Parks Trip: Arizona & Utah in 11 Days

After landing in Las Vegas, pick up your rental car and begin the scenic drive toward the Grand Canyon, a spectacular introduction to the American Southwest. The roughly 4.5-hour journey is ideal with a stop in Williams, AZ to stock up on essentials before entering the park.

Arriving in the early evening builds anticipation: even a first quick look at the rim is breathtaking, with dramatic light, vast panoramas, and wildlife sightings such as mule deer.

Staying inside the park, for example, at Maswik Lodge, allows you to maximize time for sunrise views the following morning.

Dedicate the entire day to fully experiencing Grand Canyon National Park, combining panoramic rim views with a descent into the canyon. Start early with the peaceful Shoshone Point Trail, a quieter walk offering intimate connections with the landscape.

In the afternoon, hike the iconic South Kaibab Trail down to Skeleton Point, passing Ooh-Aah Point and Cedar Ridge for unforgettable vistas.

• Insider tip: Begin at sunrise to avoid heat and crowds, carry plenty of water, and pace yourself for the climb back up—descending is optional, but returning requires preparation.

Drive from the Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona, and explore the stunning desert landscapes along the way.

Visit both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon with authorized Navajo guides for a surreal experience of flowing sandstone and shifting beams of light.

Stop at Horseshoe Bend for the iconic Colorado River overlook and explore Lake Powell within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

After Antelope Canyon, continue to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a cinematic landscape of towering red sandstone buttes.

Explore via scenic drives or book a guided Navajo tour for cultural insight.

Limited cell service makes offline maps essential, and staying at Goulding’s Lodge allows you to enjoy sunrise and sunset views from the property.

Depart Monument Valley and stop at Goosenecks State Park to admire the San Juan River’s dramatic canyon meanders.

Continue to Moab, a lively hub for exploring Utah’s iconic parks.

In the afternoon, visit Dead Horse Point State Park for rim trails with sweeping views over the Colorado River, particularly stunning in late afternoon light.

• Insider tip: Bring water and snacks, and aim for late afternoon for the best photographic light.

Start early in Arches National Park, exploring iconic arches and quieter trails.

In the afternoon, head to Canyonlands National Park and visit Mesa Arch for breathtaking views at sunrise or late in the day.

Start early to avoid heat, bring water, and explore smaller trails for unexpected wildlife encounters.

Enjoy a morning rafting trip on the Colorado River for a different perspective of the surrounding canyons.

Spend the afternoon revisiting Arches National Park, discovering hidden arches and scenic viewpoints.

Remember to wear sun protection, and allow flexibility in timing to enjoy both the river and trails.

Drive west along the stunning UT-24 Scenic Drive, with desert cliffs, valleys, and roadside curiosities.

Take the Hickman Bridge Trail in Capitol Reef National Park for a short walk with rewarding views of sandstone arches and canyons.

Travel along UT-12 Scenic Byway to Bryce Canyon National Park, a forested amphitheater of pink cliffs, golden rock formations, and vibrant hoodoos.

Hike the Navajo Loop and Peekaboo Loop Trails to experience the hoodoos up close and enjoy panoramic viewpoints.

Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and pause often—every angle offers a new perspective.

Drive from Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park, approximately 71 miles and 1 hour 20 minutes.

Begin with the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, offering stunning canyon panoramas, then continue on the Watchman Trail for a moderate hike along the Virgin River.

Allow extra time for park traffic, shuttles, or parking. Nearby Hurricane provides convenient lodging with comfortable, modern amenities.

Begin with a short drive to St. George, a charming town with tree-lined streets, local art, and scenic desert landscapes—perfect for a leisurely stop.

Continue to Las Vegas, approximately two hours away, and check into the iconic Bellagio Hotel on the Strip. Explore the city’s vibrant energy with shopping, attractions, and dazzling sights, and finish in style with a memorable dinner at one of the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants.

After the excitement, relax in your luxurious room—an ideal way to conclude this epic 11-day adventure.