Dreaming of a desert road trip? Planning a trip across the Southwest can make that happen. Don’t feel overwhelmed – use this ultimate Arizona and Utah road trip itinerary to help! There are points of interest you won’t want to miss. To make the most of your adventure, take us along on your road trip.
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The Ultimate Arizona + Utah Road Trip Itinerary for Desert Lovers
From Bryce Canyon to Canyonlands National Park, here’s how to see the sights of a Utah and Arizona road trip even in just a few days! Depending on the time frame you have, there is a lot to see and do. Hiking, is what most head to Arizona and Utah for, but if you are not a hiker, a road trip is perfect. Lots of overlooks and pull offs to stop and gaze at the views. Taking pictures and just sitting for a spell to enjoy the area you are exploring.
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Day 1: Zion National Park
Start the day as early as possible by driving to Zion National Park to see the views.
Start off by visiting the Zion Human History Museum to learn about the indigenous Paiute that was once in this rea. Right outside the museum, you’ll see some stunning formations (including the Towers of the Virgin and Watchman) so it’s totally worth the stop!
After that, get ready to hike and explore the park. You can easily do a few trails in just a few hours of time.
If you have energy leftover, head to Kolob Canyon to catch a sunset. For the best view, head to Timber Creek Overlook at Kolob View Point to see 360-degree views plus also spot the North Rim of the Grand Canyon!
Days 2 and 3: Bryce Canyon National Park for your Ultimate Arizona and Utah Road Trip Guide
Even though this part is small, there are so many things to see! Get there early to get a headstart.
Red rock hoodoos are one of the biggest highlights so pack a lunch and drive along Highway 12. It’s a scenic drive so make sure that you stop at the overlooks to get insane views.
Hit up a few of the short hiking trails and then head to Sunset Point to get the best sunset view, ever.
Hoodoos are what makes Bryce Canyon’s landscape so different, and there’s no better way to see them than by braving the Queen’s Garden to Navajo Loop and Wall Street trail. You’ll get access to the best views of the park’s iconic sandstone hoodoos that will have you feeling like you’re literally out of this world.
You can leave Bryce Cannon at night and drive to Capitol Reef to get a good night’s rest and to get ready for another day of adventure.
Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park
Start by hiking to Hickman Bridge. This is a 2-mile trail (round trip) that will have you loving the views. After that, get back in the car and drive on Highway 24 to look at the petroglyph panel. This will give you an insight into the Capitol Reef’s indigenous heritage.
After that, make a plan to drive along the 8-mile long scenic road. This road will show you so many epic sights! If you have time and energy, hike to Cassidy Arch, which is one of the most thrilling trails.
Day 5: Arches National Park for your Arizona and Utah Road Trip
This park might be tiny but it’s not lacking in adventures and beauty.
Start out by looking at the Delicate Arch. This is well known in the state of Utah! After that, it’s time for some hiking. Follow the Landscape Arch trail, which is actually the largest natural arch in the US.
Make sure you take a drive on the Arches Scenic Drive that offers stunning desert views.
For the best sunset, hike the Double Arch trail to end up at The Windows.
Days 6 and 7: Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky and The Needles)
This National Park will make you see and do something new every time you visit. As a first-timer, though hitting up the easier-to-explore Island in the Sky section of the park is going to be the way to go!
Start your day early with a hike up to the iconic Mesa Arch. Afterward, hit a few other hikes like the Grand View Point Trail, Upheaval Dome, and Gooseberry Canyon.
To end the day, catch a sunset at Green River Viewpoint. The sun hitting off the rocks makes those red colors pop!
The next day, you can explore more of the Island in the Sky or venture deeper into Canyonlands by visiting The Needles. This does have some more challenging hiking trails as well.
Days 8 and 9: Grand Canyon National Park
Finish off the desert road trip by challenging your hiking skills on the Bright Angel Trail.
This trail is a 9.5 mile-long trail that starts at the rim of the Grand Canyon and goes all the way down to the Colorado River at the bottom. It starts at the Bright Angel Lodge and will end at the Phantom Ranch. Other than camping, this is the only place that you can sleep while in the canyon before getting back on the trail the next day.
How Was Your Trip
If you found this guide useful, please comment and tell us. Want to see something added here, let us know that as well. Arizona and Utah are both amazing places to see some stunning sights.
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