10 day itinerary
Southern Utah National Parks
Personalized with:Lodges/cabins for accomodationsDrive time between parks How many nights at each parkImportant sites at each park
Itinerary
Southern Utah is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, and I’m excited to help you plan a fantastic 10-day itinerary that includes some of the most breathtaking national parks in the region. We’ll focus on Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands National Parks. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in , NV
- Accommodation: Stay overnight in a lodge or hotel in .
- Plan: Arrive in , pick up your rental car, and get settled. If time allows, explore the Strip or grab a bite at one of the many fantastic restaurants.
Day 2: Drive to (2.5 hours)
- Accommodation: Stay at Zion Lodge.
- Plan:
- Morning: Depart and head to Zion.
- Afternoon: Arrive and check in. Start your adventure with the .
- Evening: Hike the (2 miles round trip) to get a feel for the park and enjoy the stunning views.
Day 3: Explore
- Accommodation: Zion Lodge.
- Plan:
- Morning: Hike the (5 miles round trip) for breathtaking views. Be sure to start early to avoid crowds!
- Afternoon: After lunch, take the (1.2 miles round trip) to see beautiful waterfalls and pools.
- Evening: Relax at the lodge and enjoy the starry night sky.
Day 4: More of Zion and Drive to Bryce Canyon (1.5 hours)
- Accommodation: Stay at The Lodge at Bryce Canyon.
- Plan:
- Morning: Hike the (8 miles round trip) for a stunning view of Zion Canyon.
- Afternoon: Depart for Bryce Canyon. Check in and have lunch.
- Evening: Visit for a spectacular sunset over the hoodoos.
Day 5: Explore
- Accommodation: The Lodge at Bryce Canyon.
- Plan:
- Morning: Hike the (1.3 miles) and connect to the (1.8 miles) for a fantastic loop through the hoodoos.
- Afternoon: Drive the and stop at various viewpoints like and .
- Evening: Attend a ranger-led program if available.
Day 6: Drive to (4 hours)
- Accommodation: Stay at the Red Cliffs Lodge near .
- Plan:
- Morning: Depart Bryce Canyon and head to Arches.
- Afternoon: Arrive and check in. Explore the and hike to (1 mile round trip).
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at the lodge and relax.
Day 7: Explore
- Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge.
- Plan:
- Morning: Hike to (3 miles round trip) for the iconic view.
- Afternoon: Visit (book a ranger-led tour if possible) and explore the maze of narrow canyons.
- Evening: Return to the lodge and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Day 8: (30 minutes from )
- Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge.
- Plan:
- Morning: Head to Canyonlands and start at the Island in the Sky district. Visit for sunrise if you’re an early riser!
- Afternoon: Explore and hike the Upheaval Dome trail (1.8 miles round trip).
- Evening: Return to for dinner and perhaps a stroll along the Colorado River.
Day 9: More Canyonlands or Relax in
- Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge.
- Plan:
- Option 1: If you’re up for more adventure, explore the of Canyonlands (about 1.5 hours away) and hike the (11 miles).
- Option 2: Spend a leisurely day in , visiting local shops, or taking a scenic drive along the Colorado River.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in .
Day 10: Drive back to (6 hours)
- Plan:
- Morning: Depart early and head back to .
- Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to explore more of or grab a last-minute souvenir.
- Evening: Depart from .
Tips:
- Make sure to check for any park alerts or road conditions before you go.
- Book your accommodations in advance, especially in peak seasons.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen for your hikes!
This itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, allowing you to soak in the stunning landscapes of Southern Utah. Enjoy your trip! 🌄