The Ultimate Utah Road Trip: 7 Days of Natural Wonders and Outdoor Thrills
Utah is a wonderland filled with stunning natural beauty and captivating landscapes. Often called the Beehive State, it features five magnificent national parks, collectively known as the "Mighty 5." From the largest natural stone arches in the world to vibrant red rock formations, Utah showcases diverse geography—from deserts to mountains—making it the perfect location for a spectacular road trip. Let's embark on a magical seven-day journey through Utah, immersing ourselves in its breathtaking national parks amid the stunning colors of fall!
Step 1: Find, compare and book here your rental for this ultimate road trip.
Day 1: Salt Lake City to Bryce National Park
Start your adventure in Salt Lake City. Visit the iconic Temple Square and enjoy brunch at a local café known for its delicious pancakes. Once you’re fueled up, set off for Bryce Canyon National Park, about a 4-hour drive away.
Bryce Canyon is famous for its unique hoodoo rock formations and expansive vistas. For the best experience, hike the scenic Rim Trail. This trail offers breathtaking views with each step, especially during sunset, when the rocks take on a fiery orange hue.
Consider these activities:
Hiking: The Fairyland Loop Trail is a great option for those looking for a longer trek, covering about 8 miles with views of magical landscapes.
Photography: Capture stunning vistas from Bryce Point, which overlooks the entire canyon.
Stargazing: At night, unwind beneath the stars. Bryce Canyon is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the clearest skies for stargazing.
For a unique overnight stay, check our Autocamp Zion or Cliffrose Springdale.
Day 2: Exploring Bryce to Zion National Park
On the morning of day two, drive the scenic route to Zion National Park, located just 1.5 hours away. The fall foliage will leave you in awe, with bursts of red and gold along the landscape.
Zion is famous for its steep cliffs and stunning canyons. The Angels Landing trail is a must, noted for its breathtaking views at the summit. Plan ahead and check weather conditions, as this trail often closes for safety.
Don’t miss these activities:
The Narrows: Experience hiking through the scenic slot canyon while walking in the Virgin River. This hike can be partially submerged, so be prepared with water shoes.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer, bighorn sheep, and a variety of birds.
Riding the Shuttle: If you're looking for a more relaxed day, take the park shuttle and enjoy the captivating sights along the route.
Want more fun things to do near Zion National Park? Reserve these nearby activities such as sunset jeep tour, horseback riding, dune cruise, and more.
Day 3: Zion to Antelope Canyon and Page, Arizona
After an exciting two days in Zion, head toward Page, Arizona, which is home to the awe-inspiring Antelope Canyon. The drive takes roughly 2 hours, giving you time to appreciate the beautiful desert scenery.
Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s dream, known for its curvy shapes and vibrant colors. Be sure to book a guided tour to explore the canyon safely while learning about its fascinating history and geology.
Some must-do activities include:
Photography Tour: Capture beams of light shining through the canyon during midday, a sight that attracts photographers from around the globe.
Nearby Attractions: Visit Horseshoe Bend, just a short drive from Antelope Canyon, where the Colorado River curves dramatically around red rock cliffs.
Spend the night at Amangirl, seamlessly integrated into 600 acres of red-rock terrain, the final vestige of the untamed West. Or find a vacation rental with Vrbo to provide memorable experiences.
Day 4: Monument Valley
After your night in Page, travel to the stunning Monument Valley, located about 2 hours away. This iconic location is widely depicted in Western films and is known for its impressive red sandstone buttes.
Purchase park entry fee here for admission.
Explore these activities while there:
Guided Tours: Opt for a Navajo-guided tour to learn about the rich history and culture of the Navajo Nation, with insights into the land's significance.
Photography: Capture the buttes during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.
Cultural Experience: Stop by the Monument Valley Visitor Center to gain a deeper understanding of Native American history and culture.
Day 5: Monument Valley to Arches National Park
After soaking in the beauty of Monument Valley, head towards Arches National Park, roughly a 2.5-hour drive away. This park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, each a testament to nature's artistry.
While in Arches, hike to Delicate Arch, one of the most photographed sites in the world. The hike is moderately difficult, but the payoff is a stunning view worth every step!
Among the fun activities at Arches:
Camping: Spend the night in the park to experience its natural beauty first-hand.
Stargazing: Lucky for you, Arches is another prime location for stargazing, where the darkness enhances the beauty of the night sky.
Scenic Driving: Take the Arches Scenic Drive to access several noteworthy arches and enjoy potential wildlife sightings along the way.
Consider staying overnight at Casitas at the Hoodoo Moab, where you can enjoy the stunning views and unique accommodations that immerse you in the natural beauty of the area. Alternatively, you might choose Sorrel River Ranch, which offers luxurious amenities and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure.
Day 6: Arches to Canyonlands National Park
A short 30-minute drive from Arches brings you to Canyonlands National Park, where you can witness contrasting landscapes compared to Arches. Head to the Island in the Sky district for panoramic views of deep canyons and the Colorado River.
The Mesa Arch Trail is a popular choice, especially at sunrise, when the arch frames expansive views with a breathtaking glow.
While there, check out these activities:
Off-Roading: Rent a 4x4 vehicle and tackle some of the rugged backroads for a thrilling adventure.
Biking: The park has numerous trails for cyclists of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned riders.
Hiking: If time allows, visit the Needles district for more hiking options and stunning scenery.
Day 7: Returning to Salt Lake City
After an incredible week of exploring Utah’s stunning landscapes, it’s time to make your way back to Salt Lake City. The drive takes about 4 hours, so you can enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping along the way.
Utah's capital provides a wonderful variety of activities, whether you prefer city adventures or outdoor experiences. The top-rated tours in Salt Lake City feature boating on the Great Salt Lake, attending a Tabernacle Choir concert, spotting bison and antelope on the lake's largest island, or exploring the city by walking, bus, bike, or trolley. Additionally, Salt Lake City serves as an excellent starting point for regional exploration, with trips to the Bonneville Salt Flats or the Wasatch Mountains.
Take this time to reflect on your adventure. If you're already dreaming about your next visit, plan to explore additional parks or monuments on a future trip!
Wrapping Up Your Journey
This week-long road trip through Utah showcases the incredible diversity of the state's natural scenery. From the distinctive hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the iconic arches at Arches National Park, each stop offers a unique experience.
To maximize your adventure, consider purchasing a National Park Pass, which grants you access to all national parks for a full year. This pass is an economical choice, especially if you plan to explore multiple parks.
Utah's breathtaking landscapes are waiting to amaze you. Grab your gear and begin your unforgettable journey today!
Need help planning your Utah road trip? Book with a travel advisor today and start exploring.
“In Utah, there are no bad things in the water there. It’s just smooth, really beautiful.”
– Steve Guttenberg
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