The Ultimate Utah National Park Road Trip Itinerary (Updated 2024)

Planning a road trip through Utah’s National Parks is an exciting adventure, but it can feel a bit overwhelming with so much to see and do. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some tips to make this journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

This map shows all the must-see stops on your Utah National Parks road trip. I’ll break down each destination in detail below, giving you tips to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

We’ll cover everything from the soaring cliffs of Zion to the unique rock formations of Arches, ensuring you hit all the highlights without any hassle.

Looking to spend some extra time in and around Salt Lake City? Before heading to the national parks, I recommend exploring the natural beauty and interesting destinations that surround SLC. Here are some 10 must-see day trips:

This island in the Great Salt Lake offers stunning views, hiking trails, and wildlife, including bison. The scenic drive around the island is perfect for a day of exploration.

Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, Park City is famous for its ski resorts and charming downtown. Visit the Utah Olympic Park or take a ride on the Alpine Slide in summer.

Experience the otherworldly landscape of the Bonneville Salt Flats, about 90 minutes west of the city. The vast, white expanse is perfect for photos and a unique walking experience.

Head to the marina for boating, bird watching, and picnicking. The sunsets over the lake are breathtaking and offer great photo opportunities.

This canyon is ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives. Don’t miss the beautiful hikes to Lake Blanche or Donut Falls.

Enjoy a ride on the Heber Valley Historic Railroad, go fishing, or take a scenic drive. In winter, the area offers excellent snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Explore the stunning cave formations with a guided tour. The hike to the cave entrance is steep but offers great views of the American Fork Canyon.

Visit this historic city for its vibrant downtown, outdoor adventure opportunities, and attractions like the Hill Aerospace Museum.

Even in summer, Snowbird offers activities like the mountain coaster, aerial tram rides, and beautiful hiking trails.

This 42-mile drive through the Uinta Mountains offers stunning views, numerous lakes, and plenty of spots for picnicking and fishing.

Explore the beautiful Provo Canyon, hike to Bridal Veil Falls, or visit the BYU campus and its museums.

These trips provide a mix of nature, adventure, and relaxation, all within easy reach of Salt Lake City. I recommend adding at least a few of these spots before heading south to Utah’s incredible national parks.

Less than a couple of hours from Zion is another incredible national park in Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its otherworldly landscape of spire-shaped rock formations known as hoodoos.

These unique geological structures, coupled with the park’s stunning amphitheaters, make Bryce Canyon a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. The park’s elevation (ranging from 8,000 to 9,000 feet) means cooler temperatures and spectacular stargazing opportunities.

Ready for another epic road trip spot in Utah? Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast and rugged area known for its stunning canyons, unique rock formations, and remote wilderness.

Spanning nearly 1.9 million acres, this monument offers countless opportunities for adventure and exploration. The area’s diverse landscapes and lesser-known trails provide a more solitary experience compared to other national parks.

To truly experience the beauty and diversity of Grand Staircase-Escalante, plan to spend at least 2-3 days. This allows you to explore multiple areas, hike several trails, and take in the scenic drives without feeling rushed.

• Lower Calf Creek Falls: This is one of the most popular hikes in the monument and for good reason. The 6-mile round trip trail leads to a stunning 126-foot waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for most fitness levels.
• Devil’s Garden: Located along the Hole-in-the-Rock Road, Devil’s Garden is a whimsical area filled with hoodoos, natural arches, and balanced rocks. It’s a great spot for photography and exploration.
• Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons: For a more adventurous experience, hike the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky slot canyons. These narrow, winding canyons are fun to navigate but can be challenging due to tight squeezes and some scrambling. The trailhead is located off Hole-in-the-Rock Road, and it’s best to visit in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate.

More Unique Sights in the National Monument

• Escalante Petrified Forest State Park: Just outside the town of Escalante, this state park features trails through areas with large deposits of petrified wood. The Petrified Forest Trail is a 2-mile loop that offers great views and fascinating geological features. The park also has a campground if you’re looking to stay overnight.
• Burr Trail: This scenic drive takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Grand Staircase-Escalante. The road winds through colorful canyons and offers numerous pullouts for photos and short hikes. It’s partially paved, but some sections may require a high-clearance vehicle.
• Hole-in-the-Rock Road: This historic dirt road leads to a number of incredible trailheads and scenic viewpoints. The road can be rough, so a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. Highlights along the road include Dance Hall Rock, Forty Mile Ridge, and the trailhead for the Coyote Gulch hike.

• Fruita Historic District: Start your visit in the heart of the park at the Fruita Historic District. This area is home to the historic Fruita Orchards, where you can pick fresh fruit in season. The Gifford Homestead sells homemade pies and other treats, which are perfect for a snack or picnic. Visit the historic schoolhouse and the blacksmith shop to get a glimpse into the pioneer life.
• Scenic Drive: The 8-mile Scenic Drive takes you through the heart of Capitol Reef’s stunning landscapes. The road is paved for the first few miles, then turns to dirt. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for the dirt sections, especially after rain.
• Capitol Gorge Trail: This easy 2-mile round trip hike follows the historic Capitol Gorge, where you can see petroglyphs and the Pioneer Register, a rock wall where early settlers carved their names. The trail also features the “tanks,” natural water pockets that collect rainwater.

More Must-See Sights in Capitol Reef

• Hickman Bridge Trail: This moderate 2-mile round trip hike leads to the impressive Hickman Bridge, a natural rock arch. The trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding canyons and cliffs. It’s a great hike for families and provides plenty of opportunities for photography.
• Cassidy Arch Trail: For a more challenging hike, try the Cassidy Arch Trail. This 3.4-mile round trip hike offers spectacular views and leads to an arch named after the infamous outlaw Butch Cassidy.
• Chimney Rock Loop: This moderate 3.6-mile loop trail offers panoramic views of the park and takes you past Chimney Rock, a prominent sandstone formation. The trail provides great opportunities for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Cathedral Valley: For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, explore Cathedral Valley. This remote area features striking rock formations like the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, and it’s best to check road conditions before heading out. The Cathedral Valley Loop is about 58 miles and offers incredible scenery.

The Capitol Reef Scenic Drive is a must. It’s 8 miles long and showcases some of the park’s most stunning landscapes. The drive is paved for the first 2.2 miles and then turns to a well-maintained dirt road. If you have more time, consider exploring the Burr Trail and Notom-Bullfrog Road for additional scenic views.

Goblin Valley State Park is an extraordinary destination known for its unique landscape filled with thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations, known as hoodoos or “goblins.” This surreal and otherworldly environment makes it a fantastic stop on your Utah road trip. The park’s quirky formations and fun hiking opportunities offer a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Here’s a list of my top attractions in Goblin Valley:

• Valley of Goblins: This is the main area of the park, where you can wander among the bizarre rock formations. There are no designated trails here, so you’re free to explore at your own pace. Climb on the goblins, take lots of photos, and enjoy the unique scenery. This area is especially fun for kids and those who enjoy a bit of off-trail wandering.
• Goblin’s Lair: For a more structured adventure, hike to the Goblin’s Lair. This 3-mile round trip hike leads to a large cavern hidden among the rock formations. The hike starts from the Carmel Canyon Trailhead and requires some scrambling, but the destination is well worth the effort.
• The Three Sisters: This iconic trio of rock formations is a must-see and is easily accessible from the main parking area. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the park, so be sure to stop by and capture a few shots.
• Carmel Canyon Loop: This 1.5-mile loop trail offers a different perspective of the park. The trail provides scenic views of the goblins from above and takes you through some interesting geological features.
• Crack Canyon: If you have more time and are up for a bit of adventure, head to nearby Crack Canyon. This slot canyon offers a more challenging hike with narrow passages and some light scrambling. It’s located outside the main park area, so check with the visitor center for directions and current conditions.

Goblin Valley is surrounded by areas that are perfect for off-roading and ATV adventures. Nearby, you’ll find the San Rafael Swell and Temple Mountain areas, which offer fantastic off-road trails. Make sure your vehicle is suitable for rugged terrain, and always check with the visitor center for trail conditions and regulations.

Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, Arches National Park is a wonderland of unique geological formations. The park’s stunning red rock landscapes, iconic arches, and diverse hiking trails make it a highlight of any Utah road trip. With some of the most famous and photogenic rock formations in the world, Arches offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

• Delicate Arch: The most famous arch in the park, Delicate Arch is a must-see. The hike to Delicate Arch is 3 miles round trip and moderately strenuous, with some steep sections and exposed rock. Start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
• Double Arch: Located in the Windows Section of the park, Double Arch is an easy 0.5-mile round trip hike from the parking area. The massive arch is one of the tallest in the park and offers great opportunities for photography and climbing around the base.
• Devils Garden: This area features some of the park’s longest and most scenic trails. The Devils Garden Trail offers several hiking options, ranging from easy to challenging. Highlights include Landscape Arch (the longest arch in North America), Double O Arch, and the Primitive Loop. The full loop is 7.8 miles and includes some rock scrambling, so be prepared.

More Amazing Experiences in Arches National Park

• Balanced Rock: This iconic formation is easily accessible and visible from the park road. It’s a great spot for a quick stop and photo opportunity. The short, easy trail around Balanced Rock is just 0.3 miles.
• The Windows and Turret Arch: The Windows Section is home to several large and impressive arches, including North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. The hike through this area is about 1 mile round trip and offers stunning views and easy access to multiple arches.
• Fiery Furnace: For a unique and adventurous experience, explore the Fiery Furnace. This maze of narrow canyons and towering fins requires a permit or a guided tour. The guided tour is highly recommended for first-time visitors and offers insights into the park’s geology and ecology.
• Park Avenue: This trail offers a dramatic introduction to Arches’ stunning rock formations. The 2-mile round trip hike takes you through a canyon with towering walls that resemble a city skyline.

During peak season, Arches National Park requires a timed entry reservation to manage crowd levels. Make sure to book your entry time in advance on the park’s website. Arrive early to ensure you get a spot and to enjoy the park with fewer people.

After a long day exploring the park, I recommend checking out the town of Moab. Here are some of my favorite sights and experiences.

• Main Street: Start your exploration by strolling down Main Street. It’s filled with unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to check out Moab Rock Shop for interesting minerals and fossils, and pop into Back of Beyond Books for a great selection of local literature and maps.
• Moab Giants Dinosaur Park: Just a short drive north of town, this park is great for families and anyone interested in paleontology. Walk among life-size dinosaur replicas, explore interactive exhibits, and check out the 3D theater. It’s a fun and educational stop.
• Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Trail: For thrill-seekers, Hell’s Revenge offers one of the best off-roading experiences in Moab. You can either drive your own 4×4 or join a guided tour. The trail features steep climbs, descents, and incredible views of the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River.
• Colorado River Rafting: Spend a day on the water with a rafting trip down the Colorado River. There are various options ranging from calm scenic floats to more adventurous white-water trips.
• Moab Museum: Dive into the local history at the Moab Museum. It’s a small but well-curated museum showcasing the region’s geological, cultural, and historical significance. Exhibits include Native American artifacts, pioneer history, and the uranium mining boom.

More Epic Experiences in Moab

• Dead Horse Point State Park: While you’ve already explored this park, it’s worth revisiting for sunrise or sunset if you missed it.
• Scenic Byways: Drive along Scenic Byway 128 or Scenic Byway 279 for incredible views of the Colorado River and the surrounding red rock formations.
• La Sal Mountain Loop Road: For a change of scenery, take the La Sal Mountain Loop Road. This scenic drive takes you into the La Sal Mountains, offering cooler temperatures, alpine forests, and great picnic spots. It’s a refreshing break from the desert heat.
• Corona Arch: This less-crowded arch is a great alternative to the more famous arches in Arches National Park. The 3-mile round trip hike is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of the arch and the surrounding landscape.
• Sand Flats Recreation Area: This area is famous for its slickrock biking and off-roading trails, including the famous Slickrock Bike Trail. Whether you’re biking, hiking, or driving, the views are incredible.

Visiting Moab in the off-season (late fall, winter, early spring) can provide a quieter experience with fewer crowds. Many businesses remain open year-round, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities.

Perched 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River, this park provides stunning panoramic vistas of canyon country. Legend has it that the park got its name from a natural corral used by cowboys in the 19th century, where horses tragically died from exposure. Today, it’s a haven for photographers, hikers, and anyone seeking awe-inspiring landscapes.

Dead Horse Point State Park is just 30 minutes from Moab, so it’s easy to cover in a half or full-day trip. Check out my favorite places to visit.

• Dead Horse Point Overlook: The main overlook provides a jaw-dropping view of the Colorado River and the surrounding canyonlands. It’s a short walk from the parking area, making it accessible for all visitors. Arrive early in the morning or stay for sunset to capture the most stunning light.
• East Rim and West Rim Trails: These trails offer spectacular views and can be hiked as a loop. The East Rim Trail is about 1.5 miles one way, and the West Rim Trail is about 2 miles. Both trails provide numerous overlooks and are relatively easy, making them suitable for all fitness levels.
• Mountain Biking: Dead Horse Point is known for its excellent mountain biking trails. The Intrepid Trail System offers trails for all skill levels, with names like Great Pyramid and Big Chief.
• Visitor Center: The visitor center offers exhibits about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. The staff can provide maps and tips on the best spots to visit based on the time of year and your interests.
• Camping: The Kayenta Campground and the Wingate Campground offer campsites with stunning views, picnic tables, fire pits, and modern restrooms with showers. Both campgrounds have RV and tent sites.

Dead Horse Point is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places for stargazing. Bring a telescope or binoculars, or simply lay back and enjoy the Milky Way. Check the visitor center for information on stargazing programs and events.

Welcome to Canyonlands National Park, the largest national park in Utah. It’s just under an hour from Moab, making it very convenient to visit.

The park is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers—the Green and Colorado. Each area is like its own mini-park, offering everything from epic hikes to off-road thrills. Whether you’re here to snap some pics or dive into the wild, Canyonlands has something for everyone.

• Delicate Arch: The most famous arch in the park. The hike to Delicate Arch is 3 miles round trip and moderately strenuous, with some steep sections and exposed rock.
• Double Arch: Located in the Windows Section of the park, Double Arch is an easy 0.5-mile round trip hike from the parking area.
• Devils Garden: This area features some of the park’s longest and most scenic trails. The Devils Garden Trail offers several hiking options, ranging from easy to challenging. Highlights include Landscape Arch (the longest arch in North America), Double O Arch, and the Primitive Loop. The full loop is 7.8 miles and includes some rock scrambling, so be prepared.

More Experiences in Canyonlands

• Balanced Rock: This iconic formation is easily accessible and visible from the park road. The short, easy trail around Balanced Rock is just 0.3 miles.
• The Windows and Turret Arch: The Windows Section is home to several large and impressive arches, including North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. The hike through this area is about 1 mile round trip and offers stunning views and easy access to multiple arches.
• Fiery Furnace: For a unique and adventurous experience, explore the Fiery Furnace. This maze of narrow canyons and towering fins requires a permit or a guided tour.
• Park Avenue: This trail offers a dramatic introduction to Arches’ stunning rock formations. The 2-mile round trip hike takes you through a canyon with towering walls that resemble a city skyline.

Many roads in Canyonlands, especially those in The Maze and some parts of The Needles, require a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle. Always check road conditions at the visitor center before heading out, as roads can become impassable after rain.

Named after the twin buttes that resemble a bear’s ears, the monument covers over 1.35 million acres and is home to ancient cliff dwellings, rock art, and an array of outdoor activities. It’s a relatively new addition to the national monuments in the U.S., designated in 2016, and offers a unique and less-crowded experience.

• House on Fire Ruin: This iconic Ancestral Puebloan ruin is named for its unique appearance under certain lighting conditions, which makes it look like it’s on fire. The 1-mile hike to reach the ruin is relatively easy and follows a creek bed.
• Mule Canyon: Located near the House on Fire Ruin, Mule Canyon features additional ruins and rock art. The North and South Mule Canyon Trails offer easy hikes with opportunities to explore ancient structures.
• Butler Wash Ruins: This site features well-preserved cliff dwellings. A short, 1-mile round trip hike from the parking area takes you to an overlook with interpretive signs explaining the history and significance of the ruins.
• Valley of the Gods: Often compared to Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods offers stunning red rock formations and scenic vistas. The 17-mile dirt road through the valley is suitable for most vehicles, but high-clearance is recommended, especially after rain.
• Cedar Mesa: This area is rich in archaeological sites, including cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and pictographs. Sites like Moon House, Fallen Roof Ruin, and Citadel Ruin require permits and are accessible via moderately challenging hikes.
• Bears Ears Buttes: The twin buttes themselves are accessible via a scenic drive and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area around the buttes is sacred to many Native American tribes, so treat it with respect.
• Natural Bridges National Monument: Located within the Bears Ears region, this monument features three impressive natural bridges: Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo. The scenic drive through the park includes viewpoints and short hikes to each bridge. The loop trail connecting the bridges is a longer, more strenuous hike but offers a comprehensive experience of the park.

There are several primitive campsites within the monument, particularly on Cedar Mesa. Dispersed camping is also allowed in many areas, but make sure to follow all regulations. Pack out all trash and respect the natural environment. For more amenities, consider staying in Bluff or Mexican Hat.

Bears Ears is a sacred place for many Native American tribes. Respect all cultural and historical sites by not touching or removing any artifacts, staying on marked trails, and following Leave No Trace principles.

The monument is home to three of the largest natural bridges in the world: Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo. These impressive rock formations were carved by water erosion over millions of years and offer a unique and serene experience away from the crowds of more popular parks. Here are some of my favorite experiences throughout the area.

• Scenic Drive: The nine-mile scenic loop drive through the monument offers easy access to all three bridges. There are several pullouts and viewpoints along the way, making it a perfect introduction to the park.
• Sipapu Bridge: This is the largest and most impressive bridge in the park. The hike to Sipapu Bridge is about 1.2 miles round trip and involves a steep descent with stairs and ladders. The trail is moderately challenging but provides stunning views and a close-up look at the bridge.
• Kachina Bridge: The hike to Kachina Bridge is about 1.4 miles round trip and is moderately strenuous. The trail descends into the canyon and follows a series of switchbacks. Kachina Bridge is known for its massive size and the petroglyphs on its walls.
• Owachomo Bridge: The hike to Owachomo Bridge is the shortest and easiest, at just 0.4 miles round trip. This makes it perfect for families and those looking for a less strenuous walk. Owachomo Bridge is the thinnest and most delicate-looking of the three bridges, and it’s particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset.

More Sights and Experiences to Consider:

• Horsecollar Ruin: For a glimpse into the area’s ancient history, hike the 1.5-mile round trip trail to Horsecollar Ruin. This well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan site features cliff dwellings and offers a fascinating look into the lives of the region’s early inhabitants. The trail is moderately challenging with some steep sections.
• Stargazing: Natural Bridges was designated as the world’s first International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places for stargazing. The night sky here is incredibly clear, offering spectacular views of the Milky Way. Bring a telescope or binoculars!

Before your visit, take some time to learn about the monument’s history and geology. The Natural Bridges website and various guidebooks can provide valuable background information that will enrich your experience.

• Valley Drive: The 17-mile Valley Drive is a self-guided dirt road that loops through the heart of Monument Valley. The road is rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. If you don’t have a suitable vehicle, consider booking a guided tour. The drive includes many iconic formations, such as the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and John Ford’s Point.
• Guided Tours: I highly recommend taking a guided tour led by a Navajo guide. These tours provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and geology of the area. Options include jeep tours, horseback rides, and hiking tours. The guides can take you to areas not accessible by the public Valley Drive, such as Mystery Valley and Hunts Mesa.
• John Ford’s Point: Named after the famous director who filmed many Westerns in Monument Valley, John Ford’s Point offers a spectacular viewpoint. It’s a great spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset. There are often Navajo vendors selling handmade crafts, which make for unique souvenirs.
• Hiking: While hiking opportunities in Monument Valley are limited due to the sacred nature of the land, the Wildcat Trail is an exception. This 3.2-mile loop trail starts near the visitor center and circles around West Mitten Butte. It’s the only self-guided hiking trail in the park and offers a closer look at the butte’s impressive formations.

Know before you go: Monument Valley

Remember that Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park, which is sacred to the Navajo people. As such, visitors are expected to respect the land and culture. Follow all park rules, stay on designated paths, and don’t climb on the rock formations. Always ask for permission before photographing Navajo people.

Before you pack your bags and hit the road, here are a few key things to consider before setting off on an adventure through Utah’s stunning national parks.

Kicking off a road trip through Utah’s national parks is exciting, but where should you begin? Starting in Salt Lake City is your best bet. This vibrant city offers a mix of urban amenities, easy access to rental cars, and a convenient location to launch your journey. Plus, it’s home to Salt Lake City International Airport, which makes it easy to fly in and start your adventure.

Timing is everything when planning a road trip through Utah’s national parks. Each season has its own charm, so let’s break down the best times for your trip.

The length of your road trip depends on how many parks you want to visit and how much time you have. Here’s a quick guide:

• 7-Day Trip: A week is enough to visit the highlights. You can explore Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef, with a few days in each park to take in the main sights and enjoy some hikes.
• 10-Day Trip: With 10 days, you can add Arches and Canyonlands to your itinerary. This gives you more time to fully explore each park and take some longer hikes or scenic drives.
• 2 Weeks or More: If you have two weeks or longer, you can dive deeper into each park, visit lesser-known areas, and take more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Consider adding stops like Grand Staircase-Escalante, Goblin Valley, and Dead Horse Point State Park for a more comprehensive Utah adventure.

If you find yourself with extra time and a desire to uncover more of Utah’s spectacular landscapes and unique attractions, consider adding these fantastic stops to your Utah National Park itinerary:

Here are some popular questions (and answers) about planning a road trip through Utah’s incredible national parks.

If you only have a week to explore Utah’s national parks, here are the must-see stops to include in your road trip:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Salt Lake City. Visit Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol, and the Great Salt Lake. Enjoy a meal in the city before heading south.
• Day 2-3: Drive to Zion National Park. Hike the Narrows or Angels Landing, explore Emerald Pools, and enjoy the stunning views. Stay overnight in Springdale.
• Day 4: Travel to Bryce Canyon National Park. Hike the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop, and enjoy the views from Sunset and Sunrise Points. Camp overnight or stay in nearby accommodations.
• Day 5: Head to Capitol Reef National Park. Explore the scenic drive through the Waterpocket Fold, visit the historic Fruita area, and hike to Hickman Bridge. Stay overnight in Torrey.
• Day 6: Continue to Arches National Park. Hike to Delicate Arch, visit Double Arch and Landscape Arch, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Stay overnight in Moab.
• Day 7: Spend the day at Canyonlands National Park. Explore the Island in the Sky district, visit Mesa Arch, and hike to Grand View Point. Return to Moab for the night.

Looking for a 5-day road trip itinerary for Utah’s national parks? Here’s a condensed yet fulfilling itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrive in Salt Lake City and drive to Zion National Park. Explore the park’s highlights, such as the Narrows and Angels Landing.
• Day 2: Travel to Bryce Canyon National Park. Hike the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop, and take in the views from various lookout points.
• Day 3: Drive to Capitol Reef National Park. Explore the scenic drive and hike to Hickman Bridge. Continue to Moab for the night.
• Day 4: Visit Arches National Park. See Delicate Arch, Double Arch, and Landscape Arch. Spend the night in Moab.
• Day 5: Explore Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky district. Visit Mesa Arch and Grand View Point before returning to Salt Lake City.

• Zion National Park: The Narrows, Angels Landing, Emerald Pools.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop, Sunset and Sunrise Points.
• Capitol Reef National Park: Waterpocket Fold, Fruita Historic District, Hickman Bridge.
• Arches National Park: Delicate Arch, Double Arch, Landscape Arch.
• Canyonlands National Park: Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, Island in the Sky.

A high-clearance SUV or a 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to the rugged terrain and dirt roads you’ll encounter, especially in places like Canyonlands and Bears Ears. These vehicles offer better handling and comfort on both paved and unpaved roads. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition with reliable tires and sufficient fuel capacity. Renting a suitable vehicle is a good option if your personal car isn’t up to the task.

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