How To Fit All Of Utah's National Parks Into One Incredible Road Trip
By Hillary Louise Johnson
VACATIONS
Days 1-3: Zion
Zion National Park is within close driving distance of Las Vegas, and you can easily spend two days exploring through the famous Narrows and Angel's Landing.
Day three takes you away from crowds to Zion's other entrance at Kolob Canyons. Options range from introductory half-days to trips that'll have you rappelling down red rock walls.
Day 4: Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon National Park is home to thousands of hoodoos — spire-like geological formations formed out of soft rock walls by rainwater.
Take the Navajo Loop, which starts at Sunset Point and loops down into the Amphitheater for 1.4 miles. Leave enough daylight to enjoy the 122-mile drive along Scenic Byway 12.
Day 5: Capitol Reef
Many call Capitol Reef National Park "the mightiest of all." Head to the Fruita Rural Historic District, a lush valley with fruit trees and sandstone cliffs.
The campground here is a veritable oasis. Plan your visit for springtime, when the fruit trees have blossomed, and be prepared to swoon at the loveliness of this rural scene.