Road Trip Southern Utah's “Mighty Five” National Parks in One Week

Get ready for awesome Southern Utah scenery…

Although 80% of Utah’s population lives in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas, Southern Utah gets all the fame (I’m looking at you, Delicate Arch license plate). What’s not to love about the vast red cliffs and rock formations spread throughout the five national parks there?! Pictures of Zion and Bryce Canyon alone are dreamy enough to make me want to go there now!

Having spent many years living in Utah and passing through Southern Utah dozens of times to reach “better” destinations, I hate to admit that I took the red rock beauties for granted. It wasn’t until I was in my twenties that I really started to explore and appreciate all the wonderful things to do in Utah.

Don’t make the same mistake I made by passing up a chance to experience Southern Utah! I’m here to help you plan your one-week road trip around Southern Utah’s “Mighty Five”, as well as a few extra cool spots along the way.

Utah’s National Parks Itinerary

This Southern Utah itinerary would work as a loop or a one-way route. If you are flying to your Southern Utah road trip, fly into Las Vegas or Salt Lake City and fly home from the opposite city (you can drive back to your point of origin if that works better for arranging your Nevada and Utah flights, but that will add on six hours of driving just to get from one city to another at the end of your road trip).

Tip: Check here for flights to Utah. You’ll love arriving at the brand new gorgeous SLC airport! As you start your descent into the Salt Lake Valley, be sure to look out your window for a bird’s eye view of the Great Salt Lake and the Rocky Mountains.

If you are driving to Southern Utah, start and end at the national park closest to you and make a full loop (for example, start in Arches National Park if you are driving from Colorado and skip SLC and Vegas). For consistency, I wrote the itinerary below to start in Salt Lake City, Utah and end in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Utah road trip in a nutshell…

• Prioritize these major hotspots: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

• Also try to squeeze in these honorable mentions: Red Rock Canyon, Page Attractions, St. George Attractions

• Explore more red rock formations nearby: Dead Horse Point, Monument Valley, Valley of Fire, Grand Canyon North Rim, Flaming Gorge, Nebo Loop

Utah National Parks Map

I have spent around four to six weeks altogether exploring Southern Utah on short road trips at a time. I realize that most people don’t have weeks to spend on a single trip, so I have simplified this itinerary into just a week—much more manageable, right?

Simplified Map for 1 Week Itinerary - This map of Utah national parks hits all the major stops to prioritize on your trip.

Expanded Map for Longer Itinerary - This map of Utah national parks includes the major spots in the map above, as well as Page, Arizona, the Grand Canyon North Rim, and several other highlights for those with longer time to spend in Southern Utah

The itinerary below includes all the main highlights from the national parks and further suggestions for those who have longer time to spend in the region.

Tip: I wouldn’t recommend spending less than a week doing this itinerary, especially if you don’t live nearby. This once-in-a-lifetime trip is something you’ll want to soak in, so focus on just a few activities a day, spread out over the week. With that said, I have included a lot of activities and sights to see, plus there will be a lot of driving, so remember to go at your own pace and enjoy your time in a way that works best for you and your group.

Day 1 - Salt Lake City to Arches

Driving Time: 3.75 hours

If you are on a time crunch, head to your rental car place and then drive to the Moab, Utah area as soon as your plane lands. On your first day in Southern Utah spend as much time at Arches National Park as you can.

Tip: If you don’t already have a national park pass, purchase an annual pass at the entrance gate for $80. This will save you money, compared to buying a pass at each of the national parks you visit. It can be used at all National Park Service locations in the US.

Once you enter the park, get out of your car and choose a hike or two to conquer!

The most iconic hike in Arches and possibly in all of Utah is the Delicate Arch. I would definitely recommend doing the 3-mile hike that leads right up to the arch. It involves some climbing along slick rock and cliffs, but overall isn’t too strenuous. Once you get over the last little hill, the views of the arch are unbelievable!

If you still have plenty of daylight, take another hike in Arches. An easy one I’d recommend (that is on the way back out of the park) is Balanced Rock. This hike loops around the rock for 360 degree views. Time it right and catch a beautiful sunset—then stick around for a star-filled night sky. If this is your first time in Southern Utah, you’ll be blown away at how dark the sky gets and how clearly the stars are seen!

Camping and Lodging Near Arches

Most people who visit Arches either camp in the park (reserve your campsite far in advance if you want to do this) or stay in one of the many hotels in Moab.

Tip: If you are doing this road trip as a couple, find a romantic getaway in Utah nearby at the Sorrel River Ranch. Their location is in a private area off the grid, complete with a spa, upscale outdoor dining, and cozy cabins.

Restaurants Near Arches

You’d be surprised at the delicious and diverse restaurant options in Moab.

• BBQ is the perfect post-hike meal, so stop in at Moab Spitfire Smokehouse for a meaty and filling meal.

• For a lighter, but equally appetizing dinner, try 98 Center Moab, an Asian fusion restaurant with plenty of vegan options.

Other Activities Near Arches

More things to do in Moab, Utah, outside the national parks, include:

• Hunting for movie locations—dozens of movies are filmed here, beyond old Wild West films.

• Going off-roading at Sand Flats Recreation Area—off-roading is a huge activity anywhere in Utah.

• Rafting down the Colorado River—a must-do for adventure seekers and families!

Possible Detours

It’s an out-of-the-way destination, but Flaming Gorge Reservoir in Eastern Utah is worth a visit! The blue waters contrast beautifully with the red cliffs surrounding them. It’s a kayakers paradise—you can even camp along the shore at campsites only accessible by boat or kayak.

Tip: To add this to your trip, drive to Flaming Gorge from SLC, passing gorgeous mountain scenery and Park City. When you’ve had your fill of the area, head 5.5 hours south to Arches National Park, stopping at Dinosaur National Monument along the way!

Visit Utah’s neighbor to the east: Colorado! There are so many scenic things to discover there including four more national parks—Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Day 2 - Arches & Canyonlands

Driving Time: 1.5 hours

Start your day at Arches with a morning hike to more arches. Choose one or two hikes and soak in the views of amazing rock formations. Some popular hikes include The Windows (which leads to North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch, rated as easy), Double Arch (rated as easy), and trails through Devil’s Garden (including Landscape Arch and Double O Arch, rated as moderate to difficult).

Tip: Try to arrive at the park before 9am to avoid the crowd—there will likely be dozens of cars lined up to enter after that time. Hiking at dawn during the summer also brings cooler temperatures and gorgeous sunrises shining through the arches.

After you enjoy your last few adventures at Arches, drive across the road to Canyonlands National Park. Yes, Moab gets spoiled with TWO national parks within 30 minutes of it (and a really cool Utah state park).

The drive to Canyonlands will already supply you with great views of the canyon below. Your first stop within the park is the Island in the Sky area. This area includes some of the most popular spots to visit within the park, such as Grand View Point (providing stunning views of the canyon below, rated as easy) and Mesa Arch (another stunning arch in Southern Utah, rated as easy).

Tip: Start each adventure to the national parks with a trip to the visitor center where you can find information, from weather for the day to current alerts, as well as small museums and gift shops.

End your day exploring the main street of Moab or star-gazing in Canyonlands.

Camping & Lodging Near Canyonlands

For your second day in the Moab area, just stay in the same place as the night before. I have camped at Dead Horse Point State Park and love the views just outside my tent. It did get really windy at night, so try to reserve a spot that has a big tree or something to break up the wind and protect your tent.

Restaurants Near Canyonlands

Additional Moab restaurants to the ones mentioned in Day 1 include:

• Miguel’s Baja Grill, where you can try the M.O.A.B.—Mother Of All Burritos

• and Broken Oar, which will fulfill all your burger and steak needs.

Other Activities Near Canyonlands

Moab is the center of adventure! Here are a few more things to add to your list.

• Dead Horse Point State Park—this park feels like an extension to Canyonlands, but offers its own beauty. Hike along the rim and find views of the Colorado River, Shafer Canyon, and the bright blue potash pond.

• The Needles area of Canyonlands National Park—this part of Canyonlands is south of Moab and offers much different scenery than the Island in the Sky area.

Possible Detours

Monument Valley is within Navajo Nation and known for its mounds of red rock sticking up everywhere. Featured in Forrest Gump and many wild west movies, it’s an iconic Utah experience! A tour through there provides incredible views.

If you’re wondering what’s better in the battle between Arizona vs. Utah, just pick both. Page, Arizona, bordering Utah, has some of the most scenic places in the US. Popular tourist attractions there include Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell.

Tip: Instead of doing Day 1 and Day 2 first, consider starting with Day 3 (below), then visiting Arches and Canyonlands and tacking on a trip to Monument Valley and Page before heading to Bryce Canyon. See the map above for a visual of this route. Plan ahead—Antelope Canyon tours sell out quickly and the Horseshoe Bend parking lot fills up quickly each day.

Day 3 - Moab to Goblin Valley & Capitol Reef

Driving Time: 2.75 hours

If you didn’t get your fill of Canyonlands on Day 2, spend the morning exploring another hike. One suggestion would be to visit the White Rim Overlook (rated as easy) for views of the Colorado River deep in the canyon.

After your morning hike, hop in the car for another lengthy drive! Your first stop will be Goblin Valley State Park. It’s not one of the “Mighty 5” national parks, but it’s on the way to Capitol Reef and well worth the stop.

Goblin Valley is an area full of hoodoos that you can climb on, under, and around. It’s a lot of fun for kids and adults. Walk around the Valley of Goblins to see the goblin-shaped rock formations up close. When I visited, I had fun naming the goblins based on what we thought they looked like…Smurf, Big Foot, Poop Emoji, Mushroom...

Tip: There is no trail in the Valley of Goblins—wander wherever you please. There are slot canyons and small caves in the back of the valley that are also fun to climb around in. When you’ve had enough fun, just head back to the parking lot, which is easy to spot from anywhere in the valley.

After you’ve explored Goblin Valley, head to Capitol Reef National Park, planning to arrive in the early afternoon. This will give you plenty of time to explore a few treasures of the park.

Start at Fruita Historic District where you can find orchards and historical buildings and then head south for the Scenic Drive. Along the drive you will spot many unique rock formations created from weathering and erosion. If you have time, drive down Grand Wash and hike to Cassidy Arch (short, but rated as strenuous) for the iconic photo of standing on a giant arch.

When you are done for the day, head to your lodging or go stargazing again…it’s always worth it during a dark night in Southern Utah!

Camping & Lodging Near Capitol Reef

Many people reserve a Torrey, Utah hotel as their base for Capitol Reef adventures. Capitol Reef Resort is a highly rated option where you can sleep in a teepee (available from late May to late September). You can also camp at Fruita Campground inside Capitol Reef or rent a yurt at Goblin Valley State Park.

Restaurants Near Capitol Reef

Restaurants around Capitol Reef are somewhat limited, but here a few good options within Torrey.

• Capitol Burger is a local food truck that sells the juiciest burgers!

• Pioneer Kitchen at Capitol Reef Resort has a variety of options, including vegetarian meals.

Other Activities Near Capitol Reef

The main draws to this part of Utah are Capitol Reef and Goblin Valley, but here are a few other ideas.

• San Rafael Swell—this remote area north of Goblin Valley is a beautiful place to go off-roading, hiking, or biking in solitude.

• Horseback riding tours through Capitol Reef by Backcountry Outfitters is a classic Wild West experience you will love!

Possible Detours

If you choose this as your Day 1, drive Mount Nebo Scenic Byway from Salt Lake City. This road is far prettier than Interstate 15, though it does take longer. Along the way you’ll find the tallest mountain peak on the Wasatch Front, Mount Nebo. Get a day pass to check out the stunning Payson Lakes, hike Grotto Falls (very short and rated as easy), and get your first glimpse of Utah’s red rock at Devil’s Kitchen.

Tip: After you drive the entire Nebo Loop continue your drive to Capitol Reef through Ephraim, Manti, and Salina, avoiding I-15 and seeing small Utah towns and majestic mountains instead.

Day 4 - Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon

Driving Time: 2.5-3 hours

Rise early today and be ready for a great day! Start off with a last visit to Capitol Reef National Park to hike Hickman Bridge (rated as moderate) and to find petroglyphs carved by the Fremont Native Americans, found at a pull-off from the main road, just west of the Hickman Bridge parking lot.

Next, drive south to Bryce Canyon, choosing the Scenic Byway 12 route. Even though it adds 20 minutes to your drive, this road packs a ton of awesome views that could fill up your whole week to enjoy. If you are short on time, choose just one of the following sights:

• Lower Calf Creek Falls—easily one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Utah, this spot is a true oasis in the desert.

• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument—this vast landscape covers a large chunk of the state of Utah and has diverse scenery.

  Tip: If you are following the extended itinerary you will not drive along Highway 12. Instead, reach the south end of Grand Staircase from Highway 89, just north of Page, Arizona.

• Kodachrome Basin State Park—the rock patterns and formations you will find here are a good warm-up for Bryce Canyon.

Bryce Canyon National Park, renowned for its canyon covered in red rock spires, is one of my very favorite national parks. When you arrive, head for Fairyland Point, right after the national park sign, and get your first taste of the enchantment. Continue to make your way into the park, stopping at Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point. This will allow you to see several different perspectives of the same beautiful canyon.

If you have plenty of daylight left, drive all the way to Rainbow Point at the end of the park (roughly 17 miles from Bryce Point). Here you’ll find bristlecone pines, scenic views with more greenery, and the canyon that stretches on for miles.

Camping & Lodging Near Bryce Canyon

Book a stay at The Lodge at Bryce Canyon or reserve a campsite within Bryce Canyon, close to the beauty. If you didn’t book one of those options in time, stay at a hotel or campground in one of the nearby towns, Bryce or Tropic.

Restaurants Near Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon doesn’t have a ton of food options, but there are several cozy home-cookin’ eateries to choose from.

• Bryce Canyon Pines serves some of the most delicious fresh homemade pie I’ve had.

• i.d.k. barbecue in Tropic is a self-described “uncomplicated BBQ shack”—that works for me!

Other Activities Near Bryce Canyon

For more activities, take your time driving Scenic Byway 12, stopping at the places mentioned above. Also consider exploring Red Canyon, a mini, pet-friendly version of Bryce Canyon, just down the road.

Possible Detours

If you are coming to Bryce Canyon from Page, Arizona, consider a slightly longer detour to see the Grand Canyon North Rim. This area is part of Grand Canyon National Park, but a five-hour drive from the more crowded South Rim. While at the North Rim, enjoy exciting views of one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world at Bright Angel Point (rated as easy).

Tip: The North Rim closes after the first major snowstorm of the winter season, so check their website ahead of time if you plan to visit.

Other great stops when coming from Page, Arizona are Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park near Kanab, Utah, and Vermillion Cliffs National Monument.

Tip: The Wave, a highly popular attraction on the border of Arizona and Utah, is part of Vermillion Cliffs National Monument. Permits to visit this attraction are required and your chances of getting one are slim, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). If this is high on your bucket list, January provides the best chances.

Day 5 - Bryce Canyon to Zion

Driving Time: 2 hours

Unlike Goblin Valley, climbing the hoodoos is not allowed at Bryce Canyon. However, you can still immerse yourself in the wondrous red spires by hiking into the canyon. On Day 4, while at the overlook points, you may have found the hikes down intimidating, but they are so worth it and will be a highlight of your entire road trip!

I highly recommend doing the Navajo Loop/Queen’s Garden trail (rated as moderated)—an incredible hike, leading to close up views of the spires. You will start and end at Sunset Point, making a full loop. From Sunset Point, hike down Wall Street (the intense switchbacks you’ll see from the overlook point) and then through the canyon until you reach Queen’s Garden where you’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale, sneaking through a giant’s lair. Keep going until you reach the top of Sunrise Point and then head along the rim trail back to Sunset Point where you parked.

Tip: Take your time with this hike and pace yourself. The descent into the canyon will be steep and the climb back up will be difficult, but worth it. I got the idea to hike this combination in this direction from “Well-Caffeinated Traveller” and it did seem slightly easier than the reverse direction. Check out her guide to this trail for more details.

Your hike in Bryce Canyon will take 2-3 hours, so your next adventure will start in the early afternoon. You finally get to experience the fourth most visited national park in the US—Zion National Park!

Drive along Highway 89 to Mount Carmel Junction, where you can enter Zion through the backside. Once in the park you’ll pass Checkerboard Mesa, Canyon Overlook Trail, and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. If you have the energy, definitely plan to hike the Canyon Overlook Trail (rated as moderate) for stunning views of Zion Canyon. If not, end your day exploring the town of Springdale near the main entrance to Zion.

Camping & Lodging Near Zion

Camping inside Zion is an incredible experience! If you can, reserve a campsite there. If you are unable to find one available, the town of Springdale has many lodging options and is right next to the main entrance of the park. Hurricane, Utah hotels are also a nearby option.

Restaurants Near Zion

One of the most popular foods to try in Springdale is bumbleberry-flavored desserts—bars, pie, ice cream! They’re delicious and easy to find all over the small town. Here a several suggestions for restaurants in the area to try as well.

• Spotted Dog Cafe serves a variety of American cuisine in a beautiful setting with large windows that offer views of red rock cliffs.

• Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon is where you can eat delicious southwestern food such as tamales and chile verde in a lively atmosphere.

Other Activities Near Zion

Springdale is full of fun things to do. Spend time wandering around the local art galleries, gift shops, and mini stores, hunting for the perfect souvenirs.

Possible Detours

Instead of heading straight to Zion after your time in Bryce Canyon, take a slight detour through Cedar Breaks National Monument and Brian Head Resort, the most popular ski resort in Southern Utah.

Tip: Cedar Breaks is similar to Bryce Canyon, but with more rocky red cliffs to replace red spires. While there, take a hike or just enjoy the scenic viewpoints along the road.

Day 6 - Zion

Driving Time: 1 hour

I’ve saved the best for last: Zion is blessed with some seriously epic hikes. Choose between The Narrows or Angel’s Landing. Honestly, I have never mustered up the courage to hike Angel’s Landing, so my vote goes to The Narrows. However, both are highly popular and sought after for a reason.

Hiking Angel’s Landing (rated as strenuous) is an exciting trail to one of the most gorgeous views in Zion National Park. This hike has tall, narrow cliffs, with steep drop-offs and is not recommended for people scared of heights. I have heard from dozens of people who are much braver than me that the payoff at the end is worth it all!

The Narrows (rated as strenuous) offer a totally different kind of adventure. Instead of hiking high up on the cliffs, you will be hiking deep in the slot canyons, surrounded by cliffs on all sides. This hike is difficult for some because it involves walking through the river, not along it, but I have seen people of all ages do it just fine. This is definitely one unique experience you won’t want to miss.

Tip: There are several other epic hikes in Zion, including Observation Point and The Subway (both rated as strenuous). The Subway involves repelling and a permit is required. If you wish to do more than one hike mentioned, plan to spend multiple days in the area as they are all full-day experiences.

Camping & Lodging Near Zion

No long drives required today—just sleep in the same place as Day 5.

Restaurants Near Zion

Springdale has one of the largest selections of restaurants in towns near Utah’s national parks. Here are a few more suggestions.

• King’s Landing Bistro is an upscale restaurant with great food and great views.

• Zion Pizza & Noodle Co. serves delicious pizza and pasta dishes that really hit the spot after a long day of adventure.

Other Activities Near Zion

If you got an early start to the epic hike of your choice, you may have more time in the day for another adventure!

• Southern Utah Adventure Center in Hurricane provides ATV rentals and other recreational equipment, including dirt bikes, mountain bikes, and kayaks.

• Float the Virgin River with Zion Outfitters—they provide tube rentals and a shuttle back to your car after you ride down the rapid river.

Possible Detours

Since there are no long drives on Day 6, there are no possible detours. Just stay around Zion and have fun!

Day 7 - Zion to St. George & Las Vegas

Driving Time: 2.5 hours

On your last day in Southern Utah, wrap up any activities you missed in Zion or head to St. George for a final day of outdoor adventures.

St. George is the ultimate getaway for local Utah residents, packed with activities. Explore the city, visiting attractions such as the St. George Utah Temple set high on the hill, Red Hills Desert Garden, and the downtown historic area with local boutiques and restaurants.

Popular outdoor activities include off-roading in Warner Valley, hiking around the red rocks of Snow Canyon State Park, scuba diving or swimming at Sand Hollow State Park, and taking in the scenic sights of Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.

When you’ve soaked up the last bit of fun in St. George, say goodbye to Utah. The final stretch of the drive on your week or longer road trip through Southern Utah ends in Las Vegas for your flight home.

Lodging in St. George

Depending on when your flight is, you can either stay at a hotel in St. George or a fancy hotel on the Vegas Strip with a huge buffet (you’ve earned it!).

Restaurants in St. George

There are many great places to eat in St. George, including:

• Flavor of Seoul—authentic and flavorful Korean dishes, including bibimbap and bulgogi—perfect if you’ve been missing Asian food.

• and Twisted Noodle Cafe—I love the pasta bowls and the emphasis on healthy food, plus they are in a great location right downtown.

Other Outdoor Activities Near Las Vegas

If you plan to spend time in Las Vegas, here are some great outdoor activities that are a sharp contrast to what you’ll experience on The Strip.

• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a stunning area just west of Las Vegas. While there, hike, drive the scenic loop, or go rock climbing. I love the Calico Tanks hike, which leads through a desert landscape to an overlook with views of the bustling city.

Tip: If you plan to go, note that a timed-entry reservation is required during peak season—November to the end of May.

• Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area (created by the Hoover Dam) are fun attractions near Las Vegas. Learn about the history of the dam, play in Lake Mead, or just drive by and enjoy the scenery of striking blue water surrounded by the desert.

Possible Detours

Valley of Fire State Park is only slightly out of the way when traveling from St. George to Las Vegas, Nevada. It is a scenic desert area known for its gorgeous sunsets and sunrises over the bright red, flame-shaped sandstone that looks like fire.

Planning a Visit to Southern Utah

Weather/Climate in Utah

Southern Utah is a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters. I have been to Southern Utah during every season and found perks for visiting each time.

Winter - Traveling this time of year will bring colder temperatures and possible snow, but also uncrowded parks. Although it is the coldest and wettest season, there are many mild, sunny days. I visited Bryce Canyon during Thanksgiving Break and found an empty park with stunning views of snow in the canyon, shining against the red rocks. If you visit during the winter, be sure to stop at Brian Head Ski Resort.

Spring - This season brings the strongest winds, but it is a great time to visit for mostly perfect weather and bright blue skies. Nights can get chilly, so be sure to pack warmer clothes to sleep in and a jacket. Note that Southern Utah is also a highly popular spring break destination.

Summer - There is the highest chance of flash flooding in the summer, but you are more likely to encounter hot, dry landscapes. Hike during dawn or dusk if possible for cooler temperatures, stay extra hydrated, and wear sunscreen. Water activities are great during this time of year.

Fall - This is a popular time to visit Southern Utah, after the heat of summer, before it starts to snow. You can find pretty fall leaves around Cedar Breaks, Capitol Reef, and Zion.

Tip: No matter the season, check the forecast regularly leading up to and during your trip. Utah weather is ever-changing often with heavy snow one day and clear, sunny skies the next.

Who to Visit Utah With

I have been to Southern Utah with my family, friends, and significant other. Guess what? All were a lot of fun!

Southern Utah is great for all age groups and group sizes!

Be sure to travel with people who love the outdoors and want to make that the focus of their trip.

If someone in your group mainly wants to party in Las Vegas or visit museums and historical sites in Salt Lake City, spending all their time hiking will not be ideal. A better solution for them would be to spend most of their time in those cities and just take a day or weekend getaway in Utah to experience Zion or one other park.

Activity Level for Utah National Parks

This road trip will include a lot of driving (which will be welcome when it’s your turn to snooze in the back of the car after a long day), but also a lot of activity!

Prepare for your trip. Going on hikes or using a treadmill on incline where you live are both great ways to help your body get ready for the adventure you’re about to take it on.

Stretch yourself. I am not the most fit person, but I was able to do the hikes mentioned by putting in effort to accomplish them and taking them one step at a time.

Listen to your body. You know you best, so don’t let yourself get pressured to go out of your comfort zone and risk your safety just to make it all the way through a challenging hike.

It’s okay to say no—like when I turned down hiking Angel’s Landing by the light of the moon after I spent all day driving! (I don’t regret that decision one bit!)

Utah National Park Tours to Consider

If you’re not interested in driving yourself all over an unfamiliar place, get a tour (no judgment here—I’ve gotten tours in Italy and used a bus all over New Zealand’s South Island)! Here are some reputable options I’ve come across:

• Grand Circle Experience by Southwest Adventure Tours (includes 7 national parks in 12 days)

• Mighty Five from Salt Lake City by Southwest Adventure Tours (includes 5 national parks in 8 days)

Essentials to Pack for Utah National Parks

You’ll be going on a lot of outdoor adventures, so be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you. Definitely plan to bring the following for this Southern Utah itinerary.

• Water bottle or hydration pack (carry at least three liters of water per day while hiking in the desert)

• Hiking poles (especially good for steep hikes and hiking in The Narrows)

• Hiking shoes/boots/sandals (wear shoes that are comfortable and offer good ankle support)

• First aid kit/car emergency kit (basics you will need include sunscreen, a flashlight, blister care, bug spray, and medication)

• Food (for camping and snacks for the long drives and hikes)

• Camping gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, cooking gear, and environmentally friendly soap)

• Don’t bring your own firewood (many places throughout Southern Utah require you to either only burn what they sell or to not use campfires at all)

And there you have it—now you are prepared for the most epic road trip around Southern Utah you will ever take! Let the adventure begin.

Pin for Later!

Looking for more outdoor road trip inspiration? Head to the west coast of the United States to explore Southern California—exchange red rocks for red trees at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks!

Keep an eye out for my future posts on outdoorsy USA road trips: The Black Hills region of South Dakota [Mount Rushmore, Devil’s Tower, Badlands National Park] and The Best of Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park in Teton County.

What’s next on your travel bucket list? Banff in Canada is on mine!