Embarking on a Utah and Arizona National Parks road trip was an unforgettable family adventure we experienced a few years back.
We chose December for our journey, and it was truly magical, with the snow-dusted landscapes and vibrant blue skies contrasting beautifully against the red rocks.
However, the winter season did limit our ability to engage in many hikes and activities, which was a trade off we made for cheaper hotel rates and no crowds.
For those traveling at other times of the year, you'll likely have the chance to dive into more activities than we could.
Our adventure spanned about 10 days, during which we had to make some tough choices about what to see due to time constraints.
Regretfully, we missed out on visiting Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park – places I hope to explore in the future.
Nonetheless, we made unforgettable memories exploring iconic sites like the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park.
In sharing this journey, I'll include suggestions for incorporating the sights we missed, offering a more comprehensive itinerary for those with a bit more time to explore.
We chose December for our journey, and it was truly magical, with the snow-dusted landscapes and vibrant blue skies contrasting beautifully against the red rocks.
However, the winter season did limit our ability to engage in many hikes and activities, which was a trade off we made for cheaper hotel rates and no crowds.
For those traveling at other times of the year, you'll likely have the chance to dive into more activities than we could.
Our adventure spanned about 10 days, during which we had to make some tough choices about what to see due to time constraints.
Regretfully, we missed out on visiting Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park – places I hope to explore in the future.
Nonetheless, we made unforgettable memories exploring iconic sites like the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park.
In sharing this journey, I'll include suggestions for incorporating the sights we missed, offering a more comprehensive itinerary for those with a bit more time to explore.
Distances and driving times
From Las Vegas Strip, Nevada to Williams, Arizona about 3 hours 30 minutes (222 miles) via US-93 S and I-40 E
From Williams, Arizona to Grand Canyon Village about 1 hour (59.0 miles) via AZ-64 N
From Cameron, Arizona (after leaving the Grand Canyon South Rim) to Page, Arizona about 1 hour 20 minutes (77.6 miles) via US-89 N
From Page, Arizona to Monument Valley, Utah about 2 hours (124 miles) via AZ-98 E and US-160 E
From Monument Valley, Utah to Moab, Utah about 2 hours 30 minutes (148 miles) via US-163 N/Hwy 163 and US-191 N
From Moab, Utah to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah about 4 hours 20 minutes (248 miles) via I-70 W
From Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah to Zion National Park, Utah about 1 hour 50 minutes (84.8 miles) via US-89 S and UT-9 W
From Williams, Arizona to Grand Canyon Village about 1 hour (59.0 miles) via AZ-64 N
From Cameron, Arizona (after leaving the Grand Canyon South Rim) to Page, Arizona about 1 hour 20 minutes (77.6 miles) via US-89 N
From Page, Arizona to Monument Valley, Utah about 2 hours (124 miles) via AZ-98 E and US-160 E
From Monument Valley, Utah to Moab, Utah about 2 hours 30 minutes (148 miles) via US-163 N/Hwy 163 and US-191 N
From Moab, Utah to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah about 4 hours 20 minutes (248 miles) via I-70 W
From Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah to Zion National Park, Utah about 1 hour 50 minutes (84.8 miles) via US-89 S and UT-9 W
Our road trip kicked off in Las Vegas, a convenient starting point for international travelers thanks to direct flights from across Europe and Canada. For those coming from within the US, other good starting points include Flagstaff and Phoenix in Arizona, or Saint George in Utah, all accessible by domestic flights.
We rented a car right at Las Vegas airport, although you can find rental options in downtown Las Vegas and along the Strip.
It's worth noting that the Las Vegas airport has a dedicated rental center, separate from the terminal — a detail we almost missed. So, if you're staying in Las Vegas before heading out on your road trip through Arizona and Utah, remember to pick up your rental car from the rental center, not the terminal. This is also crucial for setting the correct drop-off location for rideshares like Uber or Lyft.
To avoid morning delays at the rental center, consider picking up your car the evening before your trip begins. This way, you can hit the road early and get a head start on your adventure.
If you're staying in Las Vegas the night before you start your road trip there are plenty of hotel options. A personal recommendation is The LINQ Hotel, which I've found to be an affordable and conveniently located choice, especially for family travelers.
First stop: Williams, Arizona
Our journey took us first to Williams, Arizona, a must-visit spot for anyone exploring this part of the United States. It’s famous for its well-preserved stretch of Route 66, complete with neon signs and classic diners that transport you back in time.
Spending a few hours in Williams, Arizona, lets you dive into the heart of historic Route 66. This area is a treasure trove of Americana, where vintage shops offer a peek into the past with their collections of memorabilia. You can enjoy meals in diners that seem frozen in time, serving classic American fare amidst decor that celebrates the iconic highway.
Spending a few hours in Williams, Arizona, lets you dive into the heart of historic Route 66. This area is a treasure trove of Americana, where vintage shops offer a peek into the past with their collections of memorabilia. You can enjoy meals in diners that seem frozen in time, serving classic American fare amidst decor that celebrates the iconic highway.
Williams, Arizona
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Classic car in Williams, Arizona
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Next stop: South Rim of the Grand Canyon
On our first day, we travelled from Las Vegas to Williams, then reached the Grand Canyon South Rim by evening. Since it was December, it was already dark upon our arrival. However, those visiting in summer will have the chance to catch a first glimpse of the Grand Canyon South Rim before heading to their accommodation.
We chose to stay at The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon↗, located just a mile from the visitor center and entrance booths, which proved to be a fantastic choice. There are a variety of hotels near the South Rim entrance, offering convenient options for every traveler.
For those considering a summer visit, glamping could be a unique experience. On my next trip, I'm eager to try Under Canvas Grand Canyon↗, known for its exceptional glamping experiences near America's national parks. This option is perfect for adding a touch of adventure to your stay.
We chose to stay at The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon↗, located just a mile from the visitor center and entrance booths, which proved to be a fantastic choice. There are a variety of hotels near the South Rim entrance, offering convenient options for every traveler.
For those considering a summer visit, glamping could be a unique experience. On my next trip, I'm eager to try Under Canvas Grand Canyon↗, known for its exceptional glamping experiences near America's national parks. This option is perfect for adding a touch of adventure to your stay.
Places to stay at the Grand Canyon South Rim
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon houses six historic lodges, including El Tovar and Bright Angel Lodge. Book well in advance due to high demand.
Nearby Tusayan (Grand Canyon Village) offers additional lodging and campgrounds, with a free shuttle to the park.
Nearby Tusayan (Grand Canyon Village) offers additional lodging and campgrounds, with a free shuttle to the park.
Under Canvas Grand Canyon
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The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
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During our Arizona road trip, we dedicated a single full day to the Grand Canyon, which felt just right for a winter visit. My wife and I had experienced the Grand Canyon before, and our primary motive this time was to share its majesty with our two sons.
However, for those planning to visit in the spring, summer, or fall, I'd strongly suggest budgeting an extra day or two. This allows more time to truly immerse yourself in the hikes and various activities the area has to offer.
The Grand Canyon is a place of immense beauty and adventure, and having that additional time can make your experience even more memorable, especially when the weather is more conducive to exploring.
However, for those planning to visit in the spring, summer, or fall, I'd strongly suggest budgeting an extra day or two. This allows more time to truly immerse yourself in the hikes and various activities the area has to offer.
The Grand Canyon is a place of immense beauty and adventure, and having that additional time can make your experience even more memorable, especially when the weather is more conducive to exploring.
We started our day at the Grand Canyon by packing up our rental car and checking out of our hotel and heading to Grand Canyon Village.
Our plan was to do the scenic drive one-way along the South Rim, heading towards Cameron, and then onwards to Page, Arizona, where we would spend the night.
Traveling along the South Rim can fill an entire day as you stop at the numerous viewpoints. Conveniently, these are all on the left side of the road, making it easy to pull over and hop out whenever something catches your eye.
One of our top tips for exploring National Parks is to use an in-car audio tour. It acts like a personal guide, highlighting must-see spots and offering recommendations on where to stop. It's an excellent way to ensure you don't miss out on any of the wonders the park has to offer.
Me at the Grand Canyon's South Rim
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Grand Canyon South Rim View Point
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Desert View Drive
Desert View Drive is a picturesque 23-mile route along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, connecting the East Entrance to Grand Canyon Village.
Along this drive, you'll encounter trailheads like South Kaibab and Grandview, as well as stunning lookout points such as Moran and Navajo Points.
The area is also served by a free shuttle system that operates from sunrise to sunset, with some shuttles starting at 4:00 am for early risers eager to catch the sunrise.
This shuttle service makes visiting the Grand Canyon's South Rim spots easier, offering the flexibility to board or leave the shuttle at various points of interest along the route.
Grandview Point on Desert View Drive offers stunning views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River, standing out as one of the higher vantage points.
This easily accessible spot, just a short walk from the parking area, is perfect for those who want to experience the canyon's incredible views comfortably.
Renowned for its remarkable sunrises and sunsets, it draws both photographers and nature lovers alike, making it an ideal place for capturing the majestic scenery of the Grand Canyon.
Along this drive, you'll encounter trailheads like South Kaibab and Grandview, as well as stunning lookout points such as Moran and Navajo Points.
The area is also served by a free shuttle system that operates from sunrise to sunset, with some shuttles starting at 4:00 am for early risers eager to catch the sunrise.
This shuttle service makes visiting the Grand Canyon's South Rim spots easier, offering the flexibility to board or leave the shuttle at various points of interest along the route.
Grandview Point on Desert View Drive offers stunning views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River, standing out as one of the higher vantage points.
This easily accessible spot, just a short walk from the parking area, is perfect for those who want to experience the canyon's incredible views comfortably.
Renowned for its remarkable sunrises and sunsets, it draws both photographers and nature lovers alike, making it an ideal place for capturing the majestic scenery of the Grand Canyon.
Grandview Point on Desert View Drive
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Lipan Point, on the Grand Canyon's South Rim
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Lipan Point, on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, offers more than stunning views. It's also home to the Unkar Delta, a significant archaeological site where remnants of the Ancestral Puebloan people, who lived here about 1200 years ago, are found.
Moran Point on the Grand Canyon's South Rim is unique because it offers a view all the way down to the Vishnu schist, the canyon's oldest rock layer.
This spot not only lets you see billions of years into Earth's past thanks to the Colorado River's erosion but also offers a rare glimpse into the Grand Canyon supergroup. These layers, sitting atop the Vishnu schist, reveal a fascinating geological history that's usually hidden from view.
Best hikes at the Grand Canyon South Rim
The Rim Trail stretches 13 miles along the Grand Canyon's South Rim, offering an accessible, mostly paved path with incredible canyon views. It's user-friendly with 14 shuttle stops, allowing for flexible hiking lengths.
A highlight is the Trail of Time between the Yavapai Geology Museum and Verkamp’s Visitor Center, featuring interpretive panels on the canyon's geology.
A highlight is the Trail of Time between the Yavapai Geology Museum and Verkamp’s Visitor Center, featuring interpretive panels on the canyon's geology.
The Bright Angel Trail is a highlight of the Grand Canyon South Rim, starting near Bright Angel Lodge and stretching 9.5 miles to the Colorado River. It features several rest spots and options for both short hikes and overnight stays.
Planning is key, especially in summer, to navigate the trail's challenges and enjoy its stunning views.
Planning is key, especially in summer, to navigate the trail's challenges and enjoy its stunning views.
Bright Angel Trail head
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Grand Canyon South Kaibab Trail Cedar Ridge Overlook
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The South Kaibab Trail offers a steep descent to the Colorado River with spectacular 360-degree views of the Grand Canyon.
While the full 7-mile journey to the river is too ambitious for a day, the 1.8-mile round trip to Ooh-Aah Point is perfect for a day hike, offering stunning panoramic views.
For those wanting a longer trek, the path extends to Cedar Ridge and Skeleton Point, where you can see the Colorado River for the first time.
While the full 7-mile journey to the river is too ambitious for a day, the 1.8-mile round trip to Ooh-Aah Point is perfect for a day hike, offering stunning panoramic views.
For those wanting a longer trek, the path extends to Cedar Ridge and Skeleton Point, where you can see the Colorado River for the first time.
Experiences and activities at Grand Canyon South Rim
Ride a mule
Riding a mule down the Grand Canyon is a unique way to see its depths, thanks to the mules' reliability on this terrain.
You have options like short rim rides, longer trips into the canyon, or overnight stays at Phantom Ranch. Book these popular rides well in advance, but there's also a waiting list for last-minute spots.
You have options like short rim rides, longer trips into the canyon, or overnight stays at Phantom Ranch. Book these popular rides well in advance, but there's also a waiting list for last-minute spots.
Grand Canyon helicopter tour
Experience the vastness of the Grand Canyon with a helicopter tour↗, offering unparalleled views from above. Departing from Tusayan, Las Vegas, or Sedona, you can choose from quick 25-minute flights to full-day adventures that include guided hikes, off-road excursions, and even champagne dinners. This is a spectacular way to grasp the canyon's grandeur.
Mule pack train in Grand Canyon
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Helicopter flying over Grand Canyon West Rim
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Whitewater rafting
Whitewater rafting offers a thrilling Grand Canyon adventure, with trips typically lasting a minimum of three days. You can choose from motorized or oar-powered rafts and select how closely you want to connect with nature.
For those seeking a comprehensive experience, rafting the entire Grand Canyon might extend up to 25 days, providing an unforgettable journey through this natural wonder.
For those seeking a comprehensive experience, rafting the entire Grand Canyon might extend up to 25 days, providing an unforgettable journey through this natural wonder.
Private tour of the Grand Canyon
Enjoy a private tour of the Grand Canyon↗, complete with an expert guide and a picnic lunch, offering an in-depth exploration of this natural wonder.
Day trip to Sedona
If you're pressed for time but eager to explore, consider using the Grand Canyon as your starting point for a day trip to Sedona↗.
Stargazing and astrophotography tour
Discover the stars on a guided stargazing and astrophotography tour under the clear skies of one of America's Dark Sky Parks. An expert astronomer will lead the way, with telescopes provided for up-close celestial observations, complemented by warm drinks for a cozy night experience.
Cycling tours
Explore the South Rim on a cycling tour that lets you uncover its secrets from the seat of a bike. As you pedal, you'll dive into the area's rich history, fascinating geology, and diverse wildlife.
Rent a bike
Rent a bike to freely explore the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Whether for a few hours or the whole day, enjoy the breathtaking views at your own pace from the comfort of a cruiser bike.
Next stop: Page, Arizona
After a day spent soaking in the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon's South Rim, we wrapped up our visit at the Desert View Watchtower.
Then, we left the Grand Canyon National Park behind and made our way to the small town of Page, Arizona. Depending on your arrival time in Page, you might be able to squeeze in a quick stop at Horseshoe Bend.
Horseshoe Bend is a stunning natural wonder where the Colorado River curves around a rock formation, creating a breathtaking, horseshoe-shaped meander set against the backdrop of Arizona’s red rock landscape. It’s a short, easy walk from the parking area to the viewpoint, and dedicating about an hour here is well worth it.
Then, we left the Grand Canyon National Park behind and made our way to the small town of Page, Arizona. Depending on your arrival time in Page, you might be able to squeeze in a quick stop at Horseshoe Bend.
Horseshoe Bend is a stunning natural wonder where the Colorado River curves around a rock formation, creating a breathtaking, horseshoe-shaped meander set against the backdrop of Arizona’s red rock landscape. It’s a short, easy walk from the parking area to the viewpoint, and dedicating about an hour here is well worth it.
Desert View Watchtower
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Me at Horseshoe Bend
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Page, Arizona, serves as the gateway to Lake Powell, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and slot canyons like Antelope Canyon.However, due to time constraints, we couldn't include these iconic locations in our Arizona and Utah road trip itinerary.
We stayed at the Hyatt Place Page / Lake Powell↗ which was perfect for our family. If you're staying longer during the summer moths you may also like to consider staying at Under Canvas Lake Powell Grand Staircase↗
We stayed at the Hyatt Place Page / Lake Powell↗ which was perfect for our family. If you're staying longer during the summer moths you may also like to consider staying at Under Canvas Lake Powell Grand Staircase↗
Next stop: Monument Valley
After spending the night in Page, Arizona, we set off on our journey to Monument Valley after breakfast. The drive time, about two hours, is a visual treat, with the landscape transforming dramatically as you approach Monument Valley, signaling your arrival at this iconic location.
Options for staying in Monument Valley are few, but we opted for Goulding's Lodge↗, where we checked into rooms with breathtaking views of the valley by late morning. Our timing couldn't have been better; we had pre-booked an afternoon guided tour↗ departing from the lodge.
Goulding's Lodge
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Our guided tour through Monument Valley↗, led by a local expert, took us on an afternoon journey through the valley's main highlights, offering insights and access to areas not available to self-driving visitors.
Though it's possible to drive through the valley on your own in private vehicles, I'd strongly suggest the guided tour for a more enriched experience. We returned to Goulding's Lodge at the end of the day, full of new memories.
Approaching Monument Valley
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Monument Valley
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Next stop: Moab & Arches National Park
The following morning, we left Goulding's Lodge and headed towards Moab, the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
The drive, typically about 2 and a half hours, stretched a bit longer as we paused to take in the departing views of Monument Valley's natural wonders.
This day was mainly for travel, and by lunchtime, we had arrived in Moab and settled into our hotel. With no specific plans for the afternoon, we took the opportunity to wander around Moab's many artisan shops, collecting souvenirs along the way.
During the warmer months, Moab buzzes with activity, making it possible to squeeze in an afternoon adventure, like mountain biking in the surrounding area, or a brief visit to Arches National Park, conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Moab.
The drive, typically about 2 and a half hours, stretched a bit longer as we paused to take in the departing views of Monument Valley's natural wonders.
This day was mainly for travel, and by lunchtime, we had arrived in Moab and settled into our hotel. With no specific plans for the afternoon, we took the opportunity to wander around Moab's many artisan shops, collecting souvenirs along the way.
During the warmer months, Moab buzzes with activity, making it possible to squeeze in an afternoon adventure, like mountain biking in the surrounding area, or a brief visit to Arches National Park, conveniently located just a short drive from downtown Moab.
We set aside a full day to explore Arches National Park and got an early start right after breakfast. The short drive from Moab to the park’s entrance is quick and straightforward, allowing for an early arrival.
We relied on our in-car audio guide to lead us through the park, highlighting must-see spots and suggesting short hikes to immerse ourselves in the breathtaking scenery.
By noon, we had already walked some of the most popular trails and experienced many of Arches' wonders, including the iconic Delicate Arch, where we even saw a marriage proposal.
It was a fantastic day filled with several manageable hikes, perfect for the winter conditions, with snow still covering the ground off the main paths.
While the time of year limited our options for longer hiking trails, the contrast of snow against the red rocks under clear blue skies made the views even more spectacular.
Delicate Arch
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Me at Arches National Park
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Arches National Park Highlights
The Arches Scenic Drive is an excellent introduction to the park's stunning arches and landscapes. While you can enjoy many views right from your car, stepping out for a hike brings the experience to life. There are trails for everyone, from brief walks to more adventurous hikes that take you right up to the arches.
Delicate Arch, a symbol of Utah, is a must-see. You can get a good view from the Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint, easily accessible from its parking lot. For those who want a closer look, the half-mile hike to the Upper Viewpoint is well worth it.
Balanced Rock, an impressive 128-foot-tall formation, is visible from the road, but a quick 0.3-mile loop trail lets you get up close.
The Spectacles, featuring two arches that look almost like a pair of eyeglasses, offer a gentle 1-mile round-trip hike that includes the North and South Window and Turret Arch. The trail, starting at the Park Avenue parking area, winds through a canyon surrounded by massive rock walls.
Delicate Arch, a symbol of Utah, is a must-see. You can get a good view from the Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint, easily accessible from its parking lot. For those who want a closer look, the half-mile hike to the Upper Viewpoint is well worth it.
Balanced Rock, an impressive 128-foot-tall formation, is visible from the road, but a quick 0.3-mile loop trail lets you get up close.
The Spectacles, featuring two arches that look almost like a pair of eyeglasses, offer a gentle 1-mile round-trip hike that includes the North and South Window and Turret Arch. The trail, starting at the Park Avenue parking area, winds through a canyon surrounded by massive rock walls.
Landscape Arch
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Dead Horse Point State Park
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Best places to stay near Arches & Canyonlands National Park
Hoodoo Moab, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton
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Radcliffe Moab
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Next stop: Bryce Canyon National Park
The next morning, we quickly revisited Arches National Park to catch a couple of spots we missed on our first day. These sites were close to the entrance, making for an easy detour before we set off for Bryce Canyon National Park, which is about a four-hour drive from Moab.
If you have more time to explore, Moab is also the perfect base for visiting Canyonlands National Park.
For those aiming to experience all of Utah's "Mighty 5" national parks, Capitol Reef National Park should be your next destination after Moab, before continuing on to Bryce Canyon National Park.
If you have more time to explore, Moab is also the perfect base for visiting Canyonlands National Park.
For those aiming to experience all of Utah's "Mighty 5" national parks, Capitol Reef National Park should be your next destination after Moab, before continuing on to Bryce Canyon National Park.
We designated today as a travel day, with no stops planned until we reached Bryce Canyon. Arriving there in the late afternoon, we checked into the Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel↗.
Bryce Canyon’s main attractions can be covered in just one day, particularly in winter when many trails are closed for safety. However, if you’re visiting in summer, you might want to allocate an extra day to fully enjoy the park.
Bryce Canyon offers a scenic drive with pullouts for stunning views, similar to what we experienced in Arches and the Grand Canyon. The snow on the ground added a magical touch to Bryce Canyon, enhancing both the views and our photos.
Bryce Canyon National Park Highlights
Begin your Bryce Canyon adventure at the visitor center, where you can grab a map and get updates on road and trail conditions. Kick off with the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive, an 18-mile journey that skirts the canyon's rim, presenting various viewpoints overlooking the stunning hoodoos below.
Linking these vistas, the Rim Trail offers easy access down to the iconic rock formations, making it perfect for exploring the park's unique landscape.
Don't miss Inspiration Point, arguably the most breathtaking spot in Bryce Canyon, with expansive views of the Bryce Amphitheater and the Silent City's intricate hoodoos. The Rim Trail connects Inspiration Point with other key viewpoints like Bryce Point and Sunset Point.
The scenic drive concludes at Yovimpa and Rainbow Points, the park's highest overlooks. Rainbow Point showcases views north over the Bryce Canyon amphitheater and towards the Grand Staircase-Escalante. Meanwhile, Yovimpa Point offers vistas south towards the Grand Canyon.
The 5.5-mile Rim Trail, tracing the canyon's edge, connects all major overlooks from Fairyland to Bryce Point, providing spectacular scenery at every turn.
Linking these vistas, the Rim Trail offers easy access down to the iconic rock formations, making it perfect for exploring the park's unique landscape.
Don't miss Inspiration Point, arguably the most breathtaking spot in Bryce Canyon, with expansive views of the Bryce Amphitheater and the Silent City's intricate hoodoos. The Rim Trail connects Inspiration Point with other key viewpoints like Bryce Point and Sunset Point.
The scenic drive concludes at Yovimpa and Rainbow Points, the park's highest overlooks. Rainbow Point showcases views north over the Bryce Canyon amphitheater and towards the Grand Staircase-Escalante. Meanwhile, Yovimpa Point offers vistas south towards the Grand Canyon.
The 5.5-mile Rim Trail, tracing the canyon's edge, connects all major overlooks from Fairyland to Bryce Point, providing spectacular scenery at every turn.
Bryce Canyon National Park
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Me at Bryce Canyon National Park
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Places to stay near Bryce Canyon National Park
Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn
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Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
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Next stop: Zion National Park
Our Utah and Arizona National Parks road trip concluded with a Christmas visit to Zion National Park, a short, scenic drive from Bryce Canyon.
We stayed in a beautiful villa in Springdale, part of Flanigan's Inn↗, which I highly recommend to anyone visiting Zion.
Springdale's proximity to Zion means you're just steps away from the park. You can easily walk or take a shuttle from most hotels to the entrance.
This convenience was ideal, especially with two teenagers who weren’t always up for hiking.
We spent four days in Springdale, making daily trips into Zion to explore its wonders and tackle some shorter trails. Walking into Zion on Christmas Day was an unforgettable experience for all of us.
We stayed in a beautiful villa in Springdale, part of Flanigan's Inn↗, which I highly recommend to anyone visiting Zion.
Springdale's proximity to Zion means you're just steps away from the park. You can easily walk or take a shuttle from most hotels to the entrance.
This convenience was ideal, especially with two teenagers who weren’t always up for hiking.
We spent four days in Springdale, making daily trips into Zion to explore its wonders and tackle some shorter trails. Walking into Zion on Christmas Day was an unforgettable experience for all of us.
Zion National Park Highlights
The Temple of Sinawava, an awe-inspiring natural amphitheater, signifies the beginning of Zion Canyon and can be reached at the final stop of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It is also the starting location for the Riverside Walk.
The Riverside Walk is a one-mile paved path that follows the Virgin River to the mouth of the Zion Canyon Narrows. It includes several steep inclines and concludes at the point where the imposing Narrows gorge starts.
The Narrows, a 16-mile one-way hike, starts at the end of the Riverside Walk and is doable for casual hikers. This hike involves walking and wading through the Virgin River without a formal trail. Using a guide can enhance the experience, and with local outfitters, you can even hike these canyons in winter.
Angels Landing Trail: Ideal for those who are okay with heights and looking for a challenging hike, this 5.4-mile round trip ascends 1,488 feet to a stunning view of Zion Canyon. The last section of the trail is a narrow ridge with chains for added safety.
Emerald Pools Trail: This path leads to striking blue-green pools and waterfalls. It starts off paved to the Lower Emerald Pool and waterfalls, then becomes more uneven towards the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools. The hike can range from an easy 1.2 miles round trip to a longer 3 miles if exploring all the pools.
The Riverside Walk is a one-mile paved path that follows the Virgin River to the mouth of the Zion Canyon Narrows. It includes several steep inclines and concludes at the point where the imposing Narrows gorge starts.
The Narrows, a 16-mile one-way hike, starts at the end of the Riverside Walk and is doable for casual hikers. This hike involves walking and wading through the Virgin River without a formal trail. Using a guide can enhance the experience, and with local outfitters, you can even hike these canyons in winter.
Angels Landing Trail: Ideal for those who are okay with heights and looking for a challenging hike, this 5.4-mile round trip ascends 1,488 feet to a stunning view of Zion Canyon. The last section of the trail is a narrow ridge with chains for added safety.
Emerald Pools Trail: This path leads to striking blue-green pools and waterfalls. It starts off paved to the Lower Emerald Pool and waterfalls, then becomes more uneven towards the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools. The hike can range from an easy 1.2 miles round trip to a longer 3 miles if exploring all the pools.
The Narrows, Zion National Park
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Angels Landing, Zion National Park
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Places to stay near Zion National Park
Flanigan's Inn
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Cable Mountain Lodge
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Zion marked the end of our road trip. While Las Vegas is only a few hours from Zion, perfect for concluding the journey, we decided to extend our adventure to Los Angeles for a visit to Universal Studios before wrapping up our vacation.
Arizona & Utah vacation packages
Bryce Canyon & Zion Adventure
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DURATION
6 days / 5 nights HIGHLIGHTS • Snow Canyon Lava Flows Hike • Snow Canyon to St. George Bike Ride • Cedar Breaks Spectra Point Hike • Bryce Canyon Rim Trail Hike • Bryce Canyon National Park • Queens Garden, Peek-a-Boo & Wall Street Trails Hike • Red Canyon Bike Ride • Zion National Park • Zion Exploratory Hike • Canyoneering Slot Canyon Adventure |
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate TRIP START (ARRIVAL) St. George, Utah TRIP END (RETURN) St. George, Utah INCLUSIONS • Professional guides • Accommodation throughout your trip • Most meals • Activities mentioned in the itinerary • Any necessary equipment - all safe and well-maintained • All transportation from trip start to end • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities • Park and other entry fees |
Arches & Canyonlands Adventure
UTAH | USA
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DURATION
6 days / 5 nights HIGHLIGHTS • Colorado River Westwater Canyon Raft • Canyonlands National Park • Grandview Point to Shaffer Overlook Bike Ride • Dinosaur Museum to Colorado River Bike Ride • Arches National Park • Delicate Arch Hike • Landscape Arch Hike • Windows & Turret Arch Hike + Double Arch • Potash Road Bike Ride • Slickrock Hummer Tour • Chesler Park Hike • Fisher Towers Hike |
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate TRIP START (ARRIVAL) Grand Junction, Colorado TRIP END (RETURN) Grand Junction, Colorado INCLUSIONS • Professional guides • Accommodation throughout your trip • Most meals • Activities mentioned in the itinerary • Any necessary equipment - all safe and well-maintained • All transportation from trip start to end • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities • Park and other entry fees |
Mighty Five Adventure
UTAH | USA
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DURATION
9 days / 8 nights HIGHLIGHTS • Canyonlands National Park • Grand View Point Hike • Upheaval Dome Hike • Mesa Arch Hike • Fisher Towers Hike • Arches National Park • Delicate Arch Hike • Devil’s Garden Hike • Capitol Reef National Park • Cassidy Arch Hike • Cohab Canyon Hike • Bryce Canyon National Park • Queens Garden, Peek-a-Boo & Wall Street Trails Hike • Red Canyon Bird’s Eye Trail Hike • Zion National Park • Canyoneering Slot Canyon Adventure • Red Cliffs Desert Reserve Hike |
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate TRIP START (ARRIVAL) Grand Junction, Colorado TRIP END (RETURN) St. George, Utah INCLUSIONS • Professional guides • Accommodation throughout your trip • Most meals • Activities mentioned in the itinerary • Any necessary equipment - all safe and well-maintained • All transportation from trip start to end • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities • Park and other entry fees |
Grand Canyon Adventure
ARIZONA | USA
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DURATION
6 days / 5 nights HIGHLIGHTS • Salt River Kayak • Prescott, Arizona • Watson Lake Bike Ride • Keyhole Sink Hike • Williams, Arizona • Grand Canyon Railway Train Ride • Grand Canyon National Park • Hermit Trail Hike • South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge Hike • Grand Canyon to Tusayan Bike Ride • Sedona, Arizona • Sedona Pink Jeep Ride • Montezuma Castle Hike |
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate TRIP START (ARRIVAL) Phoenix, Arizona TRIP END (RETURN) Phoenix, Arizona INCLUSIONS • Professional guides • Accommodation throughout your trip • Most meals • Activities mentioned in the itinerary • Any necessary equipment - all safe and well-maintained • All transportation from trip start to end • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities • Park and other entry fees |
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Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.
His love for travel started as a child, playing travel agent with his grandparents using holiday brochures from the local travel agency. Fast forward over 40 years, and Rob has turned this passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream vacations. He says his happy place is in a cozy cabin by a lake in Oregon, sitting at the bar of a honky-tonk on Broadway in Nashville, or closer to home walking and cycling in the Peak District National Park. |
