Three-Day Roadtrip Through Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks

Planning a roadtrip through Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks can be an overwhelming experience. The planning is worth it however, as you’ll experience an adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, rich geological history, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. From the red rock arches of Arches National Park to the dramatic cliffs of Zion, each park offers its own unique charm and wonders. So, fasten your seatbelt and prepare for an incredible exploration of these iconic natural treasures.

1. Arches National Park

Travel Time from Moab: 10 minutes

Start your day with breakfast at the iconic Moab Diner for a traditional diner experience, before journeying to the enchanting Arches National Park. We found ourselves surrounded by over 2,000 natural stone arches, each more mesmerizing than the last. The park is a paradise for hikers and photographers, offering iconic sites like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and the Windows Section. No matter what time of day you visit, Arches promises breathtaking views at every turn.

Must-Do Activities:

• Hike to Delicate Arch, one of the most famous landmarks in Utah.
• Explore the Devil’s Garden, home to the awe-inspiring Landscape Arch.
• Visit the Fiery Furnace, a labyrinth of narrow passages and towering rock fins.

Where to Eat:

• Enjoy breakfast at Moab Diner for a traditional diner experience
• Moab Garage Co is a great alternative for those looking for more of a trendy cafe vibe

2. Canyonlands National Park

Travel Time from Arches National Park: 35 minutes

A short drive from Arches brings you to the expansive Canyonlands National Park, a vast wilderness of canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River. The park is divided into four districts—Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves—each offering unique landscapes and experiences. After visiting Canyonland National Park, start driving to Capitol Reef National Park, where you’ll be staying overnight.

You’ll want to turn off at Green River to get lunch which is about halfway between the two parks. We recommend stopping at Tamarisk Restaurant, and while you’re in Green River, visit the John Wesley Powell River History Museum for a fascinating insight into the local history. It’s handily next door to Tamarisk.

Must-Do Activities:

• Stand in awe at the Island in the Sky viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic canyons below.
• Explore the colorful spires and needles in The Needles district.
• Take a scenic drive along the White Rim Road for an unforgettable adventure.
• Visit John Wesley Powell River History Museum in Green River

Where to Eat:

• Enjoy lunch by the river at Tamarisk Restaurant, Green River UT

3. Capitol Reef National Park

Travel Time from Canyonlands National Park: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Continuing our journey, we arrived at Capitol Reef National Park, specifically, Capitol Reef Resort, late in the afternoon. The resort is a hidden gem in the heart of red rock country with an onsite swimming pool, and a variety of accommodation options to choose from. The park itself is known for the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geologic monocline, Capitol Reef offers striking contrasts of rugged cliffs, lush fruit orchards, and ancient petroglyphs. We recommend arriving at the resort late in the afternoon, relaxing by the pool and around the resort for the remainder of the day, before exploring the national park properly the following morning.

Must-Do Activities:

• Drive the scenic Capitol Reef Loop, where towering cliffs and colorful canyons await.
• Hike to the Hickman Bridge, a stunning natural arch.
• Explore the historic Fruita district, where you can pick fruit in season and learn about the area’s pioneer history.

Where to Stay:

Stop overnight at Capitol Reef Resort, where you can choose between staying in the luxurious surroundings of a two-bedroom cabin, or choose the glamping option of staying in a traditional Tee-Pee or Conestoga Wagon. With an onsite restaurant, free wifi, an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, and majestic surroundings, you cannot go wrong with this resort.

4. Bryce Canyon National Park

Travel Time from Capitol Reef National Park: 2 hours, 30 minutes

The following morning you’ll want to set-off for Bryce Canyon National Park, one of Utah’s most famous parks. It is renowned for its unique hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that create a surreal landscape. The park’s amphitheaters are especially magical at sunrise and sunset when the light dances on the pink and orange formations. Pick up light bites or lunch items from a cafe or grocery store enroute and take your picnic into the park to enjoy a lunch surrounded by the magical scenery before hiking the famous trails.

Check in at The Lodge before enjoying dinner at Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill Dinner Show, an unmissable restaurant for true Americana. The restaurant features a fixed-price with hearty American dinners, a live show with country music and cowboy demonstrations. If a more authentic dining experience is more suitable for your tastes, dine at Showdowns Restaurant instead.

Must-Do Activities:

• Walk along the Rim Trail for stunning views of Bryce Amphitheater.
• Hike the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop for an up-close experience with the hoodoos.
• Attend a ranger-led night sky program to marvel at the Milky Way in one of the darkest skies in the U.S.

Where to Stay:

Stay overnight at The Lodge at Bryce Canyon. It’s the only accommodation within the National Park and offers unparalled proximity to the ampitheater. There are no frills at The Lodge (specifically, no televisions or air conditioning!) but with comfortable accommodations in a unique setting, this hotel is all about the location!

5. Zion National Park

Travel Time from Bryce Canyon National Park: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Rise and shine! It’s time to get in your car and drive to our final destination: Zion National Park. Zion is captivating with its majestic sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and narrow canyons. As Utah’s first national park, Zion has long been a favorite for adventurers and nature lovers alike and was one of our favourites of the roadtrip. It is truly awe-inspiring standing within the canyon.

Must-Do Activities:

• Hike the iconic Angel’s Landing for breathtaking views of Zion Canyon.
• Explore The Narrows, a hike through the Virgin River with towering canyon walls on either side.
• Take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and soak in the majestic beauty of the park.

Where to Eat:

• There are only two dining options in Zion: Red Rock Grill, and Castle Dome Cafe.

An Epic Adventure in Utah’s Mighty Five

Exploring Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks is an unforgettable journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the United States. From the towering arches of Arches to the serene beauty of Zion, each park offers a unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, stargazing, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, the Mighty Five provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the grandeur of Utah’s incredible national parks.