10-Day Itinerary Exploring Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks

Fly into Harry Reid International Airport and kick off your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you might explore the vibrant Las Vegas Strip or simply relax at your hotel and prepare for the adventure ahead. Stay overnight at the luxurious Bellagio Hotel & Casino or Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas.

Begin your Utah adventure at Zion National Park, approximately a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Las Vegas. Start the day with The Narrows, an iconic hike through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls — and yes, you will get wet! Before diving into the river hike, warm up with the Riverside Walk, a short but scenic trail leading to the entrance of The Narrows. In the evening, unwind by attending a ranger talk or stargazing under Zion’s famously clear skies. Stay inside the park at the Zion National Park Lodge to avoid the traffic at the park entrance. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more adventurous but still luxurious, stay at Under Canvas Zion for a unique glamping experience in the vast sandstone desert.

Challenge yourself with a morning hike to Angel’s Landing, a thrilling and rewarding trail offering breathtaking views (permits required past Scout’s Lookout). Later, explore the Emerald Pools trails, which feature cascading waterfalls and lush surroundings. Wrap up your day with dinner in Springdale and shop for souvenirs or local art. Enjoy one final night at your chosen accommodation in Zion.

Bid farewell to Zion with an early-morning hike on the Canyon Overlook Trail to catch a magnificent sunrise over the red sandstone canyon. Then, drive approximately two hours to Bryce Canyon National Park. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll along the Mossy Cave Trail, where you’ll find a charming waterfall and a small cave. Again, you can choose a convenient stay inside the park at the Lodge at Bryce Canyon or continue your outdoorsy glamping experience at Under Canvas Bryce Canyon.

Start your day with a spectacular sunrise at the appropriately named Sunrise Point, where the hoodoos are bathed in golden light. Then, set out on the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trail, a moderate hike that takes you up close to the park’s iconic hoodoos. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive along the park’s viewpoints, from Sunset Point all the way to Rainbow Point, the furthest driveable point in the park. End the evening with stargazing, as Bryce Canyon is renowned for its dark skies. Enjoy your final night among the hoodoos in your chosen accommodation.

Drive approximately three hours to Capitol Reef National Park. Along the way, take a scenic detour to Panorama Point and Goosenecks Overlook for stunning views. In the afternoon, hike the Hickman Bridge Trail to see an impressive natural arch. Cap off your day with a sunset at Sunset Point before settling into your accommodation at the Capitol Reef Resort. At the resort, you can choose a unique glamping experience in a Conestoga wagon or teepee or opt for a cozy cabin or suite.

In the morning, embrace your inner cowboy with a scenic horseback ride, offered at the Capitol Reef Resort. Alternatively, take off on a thrilling Jeep Safari Tour through the park’s remote backroads. Depending on which activity you choose, save time for a hike on the Capitol Gorge Trail to discover ancient petroglyphs and pioneer inscriptions. In the afternoon, visit the Gifford Homestead for freshly baked pies and local crafts, then take the park’s Scenic Drive for dramatic landscapes. In the evening, enjoy stargazing in this International Dark Sky Park. Enjoy one last night at the Capitol Reef Resort.

Head to Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district, about a three-hour drive. Begin with a morning visit to Mesa Arch, where the early light creates an iconic photo opportunity. Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s viewpoints or hiking to Upheaval Dome. For panoramic sunset views, hike to Grand View Point Overlook — the expansive canyon views here are unparalleled! For accommodations, consider luxury resorts like Sorrel River Ranch or Hoodoo Moab. If you’re still all about the outdoorsy glamping experience, stay at Under Canvas Moab.

Dive into Arches National Park with a morning hike to Delicate Arch, one of Utah’s most famous landmarks. Then, venture along the Devil’s Garden Trail to explore unique formations like Landscape Arch and Double O Arch. In the afternoon, opt for shorter hikes to Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch, and end your day with a sunset at Balanced Rock or the Windows Section. Stay one final night at your chosen accommodation in Moab.

Wrap up your adventure with a ranger-guided tour of the Fiery Furnace, a labyrinth of sandstone fins and narrow passages (advanced reservations required). In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing drive through the park, stopping at iconic spots like Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers. Depart from Canyonlands Field Airport in Moab, reflecting on your incredible journey in the great outdoors!