10 Day Tour of Utah's Mighty Five: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands

Your adventure will begin with your arrival in Springdale, Utah, the gateway to Zion National Park, the first stop on your exploration of Utah's Mighty Five. After checking into your lodge, ease into the trip with a leisurely walk along the Pa’rus Trail, which meanders alongside the Virgin River and offers stunning views of Zion’s towering red cliffs. Spend the evening soaking in the peaceful surroundings and preparing for the days ahead.

Spend the full day exploring the wonders of Zion National Park. Start with a thrilling hike up Angels Landing, famous for its steep ascent and breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon below. In the afternoon, head to The Narrows, where you’ll hike through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls. After a day of adventure, return to Springdale to relax and enjoy the local dining options.

Leave Zion behind and make the two-hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, the next park in Utah's Mighty Five. Once you arrive, take a walk along the Rim Trail for a bird’s-eye view of the park’s famous hoodoos—thousands of towering rock spires that create a surreal landscape. After settling into your accommodation, spend the evening stargazing under Bryce’s famously clear night skies.

Immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park. Start your day with a hike along the Queens Garden and Navajo Loop trails, which take you deep into the canyon among the towering hoodoos. In the afternoon, visit additional viewpoints such as Sunset Point and Inspiration Point to capture the beauty from different perspectives. After a full day of exploring, relax in the serene surroundings of Bryce Canyon.

Depart Bryce and begin your journey toward Capitol Reef National Park, with a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive. Along the way, stop at Kodachrome Basin State Park for a short hike among striking sandstone formations. Upon arrival at Capitol Reef, explore the historic Fruita District, where you can stroll through orchards and learn about the area’s pioneer history. In the evening, settle into your accommodations and enjoy the tranquility of this lesser-known park.

Spend the day uncovering the hidden gems of Capitol Reef National Park. Drive the scenic road through the park, stopping to hike to natural bridges and towering cliffs that define this remote landscape. Don’t miss the park’s petroglyphs, which offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history. After a day of adventure, return to the Fruita District for a peaceful evening in the heart of the park.

Continue your journey through Utah's Mighty Five with a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Arches National Park. En route, take a break at Goblin Valley State Park, where you can explore its unique rock formations that resemble goblins. Once you reach Arches, take an afternoon hike to the park’s most iconic feature—Delicate Arch—and watch as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the landscape.

Devote the day to exploring the countless wonders of Arches National Park. Take a scenic drive through the park, stopping at highlights like Double Arch, Balanced Rock and the massive Landscape Arch. Each stop provides an opportunity to experience the unique geology that defines this park. Afterward, unwind in the nearby town of Moab, known for its lively atmosphere and excellent dining options.

Begin your day with a short 45-minute drive to Canyonlands National Park, the final park in Utah's Mighty Five. Spend the day exploring the Island in the Sky District, with its breathtaking overlooks like Mesa Arch and Grand View Point, which offer sweeping views of the canyons carved by the Colorado River. Take time to hike one of the area’s trails before settling in for the night.

On your final day, head to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, where you’ll find colorful rock spires and more challenging hiking opportunities. Explore trails like Chesler Park or enjoy a shorter walk through the stunning landscape. Reflect on your journey through Utah's Mighty Five as you take in the dramatic scenery one last time before concluding your adventure.