Epic Family Adventure in the National Parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches 9-Day Itinerary

As you cruise into the charming town of Springdale, the towering cliffs of Zion greet you like sentinels. Just outside the park’s main entrance, Springdale is filled with inviting accommodations, quaint cafes, and bike rentals—ideal for a low-key arrival day. Check in to your hotel, explore the town’s shops, relax by the pool, and soak in the view of the glowing canyon walls. Our boys had fun picking out snacks at the local grocery store for the week’s hikes and adventures. And if you haven’t already, arrange for your e-bike rentals at a local shop. The e-bikes are a great way to skip the long shuttle lines and have more freedom to explore and maneuver within the park from trailhead to trailhead.

You’ll want to get a good night’s rest for the early start you’ll have the following morning. Car lines at Zion can get long, so it’s best to be one of the early arrivals at the entrance gate. However, if traveling by e-bike, you’ll bypass this issue.

Family-friendly hikes

• Pa’rus Trail: This paved, flat trail follows the Virgin River through meadows and beneath towering cliffs. Perfect for strollers and scooters, it’s a great introduction to the park’s majesty.

• Archeology Trail: A short but rewarding hike that starts near the Visitor Center and leads to a historic site with views over Zion Canyon.

Where to eat

• Whiptail Grill: Housed in a converted gas station, this local gem offers southwestern dishes with flair—think green chile enchiladas and spaghetti squash enchiladas.

• Oscar’s Café: Known for generous portions, casual vibes, and an expansive outdoor patio. Their kids’ menu and fresh smoothies are a hit with little ones.

Start your day off early to beat the heat and crowds. Head out early to grab your e-bikes and head into the park. If you’re forgoing the e-bikes, then you’ll have to hop on Zion’s mandatory shuttle system for a smooth ride through the canyon. Today’s plan focuses on classic hikes that showcase the park’s famous waterfalls and waterway. Both Emerald Pools and the Riverside Walk were our boys’ favorite hikes in Zion. They were five and seven at that time, and those hikes were perfect for their little legs. The paved path of the Riverside Walk ends where the Narrows hike begins. The Narrows is an extremely popular and iconic hike at Zion, however it is not kid-friendly until they are around ten (obviously it will depend on your child’s athletic abilities). When my husband and I got to the mouth of the Narrows, there was a little part of us that felt left out about missing the Narrows, however now we have an excuse to return!

After you’ve had your fill of hiking for the day, head back into town to drop off your e-bikes and grab a bite to eat. I guarantee that a nice, relaxing evening will be needed after a long day of hiking in the park. If you can stay up late enough, check out the stars on a clear night. We’ve never seen brighter stars than when we were in Utah!

Family-friendly hikes

• Emerald Pools Trail (Lower): This shaded trail passes waterfalls and lush vegetation. It’s a must-do with kids who love seeing water in the desert.

• Riverside Walk: A paved path that follows the Virgin River to the mouth of the Narrows. Let the kids dip their toes in the river or build rock towers.

Where to eat

• Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.: Casual and cozy with excellent pizza and pasta. Great for early dinners after a day on the trail.

• Café Soleil: Organic, fresh, and fast. Grab sandwiches and wraps for a picnic in the park.

Spend your final day in Zion taking in its quieter corners and soaking up the dramatic canyon views. Stop often and let the kids explore small trails while you enjoy photo-worthy moments. You’ll want to hit up any hikes you couldn’t fit in yesterday and take advantage of a nice quiet picnic spot to enjoy the views. Don’t forget to grab a pre- or post-hike coffee at our favorite coffee spot: FeelLove Coffee. It’s the perfect place to relax with a coffee and pastry. Our boys devoured their brownies!

Family-friendly hikes

• Weeping Rock Trail: Though short, this hike ends in a cool, dripping alcove filled with hanging gardens.

• Grotto Trail: This connector trail is a gentle stroll ideal for families and bird-watchers. Keep your eyes peeled for wild turkeys.

Where to eat

• MeMe’s Café: Ideal for breakfast or brunch, this spot serves crepes, waffles, and smoothies with hearty portions and friendly service.

• Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon: A local favorite for Southwestern cuisine with a family-friendly menu. Try the nachos and quesadillas.

The scenic two-hour drive to Bryce Canyon from Springdale winds through the high desert and into pine-draped plateaus. As you enter the park, you’ll be greeted by rows of fiery orange hoodoos that look like they belong in a fantasy movie. The air is cooler here, and the pace is perfect for families.

If you arrive early enough in the day, you can fit in a hike to get a taste of what Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos are all about. The landscape is otherworldly and there really isn’t any way to describe it—you just have to see it for yourself.

Family-friendly hikes

• Mossy Cave Trail: A lesser-known gem with a waterfall and cave formation. Short and scenic, it’s a great afternoon hike.

• Rim Trail (Sunset to Sunrise Point): Flat, paved, and lined with breathtaking overlooks. Ideal for strollers and sunset watchers alike. A great “first” hike to see what Bryce Canyon has to offer.

Where to eat

• Bryce Canyon Pines Restaurant: A classic diner-style eatery with homemade pies and comfort food.

• Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill: Dinner comes with a side of country music and cowboy charm. The buffet is kid-approved.

Wake up early to catch the legendary Bryce sunrise—a spectacle of light that makes the hoodoos glow. Set off on one of the more iconic trails, Queen’s Garden. Our five and seven year-old boys made the hike, but we definitely had to take our time and give them plenty of rest breaks. The trail descends down into the canyon, so inevitably the climb back up is challenging. Go at your own pace and you’ll be fine!

Take a midday rest after your big hike. There are plenty of shaded picnic areas to rest and replenish. If you can, return to the park in the evening for an unforgettable stargazing session under some of the darkest skies in the US.

Family-friendly hikes

• Queen’s Garden Trail: One of the more iconic hikes in Bryce Canyon. This trail descends into the canyon among the hoodoos, with whimsical formations that spark imaginations. It’s the easiest descent trail in the park, but you’ll want to take your time with little legs in tow.

• Bristlecone Loop Trail: This high-elevation loop offers shade and quiet, with ancient trees and far-reaching views.

Where to eat

• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon: Enjoy rustic dining just steps from the rim. Their trout and bison burger are local favorites.

• Valhalla Pizza: A casual spot for artisanal pizzas with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Pack up for a scenic four-hour drive to Moab, a desert town that blends outdoor adventure with vibrant local culture. Stop along Scenic Byway 12 and marvel at Grand Staircase-Escalante. If you time it right, you’ll arrive with plenty of time to stretch your legs with a short hike in Arches.

Moab is a town worth setting aside time to explore its many shops, cafes, and restaurants. We were able to find very eclectic and original souvenirs (think artwork, jewelry, and more!). Don’t sleep on Moab—it’s the perfect home base for your exploration of Arches National Park.

Family-friendly hikes

• Park Avenue Trail: This wide, dramatic trail feels like walking through a natural stone skyscraper corridor.

• Balanced Rock Loop: A short loop with an up-close view of one of the park’s most gravity-defying formations.

Where to eat

• Moab Diner: Retro interiors and hearty diner fare make this a family favorite. Try the milkshakes.

• Quesadilla Mobilla: Gourmet quesadillas from a food truck with flavor combos that delight both kids and adults.

Spend your full day exploring Arches, where kids can scramble on slickrock and stare in awe at gravity-defying formations. Begin early to avoid heat and crowds, and take it slow throughout the day. There are plenty of hikes to choose from, and while Delicate Arch Trail is one of the most popular hikes, we chose not to do that one with our young boys. Much of the trail is in the open with no breaks for shade. It’s also three miles round trip, which was a lot for them at that age. There are plenty of shorter hikes that I mention in this article, so we didn’t feel like we were missing out. And to be honest—all the arches start looking the same after a while! Choose the hikes that work for your family and you’ll get a taste of what Arches is all about.

Family-friendly hikes

• Windows Loop Trail: A relatively short loop with massive arches you can walk right through. Kids will feel like adventurers.

• Sand Dune Arch: Nestled between tall fins of rock, this shady, sandy arch is a natural playground.

Where to eat

• The Broken Oar: Rustic decor, delicious BBQ, and a kids’ menu make this a relaxed post-hike dinner spot.

• Love Muffin Café: A local go-to for breakfast burritos, baked goods, and smoothies. Go early—they sell out fast!

Today you’ll drive 3.5 hours north through Utah’s high desert and enter Salt Lake City, a surprisingly family-friendly capital with green spaces, cultural spots, and great food. Today is all about stretching out, relaxing, and enjoying a softer landing. Other than a quick exploration of the area surrounding your accommodations, I wouldn’t worry about fitting in too much sightseeing. Salt Lake City has a very walkable and compact downtown area, so it won’t be hard to see the highlights tomorrow. Rest up and prepare for your last day!

Family-friendly activities

• Tracy Aviary and Botanical Gardens: Meet birds from around the world in this peaceful oasis inside Liberty Park.

• Liberty Park: Rent a paddle boat, explore the playground, or have a picnic under the trees.

Where to eat

• The Dodo: A polished but casual neighborhood bistro with a menu everyone can love.

• Ruth’s Diner: Tucked into Emigration Canyon, this iconic diner offers homemade biscuits and mountain air.

Your final day is perfect for one last dose of science, storytelling, or stargazing. Visit a museum or let the kids play while you savor your last sips of Utah coffee. Take your pick from the following options depending on your family’s interests: check out the Hogle Zoo, explore the Natural History Museum of Utah, or spend time at Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. Additionally, you can enjoy the outdoors at Liberty Park and Tracy Aviary, or venture to attractions like Lagoon Amusement Park or Antelope Island for a unique experience.

Family-friendly activities

• Utah Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, earthquakes, and hands-on fun for all ages.

• Clark Planetarium: Explore space through immersive exhibits and engaging planetarium shows.

Where to eat

• Eva’s Bakery: A bright, blue Parisian-style bakery with divine pastries and a great kids’ breakfast.