Enjoy a full hiking adventure on this Utah National Parks road trip to explore four National Parks. These parks are truly incredible! You can do this adventure year-round, but it is recommended to go during the Spring (April-May) or during the Fall (September-October) to avoid the summer crowds and extreme heat. The National Parks you will be visiting in this itinerary include Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches and Canyonlands.
Starting The Utah National Parks Road Trip
This itinerary starts by flying into Las Vegas Airport (LAS) and flying out of Salt Lake City Airport (SLC), but adjust as needed based on where you are coming from. Additionally, there is plenty to do in each of the parks, so you can easily add on days to each location.
I use Enterprise to book all of my rental cars.
TIPS
- Check out the official National Parks website to read important information regarding fees, hikes, maps, hours, and more.
- Purchase a National Parks Annual Pass
- Get to the park early! I cannot stress this one enough. Trails can get packed and parking can be difficult during the day.
- Starting The Utah National Parks Road Trip
- Day 1: Travel from Las Vegas to Zion National Park
- Day 2: Zion National Park
- Day 3: Zion National Park
- Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park and Travel to Moab
- Day 5: Arches National Park
- Day 6: Canyonlands National Park
- Day 7: Arches National Park and Travel to Salt Lake City
Day 1: Travel from Las Vegas to Zion National Park
Start your Utah National Parks road trip by flying into Las Vegas Airport (LAS) and picking up your rental car. From here, drive 3 hours to your accommodation in Springdale, the small town outside of Zion National Park. Springdale is a walkable area lined with shops, hotels, and restaurants leading up to the park entrance. There is also a shuttle service for the area you can utilize to get around the town and to the park. Depending on what time you arrive, check in to your accommodation and either head straight to bed or start to explore the town.
- Accommodation Options in Springdale:
Day 2: Zion National Park
Zion National Park is an incredible hiking destination and is known for stunning rock formations and deep canyons which are breathtaking!
Spend a full day exploring Zion National Park! I would recommend one longer hike and a few smaller scenic hikes for the day. Zion National Park evokes a sense of awe as sandstone cliffs tower overhead. The tranquil beauty, combined with the sounds of nature, creates a profound connection with the captivating landscapes, leaving you inspired and rejuvenated!
A full guide on park requirements, shuttles, and trails can be found here. To avoid parking at the entrance, I would recommend taking the Springdale shuttle service to the park entrance. The park itself also operates with shuttles most of the year so you will take a shuttle to get to your desired trailhead once in the park.
Hiking Recommendations:
Angel’s Landing
Angels Landing is an iconic and thrilling hike. It is one of the most well-known hikes in Zion and therefore, very crowded but well worth it! The first part of the hike features a steep, narrow path with exposed switchbacks and breathtaking views. Then, the famous portion of Angels Landing begins as the final ascent is aided by chains attached to rocks to hold onto as you climb with steep drop-offs. Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with panoramic views of majestic cliffs and valleys. This is challenging, but a must-visit for adventure seekers that offers an unforgettable experience. This hike is not recommended for any children or people afraid of heights. If you are up for it, definitely do it! However, make sure to check the park guide as permits are required and it is sometimes closed due to weather or maintenance. Access this hike at The Grotto shuttle stop and take the West Rim Trail to Scout’s Lookout, about 2 miles where you will see the entrance point of Angels Landing. The total hike is about 5 miles.
West Rim Trail
Taking the West Rim Trail up from The Grotto shuttle stop for 2 miles through a steep, narrow path with exposed switchbacks and breathtaking views, you will see Scout’s Lookout. Continue on the West Rim Trail for outstanding views as you hike on large slick rock. As most people stop for Angels Landing as this is where you access the final ascending portion, this is a much quieter trail, especially the farther you hike. The total distance of the tail with a loop on the upper plateau is 15 miles. However, a popular option is hiking to Cabin Springs which is about 8.5 miles out and back, or you can turn around as you would like.
Emerald Pools Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail is an accessible hike to enchanting pools surrounded by cliffs. There is a lower, middle, and upper emerald pool all accessed by the Zion Lodge shuttle stop. Ranging from easy to moderate this hike has sandy and rocky trails with low to moderate elevation. The level of water will vary depending on the season. I was there in September and the pools were filled and glistening! If you go to all pools this hike is about 3 miles.
Day 3: Zion National Park
Spend a second full day exploring Zion National Park! Choose a longer hike accompanied by a smaller hike.
Hiking Recommendations:
The Narrows
The Narrows hike is a captivating adventure through the Virgin River Gorge. It involves wading through the river and navigating narrow canyon walls. This unique experience showcases breathtaking rock formations. You can determine how far you want to go as there are multiple ways to do this hike. The most popular option is the bottom-up approach where you will access this hike from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop and take the Riverside Walk. This portion of the hike is a pleasant, easy walk alongside the river. After about 1 mile, you will see the entrance to The Narrows hike and will start your journey through the river and slot canyons. To walk to the farthest point until you need a permit is 10 miles, but you can turn around at any time as it is an out-and-back hike. Make sure to have the correct gear depending on the season, such as water shoes and trekking poles (you can rent gear if needed around Springdale – one location is Zion Adventures). Additionally, check closures due to weather or flash floods, permits, and other useful information here.
Watchman Trail
The Watchman Trail provides beautiful viewpoints of the Towers of the Virgin, Lower Zion Canyon, and Springdale. The trail is a 3.3-mile hike and you will access it by the visitor center. You will climb about 368 feet (112 meters) of elevation and it is suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
The Narrows
Watchman Trail
Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park and Travel to Moab
Bryce Canyon National Park is a natural wonderland of captivating rock formations, known as hoodoos, that stretch across a breathtaking amphitheater.
In the morning, check out of your accommodation and drive about two hours to Bryce Canyon National Park. One of the most unique, tall, and skinny rock formations called “hoodoos,” fill this national park. It is really unbelievable and hard to take your eyes off of these formations.
There is an 18-mile scenic drive with overlooks and hiking options along the way. You can drive or take the free shuttle from the visitor center. If you are an early riser, you can get to the park by sunrise and watch the amazing sun come up over the canyon and glisten on the red-colored rocks at Sunrise or Sunset Point. The full visitor guide and hiking list can be found here.
Sunrise or not, I would start your day early so you can spend a full day in Bryce Canyon and then drive to Moab which is about a 4 ½ hour drive. Moab is located at the base of Arches National Park where you will find accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Once you check in to your accommodation, get a good night’s rest because there is much more to explore!
- Accommodation Options in Moab:
Hiking / Scenic Viewpoint Recommendations:
Fairyland Loop Trail
Access the 8-mile Fairyland Loop trail from Fairyland Point. I would highly recommend this hike! With its length, you can see multiple aspects of Bryce Canyon including varieties of hoodoos and the Bryce Amphitheater. With every turn and viewpoint during this hike, my eyes witnessed new and captivating scenes. The vastness of the amphitheater and the intricacy of the rock formations left me in awe. Additionally, this hike is usually not too busy so it is a good option to avoid the crowds.
Rim Trail
The Rim Trail allows you to walk around the outside of the canyon and overlook the park’s iconic amphitheaters and hoodoos. It is a beautiful view from a different perspective than when you are hiking inside. The length of this trail can be adapted anywhere from 1 to 11 miles. I would recommend accessing this at Fairyland Point after the Fairyland Loop Trail and walking to Sunrise and Sunset Points.
Sunrise to Sunset Point
Sunset and Sunrise Points are prime locations to witness the magical transformation of light and colors over the stunning amphitheaters. However, you don’t just need to visit these in the morning or evening, they are both incredible viewpoints at any time of the day, offering a look into the main Bryce Canyon amphitheater. The distance between these two scenic viewpoints is 1 mile on the Rim Trail where the walk is easy and paved.
Queens Garden/Navajo Loop Trail
This is the most popular hike in the park and can be accessed from Sunset or Sunrise Point. This 3-mile hike descends into a valley of hoodoos. This trail feels magical in Bryce Canyon’s unique and mesmerizing landscape. It is an easy walk and accessible for most ages and ability levels.
Inspiration Point
Stop at Inspiration Point for a stunning view of the most crowded area of hoodoos. You get to admire the vastness of the amphitheater that is in front of you. It is truly incredible!
Bryce Point
Bryce Point is another viewpoint worth stopping at. You will again have an amazing panoramic view of the park’s iconic hoodoos and vast amphitheaters. Admire the complexity and colors of the breathtaking beauty that is in front of you.
Fairyland Loop Trail
Bryce Point
Day 5: Arches National Park
Arches National Park is known for stunning natural, sandstone arches. This surreal landscape is a masterpiece of erosion and you will be captivated by unique formations that seem to defy the laws of nature.
Spend a full day exploring Arches National Park. There are many scenic viewpoints and hikes to fill your day. Do a longer hike at the Devil’s Garden trailhead to get a good overview of the park and the arches. Explore the visitor guide and map here.
Hiking / Scenic Viewpoint Recommendations:
Devil’s Garden
Access this hike at Devil’s Garden Trailhead and see the unique rock formations and stunning arches this park is known for. Devil’s Garden offers a range of experiences, from easy walks to more challenging terrain, making it perfect for hikers of varying skill levels. If you make this hike shorter, you will still be able to see the iconic Landscape Arch for a total of 2 miles, with a few easy connections to Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch. However, I highly recommend completing the full 8-mile hike. You will come across the arches in the easier route, as well as Partition Arch, Navajo Arch, Double O Arch, Private Arch, and Dark Angel, and walk along the Primitive Trail. It is a challenging hike because of its length as well as steep exposures, narrow walkways, and uneven surfaces. But, it is very worth it! Each arch is unique and mesmerizing!
Skyline Arch
This is a quick out-and-back 0.4-mile hike that leads to Skyline Arch, which is an arch carved out of a large rock wall.
Broken Arch
This is a 1.6-mile hike by Devil’s Garden trailhead through a desert landscape where you will see Broken Arch and Tapestry Arch. The Broken Arch is slightly fractured in the middle but is not broken yet, while the Tapestry Arch is situated in a rock wall with alcoves beside it. You can also add 0.9 miles to this hike and see Sand Dune Arch.
Sand Dune Arch
This is a flat 0.4-mile hike. This trail feels very secluded as you walk through deep sand with large rust-colored rock walls surrounding you, before seeing Sand Dune Arch. You can also combine this arch with continuing on to see Broken Arch and Tapestry Arch, for a total of 2.5 miles.
Balanced Rock
It is an easy walk to this rock formation. Part of the trail is paved and you will be able to see Balanced Rock from the drive through the park. Hop out and see this structure up close.
Balanced Rock
Sand Dune Arch Hike
Day 6: Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is an expansive area with dramatic canyons, mesas, and towering rock formations created by the Colorado River and its tributaries. This park is divided into four areas – Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the Rivers.
Spend a full day in Canyonlands National Park. The section of the park that is most common to explore for one day is the Islands in the Sky which is about a 40-minute drive from Moab. Drive the scenic drive, stopping along the way for short hikes and viewpoints. The Mesa Arch is stunning at sunrise if you can catch it! See the full hiking guide here.
Hiking / Scenic Viewpoint Recommendations:
Mesa Arch
It is an easy 0.6-mile round-trip hike to Mesa Arch and is one of the most popular places to visit in the Canyonlands. I highly recommend getting here early for the sunrise. It is a spectacular view! However, at any time of the day, the arch frames the stunning view of the La Sal Mountains.
Grand View Point Overlook
Grand View Point overlook offers one of the best views in this area of the park, offering panoramic views of the spectacular canyons below. You can hike an out-and-back trail for a total of 1.8 miles, allowing you to follow the views, looking at the intricate canyons, mesas, and the Colorado River below.
Green River Overlook
This is a beautiful viewpoint of the unique canyon formations and the Green River. Step onto one of the cliff edges and enjoy! This overlook is southwest-facing, so it offers one of the best places at Island in the Sky to watch the sunset.
Aztec Butte
This is a 1.4-mile hike that starts with a sandy wash and continues with climbing up slick rock and ledges. You will be able to see the Aztec Butte on the eastern fork and the ancestral Puebloan structures on the western fork.
Upheaval Dome
There are two viewpoints along this moderate, but steep hike which is about 1.6 miles in total. You will see a unique crater, which looks different from the other canyon formations so it is a fun area to explore!
Whale Rock
This hike includes a large piece of rock that you walk on to get amazing views on all sides of you. It is 0.8 miles long and is a fun place to soak up the views and take a break on the rock.
Day 7: Arches National Park and Travel to Salt Lake City
Spend a second half day in Arches National Park. I would recommend starting in Wolfe Ranch for a morning hike and working your way back, stopping at any viewpoint you might have missed. After you are done exploring, drive about 4 hours to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to catch your flight to end your Utah National Parks road trip.
Hiking / Scenic Viewpoint Recommendations:
Delicate Arch
Starting at Wolfe Ranch, this 3-mile hike takes you to one of the most famous arches in the park. This “Instagrammable” spot is well worth it! You will climb up steep slick rock and walk along narrow ledges. Once you get to the arch, walk around or sit and take a break, enjoying the beauty.
Double Arch
Drive to the Windows Trailhead for an easy 0.6-mile walk on a sandy path. The trail leads you to intertwined arches. Walk underneath and look up at this uniquely formed arch.
The Windows
This 1-mile hike will bring you to the North and South Windows as well as Turret Arch. This is a good place to see a lot of arches and formations, without a lot of hiking.
Delicate Arch
Double Arch
This Utah National Parks road trip will allow you to experience a diverse and breathtaking collection of natural wonders. From the towering cliffs of Zion, the mesmerizing hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the natural sandstone creations in Arches, and the dramatic canyons in Canyonlands, each park offers a unique and awe-inspiring landscape. I hope you soak in the beauty during a Utah National Parks road trip with this itinerary!
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One response to “Utah National Parks Road Trip: Exploring Zion, Bryce, Arches & Canyonlands in 7 Days”
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