Planning The Best Utah National Parks Road Trip
Picture this: towering red rocks, deep canyons, and arched landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. This is the magnificent scene that awaits you in Utah’s national parks. Home to five of the nation’s most stunning parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands—Utah is the ultimate destination for an RV road trip.
In this blog, we will outline the perfect itinerary for RVers hoping to embark on a national parks road trip. Let’s embark on the journey of a lifetime!
Day 1-3: Zion National Park
Arrival and Campground Setup
Your unforgettable journey begins at Zion National Park, the first of Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’. To fully appreciate the magic of Zion, plan to stay at least three days. The ideal campground for your RV stay is the Watchman Campground. Centrally located and offering full hookups, this RV-friendly site is perfect for setting up base.
Exploring the Park
Zion National Park is a paradise for hikers. Start with The Narrows, where you’ll hike in the Virgin River itself, surrounded by the park’s iconic towering cliffs. On day two, challenge yourself with the thrilling Angels Landing hike, offering panoramic views of Zion Canyon. Don’t forget to explore the Emerald Pools and Weeping Rock while you’re there.
Day 4-6: Bryce Canyon National Park
Transition and Campground Setup
A two-hour scenic drive from Zion will take you to Bryce Canyon National Park, renowned for its crimson-colored hoodoos. The North Campground, located in close proximity to the Bryce Amphitheater—a hotspot for gazing at these stunning rock formations—is your ideal RV base here.
Exploring the Park
Spend your first day exploring the Rim Trail, which offers magnificent views of the main amphitheater. For a closer look at the hoodoos, take the Navajo Loop Trail, where you can marvel at the park’s iconic Thor’s Hammer. Don’t forget the Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, and Sunset Point for some breathtaking sunsets.
Day 7-9: Capitol Reef National Park
Transition and Campground Setup
Your next destination is Capitol Reef National Park, a lesser-visited gem, approximately 2.5 hours from Bryce Canyon. Here, the Fruita Campground is your go-to RV spot, offering sites amidst orchards of historic Fruita district.
Exploring the Park
Start your exploration with a scenic drive through the Waterpocket Fold. On the following days, explore the Hickman Bridge Trail for an awe-inspiring view of a natural bridge, and the Rim Overlook Trail for an impressive view of the Fruita district. Don’t miss the opportunity to pick fresh fruit from the historic orchards!
Day 10-12: Arches National Park
Transition and Campground Setup
Your next stop, about 2 hours from Capitol Reef, is Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches. The Devils Garden Campground, located amidst these remarkable geological formations, is a perfect spot to park your RV.
Exploring the Park
Spend your first day driving the scenic park road and visiting major viewpoints and landmarks like Balanced Rock. On day two, hike to the iconic Delicate Arch. On your third day, challenge yourself with the Devils Garden Primitive Loop, where you’ll see a collection of arches like the Landscape Arch.
Day 13-15: Canyonlands National Park
Transition and Campground Setup
Lastly, a mere 30 minutes from Arches, you’ll find Canyonlands National Park. With distinct districts divided by the Green and Colorado Rivers, it’s a fitting finale to your Utah adventure. Here, Willow Flat Campground, located in the Island in the Sky district, makes for an idyllic RV campground.
Exploring the Park
On your first day, drive to the Grand View Point and revel in the panoramic vistas of the deep canyons and rugged landscapes. The second day calls for a trek to Mesa Arch, a pothole arch with an amazing backdrop. On your final day, take a four-wheel-drive on the White Rim Road or kayak through the Cataract Canyon, depending on your sense of adventure.
Road Trip Tips
Plan Ahead: RV camping sites in Utah’s national parks fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Be sure to make reservations as early as possible.
Pack Essentials: Remember to pack essential items like hiking gear, water, sunblock, and food supplies.
Respect the Environment: Follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles. Ensure to leave the parks as you found them for future generations.
Observe Safety Measures: Take necessary precautions while hiking. Always check weather conditions and trail closures before setting off on hikes.
Get a National Parks Pass: If you plan on doing a national parks road trip, consider investing in the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass. It offers unlimited entry to federal lands for a year.
Conclusion
Utah’s national parks offer an exceptional showcase of nature’s artistry. From the dramatic cliffs of Zion to the unique hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, from the hidden gem of Capitol Reef to the iconic arches and the rugged beauty of Canyonlands, every park offers something unique. Embarking on this Utah National Parks road trip in your RV is not just a vacation, but a journey into the heart of Mother Nature herself.
Pack your gear, rev up your RV rental, and get ready to immerse yourself in the unrivaled beauty of Utah’s national parks. You’re in for an adventure that promises unforgettable memories and spectacular sights that will take your breath away. Safe travels!