hike to Landscape Arch. Or, if you are up for the challenge, after Landscape Arch, head up the steep trail to Double O Arch. Double O Arch is a steep hike up think Delicate Arch but more difficult.  Along this trail you will pass several arches including Tunnel, Pine Tree, Landscape, Partition, and Navajo Arch.  This trail is 4.5 miles round trip.

After your Landscape/Double O hike, head over the Skyline Arch parking area. This short trail ends at the base of the arch. This is a nice walk out to a famous arch.

Head over to the Sand Dune Arch parking area. There is a 0.3 mile hike into a small canyon and the incredible Sand Dune Arch. This is one of my favorite arches in the park. Its hidden in that canyon and its like here’s this random arch. There is an optional 2 mile loop that leads out to Broken and Tapestry Arch. I only recommend doing this if you didn’t do the Fiery Furnace hike.

As you work your way back to the park entrance, be sure to stop at the Fiery Furnace Overlook and Salt Valley Overlook as you head to the Windows Section of the park.

At the Windows, there are several really short hikes that lead to the bases of Double Arch, the Windows, and Balanced Rock. Spend as long as you want to scramble on rocks and to enjoy these views.

On the drive out of the park, there are a couple of small viewpoint s to stop and enjoy the views. When you are done, head out of the park and make your way over to Capitol Reef National Park . The drive takes just over 2 hours.

Capitol Reef Camping

While there are three campgrounds in Capitol Reef National Park. I only recommend staying at Fruita Campground in the park or one of the campgrounds/RV parks outside of the park.

Capitol Reef Hotels

• Red Sands Hotel  – Luxury hotel with a pool and mountain views.  Rooms from $83/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• The Noor Hotel  – Modern budget-friendly hotel with red cliff views.  Rooms from $80/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Austin’s Chuckwagon Lodge  – Budget-friendly western-themed hotel.  Rooms from $119/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;

Capitol Reef Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Luxury Tiny Home  – A luxury tiny home with a view of the Milky Way on clear nights   Rooms from $109/night; book on Airb n b;
• Torrey Pines Cabin  – Western chalet overlooking Torrey with a kitchenette from $129/night; book on Airb nb;
• Capitol Reef Vacation Home  – A modern ranch house with space to sleep a family and full kitchen and two patios Rooms from $329/night; book on Airb n b;

Drive Time: The drive between Capitol Reef and Bryce is about two and half hours.

Start your morning off with a 1.8-mile  hike to Hickman Bridge .  The Hickman Bridge Arch spans 133 feet and the hike has about 400 ft of elevation gain.  The trail provides epic views of Utah’s least known national park.

After your hike, head over to the historical town of Fruita in the park.  Fruita is the home of fruit trees.  There are cherry, walnut, almond, pear, plum, mulberry, apricot, apple, and peaches in the area.  If the fruit is in season, you are welcome to pick fruit and pay by the pound.   Pick as much fruit as you can eat in the next couple of days.

Now it is time for pie.  The Gifford Farm offers locally made fruit pies with vanilla ice cream.  At the farm you can learn about the Western writer Wallace Stegner and Mormon life in the 1900s.

End the day visiting the stops of the Scenic Drive and the 11 stops showcasing the geological history of the area. Here is more information on how to spend one day in Captiol Reef National Park.

Bryce Canyon Camping

Bryce canyon hotels.

• Bryce Canyon Lodge  – A National Park Rustic Lodge located in Bryce Canyon.  Rooms from $223/night;  book direct ;
• Bryce Country Cabins  – Rustically inspired cottages with kitchens.  Rooms from $94/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel  – A modern hotel with a pool.  Rooms from $220/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;

Bryce Canyon Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Luxury Tiny Home  – A luxury home with a rustic cabin home near Bryce. Rooms from $250/night; book on Airb nb;
• Grandpa’s Place  – A two bedroom apartment in Tropic. from $110/night; book on Airb nb;
• The Cottages at Bryce Canyon  – A quaint little cottage near the entrance to Bryce. Rooms from $149/night; book on Airb n b;

Bryce Canyon National Park is another great parks for sunrise. If you would like to watch the sunrise over the Bryce Amphitheater, get there at least an hour before sunrise to claim your spot.  All of the overlooks can get really crowded during sunrise.  My favorite spot to watch the sunrise is Sunset Point, but any of the points along the Amphitheater make for an amazing sunrise.

Assuming you watched the sunrise at Sunset Point, start the Figure 8 trial.  This 6.4-mile trail combines 3 different loop trails.  The trail will take about 4-5 hours to complete and the hike is strenuous. At least 4-5 liters of water is needed for this hike.  The Figure 8 combines the Navajo Loop, the Peek-a-Boop Loop , and the Queen’s Garden.

From Sunset Point head down the Navajo Loop passed Thor’s Hammer.  Alas, I have yet to see Chris Hemsworth in the area.  Let me know if you see him hanging around.  The trail is 0.6 miles to connect with the Peek-a-Boo trail.

The Peek-a-Boo Loop is best hiked clockwise and is a shared horse bath.  The trail passes the Wall of Windows and the Cathedral.

After 3 miles, Peek-a-Boo connects back with the Queen’s Garden Trail.  The trail will take you thru several rock arches and past the Queen Victoria rock.

Head back up the rim of Bryce Canyon and follow the easy Rim trail back to Sunset Point.

From Sunset Point, keep heading into the canyon.  There are 10 pull-outs that provide excellent views of the canyon.  When you get to Rainbow Point, hike the short 1-mile Bristlecone Loop.  This flat loop is a tour thru the sub-alpine fir forests.

Hiking all these trails will allow you to complete the “I Hiked the Hoodoos” Challenge.  You need to collect 3 of the benchmarks along the trial.  You can either take a rubbing of the marks or selfies with the marks.  Go to the visitor center to get your reward.

Drive Time: The drive between Bryce Canyon and Zion is about an hour and half.

Have another early morning and watch the sunrise over the Bryce Amphitheater from another viewpoint.  After the sunrise head, toward Zion National Park.  The drive will take 1.5 hours to each the parks Eastern Entrance.  Just before you get to the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel is the Canyon Overlook Trail.

The short trail will take about an hour to hike and provides great views East Temple region of the canyon.

Head thru the engineering marvel that is the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel. Enjoy this 1.1-mile long tunnel built in 1927.

Head to the visitor center and park in the parking lot and catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle.  The Shuttle provides a brief tour of the park.  Take the shuttle to the last stop, the Temple of Sinawava.  Head into the Narrows.  It is a 1.1 mile Riverside walk into the canyon when the Narrows starts.  The Narrows is a 16 mile section of canyon that the Virgin River runs thru.  From the walk, you can enter the river.  Take a hour or two to hike up the river into the Narrows.  This hike is slippery and the water depth can range from ankle height to chest deep.  Be aware of the weather, the canyon is known to get flash floods.

After you hike in the river, dry off and catch the bus back to stop 7 Weeping Rock.  Hike 0.4 miles up to see the weeping rock.

The last hike of the day is the Emerald Pools Trails.  Take the bus to stop 5 Zion Lodge.  Head across the street to the Emerald Pools.  The hike consists of two parts.  The first is the 0.6-mile hike to the lower pool.  This is an easy hike with a few steep drop-offs.  The second part of the hike is 0.5 moderate hike to the Upper Emerald Pool.

Recommend Places to Stay (one or two nights)

Zion camping.

There are three campgrounds in Zion National Park along with a couple of campgrounds just outside the park in Springdale. If you can get a reservation at South or Watchman campground, I recommend doing that.

Zion Hotels

• Zion National Park Lodge  – Located in the heart Zion Canyon, this national park rustic lodge has is perfect for those wanting to make the most of their national park visit.  Rooms from $229/night;  book direct ;
• La Quinta Inn & Suites  – Modern budget-friendly hotel with a pool and canyon views.  Rooms from $139night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;
• Cable Mountain Lodge  – A modern hotel with a western modern feel.  Rooms from $219/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com ;

Zion Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Heller House  – A large modern home a few miles from the park entrance.   Rooms from $307/night; book on Airb n b;
• The Loft  – A fun artsy loft with spectacular views in the Springdale. Rooms from $294/night; book on Airb nb;
• Nama-Stay Suites  – A modern studio with a view and a kitchenette. Rooms from $195/night; book on Airb n b;

Check out other Zion Airbnbs here.

Drive Time: The drive between Zion and Las Vegas is about 2 hours and 45 minutes. If your flight out of Las Vegas is after 12 p, , I’d spend the night in Zion and head out in the morning. If it’s before noon, I’d spend the night in Las Vegas.

The shuttle bus starts running at either 6:00 am or 7:00 am.  Check the time.  Be sure to catch the FIRST shuttle into the canyon.  Get off at stop 6 The Grotto.  The Grotto is the trailhead for the famed Angels Landing Trail Angels Landing Trail .  This 5.4-mile trail is a 1500 foot climb to the spot where Angels landed.  This trail is not for the faint of heart and isn’t kid-friendly.  Please do not hike this trail with kids under 12 years old.

The first 2 miles of Angels is a steady climb up a long section of switchbacks to a Scout Lookout.  The view from Scout is just a small taste of the view from the Landing.  The last half mile of hiking is scary.  It is probably the scariest section of hiking trail in the United States.  There is an almost 1,000-foot drop on either side of a narrow trail.  There are chains to help with this hike but it is narrow and one needs sure footing to hike this trail.

Once you get to the landing, enjoy the view.  Try to be heading down by 10:00 am.  Most hikers start up at about 8:30 or so and then the landing gets busy and that very narrow trail gets even more hazards with two-way traffic.

After the hike catch, the bus back to the Zion Canyon Lodge and have an ice cream (and lunch) and relax for a bit.

Head down to the Zion Human History Museum to explore the history of Zion and the human who have made the area home.

If you are done hiking for the day, ride the bus and get off at each stop and just enjoy the views.  If you still want to hike, there are several small trails such a the Archeology Trail or the Grotto to explore.

Depending on what time your flight is out of Las Vegas tomorrow, you may have time to enjoy a nice morning hike in Zion or need to make the

Depending on what time your flight out of Las Vegas is, you might have the morning to enjoy Zion

I hope you have a wonderful Utah National Park Road Trip. If you need any gear check out our gear guides below.

• The Ultimate National Park Essentials Guide
• 15 Best Outdoor Subscription Boxes for 2020

If you are looking for advice on other types of outdoor gear specific guides:

• Best Headlamps for the Outdoors
• Best Compact Binoculars

Here are some other National Park gear you might like:

• 29 Phenomenal National Park Gifts for Park Lovers
• 19+ Junior Ranger Gift Ideas
• Epic US National Park Wall Maps to help you keep track of your travels

31 Comments

Wow, the photos are stunning. I would love to follow your path and to this trip. I will definitely bookmark your site for when I plan a tour.

The trip is a lot a fun. I love the Utah parks.

Tanya Kortelinh

Thanks for a great itinerary, I love National Parks (anywher over the world) especially hiking so a trip like this would be perfect for me! I’ll save this for when we eventually make a trip to the states.

So many national parks to explore and so little time.

What lovely photos! I recently did a US west coast trip and tried so hard to squeeze in Zion or Bryce along with our visit to Grand Canyon but it just wasn’t working out. Someday in future, i guess. I will definitely look at all the tips and info on your site when I do go.

It is just an excuse to go back.

Utah is calling my name … again! My husband and I had the opportunity to visit both Bryce and Zion for only one day each last summer while visiting a friend in St. George, and they were both awesome. One day was not enough, plus there is so much more in Utah. We’ll be back – hopefully this fall!

Utah is always calling my name. I love the state with a passion.

Medha Verma

There are 5 national parks in Utah? That is really cool! I wish I lived closer to the US or Canada, you have so many national parks there, I would’ve loved to explore! Maybe I’d also be national park obsessed then 😉 I have heard a lot about both Bryce and Zion national parks but I had no idea there were several other national parks in their vicinity that can also be visited in the span of 1 week!

The southwest is blessed with national parks.

I have been to these parks but not on this route, I had no idea they are all so close together. It’s been a really long time since I have been to arches, it’s time to go back!

A couple of them are right next to each other.

Yep. They are only a couple of hours from each other.

Wow…what stunning photography and stunning landscapes. I have not had the chance to visit Utah yet. Bryce national park is by far the number one I want to visit. I love your advice that you can spend at least 5 days just in one park. When I finally make it to Utah, I’ll probably spend my time at just one park. So much natural beauty to soak in. Great article.

If you want to see all then this is a great highlight but all the parks are worth at least a 5 day visit.

I’ve been wanting to visit Canyonlands, Arches and Moab for ages. Doing a hot air balloon flight is definitely on my bucket list there and star gazing. Your photo of the Milky Way is absolutely gorgeous!

Moab is one of my favorite cities in the US as it has two national parks nearby.

Suruchi Mittal

I am already in love with Utah National Park. The Place is so damn interesting and amazing. The Needle trail, arches, Bryce, Zion everything is so picturesque. I am sure I can spend more than a week here.

I could spend a lifetime exploring the park and never see it all.

I just saw the photos of Utah’s parks. I always thought there is only one national park there, but 5 parks. It is amazing. I am obsessed with visiting National Parks and hiking. I haven’t been to the US yet, but I am sure when I go there, I would love to visit at least one of these parks. It is good to know for staying we have both hotels and campsites.

There are 5 and I wouldn’t be surprised if some day they have 6. They have a national monument that is worthy of NP status at some point.

Thank you for this marvelous post! Consider it pinned. Also, thank you for reminding me how beautiful the American West is. I’ve been to Utah, but haven’t visited any of these national parks. I’m such a bad American. 🙁

You’re welcome. Glad you enjoyed it.

Dude! This is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Excellent itinerary to show my non-US citizen husband more of our beautiful national parks. We’ve only ever connected through the Salt Lake City airport and haven’t taken the time to enjoy Utah properly.

Utah is an amazing state and worth more than an airport visit.

Michele Hutchinson

Love your thorough explanations of everything and am absolutely blown away by your photographs. Do you sell them?

I don’t sell photos. It’s a lot of extra work and people aren’t buying photography the way they used too.

Johnny Park

Jennifer, I am hitting the 3 southeast NP in Utah for 7 days. Should I spend 2 days at each location? Any recs welcomed.

Thanks in advanced!

It depends on you. Make a list of what you want to do in each park and then compare and see if there is one park that you want to spend more time in than the other two and decide how to split your days up. I break down my full decision-making process on how I decide to spend in each park – https://nationalparkobsessed.com/i-spend-in-xxx-national-park/ .

Melissa Leidy

Do you need permits for angels landing and the arches

Yes, you will

Hi, I'm Jennifer!

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Parks. I'm here to help you plan your NEXT amazing adventure through the United States National Parks and beyond. I want the national parks to be accessible to all.

I live in Tennessee, and when I'm home, you can find me hiking in the Smokies and the Cumberland Plateau.

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Last Updated on 22 May 2022 by Jennifer Melroy

How to see Utah's "Mighty 5" national parks on an epic road trip

Jun 2, 2024 • 12 min read

Link up Utah's "Mighty 5" national parks with this epic driving route © Peter Unger / Getty Images

Utah might not have the most national parks of any state – that honor goes to California – but it certainly has the highest concentration.

All of Utah’s "Mighty 5"  are within easy driving distance of one another, meaning that the state is prime for an epic national parks road trip that you can even squeeze into a short amount of vacation time. With only a week to spare, it's possible to get to know the distinct personalities of each of the state's national parks.

Here's how to plan an unforgettable drive in Utah .

Where should you start a Utah national parks road trip?

You can tackle Utah’s national parks west to east or vice versa, depending on your starting destination. Going from west to east is generally the most popular option because Zion National Park is just a few hours from the international airport in Las Vegas . You could also start this road trip in Salt Lake City , heading for either Zion or Arches first.

Where should I rent a car for a Utah road trip?

If you’re flying in to visit Utah’s national parks, it’s easiest to rent a car at your arrival airport. After picking up the car, head to the grocery store to buy water, snacks and other supplies before you hit the road, especially if you’re looking for something specific. The gateway towns to Utah’s national parks are small, and their stores often don’t have as wide of a selection. 

When is the best time to drive between Utah's national parks?

Late spring and early fall are the best seasons for road tripping in Utah. Summer is a popular time, but that means more cars on the road and more hikers on the trails. Winter is great for solitude seekers, but make sure you have the know-how to drive on snowy roads and a backup plan in case of closures or worse. State highways in some areas might be shut down until May because of heavy snowfall, particularly in the high elevations around Brian Head, north of Zion National Park.

Stop 1: Zion National Park

The vibe: Awesome canyon and iconic hikes

What to do: Zion Canyon is one of the most intriguing natural wonders in the country, and it chalks up the visitor numbers to prove it. See what makes Zion so extraordinary by taking on the national park’s two iconic hikes: Angels Landing ( permit required ), a chain-assisted white-knuckle climb to a lofty narrow plateau, and the Narrows, where the trail is the Virgin River and you wade through the water as it churns through a towering slot canyon.

What to eat: In the heart of the canyon, the historic Zion Lodge has two places to eat: a small cafe and a full-fledged restaurant. The food isn’t particularly memorable, but the setting certainly is, and it’s the only place to eat inside the national park if you don’t bring your own supplies. Just outside Zion National Park’s south entrance, Zion Canyon Brew Pub was the first microbrewery in southern Utah and serves up pub grub that pairs perfectly with its beers. More restaurants, coffee shops and small grocery stores abound in Springdale, the gateway town hugging Zion’s south entrance.

Where to stay: Zion National Park has two in-park accommodation options: camping or Zion Lodge . You need to book months in advance to get a reservation for either. Springdale has lots of excellent places to stay. See if rooms are available at Under the Eaves Inn , Red Rock Inn or Desert Pearl Inn , or head a bit further from the canyon. In East Zion, Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort is ideal for families, with tons of activities for all ages. To the west, AutoCamp Zion offers a hip stay in Airstream trailers, and Under Canvas has set up gorgeous luxury glamping tents on Kolob Terrace Road.

The drive (75 miles, 1 hour and 25 minutes): Leave Zion National Park through the east entrance, driving through the tight-squeeze Zion–Mt Carmel Tunnel, which was the longest tunnel in the country when it opened in 1930. Continue on Hwy 9 to Mt Carmel Junction and then head north on Hwy 89. Turn east on Scenic Byway 12, nationally recognized as an "All-American Road" for its history and landscapes. You get a taste of what’s in store at the next national park as you drive through redrock arches and past intriguing rock formations shaped like Crayola crayons – and colored just as brightly.

Want to know more about Zion? Here's our guide

Stop 2: Bryce Canyon National Park

The vibe: Alien rock formations

What to do: Bryce Canyon hides its treasures from view when you first enter the park, but as soon as you reach the rim of the plateau, an army of rock spires called hoodoos stands at attention in the bowl of the natural amphitheater. The paved road through the national park is sprinkled with scenic overlooks where you can stop and gawp at these mesmerizing formations. Inspiration Point and Rainbow Point are wow-worthy pull-off points. But getting in among the hoodoos is a must. Hike the Navajo Loop from Sunset Point, book a horse ride on Peekaboo Loop or find a quieter collection of hoodoos on the Fairyland Loop.

What to eat: Bryce Canyon is Utah’s only other national park (besides Zion) that has a historic lodge inside the park, which has a restaurant (don’t miss the elk chili). There’s also a park general store that sells pizza, craft beer, ice cream and snacks. Bryce Canyon City is just outside the national park gates, but the restaurants in the small town of Tropic, a short drive to the southeast, are better. Try the pulled pork at IDK Barbecue or have a classy white-tablecloth dinner at Stone Hearth Grille .

Where to stay: Book far in advance to snag a place to sleep inside the park, either a campsite or a room at Bryce Canyon Lodge . Bryce Canyon City has several options near the park entrance, but it’s worth driving a little further to Bryce Glamp & Camp , a scenic, secluded spot where you can watch the night sky from your bed in a bubble dome.

The drive (125 miles, 2 hours and 40 minutes): Continue on Scenic Byway 12, which gets even more beautiful as you crest the rollercoaster hills and sail down the switchbacks. Much of the surrounding land is part of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument , which covers nearly 2 million acres. Tempting trailheads beckon, particularly around the towns of Escalante and Boulder – pull over and hike if you have time. Scenic Byway 12 ends at Hwy 24 near Torrey, the gateway town to Capitol Reef National Park.

First time in Bryce Canyon? Here's what you need to know

Stop 3: Capitol Reef National Park

The vibe: Hikes through history

What to do: Capitol Reef wears its past on its sleeve, and when hiking in this national park, you’re following in the footsteps of many generations past, from the little-understood Native Fremont people to Mormon settlers. Don’t miss the petroglyphs east of the Capitol Reef Visitor Center (accessible via a boardwalk) and on the hike through Capitol Gorge, where ancient Native rock art is carved a short distance from the Pioneer Register, recording the names and dates of 19th-century settlers who passed through this slot canyon. In the center of the park, Fruita was a Mormon settlement established in 1879 and is well known for its orchards, which the National Park Service still maintains. Pick up one of the famous fruit pies from Gifford Homestead , where Fruita's last inhabitants lived.

What to eat: Torrey is a short drive from the entrance to Capitol Reef National Park, and for such a small town, it has some impressive food options. At Torrey Grill & BBQ , a Culinary Institute of America graduate makes magic with smoked meats, while adorable Wild Rabbit Cafe serves phenomenal all-day breakfasts and sandwiches. Hunt & Gather is a surprising spot for fine dining, showcasing lovingly plated dishes of local ingredients.

Where to stay: Capitol Reef has one developed campground , as well as free primitive sites in the backcountry ( free backpacking permit required ). If you’d rather stay within four walls, try Torrey Schoolhouse B&B , a 1914 schoolhouse brought back to life as an elegant bed and breakfast. One of the best places to stay in Torrey is Skyview , which has rooms with hot tubs that look out on the redrock scenery, geodesic domes with skylights over the bed for nighttime stargazing, and a rooftop terrace.

The drive (155 miles, 2 hours and 30 minutes): Head east on Hwy 24, called the Capitol Reef Scenic Byway, which turns north at Hanksville. If you have time, detour west of Hwy 24 to Goblin Valley State Park to wander among its bizarre rock formations. On the east side of Hwy 24, Horseshoe Canyon is part of Canyonlands National Park and has one of the most significant Native rock art sites in North America – it’s nicknamed the "Louvre of the Southwest." The road to Horseshoe Canyon is not paved, and a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended. When Hwy 24 comes to an end near Green River, join Interstate 70 east and carry on until the Moab turnoff at Hwy 191. Turn west on Hwy 313 to reach another area of Canyonlands National Park.

Hanging around in Capitol Reef? Here's what to do there

Stop 4: Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky district

The vibe: Epic views

What to do: Canyonlands is Utah’s largest and least-visited national park. Few travelers venture to its most remote areas (and those who do require suitable vehicles and self-sufficiency), and Canyonlands’ quieter nature can be a welcome break from Utah’s busier parks. It is divided into four districts, the most accessible of which is Island in the Sky, near Moab . This area stretches out atop a majestic mesa thousands of feet above the Colorado and Green Rivers, the powerful forces that sculpted this land into sheer canyons and needle-like pinnacles. The scenic drive through the Island in the Sky district dawdles past a number of overlooks. Get a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the landscape from the humbly named Grand View Point where the paved road ends.

What to eat: Moab’s main street is lined with great restaurants where you can fuel up for a day out, and the town is just a 40-minute drive from the Island in the Sky Visitor Center. In the northern part of Moab, Proper Brewing has an excellent beer garden where you can kick back and enjoy a burger and a Utah-made brew.

Where to stay: The Island in the Sky district has one campground . More campsites on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land are scattered along Hwy 313, the main road into the national park, as well as along Hwy 128 and the Colorado River south of Arches National Park. For hotel accommodations, stay in Moab for an easy journey. Field Station is one of our top picks for location, price and adventure-seeking atmosphere, housed in a well-renovated roadside motel.

The drive (29 miles, 40 minutes): Canyonlands and Arches are about as close as two national parks can be, and it’s just a 30-minute drive from the Island in the Sky Visitor Center to Arches Visitor Center. If you can’t get enough of the views, take a detour to Dead Horse Point State Park for even more memorable vistas. Take Hwy 313 to Hwy 191 and drive south for a few miles to the turnoff for Arches National Park.

Want to see even more of Canyonlands? Here's what you need to know

Stop 5: Arches National Park

The vibe: Arches galore

What to do: The main draw of Arches is right in its name, and nowhere on Earth has more of this type of rock formation than this national park. Delicate Arch is the most iconic, enshrined on Utah’s license plates, and many more can be seen along the park’s main paved road on short hikes and from easy-to-reach viewpoints. At the end of the road, the Devils Garden Trail packs several arches into an easy or adventurous hike, depending on how far you want to go, including 306ft Landscape Arch, one of the longest in the world.

What to eat: There’s nowhere to eat inside Arches National Park, so bring in supplies from Moab or fuel up in town before or after a day of arch admiring. Find a variety of crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly options at Moab Food Truck Park or reserve a table at Desert Bistro , one of the best restaurants in this part of the state, for game and seafood in an 1892 former dance hall.

Where to stay: Arches has one campground inside the park (book far in advance), and campers can also find lots of sites on BLM land just outside the park boundaries. Otherwise, Moab makes for an excellent base camp, with plenty of hotels along its main street and beyond. Secluded south of town, ULUM Moab offers luxury glamping tents with views of its very own arch.

The drive: Round off your Utah national parks road trip by heading back to Salt Lake City (235 miles from Moab) or Las Vegas (460 miles from Moab). The fastest but least interesting way to get to Las Vegas is to take the interstates (I-70 north of Moab and then I-15 south), but if you have time, take the long road south from Moab, stopping at the Needles district of Canyonlands National Park, checking out film-famous Monument Valley on Navajo land and testing your luck by trying to get a permit for the Wave – one of the most sought-after hikes in the Southwest – in Kanab.

Need more info about Arches? Here's our guide for first-time visitors

Tips for EV drivers

Despite how remote some parts of the state are, Utah is an excellent place for an EV road trip, especially to the national parks. Some campgrounds and many hotels, including Zion Lodge inside the national park, have EV chargers for guests. Tesla has several Superchargers across the state, particularly along I-15 and I-70, including in St George (about 45 miles from Zion National Park’s south entrance), Green River and Moab (close to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks) and Blanding (about 70 miles from Canyonlands’ Needles district). 

A tricky stretch for EV drivers is the journey between Capitol Reef National Park and Moab. The Capitol Reef gateway town of Torrey has chargers, as does Green River, but you might need to be careful about how many places you explore in between.

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The Complete Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary (Hikes, Photo Spots + MORE!)

Post Summary: The Best Utah National Park Road Trip Route + Tips For An Epic Trip!

Cleverly marketed as “The Mighty 5”, the collection  Utah national parks are pretty much a staple on any adventure-lovers bucket list. From the towering hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the deep valleys of Canyonlands , the possibilities and activities are endless!

There is everything from hiking, camping, kayaking, climbing and so much more to do in Utah.

Berty and I wanted to experience everything the state had to offer, so we mapped out the perfect Utah national parks road trip to see everything along the way!

The Ultimate Road Trip To All 5 Utah National Parks

This post contains affiliate links, chosen and vetted by yours truly at no extra cost to you!

Note: If you are coming from the Pacific Northwest (like we did) you will most likely start near Salt Lake City.

If you live south of Utah, like in big cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Albuquerque you can do a smaller loop by taking Highway 70 that goes East-West to shorten your trip but still see all the parks! Here’s another example of a Utah National Parks road trip route starting in the Southwest:

UTAH ROAD TRIP MAP STARTING IN LAS VEGAS

When Is The Best Time To Take A Utah National Parks Road Trip?

Each season brings its own unique take on a Utah National Parks road trip. Depending on the activities you’d like to do, there may be an ideal season to go for you and your group! Read below for a quick summary 0f what you might expect on a Utah road trip during each season:

Visit Utah National Parks in Winter: Taking a Utah road trip in the winter will provide you with the opportunity to have plenty of peace and quiet! You’ll run into very few crowds, but many of the popular attractions ( like Angels Landing Trail in Zion ) will likely still be closed because of snow.

Visit Utah National Parks in Spring: We think springtime is the best season to take a Utah National Parks road trip. This is because the weather is mild and the crowds are few, so you’ll have places like Delicate Arch Trail to yourself! The downside is that things still might be closed because of snow, and nights can still be very cold!

Visit Utah National Parks in Summer: This is the most popular time to visit Utah National Parks, because you’ll have the most daylight hours, and nearly every attraction in the park is open. The downside? You’ll be sharing it with the largest visitors crowds the parks will see all season!

Visit Utah National Parks in Fall: In our opinion, a Utah road trip in the Fall is the second best option! The family crowds have dissipated in anticipation for school starting, so you’ll have fewer people to share it with. Unfortunately, you may run into very cold nights and a high chance of bad weather at the end of the season.

The Best Car Rentals For Your Utah National Parks Road Trip

One of the most important aspects of your Utah National Parks road trip is picking the right car for your adventure. Your set of wheels can determine where you will be staying, how much money you spend overall, and which parts of the parks you can access. Here are our suggestions for each level of adventure:

For Convenience And Comfort (Staying In Hotels/Airbnbs):   We recommend a regular , full-sized sedan  to fit in hotel parking lots and small spaces! These types of cars should give you plenty of room for those long drives, and plenty of trunk space between hotels and resorts! Looking for inspiration? Here are some charming cabins for rent in Utah !

For Budget Savvy Travelers And Campers: We highly recommend checking out campervan rentals at Outdoorsy . Think of it like Airbnb but for recreation vehicles! You can choose anything from cool vintage VW buses to tricked-out Sprinter Vans for a big dose of van life for your Utah road trip.

For Adventure and Thrill-Seekers: If you’re trying to explore deep into BLM land around the parks or off-road adventures like in the MAze in Canyonlands, you’ll want to make sure you have a high-clearance vehicle like a Jeep . 

Where To Stay On Your Utah National Parks Road Trip

Throughout this Utah National Parks road trip post, we’re giving suggestions to nearby camping spots around each national park. 

However, if you are looking for a way to keep track of all your camping reservations or need help finding spots along your route, we recommend planning out your trip with The Dyrt’s Road Trip Planner !

The Dyrt is the largest campground database, and with their Road Trip planner tool on the pro membership, you can mark your route and find the best campgrounds on the way. We’ve used it to plan our last trip to the Pacific Northwest and we loved discovering new spots along the way!

The Dyrt gave us a code for you, our epic reader, to try the pro membership for 30 days free!  Click here and use the code  Mandagies  to unlock your 30-day free trial!

Utah National Park Stop 1: Zion National Park

Established in 1919, Zion is one of the most popular parks in the US , and naturally so! Its red cliffs, slot canyons, and amazing hikes will keep you busy for weeks.

Best Hikes In Zion National Park

It’s important to plan to give yourself adequate time and preparation for some of these epic hikes in Zion National Park. Some of the most popular trails in Zion are  Angels Landing  Trail, Observation Point, hiking through The Narrows, the Court of the Patriarchs and Towers of the Virgin.

One Day In Zion National Park

Being one of the most visited parks in the United States, be prepared for crowds and reserve accommodations and activities EARLY to avoid last-minute stress!

If you have only one day in Zion National Park, consider taking the shuttle bus on its full route through the park loop, and stop to see the attractions in each area. An easy hike would be the Pa’rus Trail, which is . 3.5 mile paved bike/walking path along the river.

Have Some Extra Time?

If you are looking for more solitude, come during the off-peak months (November – March) or explore Kolob Canyons, which is a lesser-known area of the park. 

Where To Stay Near Zion National Park

For the most convenience to the park, book your hotel in Springdale, Utah . From the city, you can easily take a shuttle bus into the park to maximize your time in Zion.

To save a little money, consider booking a place on Airbnb ( and if it’s your first time booking, get $40 off here! )

Looking for a little backcountry camping in Zion? Check out the The West and East Rim Trails, which offer incredible opportunities to stay in the wilderness of Zion.

Best Photo Spots In Zion National Park

Nearly every corner of Zion National Park is photo-worthy! However, some of the best spots for photos in Zion include The Watchman, the view from the top of Angels Landing, The Narrows, Observation Point, and anytime during sunrise!

Read More: Hike Zion’s Dangerous Angels Landing Hike

Utah National Park Road Trip Stop 2: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park was created (and is still being formed) by a combination of ice, weather, and erosion. Bryce Canyon has the largest assortment of hoodoos in the world, which makes this place an iconic stop on any Utah national parks road trip.

Best Hikes In Bryce Canyon

Here, there are lots of hikes within the canyon and several scenic overlooks to keep you busy for a long time. Try taking the Queen’s Garden Loop, Mossy Cave Trail, and Bristlecone Loop Trail for easy and beautiful ways to get up close to the Bryce Canyon hoodoos.

One Day In Bryce Canyon National Park 

You can easily see Bryce Canyon in one day! You may have to prioritize one hike (or maybe two) but prepare to spend plenty of time in the car, stopping at various points along the 30 mile stretch of the canyon rim drive.

Coming To Bryce Canyon In The Shoulder Season? 

If you’re visiting Bryce Canyon in the shoulder season or off-season (Fall, Winter or Spring), make sure to pack warmer clothes when visiting here – the high elevation causes this area to have variable conditions, on top of already having an average of 200 days per year with a chance of below-freezing weather.

If you decide to take a winter road trip to Utah , you might be able to see Bryce Canyon is a beautiful blanket of snow!

Where To Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park

The most convenient place to stay near Bryce Canyon is at Bryce Canyon City . Here there are tons of hotels to choose from!

If you want to stay in the park, consider the two campgrounds in Bryce Canyon, North Campground and Sunset Campground . They are first-come-first-serve in for the tent sites, so come early to claim a spot!

Best Photo Spots In Bryce Canyon National Park

For some of the best photo spots in Bryce Canyon, watch the sunrise/sunset on the Canyon Rim trail!

Read More: 5 Things To Do at Bryce Canyon National Park

Utah Road Trip Stop 3: Capitol Reef National Park

The underdog of the five parks, still, Capitol Reef National Park shouldn’t be missed! It’s one of the most beautiful photography locations in the American Southwest!

Best Hikes In Capitol Reef National Park

• Cassidy Canyon
• The Grand Wash
• Chimney Rock
• Frying Pan Trail
• Capitol Gorge

One Day In Capitol Reef National Park

If you have only one day in Capitol Reef National Park, we suggest sticking to the main roads to see the most attractions in the shortest amount of time. You can easily visit the main attractions right off Highway 24. 

Some of these attractions include the Gifford Homestead in the Fruita Historic District, Hickman Natural Bridge, the Grand Wash, Capitol Reef Visitor Center, and Panorama Point.

This is the least visited of the Utah national parks, so if you are looking for solitude, you’ve found it here at Capitol Reef. To venture out even further into the park, consider taking the off-road adventure the Cathedral Valley, a section of the park with towering structures that very few see with their own eyes! 

Where To Stay Capitol Reef

For the comfort of a warm bed in a hotel, consider staying in the nearby town of Torrey  near Capitol Reef National Park. 

Looking for a bit more adventure under the stars? There are plenty of backcountry dirt roads ready for the most adventurous of visitors! If you want to camp, there is plenty of BLM lands to spend the night near the park borders.  Make sure to read our guide to free camping in the USA here!

Best Photo Spots In Capitol Reef

With its own unique set of natural arches, petroglyphs, canyon hikes, and more, this area of Utah has some of the most spectacular photo opportunities in the state.

Some other beautiful photo spots in Capitol Reef include Hickman Natural Bridge, Cassidy Arch, Capitol Dome, and Chimney Rock.

Read More: Discover Capitol Reef National Park’s Hidden Gems

Utah National Parks Road Trip Stop 4: Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is exactly what it sounds like. The main part of the park consists of a few roads on a long mesa which towers above the enormous surrounding canyons. There is very little light pollution within the park, so we actually suggest visiting Canyonlands in the day AND night!

Officially named a “Dark Sky Park” by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) this place is world-renowned for its summertime Milkyway viewing and star-gazing.

Best Hikes In Canyonlands National Park

There are some incredible hiking trails in Canyonlands National Park! The most popular would be the short trail to Mesa Arch, but other great trails include Aztec Butte Trail, Gooseberry Trail, Wilhite Trail, and Grand View Trail.

Make sure to pack a sun hat and wear plenty of sunscreen – there is absolutely NO shade in this park!

One Day In Canyonlands National Park

The park is divided into four areas – The Island In The Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. Each has its own unique set of activities, but the one with the most accessibility would be the Islands In The Sky. 

If you only have one day to spend in Canyonlands National Park, we highly suggest spending your time in the Island In The Sky Section. This section brings you to some of the most iconic views in the park, as well as the most easily accessible places.

Try checking out the nearby Dead Horse Point State Park. Here, you can find iconic views of the Colorado River that winds through the canyon. 

Where To Stay Near Canyonlands National Park

The easiest and most convenient place to stay near Canyonlands National Park is in the nearby town of Moab, Utah . 

Best Photo Spots In Canyonlands National Park

If you’re looking for iconic photos spots in Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Arch during sunrise can’t be missed. Additionally, Candlestick Tower during sunset and Grand View Point during the day are excellent options for photos.

Read More: Sunset At Canyonlands National Park

Utah Road Trip Stop 5: Arches National Park

With over 2,000 natural stone arches in the park, there won’t be a dull moment during your time in Arches National Park. Whether you are taking a day hike, overnight camping, or simply just passing through, Arches is guaranteed to leave an impression on any adventurous spirit.

We’ve created a 24-hour guide  for those who have just a short amount of time to spare, a hiking guide , and a photo journal of Delicate Arch during sunrise !

Best Hikes In Arches National Park

There are plenty of amazing hiking trails in Arches National Park to choose from! Some of our favorite hikes include a sunrise hike to Delicate Arch , Fiery Furnace, Double Arch, Park Avenue Trail and the Windows Loop.

One Day In Arches National Park

Only have one day in Arches National Park? Spend some time driving the Arches Scenic Drive , the 36-mile round trip road. This road connects nearly all the major sections of the park, so you can easily stop to quickly explore a section, or pull over for a photo. We also made a 24-hour guide to Arches National Park!

If you have a little extra time to spend in the park, consider taking the Devil’s Garden Loop trail , a 7.5-mile path that connects seven iconic arches, including Landscape Arch (the longest one in the park), Navajo Arch, Double Arch, and more!

Where To Stay Near Arches National Park

Similar to Canyonlands, the most convenient place to stay near Arches National Park is in the nearby town of Moab, Utah . 

Best Photo Spots In Arches Canyon National Park

Some of the most iconic photo spots in Arches National Park include Delicate Arch, the Windows Loop, Balanced Rock, the Courthouse Towers, and Park Avenue.

Read More: How To Spend 24 Hours In Arches National Park

UTAH NATIONAL PARKS ROAD TRIP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the best utah national parks.

Ranking the Utah National Parks form best to worst isn’t quite a fair comparison, because it implies we think some are bad. That’s certainly not the case! Here they are in order of popularity, according to PlanetWare .

• Zion National Park
• Arches National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park

What Else Is There To See Beyond The Utah National Parks?

Want to see more than just the stops on your Utah National Parks road trip? There are plenty of other amazing Utah and Arizona features to discover! We connect nearly everything in our Southwest Road Trip Itinerary  here, which we highly recommend if you’ve got some extra time.

In the meantime, here are some other amazing places to see in the American Southwest , near Utah National Parks:

• Goblin Valley State Park
• Corona Arch near Moab, Utah
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
• The Grand Canyon
• Page, Arizona
• Monument Valley
• Amazing Hikes In Sedona, Arizona
• …or take several other west coast road trips nearby!

Have you ever taken a Utah National Parks road trip? What was your experience like? Tell us about it in the comment section below!

Read more utah / road trip posts.

Delicate Arch Hike During Sunrise (Beat The Crowds!)

10 Amazing Hikes In Arches National Park

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30 Necessary Road Trip Essentials For Your Next Trip

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20 Brilliant Car Camping Hacks For Your Best Trip Yet

Want more inspiration for your Utah National Parks road trip? Follow our Southwest board for more ideas and tips for your journey!

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Flying into Salt Lake City and driving back to Oregon. We have 2 days to make the drive and it will be the beginning of July. What are some good sights to see along the way? We don't want to make any crazy long detours.

Presumably you'll be taking I-84 to Hwy 20? Instead of Hwy 20, take Hwy 26 and stop by John Day Fossil Beds Nat'l Monument, both Sheep Rock unit and Painted Hills unit. You might also be interested in the Kam Wa Chung museum in John Day.

North of SLC from Layton is a sideroad to Antelope island where you can see buffalos roaming the area. You can get off I15 near Brigham City and take 83. From 83 a short sideroad that leads to Golden Spike.

On the way to Twin Falls you can take a side road to City of Rocks but you'll have to drive some unpaved roads. In Twin Falls you can see and walk Perrine Bridge over Snake River. Shoshone falls (best in spring) is near Twin Falls. From TF you can head south and take us30 along waterfalls and Hagerman Fossil beds and if you take the route H-B gave you you can stop in Baker City, visit Oregon Trail Interpretiive center and the Heritage museum. Both are very worth visiting and Baker City has a nice historic down town.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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27 top places to see fall foliage in the u.s..

Plan a weekend escape or an extended getaway to see autumn's peak foliage.

The Top Places to See Fall Foliage

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Hit the road or the trail to view vibrant fall leaves across America.

There's no other time of year quite like fall. Brisk, cool mornings give way to sun-warmed afternoons, and the dropping temperatures create a kaleidoscope of colors as the leaves change before winter sets in. The displays of color are different across the U.S., but they're all brilliant when leaf-peeping season is at its peak.

In the West, the reds, oranges and bright golden hues of the quaking aspens are dramatic against the backdrop of the mountains and the verdant pine, spruce and fir trees. In the Northeast – such as New England – and other parts of the country where species like maple and birch are prominent, the trees are radiant with bold displays of yellows, deep reds, coppers and oranges.

Peak leaf season varies by region and by year, depending on the weather, so it's best to check with local sources before you go. Many top destinations to view fall's splendor have leaf and foliage maps and trackers so you can follow the local predictions and current conditions – and arrive just in time for the best of the season. Some of these destinations will be familiar, while others are lesser-known locales where you can capture and embrace fall's beauty.

So, pack your jacket and jeans, then grab your camera to capture one of nature's most spectacular spectacles.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park covers nearly 50,000 acres along the rocky coast of Maine. Located about 160 miles northeast of Portland , the park boasts the diverse natural beauty of the Atlantic shoreline, including majestic mountains. Peak leaf season in Acadia traditionally falls in the middle of October. This is when you'll see the vibrant displays of oranges, reds and yellows, especially along the Acadia All-American Road, one of the best scenic drives to view the fall colors.

While visiting Acadia, plan to stay at the nearby coastal town of Bar Harbor , considered to be the gateway to the park. Bar Harbor Inn & Spa , situated along picturesque Frenchman Bay, is an outstanding choice for an overnight stay: The historic property offers impressive views of the water as well as Maine's Porcupine Islands. While in town, you can take a whale watching tour and treat yourself to a traditional lobster dinner at Beal's Lobster Pier.

See more of Acadia National Park:  Things to Do  |  Hotels

McKenzie River Scenic Byway, Oregon

Melanie Griffin | Courtesy of Eugene, Cascades & Coast

The 34-mile McKenzie River Scenic Byway extends from the vineyards of the Willamette Valley to the forests of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon , treating travelers and road-trippers to views of some of the Pacific Northwest's most beautiful landscapes. Plan your visit for peak season when the golds and reds are most vibrant, usually in mid-October.

The McKenzie River boasts some of the best fly-fishing in Oregon, so anglers will want to cast off for native redside rainbow and cutthroat trout along the way. Other highlights include stops at local farm stands, at the historic McKenzie Hatchery in Leaburg and at Goodpasture Bridge in Vida, which is the state's second-longest covered bridge. For an extended romantic getaway that includes days spent fly-fishing, whitewater rafting and hiking to waterfalls, make reservations at the Eagle Rock Lodge, a bed-and-breakfast for couples in Vida.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Situated about 130 miles west of Boston and surrounded by mountains, the Berkshires are one of the most scenic places in Massachusetts to view the foliage. The leaves begin changing at the end of September, but peak season starts around mid-October. You can expect to see colors ranging from golden yellows to vivid oranges to deep reds. If you're up for a hike, take the Stony Ledge trail from the Williamstown side of Mount Greylock, the highest peak in the Berkshires at nearly 3,500 feet. This route offers one of the best viewing points of the foliage from midway up the mountain.

Back on the ground, the Berkshires feature world-class arts and entertainment offerings plus a deep-rooted food culture with many locally focused dining options. You can also explore the apple orchards and hops farms along the Berkshire Beer and Cider Trail. For accommodations , plan to splurge on a stay at The Williams Inn, an upscale hotel with a contemporary design that emulates local farmhouse architecture.

Read: Fall in New England: When & Where to Go

Charlottesville, Virginia

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in central Virginia, Charlottesville offers spectacular scenery accentuated by fall's vivid hues. Mid-to-late October is when you'll usually see the most dazzling red, orange and yellow leaves, but the colors can linger into early November, depending on the weather. Some of the best viewing spots with scenic overlooks are along the neighboring Blue Ridge Parkway and the connecting Skyline Drive in nearby Shenandoah National Park .

When you're not leaf peeping, plan to visit Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, the former home, gardens and grounds of the third U.S. president. Travel along the Monticello Wine Trail to sample some of Virginia's award-winning vintages at wineries such as Michael Shaps Wineworks, Barboursville Vineyards and Jefferson Vineyards. In the evenings, travelers can unwind over dinner and enjoy live music at The Mill Room before settling in at the historic Boar's Head Resort .

Payette River Scenic Byway, Idaho

Payette River Scenic Byway's 114-mile drive in Idaho begins west of Boise and heads north on state Highway 55. Depending on the year's weather patterns, travelers can see changing leaves as early as the end of August, but peak leaf season typically arrives in early to mid-October.

Highlights along this route include whitewater rafting in Cascade and camping overnight in Lake Cascade State Park. For an extended getaway, make plans to stay at Shore Lodge , a premier property in McCall. Situated on Payette Lake with the Idaho Rockies as the backdrop, this beautiful resort offers plenty of outdoor adventures to see the foliage. Try your hand at off-roading on an all-terrain vehicle or explore the shores around the lake by canoe or boat. You can also go hiking in Ponderosa State Park or relax in the soothing waters of nearby natural hot springs.

Bucks County, Pennsylvania

Courtesy of Visit Bucks County

Bucks County's picturesque country roads and covered bridges create an idyllic setting for viewing fall's colorful palette. Located in the southeastern part of Pennsylvania and bordered by New Jersey and the Delaware River to the east, Bucks County has a rich Revolutionary War history and is known for its thriving cultural and arts community. Peak leaf season typically runs the last two weeks of October, bringing vibrant hues of yellows, oranges, reds and browns to the area.

For a scenic escape to the Pennsylvania countryside, make reservations at The Inn at Barley Sheaf Farm, a luxury B&B in Holicong. You can spend your brisk fall days exploring the shops and restaurants in New Hope or checking out the annual Scarecrows in the Village display at Peddler's Village in Lahaska. Visitors may also want to take a self-guided driving tour of Bucks County's 12 covered bridges or sip and savor local wines along the Bucks County Wine Trail.

Read: The Top Fall Festivals in the U.S.

Cheyenne, Wyoming

Fall in Cheyenne boasts golden prairie grasslands in the high plains and vibrant seasonal colors from the quaking aspens. Visitors can also take in the stunning palette of reds, oranges and yellows from the trees lining the streets of downtown Cheyenne; the best viewing for these begins in late September and usually peaks by mid-October. You'll find even more brilliant foliage at the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens and the High Plains Arboretum – the latter features 60-plus species of trees and shrubs.

After leaf peeping, don't miss a visit to Cheyenne's Frontier Days Old West Museum, whose artifacts celebrate the history of the American West. It's known for the annual Cheyenne Frontier Days outdoor rodeo, which takes place at the end of July. On your autumn visit, you can enjoy the museum's extensive collection and rotating exhibits. For outdoor adventures outside of town, head about 25 miles west to Curt Gowdy State Park and spend afternoons hiking, biking or boating. For accommodations in the park, you can rent a hilltop cabin or reserve a campsite and sleep under the stars.

French Lick West Baden, Indiana

Courtesy of French Lick Resort

Located in southern Indiana, French Lick West Baden is a resort community nestled in the hills of Hoosier National Forest that features some of Indiana's best leaf-peeping locales. The yellows, oranges and reds are usually the most vivid from mid-October and later, with peak colors appearing at the end of the month. For active adventures in the colorful scenery, go hiking, biking or horseback riding. You can also hop on board a train ride into the forest on the French Lick Scenic Railway. When you want to kick back and relax, spend an afternoon sipping wine with a view on a Fall Foliage Wine Cruise on Patoka Lake.

There are two hotels to choose from at the historic French Lick Resort. A must-see, no matter which one you pick, is the stunning atrium at the West Baden Springs Hotel . Spanning 200 feet wide, and constructed more than a century ago, this engineering feat was once known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." While at the resort, you can enjoy all of the amenities, including three golf courses, two spas and a Vegas-style casino.

The Mississippi River Valley, Minnesota

Colorful wooded bluffs, steep hillsides and quaint river towns are all highlights of the Mississippi River Valley region in southern Minnesota, best enjoyed on a leisurely drive. The nearly 90-mile route from the town of Red Wing to La Crescent also features scenic overlooks, including two must-see locations at Great River Bluffs and Frontenac state parks. This drive along the Mississippi River – part of the 3,000-mile Great River Road, which begins in Minnesota and runs south through 10 states to conclude in Louisiana – celebrates peak fall colors around mid-October.

As you take in the brilliant hues of russet, red and gold along the ride, be sure to stop for an afternoon snack at a roadside apple stand. Bird lovers may be eager to see the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota. While in this city, grab dinner and a beer before spending the night at Turning Waters Bed, Breakfast and Brewery. Further down the road, don't miss the town of Winona, home to the small but impressive collection of European, American and contemporary works at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Situated at 9,600 feet above sea level in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is one of the first places in Colorado to witness fall's brilliant changing of the leaves. While the aspen trees' golds, reds and oranges usually peak by mid-September, the season can linger into early October. For optimal leaf viewing, plan to drive the 22-mile Boreas Pass: This route begins in Como and heads north to Breckenridge.

While visiting, enjoy brisk fall days hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding or fly-fishing surrounded by the beauty of the Rockies. If you're in town in mid-September, you can don your best alpine gear and attend the festivities at Breckenridge Oktoberfest. For an extended stay with a view, reserve accommodations at The Lodge at Breckenridge . This property nestled atop a forested cliff is regarded as one of the world's highest-altitude hotels at 10,200 feet.

Hudson, New York

Situated in the Hudson River Valley in Columbia County, around 120 miles north of New York City, Hudson is a small town that offers a distinct food, arts and farming culture. There's also a unique history to explore, especially when it comes to architecture: Known as a "dictionary of architectural history," Hudson boasts many well-preserved buildings from almost every major period in America. The area's bounty of trees produces brilliant red, orange and yellow hues beginning at the end of September, with peak viewing time falling around mid-October.

For a unique way to see the foliage, get a designated driver and plan a road trip around the Hudson Valley Wine and Craft Beverage Map, which features more than 100 wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries. After the drive, browse the town's boutiques and antique shops before checking into The Hudson Whaler Hotel, a beautifully restored property in the heart of downtown.

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways from New York City

Stowe, Vermont

Nestled at the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, Stowe is one of the most picturesque villages in New England. It's also one of the best places to view the annual fall spectacle, with colors changing from mid-September through the end of October. Vermont is around 80% forested and boasts plenty of sugar maples, so autumn visitors can admire vibrant displays of red, orange and yellow leaves across the state. One of the prettiest drives to see the foliage is along the Smugglers' Notch Pass through the Green Mountains in Smugglers' Notch State Park.

If you're planning for several days of leaf-peeping activities, a room at the Austrian-inspired Trapp Family Lodge can be your home base while you go horseback riding, rent a canoe or hop on the seasonal Stowe Gondola SkyRide to the summit of Mount Mansfield for unparalleled views. Back in town, check out local breweries like The Alchemist or von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Fall is one of the most picturesque times to visit "The Scenic City." Chattanooga is situated along the Tennessee River between the Appalachian Mountains and Cumberland Plateau, providing plenty of options for viewing the splendor of colorful forests. In peak season, usually in early November, trees showcase brilliant reds, oranges and yellows. Nearby hiking trails offer some of the best close-up views, such as Rainbow Lake Trail on Signal Mountain.

For panoramic vistas overlooking the Tennessee Valley, ride the incline railway to the top of Lookout Mountain. You can even book a sightseeing riverboat cruise along the Tennessee River on the Southern Belle. For unique lodging in Chattanooga with easy access to outdoor adventure, reserve one of Treetop Hideaways' two boutique treehouses located on the side of Lookout Mountain. If you prefer to stay in the city, check out The Read House, a historic 1920s-themed hotel with modern amenities in the heart of downtown.

Read:  The Best Treehouse Hotels in the World

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Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Set in the White Mountains of New Hampshire , Bretton Woods is one of the top destinations in the state to view fall foliage. Leaf-peeping season begins in mid-September and continues through late October – this is when the most vibrant yellows, oranges, reds and even purples will paint the surrounding mountains. Due to the many tree species, it can be hard to predict peak foliage in this area but you'll likely have the most luck around the second week of October.

To enjoy the spectacle for several days, make reservations at the Omni Mount Washington Resort . This historic property sits at the base of the highest peak in the Northeast, giving guests a front-row seat to the show. During your stay, dash through the treetops on a zip line canopy tour, enjoy a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride or take a thrilling trip on the Mount Washington Cog Railway. You may also opt to take in the sights on a gondola ride and have lunch atop the mountain. Back on the ground, book a signature spa treatment and relax with expansive views of the Presidential Range, Crawford Notch and Mount Washington from the therapy rooms.

Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire

Lake Superior Scenic Byway, Wisconsin

This 70-mile route follows Lake Superior's southern shore along the Bayfield Peninsula on state Highway 13 in Wisconsin . The Lake Superior Scenic Byway winds through harbor towns, fishing villages, orchards and farms. Expect vistas of sandy beaches, forests and the sparkling waters of Lake Superior. This route begins in the town of Barksdale; it heads north and then around the tip of the peninsula before ending in Cloverland, near the mouth of the Brule River.

Plan your drive for the first week of October, when the area's bright reds, golds and coppers are at their peak. Highlights along the byway include the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Gaylord Nelson Wilderness Area, which are home to an extensive collection of lighthouses. As a side trip, take a ferry ride from Bayfield to Madeline Island at the tip of the peninsula. Afterward, arrange for an overnight stay in Bayfield at the Old Rittenhouse Inn, a 20-room B&B overlooking Lake Superior.

Highlands, North Carolina

This picturesque mountain town sits at more than 4,100 feet in elevation on the Highlands Plateau in the Nantahala National Forest. Highlands sits in a temperate rainforest, so the vegetation is lush, and there are many waterfalls, rivers and lakes to explore in and around the area. Leaf-peeping season runs from the last week of September to the second week of October, when you'll see leaves becoming bright yellows and oranges, as well as deeper hues of reds and rusts.

There are many active outdoor activities to enjoy in this region, such as hiking, fly-fishing and golfing, but the community also has a vibrant cultural arts scene. During your visit, check out the exhibits at The Bascom (a visual arts center) or events at Highlands Performing Arts Center. While in town, reserve accommodations at Old Edwards Inn and Spa . This beautiful Relais & Chateâux property, located in the heart of the town, puts visitors within walking distance of the many restaurants and boutiques located on Main Street.

Read: The Top Places to Visit in the North Carolina Mountains

Letchworth State Park, New York

Letchworth State Park, fondly known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," is home to some of the most striking fall foliage views in the U.S. The park's 14,300-plus acres of lush forest usually hit their peak in early-to-mid October, when leaf peepers will be treated to yellow, orange and red foliage framing the magnificent Genessee Gorge and Genessee River. Explore this unique setting on miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, including the park's new Autism Nature Trail, a mile-long hiking loop with marked sensory stations. You can also take to the skies in a hot air balloon with Balloons Over Letchworth, the only company that launches from inside the gorge.

While you're visiting Letchworth State Park, be sure to check out the surrounding Wyoming and Livingston counties for fun fall activities. You can soak in the views in Wyoming County with a Fall Foliage Train Ride on the Arcade & Attica Railroad, or head to Livingston for a free ranger-guided walking tour of the Mount Morris Dam. When you're ready to relax, explore local craft beer, wine, cider and spirits along the LivCo Libation Loop. Stay the night in the heart of Letchworth State Park at the Glen Iris Inn, which offers convenient access to both counties and overlooks Middle Falls on the Genesee River.

Read:  The Top Hot Air Balloon Festivals in the World

Tunnel of Trees, Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Known as the Tunnel of Trees, this 20-mile scenic route follows the historic Michigan 119 highway between Harbor Springs and Cross Village. The area's canopies of golds, oranges and crimsons are on display typically from late September to mid-October. A few highlights for travelers include visiting the picturesque waterfront resort town of Harbor Springs and sampling authentic Polish cuisine at the iconic Legs Inn restaurant in Cross Village.

For overnight lodging, plan to stay at The Highlands, a Boyne Resort in Harbor Springs. This property offers many outdoor activities, including zip lining, horseback riding, biking and swimming. While here, reserve a seat on the Heather Express chairlift. This excursion to the top of the mountain affords incredible views of Traverse Bay, Harbor Springs and the area's beautiful fall foliage.

North Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

North Lake Tahoe, which unfurls across both California and Nevada, is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America, so there's plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, from kayaking and paddleboarding to boating and relaxing on the area's many beaches. When it comes to viewing fall's splendor, hundreds of biking and hiking trails with 10-plus different species of trees show off the red, orange and yellow foliage.

The best time to see the colorful leaves is from about mid-September to late October, and one of the top viewing spots is Page Meadows in Tahoe City. Other top leaf-peeping locales are Tahoe Meadows, Ellis Peak and Mount Rose Summit. For a memorable getaway, book accommodations at the Everline Resort and Spa at the base of Olympic Valley. Amenities at this luxury resort include a golf course with a view, a luxurious spa and various outdoor experiences, such as guided fly-fishing and rafting.

Read: The Top Lake Vacations in the U.S.

The Ozarks, Arkansas

Situated in the northern part of Arkansas , the Ozark Mountains are the perfect destination to explore the outdoors and marvel at autumn's palette of bright golds, reds and oranges. The transformation typically begins around the second week of October, and peak colors appear by late October. One of the top spots to view the foliage is in the Buffalo National River area around the small town of Ponca. This beautiful wilderness destination in the mountains offers the opportunity to disconnect and get away from it all.

While here, take time to hike or float down the river – all the while keeping an eye out for wild elk. Fall is when the bulls are battling to become king of the herd, so they're especially active during this time of year. Plan to reserve one of the cabins in the mountains above Ponca. Vantage points from these properties yield incredible stargazing opportunities, as well as memorable sunrise and sunset views.

Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Scenic Byway, Maryland

The scenic 38-mile drive from Emmitsburg to Point of Rocks runs along U.S. Route 15 in Maryland . Known as "hallowed ground" and considered sacred by some, this long stretch of road highlights significant Civil War sites and pristine natural areas, including Catoctin Mountain Park, home to presidential residence Camp David. The best time to make the journey to see the foliage on the Maryland route is between late September and early November, with peak season around mid-October.

One not-to-be-missed detour is a stop to see the 78-foot waterfall and gorge in Cunningham Falls State Park. If you're after a challenging hike with great views, travelers say Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson can't be missed. Afterward, spend time exploring the shops and restaurants in the historic city of Frederick. You can book an overnight stay at one of the charming local B&Bs, such as 10 Clarke. If you're up for more fall fun, visit nearby Gaver Farm in Mount Airy, whose Fall Fun Fest has a corn maze and more than 60 attractions.

Adirondacks, New York

The Adirondacks offers leaf-peepers 10 distinct regional destinations covering more than 6 million acres in the northeast corner of New York state. Adventurers can head to the Lake Placid region in late September and early October to hike the Adirondack High Peaks, which offer the best mountain vistas during peak fall foliage. While you're in the region, be sure to visit the Olympic Jumping Complex. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the ski jumps for a bird's-eye view of the Adirondacks before heading back down on a zip line.

In the first two weeks of October, you'll find peak leaf peeping around Lake George, a popular vacation spot with 109 miles of shoreline and 300-plus islands. Hike nearby Prospect Mountain for a breathtaking view overlooking the lake's beautiful blue waters and the vibrant yellows, oranges and reds of the surrounding forest. For an authentic Adirondack stay without sacrificing resort luxuries, book a vacation rental at The Lodges at Cresthaven. Located on the shores of Lake George, this resort property offers a host of amenities along with Adirondack decor and panoramic views of the lake.

See more of the Adirondacks: Things to Do | Hotels

Anchorage to Kenai, Alaska

The epic landscapes of Alaska are awash with vibrant reds, purples, yellows and oranges – and even snow-capped mountaintops – from late August through September as fall arrives in the Last Frontier. The autumn colors across the state's vast wilderness, forests and tundra change quickly as winter approaches, beginning in mid-to-late August in the Arctic regions and lasting as late as October in southern areas like Tongass National Forest. This 158-mile drive on the Seward and Sterling highways from Anchorage to Kenai travels along two National Scenic Byways. You'll find many vantage points along the way to take in the jaw-dropping views and capture photos.

The first 50 miles of Seward Highway follow the Chugach Mountains and the shoreline of Turnagain Arm, where you may catch a glimpse of Dall sheep, beluga whales and eagles. From Tern Lake to Skilak Lake on Sterling Highway, you won't want to miss the sight of the Kenai River's teal glacial waters against the orange and yellow leaves, just as you come around the bend above Kenai Canyon. For a side trip en route, visitors can plan to stay at the beautiful Alyeska Resort, about 40 miles southeast of Anchorage. Be sure to save up enough energy to chase the aurora borealis in the wee morning hours, as the northern lights dance across the night sky from August to April in Alaska .

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

One of the best ways to view the Pocono Mountains' vibrant fall hues of reds, yellows and oranges is with a scenic drive along U.S. Route 6 in Pennsylvania. This road meanders through charming towns like Milford, Hawley and Honesdale, where you can take in autumn festivities that include the Hawley Harvest Hoedown and Honesdale's Harvest and Heritage Days. Another optimal viewing spot for the foliage is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area with its 70,000 acres of forests and wetlands, the two tallest waterfalls in the state, and more than 150 miles of hiking trails.

The peak season for vibrant leaves in the Poconos depends on the region (north or south) and the progression of temperatures in the fall, but you can typically expect the best viewing from the last week of September through October. For up-to-the-minute information, check the fall foliage forecast on the Poconos Mountain website . After a busy day of exploring, The French Manor Inn and Spa is the perfect place to kick back, relax and admire even more of autumn's beauty. This luxury property is perched atop Huckleberry Mountain in Newfoundland and offers spectacular views of the kaleidoscope of leaf colors.

See more of the Poconos: Things to Do | Hotels

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

The majesty of Mount Rainier, with its summit reaching 14,410 feet above sea level, is even more breathtaking surrounded by fall's vibrant colors. While you can see the peak from miles around, a drive through Mount Rainier National Park can bring you up-close viewing of the spectacle. Top leaf-peeping areas include the White Pass Scenic Byway to the Chinook Pass via Bethel Road – if you have a high-clearance vehicle. Visitors may consider making a side trip to Cash Prairie to see Rattlesnake Drainage and Bismark Peak before venturing on to Timberwolf Mountain. Peak season to capture the brilliant crimsons, ambers and golds can vary, but it typically occurs between mid-October through early November.

While in the park, enjoy other favorite fall activities such as foraging for local mushrooms – chanterelles, hen-of-the-woods and matsutake, for example. You can also book an early-morning Elk Bugling Tour at Northwest Trek to see the Roosevelt elk sparring during their "rut," or breeding season. For rustic accommodations to enjoy the great outdoors while visiting the park, reserve a cabin or campsite at Mounthaven Resort.

See more of Mount Rainier National Park: Things to Do | Hotels

New York City

While many leaf-peepers gravitate toward New York state's forested countryside, New York City is also home to some of the best locations to enjoy autumn's hues. Peak color typically hits the city in late October to early November, often arriving a touch behind the rest of the state. Use Central Park's fall foliage map to check color progress, then meander along its winding paths to soak in the yellow, russet, maroon and purple leaves of 18,000-plus trees from eight different species. Once the sun sets, head to one the many nearby Broadway theaters to catch a show or walk down to Times Square for a different display of dazzling colors. To ensure the best fall foliage views in the morning, grab a luxury suite at the art deco-inspired JW Marriott Essex House New York .

If the crowds of Manhattan aren't your cup of tea, head to Brooklyn 's Prospect Park for a warm display of orange and red leaves. The Ravine, a densely wooded area at the park's center, will offer the best autumnal views. Or, for more historic fall foliage, visit the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx and check out Thain Family Forest, a 250-acre woodland area home to the city's biggest patch of old-growth forest.

North Conway, New Hampshire

For prime autumn foliage in one of the best small towns for an adventure, head up to North Conway in New Hampshire. Located roughly 85 miles north of Portsmouth, this small town is encompassed by the White Mountain National Forest and is home to Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast. With dozens of foot hike options through the surrounding 700,000 acres of protected forest, there's no shortage of leaf-peeping opportunities. Peak colors typically paint the landscape with vibrant hues of red, orange and yellow in the first two weeks of October.

A ride along the Kancamagus Highway – affectionately called "The Kanc" by locals – is a must-do. The 34-mile scenic drive will immerse you in a fall wonderland as it winds through the New Hampshire countryside, but make sure to fill your tank before you set off, as there are no gas stations or stores along the highway.

While you're in the area, don't forget to indulge in North Conway's other unique activities. Enjoy the perks of tax-free shopping at Settlers Green Outlet Village, for example, or grab a chairlift ride at Cranmore Mountain Resort. If you decide to hop aboard the historic Conway Scenic Railroad, experience 360-degree views of the fall foliage in the Premium Class Dome Car on the 1950s-era Transcontinental streamlined train. When you're ready to settle in for the night, the Cranmore Inn, a boutique inn located in the center of town, blends modern amenities with historical charm.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta grew up in the Shenandoah Valley surrounded by prime leaf-peeping destinations. Through her travels around the East Coast, she has enjoyed taking hikes, scenic drives or historic train rides to see the fall foliage. Whether by planning the perfect leaf-peeping excursion or hopping in the car for an impromptu drive, Vasta believes there's no bad way to take in autumn's hues, but she hopes this guide will help you take full advantage of this incredible season.

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