Utah is a nature lover’s paradise, offering an awe-inspiring blend of red rock canyons, alpine forests, and expansive deserts. From the towering arches of Arches National Park to the stunning cliffs of Zion, Utah’s diverse landscapes provide some of the most breathtaking views in the American West. If you’re an adventurer at heart and love the freedom of the open road, a Utah road trip is an experience you won’t soon forget. Here’s a complete itinerary for nature lovers who want to explore the best of the Beehive State on four wheels.
Day 1: Salt Lake City to Arches National Park
Start your journey in Salt Lake City, Utah’s capital, where you can pick up your rental car and stock up on supplies. While in the city, consider exploring a few of the local sites, like the beautiful Red Butte Garden or the Great Salt Lake itself. But don’t get too comfortable; the real adventure lies ahead.
From Salt Lake City, head southeast toward Arches National Park. The drive will take approximately 4 hours, so take your time to soak in the scenic views along the way. As you approach the park, the iconic red rock formations will start to appear, signaling the arrival of one of the most photogenic spots on Earth.
Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. Spend your afternoon hiking some of the park’s well-known trails, such as the Delicate Arch Trail, which offers incredible views of the arch and the surrounding landscape. For an easier hike, the Windows Section provides stunning views with a shorter walking distance.
End your day with a sunset at The Windows or Double Arch. Watching the golden light of dusk illuminate the arches is an unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Arches to Canyonlands National Park
After a night under the stars (Utah’s clear skies offer exceptional stargazing), pack up and head toward Canyonlands National Park, just 30 minutes southwest of Arches. Canyonlands is a vast, rugged landscape, divided into four districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the riverside Riverside District. Nature lovers will appreciate the park’s diverse ecosystems and dramatic scenery, which includes deep canyons, rock spires, and mesas.
Start your visit to Island in the Sky, which offers panoramic views of the park’s vast expanse. The Mesa Arch Trail is a must-do, as it leads to a beautiful arch that frames a stunning desert vista. If you’re up for a more challenging hike, the White Rim Trail offers a thrilling adventure with plenty of opportunities for scenic views.
Consider a short visit to Dead Horse Point State Park nearby for more dramatic views of the Colorado River below.
Day 3: Canyonlands to Bryce Canyon National Park
Next, it’s time to make your way south to Bryce Canyon National Park. The drive from Canyonlands to Bryce Canyon takes about 4.5 hours, but the change in landscape is striking. Bryce Canyon is renowned for its unique geological formations called hoodoos tall, thin spires of rock that have been shaped by erosion.
Upon arrival, head to the Bryce Amphitheater for some of the best views in the park. The Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails are popular for those who want to hike among the hoodoos, but you can also take in the beauty from viewpoints like Sunset Point and Inspiration Point. Bryce is also known for its brilliant starry skies, so if you’re a stargazer, be sure to catch the evening sky.
Day 4: Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park
From Bryce, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Zion National Park, one of the most famous and stunning parks in Utah. Zion’s towering cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and lush landscapes make it a must-visit for any nature lover. Once you arrive, take the shuttle into the park cars are not allowed on most of the scenic routes during peak seasons.
For those seeking adventure, the Angels Landing hike offers one of the most exhilarating trails in the country, with heart-pounding drop-offs and jaw-dropping views. However, it’s a strenuous hike, so if you’re looking for something more moderate, consider the Emerald Pools Trail or the Weeping Rock Trail.
In Zion, nature lovers will find an abundance of wildlife, from bighorn sheep to a variety of birds, making it an ideal destination for wildlife watchers and photographers.
Day 5: Zion to Salt Lake City
On the final day of your Utah road trip, make your way back to Salt Lake City, about a 4-hour drive north from Zion. Along the way, stop at Kolob Canyons, a hidden gem in the park’s northwest corner, for one last dose of red rock beauty. The drive back provides an opportunity to reflect on your adventure and take in the scenic landscape one last time before returning to the city.
Tips for the Road
- Fuel Up: Some areas of Utah can be quite remote, so it’s always a good idea to fill up your gas tank when you can.
- Pack for the Elements: The weather in Utah can vary greatly, so bring layers, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The desert can be hot during the day and chilly at night.
- Take Your Time: Utah’s landscapes are best explored at a leisurely pace, so don’t rush through your road trip. Take time to stop at overlooks, go on shorter hikes, and enjoy the unique geology of each park.
Utah’s natural beauty is truly unmatched, and a road trip through the state allows you to experience its diverse landscapes at your own pace. From hiking through stunning arches and standing on the edge of majestic canyon rims to enjoying the quiet of starry skies, every moment is a memorable one. For a more immersive experience, consider staying at one of the many RV resorts in Southern Utah.
These campsites offer comfort and convenience, allowing you to wake up surrounded by the beauty of nature and continue your adventure with ease. A road trip through Utah, with a stay at an RV resort, promises to be an unforgettable journey.