With its red rocks, dramatic canyons, and gorgeous mountains, Utah is one of the most beautiful places. If you’ve had the opportunity to travel through the state, you understand how truly unreal the scenery is. In particular, Utah’s national parks are filled with some of the best examples of the state’s natural beauty. So what’s the best way to see all of the national parks? By taking a Southern Utah road trip!
Utah has five national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. All five of these parks are beautiful in their own respect and are so different from each other. From the well-known red rocks of Arches to the awe-inspiring depths of Canyonlands, make sure to spend time in each during your Utah road trip to truly experience what the state’s national parks have to offer.
When to Go
Utah is gorgeous any time of year, but it definitely has four distinct seasons. Because of this, summers get hot, while winters can be freezing. You’ll likely find the best weather in either late spring/early summer or late summer/early fall. Additionally, some activities are only available during certain seasons. If you’re set on horseback riding, for example, confirm that rides are operating while you’re planning to be there.
How to Get There and Suggested Utah Road Trip Route
If your road trip is limited to just Utah and you’re not local to the area, fly into either Grand Junction, CO or Salt Lake City, UT and start from there. Grand Junction is 5.5 hours to Zion and a little over 1.5 hours to Arches, while Salt Lake City is about 4.5 hours to Zion and 3.5 hours to Arches. Regardless of where you start your trip, the drive is beautiful!
My preference is to start with the longest driving day first, so I suggest beginning with Zion. Whether you’re driving from Salt Lake City or Grand Junction, this will be the farthest drive. From Zion you’ll go to Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and, finally, Arches and Canyonlands. If you’d rather save the longest driving day for last, then reverse the order.
How Long to Spend in Each National Park
Once you’re set on your road trip route, the hardest part is deciding how long to spend in each place. Below are my recommendations for the ideal amount of time in each of Utah’s parks, but, of course, consider what you want to see on your road trip and tailor your itinerary accordingly. As a general rule, if you’re primarily interested in driving through the national parks, seeing the main sights, and maybe going on a couple short hikes, a few hours to one full day in each park is sufficient. However, with the amount there is to see and do, you’ll likely want to stay way longer!
Zion
Zion is a gorgeous park with endless activities and sights! If you only plan to ride the shuttle and take in the scenery, you could see Zion in a half day. This is rushed in my opinion – two to three full days is more reasonable and will give you time to actually experience the park.
Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is another park with so much to see and do. Two to three days is a good amount of time to take it all in and enjoy what Bryce Canyon has to offer.
Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef can be seen in a couple hours if you’re simply planning on driving through during your Utah road trip, and maybe doing a couple short hikes or seeing the historic town. If you would like to go on longer hikes, one full day is probably sufficient.
Arches
As the name suggests, Arches is known for its incredible rock formations. Although most of the major sights can be seen in one full day, it’s worth staying for two days to hike to the rock formations that are off the main road. Additionally, plan on a day to check out Moab.
Canyonlands
Canyonlands is divided into four distinct districts, all with their own geography. The Island in the Sky District is the closest to Moab and is what the majority of visitors see. If you simply plan to drive through the Island in the Sky, a half day is plenty of time. However, if you want to get some hiking in, plan on one to two full days.
Where to Stay
In general, the areas around Utah’s national parks don’t offer the most luxurious options for lodging. However, there are still some great choices near each of the parks. Keep in mind that a lot of the more unique places like glamping sites or teepees are seasonal and might not be operating in the winter.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, all of the national parks have really nice campsites. Be warned that they fill up quickly so make sure to book well in advance.
Zion
Springdale, UT is considered the “Gateway to Zion” and has plenty of lodging to choose from. There are also options a little farther away from the park entrance that offer a different experience than a typical hotel.
- Under Canvas Zion: Under Canvas Zion is about 20 minutes from the entrance to Zion, but is well worth the extra distance. This luxury glamping camp brings you out into nature, while maintaining all the amenities of a hotel. Take advantage of the on-location restaurant, morning coffee service, and in-tent massage treatments.
- Zion Mountain Ranch: Zion Mountain Ranch offers private cabins and lodges. It’s only about five minutes from Zion’s entrance and is home to its own buffalo herd. The Ranch’s restaurant serves a fresh, seasonal menu, and some cabins and lodges have their own kitchens if you would prefer to cook.
- Zion Wildflower Resort: Another luxury glamping facility, at Zion Wildflower Resort you can choose from canvas tents, covered wagons, or private bungalows. The camp is approximately 15 minutes from Zion, but the feeling of seclusion makes it worth staying outside of Springdale.
- Cliffrose Lodge and Gardens: Located in Springdale, this boutique hotel is one of the closest to Zion. Parking can be a pain within the park, so being able to walk there directly from the hotel is such a bonus. It’s also near the restaurants, shops, and other amenities in Springdale. Each room has its own character and the hotel grounds are surrounded by Cliffrose’s extensive gardens.
Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is a little over an hour from Zion, so some visitors choose to stay near Springdale and drive to Bryce Canyon for day trips instead. Since lodging is more limited and not as fancy in Bryce Canyon City, this is the way to go if you’re picky. However, if you’re trying to take full advantage of time during your Utah road trip, I would recommend staying in Bryce Canyon City.
- Stone Canyon Inn: Stone Canyon Inn is so close to Bryce Canyon that you can see the park from the hotel’s deck, however, the park entrance itself is about 20 minutes away. Lodging includes cabins, bungalows, the guest house, rooms in the inn, and even treehouses. This hotel also operates one of the best restaurants in the Bryce Canyon area.
- Mountain Ridge Cabins & Lodging: Mountain Ridge is approximately 25 minutes from Bryce Canyon, and offers cabins and rooms, including suites. The cabins are cozy and provide a covered deck with chairs for relaxing at the end of a long day.
- Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel: Only one mile from Bryce Canyon’s entrance, you can’t get much closer than this hotel. It’s also walking distance from several restaurants and shops.
Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef National Park is even more remote than Bryce Canyon, meaning that the lodging is more limited. Despite its seclusion, there are some excellent options near the park.
- Red Sands Hotel: Red Sands Hotel is a short drive from Capitol Reef. This upscale hotel has a full service spa, restaurant and bar, and luxurious rooms.
- Capitol Reef Resort: This resort has comfortable rooms, cabins, wagons, and teepees, if you’re looking for a totally different experience. Additionally, the resort offers excursions such as llama hikes and custom expeditions.
Arches / Canyonlands
Arches National Park is just outside of Moab, so there is no limit on hotel, glamping, and resort choices. However, Canyonlands is very remote – It’s about an hour outside of Moab and there are no hotels in the immediate area. During your Utah road trip, plan on making day trips to the park unless you’re interested in camping around Canyonlands.
- Under Canvas Moab: Under Canvas Moab is very similar to its Zion counterpart in its amenities and feel. Here you can enjoy massages, drinks with a view of the night sky, and morning coffee service.
- Hoodoo Moab: Hoodoo Moab is about ten minutes from the entrance to Arches and is only a block from Moab’s main street. It has a modern Western charm that fits in perfectly with the surrounding red rocks.
- Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa: Sorrel River Ranch Resort is a charming luxury resort directly next to the Colorado River. It’s located in a relatively secluded area (in the best way) about 25 minutes from Moab and Arches. Make sure to try the restaurant, as many of the ingredients are directly sourced from the resort’s own garden.
- Best Western Plus Greenwell Inn: This Best Western right in the heart of Moab and is easy walking distance to restaurants and shops. The rooms are simple, but so comfortable!
What to Do
There is so much to do at any of Utah’s national parks! In general, a lot of the activities you might do on a Utah road trip overlap between the parks. For example, all of them have excellent hiking and stargazing, but even these overlapping activities are unique in each place.
Zion
Scenic Drive and Nearby Trails
During the majority of the year, most visitors are not allowed to drive inside Zion. Instead, there is a free shuttle bus that runs the entirety of the park.
The shuttle bus runs along such a scenic road, so taking in the views as you ride is well worth it. A bonus of the shuttle is that no one has to focus on driving, so your entire group can take in the views. There are also trails between the shuttle stops if you want to get out and walk. Whether you’re riding the bus or walking the trails, the sights do not disappoint!
Horseback Riding
Hikes and the shuttle will help you see the majority of Zion, but there are some areas of the park that are most accessible by horse. Trail rides starting in the park are available and provide a view of Zion unlike any other. Depending on which you book, trail rides are either one or three hours. Either will give you stunning views of the park!
Hiking
Zion is home to some iconic hikes. Even if you aren’t familiar with the names of these hikes, you’ve probably seen pictures.
- The Narrows: The Narrows is one of the best known hikes in Zion. It runs through Zion Canyon and requires walking directly in the Virgin River. One of best things about this hike (beyond the amazing scenery) is that you can make it as short or as long as you want. You will get wet, so I recommend wearing water shoes and having a protective case or pouch for your camera or phone.
- Angel’s Landing: Another famous Zion hike, with its sheer drop offs and numerous switchbacks, Angel’s Landing is not for the faint of heart. However, if you make it to the top you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of Zion. This strenuous hike attracts a lot of hikers, so start early to avoid major crowds.
- Watchman Trail: Watchman Trail starts at the visitors’ center and provides stunning views of the lower canyon, peaks, and other notable geographic features. This trail is a little over three miles and has minimal elevation gain, so it’s great for those who aren’t interested in a super challenging hike.
Stargazing
Zion is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, making it an excellent area for stargazing. At the park, the visitors’ center patio and its nearby paved trails offer good opportunities to gaze at the night sky. If you’re glamping, you should be able to take in the stars from your camp.
Bryce Canyon
Hiking
Bryce Canyon has my favorite hiking out of all of Utah’s national parks. Most of the trails are interconnected in some way, so you can combine various hikes based on what you are interested in seeing.
- Rim Trail: This is an easy, partially paved trail that is worth doing for the views alone. It follows the rim of Bryce Amphitheater and provides sights of the hoodoos from above. Keep in mind that the Rim Trail extends for 11 miles and is not a loop, so you’ll have to turn around and walk back or hop on the shuttle at some point.
- The Figure 8 Combination (Queen’s Garden, Navajo Loop, and Peekaboo Loop Combined): This 6.4 mile hike passes through most of the well-known sights in Bryce Canyon. By combining these hikes, you’ll see some of Zion’s most famous geographic formations: Queen Victoria, Thor’s Hammer, Two Bridges, part of Wall Street, and the Wall of Windows.
- Fairyland Loop: Fairyland Loop is an eight mile round trip hike that is considered strenuous. Along this trail, you’ll see the Chinese Wall, Tower Bridge, and plenty of hoodoos.
Horseback Riding
Similar to Zion, Bryce Canyon offers horseback rides in the park. Depending on which you book, trail rides are around two or three hours. The three hour ride follows the Peekaboo Loop trail, so if you’re planning to book a horseback riding adventure you might want to skip that hike.
Stargazing
Utah has some of the darkest skies in the world, so it’s no surprise that Bryce Canyon is a perfect destination for stargazing. Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point are all incredible locations to check out the night sky.
Capitol Reef
Scenic Drive
Capitol Reef is located along Highway 24, which is a beautiful drive in itself. However, there are six other scenic drives within the park. The roads vary between being paved, maintained dirt, and non-maintained dirt. The non-maintained roads will require a four-wheel drive vehicle. High clearance vehicles are recommended on the other dirt roads as well.
Hiking
Capitol Reef has about 15 hikes, all of which offer dramatic views of the local scenery.
- Grand Wash: This trail is a little over two miles each way is an easy hike with minimal elevation change. Along this trail, you’ll walk along the wash bottom and will be surrounded by towering sandstone walls.
- Cohab Canyon: Cohab Canyon is about three miles round trip and is ranked as moderate. Expect to see views of nearby Fruita, panoramas of the park, and hidden canyons.
- Hickman Bridge: This hike comes out to a little under two miles round trip. You’ll see incredible views of the canyon and a 133 foot natural stone bridge.
Historic Sights
The Capitol Reef area has been home to populations of people for thousands of years. Remains of these populations are still visible within the park.
The original inhabitants of the area, the Freemont people lived in the valley for about one thousand years. Traces of these people can be seen in the petroglyphs along Highway 24. These petroglyphs are visible along two wooden boardwalks.
The Gifford Homestead is a Mormon settlement that built in the early 1900s and has since then been home to multiple families. You can visit the homestead and adjacent buildings, as well as shop at the store. The store sells local handmade items, homemade ice cream, and freshly baked fruit pies. See the settlement about one mile from the visitors’ center.
Arches
Hiking
Arches is home to some amazing hiking through stunning desert terrain.
- Delicate Arch: Delicate Arch is one of Utah’s most famous features. This three mile hike will take you over open slickrock and a narrow rock ledge right to the base of the arch.
- Sand Dune Arch: This hike leads to a hidden arch tucked between other rocks. Sand Dune Arch is a short, shaded hike that is an ideal way to cool off on a hot day.
- Devil’s Garden: Devil’s Garden is an area of the park that contains several trails. The entire distance of all trails in this area is just under eight miles, but there are several gorgeous sites that don’t require completing the full trek.
If it’s really hot out or you’re not a big hiker, there are a few shorter hikes that are worth it. Make sure to check out Balanced Rock, Double Arch, Delicate Arch viewpoint, and Sand Dune Arch.
For more information, this post has a complete, detailed list of my favorite hikes in Arches National Park!
Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace is a maze of narrow sandstone canyons. If narrow ledges, uneven ground, and tight squeezes to climb through sound exciting, this hike is definitely one not to miss!
In order to explore this area, you need to obtain a hiking permit at the visitors’ center or go on a ranger-led hike. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and wear a backpack so your hands are free.
What if the Park is Closed?
Arches is one of the most visited national parks. On occasion, the park attracts so many people that Arches temporarily closes to additional visitors. If this happens to you, don’t worry, there are still plenty of things to see in the area.
One of my favorites hikes outside of the park is the Corona and Bowtie Arch Trail. In a little over three miles, you’ll see Pinto Arch, Bowtie Arch, and Corona Arch. This hike includes climbing a ladder up a steep cliff and holding a cable to traverse up a slickrock edge. It ends with incredible views of the arches and red rocks.
If you’re looking for adventure, try a jeep tour or rafting excursion. Jeep tours will take you along some of the most famous jeep trails in Moab. Rafting trips go along the Colorado River and are a fun way to cool off on a hot day. Either will provide a different perspective of Utah’s natural scenery.
Moab itself is a cute town to walk around. There are fun shops, places to grab coffee or ice cream, and plenty of restaurants. There are also some great day spas to grab a quick massage or facial.
Canyonlands
As mentioned, Canyonlands National Park is made up of four separate districts. The activities below focus exclusively on the Island in the Sky district, as this is the most popular and accessible from Moab.
Scenic Drive
The Island in the Sky district has one main road that provides a view of most of the major sights. I suggest stopping at each pull off to truly take it all in, but if you’re limited on time, here are the must see stops.
- Grand View Point: This is one of the most impressive views in the park. From here, you can look down upon the winding canyon below.
- Green River Overlook: For views of the river that helped shape Canyonlands, make sure to stop at this overlook.
- Buck Canyon Overlook: Buck Canyon is a perfect spot to see the layers of canyons below, as well as views of the La Sal Mountains in the distance.
- Shafer Canyon View Point: From this viewpoint, it’s only a short walk to a wide plateau with views of the canyons and Dead Horse State Park.
- Visitors’ Center: If you’re already at the visitors’ center, make sure to cross the road to this viewpoint.
Hiking
- Mesa Arch: Mesa Arch is one of the most iconic views of Canyonlands and is a photographer’s dream. This popular arch gets very crowded, so plan on going early to enjoy the scenery with less of a crowd. It’s only about a half mile round trip, so this is an easy first hike of the day.
- Upheaval Dome: This is a short one mile hike with stunning views of one of the park’s most unique features, Upheaval Dome.
- Syncline Loop: Steep switchbacks, scrambling, and lots of elevation change over eight miles. If that sounds up your alley, you’ll love Syncline Loop.
Stargazing
With its inky black skies, Canyonlands is another excellent stargazing destination. Any of the pull offs are great spots to stop and take in the stars shining over the park’s endless canyons.
Bonus: See Dead Horse Point State Park
While this isn’t a national park, Dead Horse Point State Park is just outside the entrance to Canyonlands and is a must see a stop along your Utah road trip. Drive into Dead Horse Point for views of Canyonlands from the other side of the canyon and interesting hikes around the rim.
What to Eat
One of the best parts of a Utah road trip is trying all the food near each park. Ranging from fancy attire and gourmet meals to casual and simple, there’s something for everyone.
Zion
There is no shortage of dining options near Zion! Many restaurants focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and provide plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices.
- King’s Landing Bistro: A full drink menu, fresh seasonal food, and an incredible view. If you’re in the Springdale area, make sure to try King’s Landing. They don’t take reservations, so plan on a bit of a wait if you’re there during peak dinner time.
- The Spotted Dog Cafe: Located along the main road into Zion, this cafe is definitely worth a stop. It has a large outdoor patio, cozy interior, and serves a simple, but excellent menu.
- Cafe Soleil: Cafe Soleil offers breakfast, a wide range of sandwiches and wraps, both grilled and cold, soups, salads, and pizza. Additionally, the cafe often showcases local artists and musicians.
- Deep Creek Coffee Company: Don’t be fooled by the name – this coffee shop serves way more than just coffee. Its menu also includes breakfast favorites, smoothies and smoothie bowls, and a variety of sandwiches.
Bryce Canyon
Although secluded, the Bryce Canyon area is home to some of the most amazing restaurants!
- Stone Hearth Grille: This restaurant is located at the Stone Canyon Inn about 20 minutes away from Bryce Canyon. It provides stunning views of Bryce Canyon and incredible food. It’s one of the best dining experiences you can have in the area!
- Lodge at Bryce Canyon: Located within the park itself, this restaurant boasts a massive fireplace that makes the atmosphere so cozy. This is a great restaurant for any meal throughout the day.
- Bryce Canyon Pines: Bryce Canyon Pines is close to Bryce Canyon and provides a simple menu with home cooked favorites. It’s famous for its pies, so make sure to try some! A lot of the pies sell out quickly, so make sure to have a backup choice in mind when you order. Come by for breakfast or lunch, or grab a boxed lunch to go.
Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef is limited in its restaurant selection, but a few miles outside of the park there are a few good options.
- Gifford House Store and Museum: While this isn’t a restaurant, this store sells baked goods, coffee and tea, ice cream, and other snacks. It’s especially known for its fruit pies, baked with local fruit.
- The Wild Rabbit Cafe: Located outside Capitol Reef in Torrey, this cafe serves up breakfast all day, as well as sandwiches, salads, and homemade baked goods. If you want to avoid stopping for lunch, go with the hiker’s box so that you can take it to go.
- Cliffstone Restaurant: With breakfast made with eggs sourced from its own chickens and sack lunches to go upon request, this is a solid choice for breakfast and lunch.
Arches / Canyonlands
Similar to the lodging selection, there aren’t many dining choices near Canyonlands. Because of this, you’ll probably have most of your meals in Moab unless you pack something to take with you to Canyonlands. Luckily, Moab has so many options for dining!
- Moab Garage: Moab Garage has a great atmosphere with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Its menu includes coffee and tea, made to order ice cream, breakfast, sandwiches, salads, and even charcuterie and beer and wine. The grilled cheese of the day is one of my faves!
- Quesadilla Mobilla: This food truck serves nothing but quesadillas and draws a pretty big crowd. Although the menu is limited to quesadillas, it’s anything but boring and include choices for vegans, vegetarians, and meat eaters alike.
- Desert Bistro: Desert Bistro is one of Moab’s more upscale dining establishments. Menu choices are rich and decadent, the wine menu is extensive, and service is awesome. For a special night out in Moab, this is the place to go!
- Castle Creek Winery: Only 15 miles from Moab along the Colorado River is one of Moab’s two wineries. Wines are produced with locally grown grapes and you can visit the tasting room, which overlooks the river and spectacular red rocks.
Things to Keep in Mind on Your Utah Road Trip
Weather conditions in these areas can change rapidly. Flash floods can be common and are dangerous, especially if you’re hiking in a slot canyon. Keep an eye on the weather and the changing conditions. Also, make sure to pack for all types of weather.
Some of the trails, lodging, and activities are seasonal and won’t be open or accessible year round. If there’s something that you’re set on seeing or doing during your Utah road trip, check that you’re going at the appropriate time of year.
Depending on the time of year, Utah gets hot. Plan for this and make sure to have enough water, SPF, and a hat. Remember that some of these parks don’t have potable water available so you’ll need to bring your own.
I hope you’re feeling inspired to plan your own Utah road trip! Have you been to Utah? What was your favorite part? If you haven’t been, what are you dying to see?
