Guide to Utah National Parks

Curated By

Cassie McElfish

Utah
Adventure Travel
Nature Escapes
Road Trip Travel
National Park
Mountains
Hiking

Utah National Parks, a treasure trove of natural wonders.

Curator’s statement

Utah is a breathtaking state with unique and natural characteristics. Utah is home to 5 national parks that you will not want to miss. Each national park in Utah provides an adventurous experience, leaving you wanting more!

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Where to stay

Capitol Reef Resort

Overlooking the red cliffs of Capitol Reef National Park, this casual resort is just outside of the quaint town of Torrey features luxurious stand-alone cabins, teepees and Conestoga Wagons.

Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn

Offers travelers a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of Moab, Utah, with well-appointed rooms, modern amenities, and easy access to the stunning natural wonders of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Moab, an IHG Hotel

Experience comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Moab, an IHG Hotel, your gateway to adventure in Moab's stunning landscapes.

Holiday Inn Express Springdale - Zion Natl Pk Area

Holiday Inn Express Springdale - Zion National Park Area provides a convenient and comfortable stay, blending modern amenities with proximity to the breathtaking landscapes of Zion National Park.

Bryce View Lodge

Bryce View Lodge offers a rustic and cozy retreat, providing stunning panoramic views of the iconic hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Zion National Park captivates with its towering sandstone cliffs and dramatic canyons.

Yep - you read that right! You will need to fly into Las Vegas to start this itinerary. Pick up your rental car at the airport and begin your roadtrip!

Stop to eat at In-N-Out Burger. Before you leave, you can explore Red Rock Canyon.

When you are done in Las Vegas. Start making your way to your first Utah National Park, Zion National Park.

Day 2: Explore Zion National Park

Top of Angels Landing, a rock formation in Zion National Park

Hikes: Angels Landing - you will need to reserve a pass from the national park system. I would suggest the earliest time slot. The hike gets crowded as the day goes on. The Narrows - you will need to rent gear from Zion Guru. Emerald Pools - upper, middle and lower pools. Canyon Overlook Trail at sunrise. Stop by Sol Foods Supermarket each day to get your hiking food and snacks!

Places to Eat: Zion Canyon Brew Pub, Cafe Soleil, WhipTail Grill, Canyon Coffee.

Make sure to drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, where you get the epic Tik Tok views.

Stay in Zion 2-4 days, depending on what you want to experience.

Day 3: Explore Bryce Canyon National Park

At the end of the Figure 8 Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Hikes: Figure 8 (Navajo Loop, Peak-A-Boo Loop, Queen's Garden) - the trailhead is at Sunset Point. Rainbow Point - where you have to drive 17 miles to see great views and it is the last stop in the park. On the way up, stop at the Natural Bridge. When you are at Rainbow Point, there are trailheads at the top.

Places to Eat: Rustler's Restaurant, The Pizza Place, Bryce Canyon Pines Restaurant.

Stay in Bryce 1-2 days, depending on what you want to experience.

Day 4: Explore Capitol Reef

Hickman Bridge Trail is a relatively short hike that's on the easy side of moderate.

Hikes: Hickman Bridge Trail, Cassidy Arch Trail, Grand Wash Trail via Northeast Trailhead, Chimney Rock Loop Trail.

Places to Eat: The Rim Rock Restaurant, Capitol Burger, Austin's Chuckwagon Deli.

Stay in Capitol Reef 1-2 days, depending on what you want to experience.

Day 5: Explore Canyonlands National Park

Grand View Point Overlook offers a awe-inspiring vista at Canyonlands National Park

Hikes: Mesa Arch Trail, Grand View Point Trail, Chester Park Loop Trail.

Places to Eat: The Over Bite, Gustavo's Monticello.

Stay in Canyonlands 1-2 days, depending on what you want to experience.

Additional Days: Explore Arches National Park

Delicate Arch stands majestically in Arches National Park.

Hikes: Delicate Arch - go early! You will want to park in the Wolfe Ranch parking lot on Delicate Arch Road, where the trailhead is. The Windows/Turret Arch and Double Arch. These two trailheads are easily accessible on the Arches Scenic Drive, where you will turn right on Windows Road. Drive to the end, where there will be a loop with both trailheads. You can hike both without moving your car! Drive the rest of Arches Scenic Drive. Before you leave the park, explore Balanced Rock.

Places to Eat: Trailhead Public House and Eatery, Quesadilla, Mobilla, Love Muffin Cafe.

Stay in Arches 1-2 days, depending on what you want to experience.

Need to know

When you have completed your road trip to all 5 national parks, you can drive back to Las Vegas to catch your flight. Another option is driving to Salt Lake City to catch your flight. The best thing about this itinerary is that you can start this trip in Zion or Arches and make your way to the other side of the state! You will not be disappointed!

Travel Advisor

Cassie McElfish

Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.

Travel Advisor

Cassie McElfish

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Travel Advisor

Cassie McElfish

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Alexandra Duhl’s guide, 4 Epic Hikes in 4 Days: Southern Utah National Parks.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Utah.