Utah Arizona road trip itinerary: The perfect route for 2 or 3 weeks

Looking for the perfect Utah Arizona road trip itinerary? Discover the best route, top stops, and tips for an unforgettable 2 or 3-week adventure!

Why you should go on a Utah Arizona road trip

If you love stunning landscapes, extraordinary hikes, and iconic road trips, then a Utah and Arizona road trip is perfect for you. I discovered my passion for hiking in these two states during my first tour of the American West, and ever since, my favorite travels have always included a few solid hikes. But even if hiking isn’t your thing, there’s still so much to explore in this spectacular corner of the Southwest.

Enjoying Utah & Arizona

Utah holds a special place in my heart. Its red rock formations, deep canyons, and surreal landscapes never fail to amaze me. It’s one of my favorite states in the U.S., and I keep finding reasons to return, time and time again.

Arizona is just as captivating. In 2022, I hiked the Arizona Trail, a 800 mile trek (1,300 kilometers) that crosses the entire state. From the Sonoran Desert with its towering saguaro cacti to the vast high plains surrounding the Grand Canyon, Arizona continues to fascinate and inspire me with its diversity and natural beauty.

Start your tour in Las Vegas

This road trip begins and ends in Las Vegas. I can hear you thinking: isn’t Las Vegas in Nevada? Yes, it is! But for a road trip through Arizona and Utah, it’s the perfect starting point. Thanks to its large international airport, Las Vegas is very accessible (there are even direct flights from Amsterdam), and it practically borders Arizona while being close to southwestern Utah.

Las Vegas may not be the most laid-back destination, but I find it ideal. There are plenty of comfortable hotels, everything is within easy reach, and if you plan well, it’s surprisingly affordable. Plus, the city’s bright lights and energy make for a striking contrast with the serene nature you’ll enjoy for the rest of your trip.

Ready to discover what makes this road trip so special? Below, I share my ultimate itinerary!

Utah Arizona road trip itinerary: The perfect route for 2 weeks

Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of your two-week adventure:

Day 1: Arrival in Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world! Use this day to acclimate after your flight. Stroll along the iconic Las Vegas Strip, marvel at the themed hotels, dine in one of the city’s excellent restaurants, or catch the magnificent fountain show at the Bellagio.

• Where to stay: Hotel New York New York (4⭐) – one of the most fun themed hotels in Las Vegas. Outside, you’ll find a replica of the Statue of Liberty, and you’ll sleep in a “skyscraper” with a fantastic city vibe.

Day 2: From Las Vegas to Zion National Park

• Distance: 160 miles
• Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Note: Today, you’ll be driving from Nevada to Utah and crossing a time zone. It’s 1 hour later in Utah, so your day will feel an hour shorter.

Thanks to jet lag, you’ll probably be awake early. This makes it the perfect time to leave the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas behind and head toward Zion National Park in Utah. If you’re up for it, there are some fantastic stops along the way to make the drive even more enjoyable.

Valley of Fire State Park (additional travel time: +/- 1 hour)

Located about an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, this park is famous for its bright red sandstone formations that seem to glow in the sunlight. Take a short hike to the Fire Wave or Elephant Rock, enjoy the scenic drive through the park, or simply soak in the stunning views. It’s a perfect first taste of the incredible red landscapes you’ll be exploring over the coming weeks.

Good to know: Valley of Fire is a state park, and admission costs $10 per car (including all passengers).

Ghost town Grafton (additional travel time: +/- 30 minutes)

I’ve been to Zion twice, and both times I made a point of visiting this unique ghost town. You can reach Grafton via a turnoff in Rockville, a small village right next to Springdale, where the entrance to Zion is located.

Grafton was once inhabited by Mormon pioneers and now stands as an abandoned ghost town. A few weathered buildings remain, and with the stunning red rocks of Utah as a backdrop, it’s an incredibly photogenic spot. It’s perfect for a short stop to stretch your legs and capture some atmospheric photos.

After arriving in Springdale, check into your accommodation. If you still have time to spare, it’s a great idea to head into Zion National Park for a first short hike. The Pa’rus Trail is an easy, scenic walk along the Virgin River, while the Watchman Trail offers a slightly more challenging climb with beautiful views of the surrounding red rocks.

Savings tip: Buy an America the Beautiful annual pass at the Zion entrance. It costs $80 (US residents) or $250 (non-US residents) and gives you access to all national parks in the United States for a full year. Perfect if you’re planning to visit multiple parks on this trip!

• Hotel tip: Flanigan`s Resort and Spa in Springdale (3⭐) – A beautiful, small-scale hotel made up of several buildings surrounded by a landscaped garden with a pool and jacuzzi. The best part? You don’t even need the shuttle bus to get to Zion; the park entrance is within walking distance.
• Camping tip: Watchman Campground

Day 3: Zion National Park

Zion is a true hiker’s paradise, and I say that from experience. I’ve visited this park twice now, primarily because there are so many incredible hiking trails to explore. With iconic hikes like Angels Landing (note: you must apply for a permit in advance), Observation Point, the trails to the Emerald Pools, and the unforgettable Narrows, Zion has easily become one of my favorite national parks in America.

Even if you’re not much of a hiker, you can still fully enjoy this park. Hop on the shuttle bus that runs through Zion Canyon and get off at different stops to soak in the stunning scenery. The views at spots like Big Bend and Court of the Patriarchs are absolutely worth it.

Day 4: From Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park

• Distance: 90 miles
• Travel time: 2 hours

From Zion, it’s just a short and scenic drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, one of the most unique and stunning parks in America. Bryce is compact and easy to navigate, which means you can see a lot in just an afternoon and evening – unless, of course, you plan to tackle some of the longer hikes.

One hike I can absolutely recommend is the combination of the Queens Garden Trail and the Navajo Loop Trail. This route takes you down into the canyon and right between the park’s famous hoodoos – the tall, thin rock spires that Bryce Canyon is known for. It’s the perfect way to experience the park’s incredible rock formations up close.

In addition, the Scenic Drive is a must. Follow it all the way to Rainbow Point, the highest point in the park, and take your time stopping at the many viewpoints along the way. Favorites include Bryce Point and Inspiration Point, both offering breathtaking panoramic views.

End your day at Sunset Point, where the setting sun turns the hoodoos and canyon walls into vibrant shades of deep red and orange. It’s an unforgettable sight!

• Hotel tip: Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel (3⭐) – Conveniently located just a 9-minute drive from Sunrise Point. The hotel is beautifully decorated and features an outdoor pool to relax after a day of exploring.
• Camping tip: North Campground – A scenic camping option right inside Bryce Canyon National Park, perfect for an early start the next day.
• Read more: Bryce Canyon tips: the best viewpoints & fun hikes

Day 5: Bryce Canyon to Page (Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon)

• Distance: 150 miles
• Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours

After breakfast, it’s time to hit the road toward Page, Arizona. Along the way, you can stop in the town of Kanab, also known as “Little Hollywood” due to the many movies filmed here. If you feel like stretching your legs, the Toadstool Hoodoos are a great option. This short and easy hike takes you to unusual rock formations that look like giant mushrooms – a perfect photo stop.

Once you arrive in Page, you’ll find plenty of stunning natural highlights.

• Horseshoe Bend: This is an absolute must-see. It’s a short hike to the viewpoint, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of the Colorado River curving in a perfect horseshoe shape.
• Lake Powell: On hot days, there’s nothing better than cooling off in Lake Powell. You can take a boat ride to explore the lake’s canyons or simply relax with a swim in the clear, cool water.
• Antelope Canyon: Perhaps the most famous sight in Page is Antelope Canyon, a breathtaking red slot canyon. Since entry is only possible with a guide, make sure to book your tour well in advance.
  • Upper Antelope Canyon is known for its magical beams of light that stream through the narrow openings.
  • Lower Antelope Canyon is quieter and more adventurous, with ladders and climbing involved.

• Hotel tip: Lake Powell Resort (3⭐) – Located in Wahweap with beautiful views of Lake Powell. The resort has an outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
• Camping tip: Wahweap RV & Campground – Also located near Lake Powell. I camped here once and saw the Milky Way at night – an absolutely spectacular experience!
• Read more: 17 Amazing Things to do in Page AZ

Day 6: From Page to Monument Valley

• Distance: 125 miles
• Travel time: 2.5 hours

The drive from Page to Monument Valley is an experience in itself. I vividly remember watching the landscape slowly transform into a scene straight out of a classic Western movie. The endless plains, deep red-orange hues, and towering rock formations make this one of the most extraordinary landscapes in the American Southwest.

As a fan of the movie Forrest Gump, it was extra special for me to stop at mile marker 13. This is the iconic spot where Forrest famously stops running, with the striking silhouettes of Monument Valley as a backdrop. Don’t forget your camera – this is one of the most photogenic spots on the entire route!

Once in Monument Valley, you can explore the famous 17-mile scenic drive. This unpaved route takes you past some of the most impressive rock formations, including the Mittens and Merrick Butte. If you want an even more unique experience, consider booking a tour with a Navajo guide. They can take you to areas that are otherwise inaccessible while sharing stories about the land and its cultural significance.

• Hotel tip: Goulding’s Lodge – A special accommodation offering rooms, suites, apartments, and villas in a stunning location. There’s also a small museum on the grounds, perfect for history enthusiasts.
• Camping tip: Arrowhead Campground – A small, peaceful campground with beautiful views of the surrounding red rocks. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy Monument Valley’s breathtaking sunsets and starry skies.
• Read more: Monument Valley tips: discover the Wild West!

Day 7: From Monument Valley to Grand Canyon (South Rim)

• Distance: 180 miles
• Travel time: 3.5 hours

Note: Between March and November, you’ll pass through a time zone when traveling from Monument Valley to the Grand Canyon. You’ll gain an hour because Arizona does not observe daylight saving time. In winter (November–March), there is no time difference.

The drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is long but incredibly scenic. Along the way, consider stopping at the Dinosaur Tracks near Tuba City. Here, you’ll find fascinating, well-preserved dinosaur footprints in the desert rock – a unique sight for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

You’ll enter Grand Canyon National Park via the Desert View Drive, a route that offers some of the most breathtaking views of the canyon. Be sure to stop at:

• Grandview Point: Another incredible viewpoint where you can admire the vastness and grandeur of this natural wonder.
• Desert View Watchtower: An iconic stone tower with sweeping views of the canyon and the Colorado River.
• Moran Point: A fantastic spot for panoramic photos of the canyon’s layered colors.

• Hotel tip: Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection in Tusayan (4⭐) – A beautifully designed hotel in Tusayan, just outside the park entrance. It has multiple pools and a design that fits perfectly with the Grand Canyon atmosphere.
• Camping tip: Mather Campground – Located inside Grand Canyon National Park, offering a great base for exploring the South Rim.
• Read more: Visiting the Grand Canyon: practical tips & the best things to do

Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park

I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Grand Canyon twice, and both times I had tears in my eyes when I saw it. It’s hard to describe just how overwhelming and majestic this natural wonder is. During my last visit, I even spent a night at the bottom of the canyon—an experience I’ll never forget. But even if you stay on the rim, there’s more than enough to fill a full day in this iconic national park.

Explore the park by shuttle bus to make the most of your day. The buses can take you all the way to Hermit’s Rest, a quieter and less crowded part of the South Rim. Along the way, there are plenty of stops to admire the canyon from different viewpoints.

Walking part of the Rim Trail is also highly recommended. The Grand Canyon looks completely different from every vantage point, so take your time to enjoy the views. Some of the best viewpoints include Mohave Point, Hopi Point, and Mather Point.

For hiking enthusiasts, the Grand Canyon offers dozens of incredible trails to explore. If you’re looking for a special and more adventurous experience, challenge yourself to descend a bit into the canyon. Two great options are the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail.

My tip: Walk the South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point. It’s not a very long hike, but the view is spectacular, and standing there, surrounded by the vastness of the canyon, will make you feel wonderfully small. Just keep in mind that the return trip takes at least twice as long as the descent, so plan your time carefully and bring plenty of water.

Day 9: From Grand Canyon to Sedona

• Distance: 110 miles
• Travel time: 2.5 hours

It’s time for your next wonderful destination: Sedona, a charming town surrounded by spectacular red rock formations. The drive to Sedona isn’t too long, which gives you time to make a few enjoyable stops along the way.

A highly recommended stop is the university town of Flagstaff, known for its cozy historic center. Here, you’ll find plenty of great restaurants, cafés, and local shops to explore. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs, grab a nice lunch, or simply wander around and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re traveling on a hot day, consider stopping at Slide Rock State Park, just outside Sedona. Here, you can swim and slide down natural rock water slides in the river – a unique and refreshing experience that’s perfect for cooling off!

Once you arrive in Sedona, you can already enjoy a short hike, such as the trail to the iconic Cathedral Rock. This photogenic spot is especially magical around sunset, when the red rocks glow in the golden light, creating an unforgettable view.

• Hotel tip: El Portal Sedona Hotel (4⭐) – A beautiful and unique boutique hotel set among the red rocks.
• Camping tip: Manzanita Campground – A scenic spot surrounded by nature, located just a 10-minute drive from Sedona.

Day 10: Sedona

Sedona is one of the most beautiful places in Arizona, surrounded by striking red rock formations that seem to glow in the sunlight. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and hikers alike.

One of the most popular hikes is the Devil’s Bridge Trail, where you’ll climb to a stunning, 15-meter-high natural rock bridge. The views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. If you’re looking for other options, the Bell Rock Trail and the Boynton Canyon Trail are equally rewarding, offering gorgeous views and unique desert scenery.

Prefer not to hike? Explore Sedona’s cozy downtown, with its charming boutiques, inviting cafés, and art galleries filled with local craftsmanship. Alternatively, take an adventurous jeep tour through the rugged landscape surrounding the city for a fun and thrilling way to experience Sedona’s natural beauty.

Day 11: From Sedona to Las Vegas

• Distance: 280 miles
• Travel time: 4.5 to 5 hours

Today, you’ll drive back to Las Vegas. It’s a long journey, but there are plenty of interesting stops along the way to break up the drive and make it more enjoyable.

If you want to experience a piece of classic Americana, consider following part of Historic Route 66. Stop in Williams, a charming town with nostalgic diners and old-school motels that perfectly capture the spirit of this legendary road. Another great stop is Seligman, often called the “birthplace of Route 66,” where you’ll find quirky shops, vintage cars, and colorful murals.

As you get closer to Las Vegas, take time to visit the impressive Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel that straddles the border between Arizona and Nevada. Walk across the dam for sweeping views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River – it’s a fascinating place to stretch your legs after the drive.

Once back in Las Vegas, spend your final evening exploring the Strip, catching a show, or simply relaxing after your unforgettable road trip.

Day 12 & 13: Las Vegas

Finish your road trip with two full days in Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps. Stroll along the Strip and explore its famous themed hotels, such as the elegant Bellagio, the romantic Venetian, or the playful New York-New York with its miniature skyline.

In the evening, treat yourself to a spectacular show – whether it’s Cirque du Soleil, a magic performance, or a music act, there’s something for everyone. For a taste of old-school Vegas, head to Fremont Street, where the neon lights and vintage charm create a unique atmosphere.

Looking to shop? Visit one of the city’s popular outlet malls for great deals. If you’re curious about Las Vegas’s history and its iconic neon signs, I highly recommend a visit to the Neon Museum. Here, you can learn about the origins of the city and see the fascinating old signs from casinos and hotels that helped shape the Vegas skyline.

• Read more: What to do in Las Vegas besides gambling? 25 tips!

Haven’t had enough of nature yet? Just a 30-minute drive from the city, you’ll find Red Rock Canyon, a stunning natural escape from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. Drive the scenic loop to admire the vibrant red rock formations or take a short hike to explore the landscape up close. It’s a beautiful, peaceful contrast to the bright neon lights of the Strip!

Day 14: It’s time to leave…

It’s time to say goodbye to the Southwest. After days of exploring breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and unforgettable sights, your journey comes to an end. One thing’s for sure: this road trip will stay with you for a long time to come!

Map: 2-week Utah Arizona road trip itinerary

To give you a clear idea of the journey, here’s the full route mapped out.

This is an image. Click here to zoom in.

3-week Utah Arizona road trip itinerary

You can, of course, stay longer in any of the destinations to explore them more thoroughly. But if you’re looking to add new places to your journey, I recommend including a few extra stops in Utah. That way, you’ll have the chance to visit all five of Utah’s incredible national parks, also known as the Mighty Five.

Here’s the itinerary for a 3-week Utah Arizona road trip:

• Day 1: Arrival in Las Vegas
• Day 2: From Las Vegas to Zion National Park
• Day 3: Zion National Park
• Day 4: From Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 5: From Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park

• Distance: 120 miles
• Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours

Spend your morning soaking up the beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park before hitting the road. You could take a short hike along the Rim Trail or revisit a few stunning viewpoints like Sunrise Point or Inspiration Point, where the morning light illuminates the hoodoos in vibrant orange and red hues.

When you’re ready, begin your drive toward Capitol Reef National Park. While there are a few routes you can take, I highly recommend following Scenic Byway 12 – one of the most beautiful roads in America. This drive is a highlight in itself, winding through dramatic landscapes, including the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Along the way there are plenty of places to stop, such as the quaint Kiva Koffeehouse for a cup of coffee with great views.

Once you arrive at Capitol Reef, head to the charming Fruita District, where you’ll find orchards, historic buildings, and the park’s visitor center. It’s the perfect place to start exploring.

• Hotel tip: Austin’s Chuckwagon Motel in Torrey – The place to stay if you want to sleep in a real American (western-style) motel. It’s charming, cozy, and perfectly fits the vibe of this region.
• Camping tip: Fruita campground – Perhaps the most beautiful place I have ever camped with my little tent. Set among orchards with stunning canyon views, it’s a peaceful and unforgettable experience.

Day 6: Capitol Reef National Park

Today is the perfect day to explore Capitol Reef National Park in more depth. Start with the Scenic Drive, a 12 km (7.5-mile) route that takes you deeper into the park’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, stop at beautiful spots like Capitol Gorge and Grand Wash, where you can hike through narrow, dramatic gorges surrounded by towering canyon walls.

Here are a few great hiking options to choose from:

• Hickman Bridge Trail: An easy 3 km (1.8-mile) round-trip hike to an impressive natural rock bridge. The views of the canyon along the way are just as rewarding as the bridge itself.
• Capitol Gorge Trail: A flat, 4 km (2.5-mile) trail that takes you through a narrow gorge. Along the way, you’ll find fascinating petroglyphs carved into the rock walls and a “pothole” filled with water at the end.
• Cassidy Arch Trail: A more challenging 5.5 km (3.4-mile) hike that rewards you with a spectacular view of Cassidy Arch, a natural rock formation you can admire from above.

After your hikes, head back to Fruita, where you can relax and enjoy the historic orchards. Depending on the season, you might even be able to snack on freshly picked fruit! For a gentle finish to your day, take the short Fremont River Trail. This scenic walk leads to a viewpoint where you can admire Capitol Reef’s rugged beauty one last time.u will have a beautiful view of the green valley and the red rock formations around it.

Take your time to admire the unique rock formations, gorges and views. Capitol Reef is less crowded than other parks and therefore you really have a very different experience.

Day 7: From Capitol Reef to Moab (Arches & Canyonlands)

• Distance: 140 miles
• Travel time: 3 hours

Today you head to Moab, the gateway to two incredible parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Along the way, make a stop at Goblin Valley State Park, a unique area filled with rock formations that resemble gnomes. A short hike here is perfect for stretching your legs and snapping a few special photos.

Once in Moab, get a first impression of Arches National Park. Drive part of the Scenic Drive and take a short hike to iconic spots like Balanced Rock or the Windows Section, where you’ll find impressive arches such as Double Arch. It’s a great way to ease into the park without feeling rushed.

• Hotel Tip: Moab Springs Ranch (3⭐) – Located just outside of town (and even closer to Arches and Canyonlands), this charming hotel features beautiful wooden cottages. Cool off in the lovely pool set in the peaceful garden.
• Camping tip: Up the Creek Campground – A convenient campground right in the heart of Moab.

Day 8: Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky District)

Spend the day exploring the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, just a 40-minute drive from Moab. Start with a visit to Mesa Arch, a short and easy hike leading to an impressive arch that perfectly frames the canyon below – especially beautiful in the morning light.

Afterward, continue driving to some of the park’s most breathtaking viewpoints. Don’t miss:

• Grand View Point Overlook – Panoramic views that stretch endlessly across the canyons.Green River Overlook – A stunning spot to see where the Green River winds through the dramatic landscape.

• Read more: 17 Fun things to do in Canyonlands National Park & practical tips

If you still have time to spare, you can also hit Dead Horse Point State Park on the way back. Here you have wonderful views of the canyons.

Day 9: Arches National Park

Today, you’ll spend the entire day in Arches National Park, a stunning landscape filled with more than 2,000 natural arches, impressive rock formations, and breathtaking views. Start early to beat the crowds and the midday heat. Here are the most beautiful sights and must-do activities:

• Delicate Arch: This iconic arch is the symbol of Utah. The hike to reach it (about 5 km / 3 miles round trip) is moderately challenging but absolutely worth the effort. Try to tackle this trail early in the day to avoid the heat and enjoy the view in peace.
• Landscape Arch: The longest natural arch in the world, stretching an impressive 88 meters (290 feet). The hike to this arch is fairly easy (3 km / 1.8 miles round trip) and takes you through the fascinating Devil’s Garden area. If you’re up for a more challenging adventure, continue to Double O Arch. This extension rewards you with quieter trails, superb views, and more dramatic rock formations.
• Scenic Drive and short stops: Between hikes, enjoy quick stops at the easily accessible viewpoints along the Scenic Drive. Highlights include Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers, both offering stunning photo opportunities without much effort.

• Read more: Visiting Arches National Park: a must-see in Utah

Remember to bring plenty of food and water, as there are few facilities in the park.

Day 10: From Moab to Monument Valley

• Distance: 155 miles
• Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours

The drive from Moab to Monument Valley is absolutely stunning, with vast desert landscapes and unique rock formations along the way. Take your time and stop at a few interesting sights to break up the journey:

• Wilson Arch: A massive natural arch located right alongside the road, making it perfect for a quick photo stop or a short walk.
• Sand Island Petroglyphs: Just outside the town of Bluff, this historic site features hundreds of ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock walls – a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history.
• Mexican Hat Rock: An unusual rock formation that looks like a sombrero balanced on a pedestal. It’s a quick detour and makes for a fun photo opportunity.

As you get closer to Monument Valley, the landscape starts to transform into the iconic setting of Western movies, with towering buttes rising from the desert floor. Once you arrive, settle in and prepare to explore this legendary location.

From here you will continue to travel to Page, as in the description of the two-week itinerary.

• Day 11: Monument Valley
• Day 12: From Monument Valley to Page
• Day 13: Page (rest day)
• Day 14: From Page to Grand Canyon (South Rim)
• Day 15: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 16: From Grand Canyon to Sedona
• Day 17: Sedona
• Day 18: From Sedona to Las Vegas (via Route 66 and Hoover Dam)
• Day 19 & 20: Las Vegas
• Day 21: Return home from Las Vegas

3-week Utah Arizona road trip itinerary map

This is what the full route of the 3-week Utah and Arizona road trip looks like on the map.

This is an image, click here if you want to zoom in and out.

Practical tips for your road trip in Utah and Arizona

Finally, a few practical tips to help make your road trip unforgettable!

• Best travel time: Spring and fall (April-May or September-October) are ideal for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds in the national parks.
• America the Beautiful Pass: Buy this annual pass for $80 (US Residents, non residents pay $250) – it will save you a lot of money if you’re visiting multiple national parks during your trip. If you don’t have the annual pass as a non-resident, you have to add an extra fee of $100 per person per day for some parks (like Zion and Grand Canyon).
• Travel: A rental car or RV is perfect for this route. A 4×4 is not required but can be useful for dirt roads, such as in Monument Valley.
• Accommodations: Book your hotels or campgrounds well in advance, especially in popular parks like Zion and the Grand Canyon.
• Water and snacks: Always carry plenty of water and snacks, especially on hikes. Facilities in some parks are limited, so it’s best to be prepared.
• Packing list: Bring layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun. At higher elevations, like Bryce Canyon, it can get quite chilly at night.

With these tips, you’ll be well prepared for an unforgettable adventure through Utah and Arizona!

Book your trip to Utah & Arizona

Here are some practical resources for your Utah and Arizona road trip.

✈️ Flights – To start your road trip, fly into Las Vegas. This city is well connected and makes an excellent starting point for exploring the Utah and Arizona. Use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals.

🚘 Rental car or RV – The best way to experience the stunning national parks in Utah and Arizona is with a rental car or RV. Compare options on Discover Cars for the best car deals.

💊 Travel insurance – Good travel insurance is essential for peace of mind on your adventure. Whether you’re hiking in remote areas or driving long distances, it’s better to be prepared. Use Insubuy to find the coverage that suits your needs.

🧗🏼 Tours and activities – Enhance your trip with exciting tours and activities. From ATV rides in the desert to guided hikes or horseback riding, there’s no shortage of adventures in Utah and Arizona. Explore all the options on Get Your Guide.

Read more about Utah & Arizona

Want to make the most of your trip through Utah and Arizona? These travel guides are packed with tips and inspiration for an unforgettable road trip in the rugged American West:

Moon Arizona & the Grand Canyon

Fodor’s Utah: with Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Parks

I’ve been lucky enough to explore the United States eight times, with most of my trips focused on the beautiful and rugged West. You’ll find tons of helpful tips and information on my website to plan your own adventure.

Check out these articles for even more inspiration:

• 5 gorgeous National Parks in Utah: tips for the “Mighty Five”
• Las Vegas to San Francisco drive: a brilliant road trip
• The 15 most beautiful places in Nevada: discover the Silver State

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