Utah National Parks Road Trip and Map

Utah is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the United States, often referred to as the “Mighty 5.” Here’s a suggested road trip itinerary that covers these incredible parks.

Utah National Parks Road Trip

National Parks to Visit

1. Zion National Park
2. Bryce Canyon National Park
3. Capitol Reef National Park
4. Arches National Park
5. Canyonlands National Park

Suggested Itinerary (7-10 days)

Day 1-2: Zion National Park

• Hike the Narrows or Angels Landing
• Explore Emerald Pools
• Drive the scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

• Watch sunrise at Bryce Amphitheater
• Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail
• Drive to Rainbow Point for panoramic views

Day 4-5: Capitol Reef National Park

• Drive the scenic Capitol Reef Scenic Drive
• Hike to Hickman Bridge
• Explore the Fruita Historic District

Day 6-7: Arches National Park

• See Delicate Arch (especially at sunset)
• Hike the Devils Garden Trail
• Visit Windows Section and Double Arch

Day 8-9: Canyonlands National Park

• Explore Island in the Sky district
• Visit Mesa Arch at sunrise
• Check out Grand View Point Overlook

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April-May): Mild temperatures, wildflowers
• Fall (September-October): Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds
• Avoid summer if possible due to extreme heat and crowds

Travel Tips

• Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass ($80) for entry to all parks
• Book accommodations well in advance, especially in high season
• Carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks
• Download offline maps as cell service is limited in many areas
• Consider staying in Moab when visiting Arches and Canyonlands

Utah National Parks Road Trip Map

Utah National Parks Road Trip with Kids

Taking a Utah national parks road trip with kids is an awesome idea. The Mighty 5 parks are full of family-friendly adventures, and with the right planning, you can make it a fun and memorable experience for everyone. Here’s a kid-friendly itinerary:

Day 1-2: Zion National Park

• Riverside Walk (paved, stroller-friendly trail leading to the Narrows)
• Lower Emerald Pool Trail (easy 1.2-mile round trip)
• Zion Nature Center (ranger programs for kids)
• Ride the free shuttle through the scenic canyon

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

• Rim Trail (partially paved with stunning viewpoints)
• Queens Garden Trail (easier portion of trails down among the hoodoos)
• Junior Ranger program
• Stargazing programs (Bryce has incredible dark skies)

Day 4-5: Capitol Reef National Park

• Fruita orchards (seasonal fruit picking)
• Petroglyph Panel viewing (short walk)
• Hickman Bridge (moderate 1.8-mile round trip)
• Historic Gifford Homestead (pioneer history and homemade pies!)

Day 6-7: Arches National Park

• Windows Section (short trails to spectacular arches)
• Sand Dune Arch (kids love playing in the sand)
• Double Arch (easy 0.5-mile round trip)
• Junior Ranger program

Day 8-9: Canyonlands National Park

• Island in the Sky district (most accessible with kids)
• Mesa Arch (easy 0.5-mile loop)
• Whale Rock (fun scramble for energetic kids)

Tips for Road Tripping with Kids:

• Plan for shorter driving days (max 3-4 hours)
• Visit parks in the early morning and late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
• Pack plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and first aid supplies
• Download offline maps, as cell service is limited in many areas
• Consider staying in towns like Springdale, Moab, or Torrey rather than moving every night
• Build in pool time at hotels for afternoon breaks
• Bring binoculars, field guides, and nature journals for kids

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