Route Overview
The ultimate Utah national parks road trip visiting all five parks: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. This itinerary provides a perfect balance of driving, hiking, and sightseeing with realistic pacing for all five parks plus travel days. This route starts and ends in Las Vegas, making it convenient for most travelers. The loop covers approximately 1,000 miles of driving spread over 10 days, with dedicated full days at each park and reasonable drive times between them. Each park day references a detailed single-park itinerary that you can expand and customize based on your interests and fitness level.
Itinerary
Drive from Las Vegas through stunning red rock country to Moab, gateway to Arches and Canyonlands. Long driving day but scenic route makes it worthwhile.
Valley of Fire State Park
Optional scenic stop. Stunning red sandstone formations. Quick 1-hour detour off I-15.
Optional stop - adds 1 hour to drive time. Worth it if you have time.
St. George, UT - Lunch
Lunch stop in St. George. Many restaurant options.
Full day exploring Arches iconic formations including Delicate Arch, Windows Section, and Devils Garden.
Short morning drive to Canyonlands Island in the Sky district. Explore stunning overlooks of the canyons below.
Scenic drive on Highway 24 through stunning red rock country to Capitol Reef. Afternoon arrival gives time to explore Fruita Historic District.
Goblin Valley State Park
Optional detour. Unique mushroom-shaped rock formations. Fun to explore and climb on.
Optional stop - adds 1.5 hours. Great for kids and photographers.
Explore Capitol Reef's scenic drive, hike to Hickman Bridge, and taste fresh fruit from historic orchards (seasonal).
Scenic drive to Bryce Canyon. Arrive early afternoon for sunset at Bryce.
Sunset Point - Evening Preview
Quick sunset viewing at Bryce after arrival. Save full park exploration for tomorrow.
Sunset or sunrise at Bryce is magical. Highly recommended.
Full day at Bryce Canyon exploring the hoodoos, hiking among unique rock formations, and scenic drive to Rainbow Point.
Short morning drive to Zion. Afternoon exploration of Zion Canyon via shuttle.
Zion Canyon - Afternoon Exploration
Long drop-offs, mostly fenced. Rocky and uneven trail ends at a viewpoint for Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion Canyon. To enter or exit the parking area just east of the tunnel, you must turn right. Parking is extremely limited, be prepared to try multiple times. Pit toilets are available in the parking area.
Take shuttle into Zion Canyon. Easy afternoon hikes: Riverside Walk, Lower Emerald Pools, or Pa'rus Trail.
Park shuttle required April-October. Free but can have waits. Save strenuous hikes for tomorrow.
Full day exploring Zion's magnificent canyon including hikes to Emerald Pools and Canyon Overlook.
Morning in Zion if you stayed in Springdale, then drive to Las Vegas for flights home.
Creates a copy you can customize
10
Days
5
Stops
moderate
Difficulty
Best Season
April-May and September-October (avoid summer heat)
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