What you need to know before visiting Vail in Summer

• Temperatures: Average Highs are mid-70s, and lows are in the 40s at night. Dress in layers.
• Elevation: Vail sits at 8,150 feet elevation. Give yourself time to adjust before strenuous activities.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps with elevation and altitude sickness. We carry our Lightweight Hydro Flasks on all our trips.
• Public Transportation: Once you’re in Vail, there is a free bus service and many trails to take you through town.
• Dinner Reservations: Making reservations are always a good idea since restaurants can get very busy.

More Things to Do in Vail in the Summer

• ATV Tours
• Horseback Riding
• Off-Road Jeep Adventures
• Outdoor Concerts
• Spice Rub Class at Four Seasons
• Vail Farmers Market – Sundays from 6/18-10/8/2023
• Vail Nature Center

Map of the Best Things to Do in Vail in Summer

Seasonal Events / Summer Events in Vail

• GoPro Mountain Games (June)
• Vail Arts Festival (June)
• Vail Craft Beer Classic (June)
• Farmer’s Market & Art Show (June to October)
• Bravo! Vail Music Festival (June to August)
• Hot Summer Nights (June to September)
• Vail America Days Celebration & Parade (July 4th)
• Vail Jazz Festival (July to September)
• Dance Festival (July to August)
• Vail Wine Classic (August)
• Kids Adventure Games (August)

Getting to and Around Vail

Flying

Most people fly into Denver (DEN) and make the roughly 2-hour drive to Vail. You can also fly into Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), which has more limited flights (see details here). If you fly into EGE, it’s only 30 miles from Vail, and full-service transportation options are available.

Driving

• From the East, you can access Vail via Interstate 70 through Denver. Vail is less than 100 miles away from Denver.
• From the West, take 1-70 eastbound through Grand Junction and Glenwood Springs. Vail is a 50-minute drive from Glenwood Springs.
• If you’re coming from the South, you have multiple options. Take 1-25 north to Denver, then go west on 1-70. OR you can also take Highway 522 to Highway 17 for a more scenic route.
• From the North, take 1-25 south to Denver, then 1-70 west.

Getting Around in Vail

Once you arrive in Vail, you can get free daytime parking in Vail Village and Lionshead Village. If you are driving an RV or Trailer, there is parking for oversized vehicles on N. Frontage Road in West Vail for $35 per 24 hours (max five days).

There is also discounted Satellite Parking with bus service from 7 AM to 11 PM at Red Sandstone Park and North Frontage Road (across from the West Vail Mall).

A free bus makes multiple stops in town. We stayed in West Vail near Lionshead Village and walked to Vail Village along the Gore Creek Path each evening.

Best Places to Eat in Vail Colorado

We cross-referenced reviews and friends’ recommendations to share the best places to eat in Vail, Colorado.

Places We Tried or Spots Recommended by Locals

• Alpenrose (, German) – Owned by the Thoma Family, who came here from Germany. We grabbed an early dinner here and enjoyed the Caesar Salad. We also tried the mini beers (it’s actually a shooter with whipped cream on top). Our friend mentioned the Käsespätzle is amazing here.
• Annapurna Nepali and Indian Cuisine (, Indian/Nepalese) – We were craving rice for lunch, which hit the spot. We ordered basic dishes like Masala, Vindaloo, and Garlic Naan.
• Barrio Social (, Tapas Bar) – Newest restaurant in Vail featuring Spanish and Portuguese wines, tapas, and plancha dishes. Our faves were the Razor Clams and Charcuterie Board.
• Deca + Bol (, New American) – We enjoyed the Roasted Cauliflower, Elotes, and BBQ Chicken Flatbread. You can also go bowling after!
• La Nonna (, Italian) – La Nonna is Rachel, our Paragon Guide’s fave spot. She is a pescatarian, and so is the chef, giving plenty of delicious options for those with dietary restrictions. It was only open for dinner, and we only had time for lunch, so we didn’t get to try it.

More Places to Check Out

• 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits (, Distilleries) – local distillery
• El Segundo (, Mexican)
• The Fitz (, American)
• Flame Restaurant (, Breakfast & Brunch)
• The George Restaurant & Pub (, American)
• Leonora (, Tapas Bars)
• The Little Diner (, Diners)
• Ludwigs (, Breakfast & Brunch)
• Mountain Standard (, New American)
• Rimini Gelato (, Ice Cream)
• Root & Flower (, Wine Bar)
• Slope Room (, New American)
• Swiss Chalet (, German)
• Sweet Basil (, New American)
• Up the Creek (, American)
• Vail Brewing Co (, Breweries)
• Vintage (, Breakfast & Brunch)

Local Tip: It’s always wise to make reservations since restaurants can get busy during dinner. Also, some spots are open for dinner only.

Where to Stay in Vail

We stayed at The Antlers at Vail, a condominium hotel in Lionshead Village. These spaces had a full kitchen and plenty of room to spread out. It is perfect for a workcation or digital nomads like us, especially if you want extended stays. It feels more homey, but you still get hotel amenities like daily housekeeping, a year-round outdoor pool, hot tubs, saunas, a fitness room, and a business center. See a complete list of complimentary amenities here.

Essential Tips

• Ditch the car. Once you arrive in Vail, use the trails or free bus system to get around.
• Give yourself time to adjust. The elevation is higher than most of us are used to. It’s best to give yourself a day before doing any strenuous activities.
• Pack layers. It’s warm during the day but cool at night. The best is to have a lightweight jacket.
• Bring a daypack for your extra layers and any other items you need.
• Stay hydrated! We always bring a water bottle with us. Your body loses water twice as fast through breathing at high elevation than at sea level. See our best travel water bottle post.
• Apply and reapply sunblock. The sun feels intense at this elevation.
• Bring bug spray! There were a lot of mosquitos, so we had bug spray and wipes with us. We got a bunch of mosquito bites and wished we had packed our Bug Bite Thing too.
• For more info and resources, visit Discover Vail’s website here.

More Resources

• Colorado Travel Guide
• Best Vail Valley Hikes
• Easy Day Hikes in Vail
• Best Summit Hikes Denver to Vail

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What to Know Before You Go

Is the Badlands worth seeing?

Contrary to its name, the Badlands are beautiful! The area was originally named mako sica or bad lands by the Lakota people because of its rocky terrain, extreme temperatures, and lack of water. Today, it’s a great place to recreate, take in the landscape, and see wildlife.

What is the Badlands best known for?

Seventy-five million years ago, Badlands National Park looked very different. It was a shallow sea instead of the rock formations you see today. The sea eventually dried up, leaving behind one of the world’s richest fossil beds. It is also home to many species today, including bison and prairie dogs.

Badlands was featured in a bunch of movies from the 90s like Armageddon, Starship Troopers, Dances with Wolves, and more recently, Nomadland. Have you seen all of these? If you love visiting filming locations, it’s another reason to visit.

What is the best time of year to visit the Badlands?

Early Fall (September) is the best time to visit Badlands National Park since the temperatures are cool and mild, and summer crowds have dissipated.

Can you drive through the Badlands at night?

The Badlands Loop Road is open to vehicles 24 hours a day. Just drive carefully, and watch out for wildlife on the road. We got stuck in a mini cow traffic jam.

Do you need reservations for the Badlands?

You can visit Badlands National Park without reservations. Book ASAP if you plan on staying nearby since accommodations can book up, especially during the high season.

Badlands National Park Entrance Fee. How much does it cost to drive through the badlands? Can you drive through the badlands without paying?

Badlands National Park Fees are as follows (all are good for seven days):

• $30 Private Vehicle (for a car and its occupants)
• $15 Individual (hikers or bikers)
• $25 Motorcycle
• $55 Badlands National Park Annual Fee
• $80 National Park Annual Pass (we highly recommend this to save money if you’re exploring multiple national parks within one year).

To drive through the National Park, you will need to pay the park entrance fees unless you have a National Park Annual Pass.

Hours of Operation

Badlands National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In the winter or in extreme weather conditions, roads may be closed.

Which entrance to Badlands is best?

The most popular drive at Badlands National Park is the Badlands Loop Road starting in the town of Wall. It will take you through viewpoints, trailheads, and the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

How much time do you need in Badlands National Park?

Park rangers recommend two full days to experience the park.

Is Badlands National Park busy?

Overall, it’s one of the least visited national parks in the US and is much less crowded than parks like Zion, Yosemite, and Yellowstone. The busiest time at Badlands is in the summer, particularly July and August.

What are the current conditions at Badlands National Park?

Check out their official site for the park’s current conditions.

Geography / Overview Map (North & South Unit) – How far do the badlands stretch?

The Badlands stretch for a hundred miles through the plains of South Dakota, and Badlands National Park has two units.

• The North Unit has two main roads and is the most popular part of the park.
• The South Unit doesn’t have any roads that go through it, but you can drive up Sheep Mountain Table and do a scenic drive around the South Unit.

See More: 17 Best National Parks to Visit in September

Best Things to Do / What Should I Not Miss at Badlands National Park?

1. Badlands Loop Road (SD-240)

The Badlands Loop Road is one of the best ways to see the park. During the 40-mile stretch, you’ll find sixteen designated scenic overlooks and several trails. The drive can take 1-2 hours, depending on how often you stop.

Most people start from the Wall, but since it’s a two-lane highway, you can drive in either direction. Here are some highlights.

1. Wall / Badlands Wall
2. Pinnacles Overlook (sunset)
3. Yellow Mounds Overlook
4. Conata Basin Overlook (sunset)
5. Prairie Wind Overlook
6. Panorama Point (sunset)
7. White River Valley Overlook
8. Norbeck Pass (sunset)
9. Hike a trail – Fossil Exhibit Trail, Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, Notch Trail, Castle Trail, Door Trail
10. Big Badlands Overlook (sunrise)

Local Tip: You’ll commonly see wildlife along the road, so keep your eyes peeled and drive slow.

See More: 21 Epic Road Trips in USA to Put on Your Bucket List

2. Notch Trail Hike

43.760066,-101.9303874, map || 1.5 mile, 180 feet elevation, 1 hr

The Notch Trail packs a lot into a short distance. It’s a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through canyons, along a cliff, up a giant wooden ladder, and ends at an overlook. This hike has some exposure for those afraid of heights, but the ledge is 6 feet wide.

See More: Complete List of National Parks by State

3. Castle Trail

43.7613123,-101.930378, map || 5 miles point-to-point, 340 feet elevation, 2-3 hrs

The Castle Trail is the longest maintained trail in the park and is a 5-mile point-to-point trail. It takes you through the backcountry, giving you more opportunities to see wildlife.

The best way to experience the hike is point-to-point, which means you’ll need a second car or a friend who doesn’t like hiking to drop you off and pick you up. If neither is an option for you, here are other ways to explore the trail:

• Out-and-Back: It’s mostly a flat and easy hike, so this is doable, but it also makes it a 10-mile hike.
• Fossil Exhibit Area Start: Park at the Fossil Exhibit area and hike 1-2 miles in and back.
• Notch Trail Parking Lot Start: Park at the Door Parking Lot and hike 1-2 miles in and back.
• Castle Trail Loop + Saddle Pass: Park at Saddle Pass parking lot, then hike up Saddle Pass, a portion of Castle Trail, then back via Medicine Root Trail, making it roughly 5 miles.

The Notch Trail Parking Lot Start is the best if you’re looking for a short hike.

Local Tip: Keep an eye (and ear) out for rattlesnakes.

See More: 15 Best Day Hikes in the US to put On Your Bucket List

4. Fossil Exhibit Trail

43.7728209,-102.0053929, map || .25 mile, 15 mins

The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a fully accessible boardwalk where you’ll find fossil replicas and exhibits about the now-extinct creatures of the area. It’s only 0.25 miles long, so it can be a nice quick stop.

Local Tip: If you love fossils, check out the Fossil Preparation Lab at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, where you can see a working paleontological laboratory. They are open between the second week in June and the third week in September.

5. Enter the Door Trail

43.7635685,-101.9288387, map || .75 miles out-and-back, 50 feet elevation, 30 mins

The Enter the Door Trail, or just the Door Trail, takes you through an opening in the Badlands Wall to fully immerse you in the badlands. Once you reach the end of the boardwalk, you can descend the stairs and follow the trail to an overlook.

Local Tip: The nearby Window Trail allows you to look over the Badlands Wall.

6. Cliff Chelf Nature Trail

43.7504646,-101.9477771, map || .5 mile loop, 300 feet elevation, 15 mins

Cliff Chelf Nature Trail is a great short hike in Badlands National Park. Follow the 0.5-mile loop trail along boardwalks, then climb stairs through a juniper forest along the Badlands Wall to a higher vantage point.

Local Tip: Sometimes, the small pond along the trail draws in wildlife like deer and bighorn sheep.

See More: 11 Best National Parks to Visit in November

7. Drive Sage Creek Rim Road

Drive through the Sage Creek Wilderness Area along this 25-mile dirt and gravel road. There are a few overlooks, the Sage Creek Campground, and access to the backcountry. It’s one of the best spots to see wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep. Short on time? Prioritize these three:

• Hay Butte Overlook
• Badlands Wilderness Overlook
• Roberts Prairie Dog Town

Local Tip: If there are any recent storms, check the road conditions before heading out.

See More: 15 Least Visited National Parks in the US

8. Roberts Prairie Dog Town

43.9052162,-102.3092184, map

I loved watching the black-tailed prairie dogs pop in and out of their holes and hearing their high-pitched squeaks and noises. Roberts Prairie Dog Town is the perfect spot to check out the largest prairie dog town in the accessible areas of the park.

Local Tip: Prairie Dogs are adorable, but keep your distance for their safety and yours (they can carry diseases like the plague).

9. Junior Ranger

Stop by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center and ask a ranger about the Junior Ranger program. I love doing this at National Parks. Although it’s a children’s program, everyone is welcome to partake (some even have Senior Ranger programs). I usually learn details about the park that I would have missed otherwise. After finishing the booklet, you’ll get sworn in as a Junior Ranger and get a free souvenir pin to take home.

You can email badl_information@nps.gov to receive a digital copy if you want to save paper.

Local Tip: If you’re looking for another free souvenir, the National Park Passport will initially cost you, but you can get stamps at National Park visitor centers to track your travels. When I forget my book, I buy their stickers to stamp or stamp the papers there, and gluestick it later.

Map of the Best Things to Do at Badlands National Park

More Things to Do at Badlands National Park

• Drive Conata Basin Road
• Backcountry Hike: Sage Creek Wilderness Area or Deer Haven Wilderness Area
• Wildlife – Bison, Bighorn Sheep, Rattlesnakes, Prairie Dogs, mule deer, coyotes, pronghorn antelope, porcupine
• Night Sky Viewings – while it’s not a designated dark sky park, it’s still amazing for star gazing.
• Horseback Riding
• Biking

How to Get There

What city is closest to the Badlands?

Badlands National Park is 75 miles east of Rapid City, South Dakota. The Park Headquarters address is:

25216 Ben Reifel Rd
Interior, SD 57750 (map)

By Plane: If you’re flying in, Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is the closest major airport, roughly 55 miles away. Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, and United fly in and out of Rapid City. You can then grab a rental car and drive to the park.

By Car: If you are driving in, here are the distances from some of the nearby cities:

• 75 miles Rapid City, South Dakota
• 275 miles from Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• 370 miles from Denver, Colorado
• 450 miles from Omaha, Nebraska
• 500 miles from Minneapolis, Minnesota

Visitor Centers at Badlands National Park

There are two Visitor Centers at Badlands National Park.

Ben Reifel Visitor Center (25216 SD-240, Interior, SD 57750, map) and park headquarters are at the North Unit. There are exhibits, an air-conditioned theater, and restroom facilities. Current hours from November to March are 9 AM to 4 PM.

White River Visitor Center (43.5340291,-102.6283376, map) is in the South Unit on the Pine Ridge Reservation. You’ll find an information desk, exhibits, and restrooms here. It is currently closed between October and April.

Hikes at Badlands National Park

Here is a list of all the official park trails in Badlands National Park. For the most up-to-date info and current trail conditions, stop by the Visitor Center for more information.

• Door Trail | 0.75 miles out and back, easy
• Window Trail | 0.25 miles out and back, easy
• Fossil Exhibit Trail | 0.25 miles out and back, easy
• Notch Trail | 1.5 miles out and back, moderate
• Castle Trail | 5 miles point to point, moderate
• Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | 0.5 miles loop, moderate
• Medicine Root Loop | 4 miles out and back, moderate
• Saddle Pass | 0.7 miles out and back, moderate

Local Tip: Badlands National Park has an Open Hike Policy, meaning you can hike off-trail if it is not marked otherwise. With that in mind, be good stewards of the land and be prepared since cell service isn’t always available in the backcountry. If you see any wildlife, maintain a distance of at least 100 feet (if they notice you, you are probably too close).

Overlooks at Badlands National Park

Hate hiking? Overlooks are a great way to see the park without having to hike. Since there are so many pullouts with amazing views and information signs, you can learn a lot at these spots. Here is a list of all the park’s overlooks.

• Ancient Hunters Overlook – expansive views of the Badlands and exhibits about the history of paleo-Indians
• Badlands Wilderness Overlook – expansive views of the park
• Big Badlands Overlook – eastern portion of the Badlands Wall
• Bigfoot Pass Overlook (includes a picnic area)
• Burns Basin Overlook – fully accessible boardwalk
• Conata Basin Overlook – accessible boardwalk with exhibits discussing climate change
• Hay Butte Overlook – see Badlands formations and grassy ecosystems
• Homestead Overlook – scenic viewpoints and exhibits discussing the homesteading history
• Panorama Point Overlook – a view towards White River Valley
• Pinnacles Overlook – one of the most popular overlooks with unique geology and dramatic sunsets
• Prairie Wind Overlook – vast prairie landscape
• Red Shirt Table Overlook, Highway 41, South Unit – significant geologic and scenic features in the South Unit
• Sage Creek Basin Overlook – expansive views of the mixed-grass prairie environment
• Sheep Mountain Overlook, Sheep Mountain Table Road (gravel road) – gives you views of the South Unit and the Black Hills
• White River Valley Overlook – the upper portion of the White River Group
• Yellow Mounds Overlook – one of the more colorful features of the park

Seasonal Events at Badlands National Park

• Badlands Astronomy Festival (August)
• National Fossil Day at South Dakota School of Mines (October)

Where to Eat at Badlands National Park

What food options are there in the park? With limited food options in the park, it’s a good idea to bring snacks if you’re spending all day or multiple days here.

The only place to buy food in Badlands National Park is at the Cedar Pass Lodge, where there is a sit-down restaurant and a place to pick up snacks. There are also picnic areas at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, Big Foot Pass Overlook, Conata Picnic Area, and White River Visitor Center. Just pack out what you pack in.

Here are a few other nearby areas to eat.

• Wall Drug Store (souvenir shops/cafes, )
• Wagon Wheel Bar & Grill (American, )
• Harry’s Hideaway Restaurant & Family Dining (American, )
• Stompin’ Grounds (breakfast & brunch, )

Where to Stay at Badlands National Park

There are a few different places to spend a night in Badlands National Park. The only lodging in the park is at Cedar Pass Lodge, which offers cabin rentals.

There are also a couple of camping options in Badlands National park.

• Cedar Pass Campground has 96 sites, some designated for RV camping with electric hookups. You can make reservations here.
• Sage Creek Campground has 22 first-come-first-serve free sites that only fit vehicles or RVs up to 18 feet.
• Backcountry camping is permitted anywhere as long as it is 0.5 miles from and not visible from a trail or roadway. Deer Haven and the Sage Creek Wilderness Area are the most popular spots.

You can find a few options outside the park in Wall, South Dakota. Otherwise, there are more options in Rapid City. Check the map below for hotels and rentals.

Badlands National Park Tips & FAQs

• Are there restrooms at Badlands National Park? Full restrooms are inside the Visitor Centers, or vault bathrooms (no running water) are near popular trailheads.
• Are dogs allowed at Badlands National Park? Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park but must be kept on a leash no more than six feet long.
• What can I bring into the Badlands? Pack appropriate gear, plenty of water, and snacks. Check out our packing list below.
• Are there showers in Badlands National Park? There are pay-per-use showers available in the summer at the Cedar Pass Campground.
• Can you have campfires in the Badlands? Due to fire danger, campfires are not allowed. You can, however, bring your camp stove or contained charcoal grill to use at campgrounds or picnic areas. Backpacking stoves are allowed in the backcountry.
• Is there Wifi or phone signal in Badlands? The Visitor Center has Wifi. Cell signal can be spotty, so we recommend downloading offline Google maps to help you navigate.
• What camera gear should I bring? Bring wide lenses for landscape photography and a long lens for wildlife.
• What is the best guidebook for Badlands National Park? If you want a physical guidebook, check out Fodor’s Black Hills of South Dakota, which includes Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park.
• What is the best map of Badlands National Park? The NatGeo Map of Badlands National Park is waterproof, tear-resistant, and includes trails and topographical info.
• Fun Fact – During World War 2, they used this area to test explosives.

What to Pack

• Sunscreen, sun protection
• Down jackets in Spring / Fall
• Food
• Hiking shoes if you plan on doing moderate to challenging hikes.
• Reusable water bottles (our favorites)
• Day pack
• Camera

Wanna know what to wear at the airport? These are my airport outfits and our carry-on essentials for every flight.

Why Do National Parks Require Reservations?

Ever since the pandemic, more people are seeking to spend time outdoors, which has caused a huge strain on the National Parks. After years of record-breaking visitor numbers, parks have started using reservation systems to handle crowds and traffic, and it looks like they’re here to stay.

All 63 National Parks are open in 2025, but these 9 require some type of reservation on top of entrance fees. Keep reading to see how you can get reservations at each of them.

Pro Tip: This annual pass will save you money if you like exploring national parks.

Want to beat the crowds? Check out the 15 Most Underrated National Parks in the US to Visit Next

Which National Parks Require Reservations?

1. Acadia National Park, Maine →

25 Visitor Center Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, map

Why Visit?

Acadia National Park has beautiful lakes, dramatic shorelines, and beautiful forests. It’s especially stunning during fall with its fall foliage. Plus, they have rock climbing the cliffs along the coast, which is a unique experience.

From late May to late Oct, you need a reservation to drive the Cadillac Summit Road, Acadia’s most popular drive-up spot to arguably have the best view in the park. See the photo of Jacob from the viewpoint.

Photo Tip: We used a long lens (this one) for the photo below.

How to Get Acadia National Park Reservations

Reserve your $6 timed entry slot here. 30% of passes open up 90 days in advance, and the rest open up 2 days before the date you want to visit.

More: 15 Breathtaking Things to Do at Acadia National Park

2. Arches National Park, Utah →

38.6165891,-109.6243309, map

Why Visit?

See over 2000 natural stone arches, including Delicate Arch, one of the most recognized and photographed arches in the world. Also, Devil’s Garden trail is one of our favorite day hikes in the US.

From April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31, 2025, you need a timed park entry ticket between 7 am and 4 pm.

How to Get Arches National Park Reservations

Reservations for Timed Entry Tickets are available on the first of the month for 3 months later (ie. get your July tickets on April 1). They will also release a small number of tickets through a lottery system the day before entry.

More: The Ultimate Guide to Arches National Park

3. Glacier National Park, Montana →

Logan’s Pass Visitor Center, Browning, MT 59417, map

Why Visit?

At Glacier National Park, you’ll see glacier-carved peaks and forest-filled valleys. We can see why they used to call it the Switzerland of America because we had the same thought! Going-To-The-Sun Road is one of the top scenic drives in the US and the most iconic part of the park (only open during the summer). Our favorite memories here, however, were sunrise at Two Medicine Lake and hiking to Cracker Lake.

This year brings changes with vehicle reservations required for these areas of the park:

• Going-to-the-Sun Road (West): Required between June 13 to September 28, 2025 from 7 am to 3 pm.
• North Fork: Required between June 13 to September 28, 2025 from 7 am to 3 pm.

How to Get Glacier National Park Reservations

Going-to-the-Sun Road (West): Vehicle Reservations are valid for three consecutive days and have a $2 processing fee. They are released 120 days before the effective day (for July 1, reservations will be available on March 3). Any remaining spots will be released at 7 pm MDT the day before the effective date.

North Fork: Vehicle Reservations are valid for one day and have a $2 processing fee. A portion will be available 120 days in advance at 8 am MT. The remaining will be released on a rolling basis at 7 pm the day before.

More: 9 Incredible Things to Do in Glacier National Park

4. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii

20.7150988,-156.3816313, map

Why Visit?

Haleakalā National Park has the highest peak in Maui, and with its stunning desert-like landscape, it is an extremely popular place to trek for a sunrise view. Visiting the park any other time of day doesn’t require a reservation, but if you want to enter the park between 3 am and 7 am to catch the sunrise, you’ll need to get a reservation online.

How to Get Haleakala Sunrise Reservations

Make sunrise reservations here. There is a reservation fee of $1 per vehicle. You can make reservations up to 60 days in advance, and they are released at 7 am HST. They also release a portion of reservations 2 days in advance.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

1000 US-36, Estes Park, CO 80517, map

Why Visit?

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best parks for those of you who love to hike. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails where you can spot wildlife, wildflowers, and glacial basins.

Between May 23 to October 19, 2025, entry permits are required to visit the park between 9 am and 2 pm outside of the Bear Lake Road Corridor and between 5 am and 6 pm to visit anything along Bear Lake Road.

How to Get Rocky Mountain Reservations

Book your Timed Entry Permit Reservations here. For entrance to the park from May 26 to June 30, reservations will go live at 10 am MDT on May 1. For all the following months, they will become available on the 1st day of the previous month at 10 am MDT (For July, reservations will open June 1 at 10 am MDT).

6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

3655 US-211, Luray, VA 22835, map

Why Visit?

Shenandoah is a popular national park, especially among day-trippers from Washington DC. Besides the hiking trails and waterfalls, don’t miss the 105-mile Skyline Drive.

Between May 1 and Nov 30, 2025, reservations are required for Shenandoah’s Old Rag Mountain, a popular hike in the park, that includes the Saddles, Ride, and Ridge Access trails. The program is currently under review to decide if they will continue it.

How to Get Shenandoah National Park Reservations

Make reservations for Old Rag Mountain here. You can purchase the day-use reservations up to 30 days in advance. It costs $2 and a total of 800 tickets will be available each day. They release 400 tickets 30 days in advance and 400 five days in advance.

7. Yosemite National Park, California →

9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, map

Why Visit?

Yosemite National Park will always hold a special place in our hearts because it was the first park we visited as adults. It’s one of the places we can’t tire of from the tallest waterfall in North America (where you can see a moonbow) to awe-inspiring granite monoliths to one of the hardest day hikes we’ve ever done. But we admit it has gotten more annoying to visit in recent years with the crowds and traffic in the Valley.

In February during firefall, they require Entrance Reservations on the weekends: February 8-9, 15-17, and 22-23, 2025. Otherwise, they have listed all reservations during the summer.

How to Get Yosemite National Park Reservations

Entrance Reservations can be made here. There is a $2 per ticket nonrefundable fee.

They also require a permit to hike to the top of Half Dome. See more details here.

More: How to See Firefall Yosemite National Park

8. Zion National Park, Utah →

1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767, map

Why Visit?

Zion National Park has gotten extremely popular in recent years and for good reason. It has incredible hikes that test your fear of heights or hikes that allow you to walk through rivers with towering canyon walls. We were fortunate enough to hike Angels Landing Trail years ago without any crowds but starting April 1, you must enter a permit lottery to hike the busy trail. We’ve heard from friends that the hike can feel like waiting for a Disneyland ride, so you might want to visit lesser-known parts of the park if you’re trying to connect with nature.

They tested Entrance Reservations but currently do not require one to enter the park. You do still need a permit to hike Angels Landing between March 1 to May 31, 2025.

How to Get Zion National Park Reservations

Angels Landing Trail permits can be obtained by entering the permit lottery up to three months in advance or as late as one day before the trip. You will have to select your time window, pre-9 am, 9 am to 12 pm, or after 12 pm, to start the hike. Permits cost $3 per person plus a non-refundable $6 application fee. You can apply for a group size of up to 6 people.

More: 15 Incredible Things to Do at Zion National Park

9. Muir Woods National Monument, California

1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941, map

Why Visit?

Muir Woods National Monument was the first national park unit to use a permanent reservation system in 2018 to create a more enjoyable experience for visitors and protect the ecosystem. You need reservations year-round, and there are two types: a car reservation and a shuttle service reservation.

You also never know when they’ll designate this National Monument as a National Park, so it’s always good to get in early.

How to Get Muir Woods Reservations

Make your reservation for Muir Woods National Monument here. Reservations are available 90 days before visiting with additional slots released three days before the visit day. It costs $9.50 per car for the reservation or $3.75 per person for the shuttle reservation.

Bonus: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada →

1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161, map

Why Visit?

Although Red Rock Canyon is managed by BLM (not NPS), you can still enter with your America the Beautiful pass, which covers national park units and BLM land. If you’re in Vegas, don’t miss the amazing outdoor adventures just 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, including Red Rock. The park has a scenic loop with viewpoints for a leisure visit, or if you want a challenge, there are hiking trails and world-class climbing. We try to go at least once a week during the climbing season.

The Scenic Drive requires a reservation (hours vary throughout the year).

How to Get Red Rock Reservations

Although it’s a good idea to make reservations online here, you can also make reservations at the ticket window, unlike most National Parks. Reservations are $2 (in addition to the entrance fee), and you will have to select a time slot (you will have a 30-minute window before or after your time slot before it expires).

More: 7 Best Things to Do at Red Rock

Tips for Making National Park Reservations + Visiting the Parks

• Create a recreation.gov account ahead of time. They handle most reservations at National Parks. You can also set alerts for campsite availability.
• Have backup options. These 15 underrated National Parks are great options as well as these 400+ National Monuments, Preserves, and Historic Sites all managed by the National Park Service. You never know which of these will later be designated a National Park, so it’s good to get in early.
• These reservation fees do not include entrance fees. Pick up an Annual Pass to save money if you plan on visiting multiple National Parks in a year.
• As soon as you have dates in mind, set up a calendar or email reminder.
• If you are really set on a specific date, have everyone from your group try for a reservation to increase your chances.
• Explore the parks responsibly using Leave no Trace principles. Have a plan, stay on established trails, carry out anything you carry in, leave what you find, minimize campfire impact, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others.
• Want to know what to wear to the airport? Here’s my ideal airport outfit and our carry-on essentials for every flight.

Map of the National Parks in the USA

What to Pack

How you will pack depends on which park you visit and the activities you plan, but here is a general guide on items we always try to pack.

• Camera Gear
• Travel Backpack
• Camping / Backpacking Equipment
• National Park Annual Pass
• National Park Passport
• Layers (The Best Travel Jackets)
• Solid Hiking Shoes

Frequently Asked Questions

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17 Best Things to Do in Grand Canyon National Park

1. Grand Canyon Village, South Rim

36.0459052,-112.1871914, map

The Grand Canyon Village is on the South Rim and mainly focused on accommodating tourists. There are three main areas or districts in the village.

The Visitor Center / Mather Point area is where most visitors see the Grand Canyon for the first time. There are four large parking areas and a transit center for the free shuttle bus.

If you’re looking for services, head to the Market Plaza district, where you’ll find the general store, bank, and US Post Office.

The Historic District was where the village started roughly 120 years ago. You’ll find historic lodges and the railroad depot her

Local Tip: The free shuttle bus can easily take you around Grand Canyon Village.

See More: The Ultimate Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Road Trip

2. Grand Canyon Skywalk, Grand Canyon West

808 Eagle Point Rd, Peach Springs, AZ 86434, map

The Grand Canyon Skywalk is in Grand Canyon West on Hualapai Tribal land, not the national park. The glass bridge gives you a unique opportunity to walk over the canyon.

Having been to both, we prefer the National Park as it offers better and more natural views. However, if you don’t have much time, Grand Canyon West is the closest to Las Vegas and the easiest way to experience the canyon.

Keep in mind that you cannot bring any camera gear or even your phone with you onto the bridge. There is a separate line to get photos taken by official photographers. You won’t get the best photos, and they all come with a watermark, but it’s a massive improvement from a few years ago. On our second visit, we decided to purchase them. At the very least, they took their time and did various serious and silly poses.

Local Tip: Lines can get extremely long (up to a couple of hours) during holidays and summer weekends.

3. Guano Point, Grand Canyon West

36.0306029,-113.8290033, map

Guano Point is located in Grand Canyon West. It’s a fun and short hike with 360-degree views of the canyon. You can also shoot photos with the optical illusion that you’re at the cliff’s edge. There’s also a cafe with food and drinks (we got the pulled pork sandwich).

Local Tip: If you’re visiting with a tour that includes food, do the hike first, then get food after so you’re not waiting in line too long.

4. Hiking

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the views without the crowds. You have plenty of options for all activity levels, and day hikes do not require permits. Remember that it’s hot in the summer, and you need to stay hydrated. Be prepared with the appropriate gear and understand the difficulty of the hikes before starting them. Here are some popular hikes to check out:

• South Kaibab Trail, South Rim (steep) starts at Yaki Point, and you can hike up to 6 miles round trip. Great views for a shorter hike.
• Bright Angel Trail, South Rim (steep) starts at Bright Angel Lodge, and you can hike up to 12 miles round trip.
• Rim Trail, South Rim: An easy hike that follows along the rim with some paved sections.
• Trail of Time Hike, South Rim: Easy 2.83 mile long paved walk that takes you through the geologic timeline of the canyon. Each meter represents one million years of the canyon’s geologic history.
• North Kaibab Trail, North Rim is the only maintained trail into the canyon from the North Tim, varying in distance from 1.5 miles round trip to Coconino Overlook to a full day 9.4-mile hike to Roaring Springs.

Local Tip: Hikes that take you below the rim require a lot of elevation change. Keep that in mind when you calculate the time you need to allot.

See More: 25 Best Hikes in the World to Put on Your Bucket List

5. Helicopter Tour

Hop on a helicopter tour to get amazing aerial views of the canyon. They even have helicopter tours that land inside of the canyon. All scenic air tours do not go into the National Park.

• Grand Canyon: Helicopter Ride and Optional Hummer Tour ($249 per person)
• From Las Vegas: Grand Canyon Helicopter Air Tour ($449 per person)
• Las Vegas: Grand Canyon Tour & Helicopter Landing Experience ($512.28 per person)
• See more tour options here.

Local Tip: Book a tour closer to sunrise or sunset for the best views and light. As you can see below, we went mid-day and did not get flattering light.

6. Mather Point, South Rim

With its proximity to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Mather Point is often visitors’ first view of the Grand Canyon. It’s also a popular stop for tours.

On a clear day, you can see 30+ miles to the east and 60+ miles to the west from this viewpoint, making it a good spot for sunrise and sunset throughout the year.

Local Tip: There is no parking at Mather Point, but plenty in the area, just a short walk away. It’s also a stop on the Kaibab/Rim Route (orange route) on the shuttle bus.

7. Yavapai Geology Museum + Yavapai Point, South Rim

36.0661012,-112.1197315, map

The Yavapai Geology Museum is a great spot to learn about all the rocks you see in the canyon. They have panoramic windows with displays, a bookstore, and a museum shop.

8. Grandview Point, South Rim

3635.998471,-111.9899443, map

As the name implies, you get quite the grand view here. This spot on the South Rim gives you panoramic views with colorful canyons and ridges. You can also see the Colorado River below. It’s an excellent spot for sunrise, especially if you want to get a sunstar in your photo.

9. Toroweap Overlook, North Rim

36.2144494,-113.0587276, map

Toroweap Overlook (or Tuweep Overlook or Toroweap Point) offers dramatic views 3,000 feet above the Colorado River. It’s a beautiful view away from the crowds with a sheer drop-off and volcanic cinder cones.

If you want to wake up to a sunrise, consider camping at one of the nine small campsites here.

Local Tip: You need a high clearance vehicle to get here. Be prepared with food, water, and supplies for your car since there aren’t any services in the area.

10. Bright Angel Point, North Rim

36.1935375,-112.0508239, map

Bright Angel Point is one of the best views on the North Rim (not to be confused with the Bright Angel Trail hike on the South Rim). It’s a short 0.25 paved trail to the viewpoint where you’ll be over 8,100 feet above sea level. The trail climbs 200 feet so take your time.

11. Point Imperial, North Rim

336.2789688,-111.9808206, map

Point Imperial is the highest overlook on the North Rim at 8,803 feet. It’s also the northernmost overlook, which gives you a unique perspective of the canyon where the cliffs are relatively close (less than a mile apart). This was our favorite view from the North Rim.

Astrophotography Tip: The Milky Way lined up nicely here in June, but it was way too windy to shoot long exposures when we visited, even with weights on our tripod.

12. Colorado River Rafting

Some of our friends have done this river rafting trip, and it’s something we hope to do soon. You get to experience the canyon in such a unique way compared to all the other typical visitors.

• Commercial River Trips: Let professionals guide you down the river.
  • 1 Day Trips – Half and full-day trips over smoother water.
  • 3 to 18 Day Trips – From Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek multi-day expeditions.
• Noncommercial River Trips: Get permits to raft on your own. See details on river support and equipment rental here.
  • 2 to 5 Day Trips – Permits are available one year in advance to launch from Diamond Creek and take-out at Lake Mead.
  • 12 to 25 Day Trips – For longer voyages, try your luck at their weighted lottery (read their FAQs here).

13. Desert View Watchtower, South Rim

336.0440579,-111.8283121, map

The Desert View Watchtower (aka Indian Watchtower at Desert View) is a 70-foot stone building on the South Rim. It was completed in 1932 and initially designed as a visitor concession structure. You can still climb into the tower to get higher vantage points where you can see over 100 miles on clear days.

14. Moran Point, South Rim

3636.0051427,-111.926463, map

Moran Point was named after Thomas Moran (although some believe it was named after his brother, Peter Moran, who traveled to the South Rim in 1881 with explorer John Bourke), who helped establish the National Parks and was known for his landscape paintings. He still has pieces part of the Smithsonian.

It’s a great spot to check out the geology of the Grand Canyon and see the shadows and light change throughout the day.

15. Kaibab Bridge / Black Bridge

36.36.1009764,-112.0914428, map

The Black Suspension Bridge spans 440 feet across the Colorado River and is narrow, requiring you to walk single file. Mule rides going to Phantom Ranch use it, and from 1928 to the 1960s, it was the only river crossing for hundreds of miles until they built the Silver Bridge.

16. Ride a Mule or Horse

You can ride a mule into the canyon from the South Rim and North Rim.

South Rim mule rides are offered year-round and can be booked up to 15 months in advance. You’ll find multiple options for a short ride (starting at $155.77 per person) to some vistas to an overnight ride to Phantom Ranch (starting at $705.13).

North Rim mule rides run between May 15th and October 15th. These are all shorter rides, and none go to the Colorado River. Rides start at $50 per person.

17. Scenic Drive

Desert View Drive is a great way to see some of the best spots along the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. It starts near the village and runs 23 miles to the Desert View Services Area. It is an incredibly scenic drive with six developed viewpoints, four picnic areas, and five unmarked pullouts along the South Rim.

If you are spending time in Grand Canyon North, then check out Cape Royal Road. The drive itself wasn’t the most scenic, but the hike and viewpoints near the end are worth going to. There are also a ton of aspens along the road, so I’m sure a visit during fall foliage makes for a beautiful drive. There are multiple pullouts along the way and stunning views at Angel’s Window at the end.

More Things to Do in Grand Canyon

• Biking
• Bright Angel History Room, Bright Angel Lodge
• Camping 
• Grand Canyon IMAX Theater
• Desert Jeep Tour
• Tusayan Ruin and Museum
• Kolb Studio
• Lees Ferry
• Navajo Bridge
• Paragon Skydive
• Ranger Program
• Bar 10 Ranch 
• Grand Canyon Brewing Co 
• Marble Canyon

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping at Grand Canyon

There are four developed campgrounds within Grand Canyon National Park. You can make reservations for all of them.

The Mather Campground is on the South Rim near the Grand Canyon Village and is open all year. There are 327 sites, flush toilets, and drinking water. Most RV spaces are pull-through.

The Desert View Campground is on the South Rim and is open from mid-April to mid-October. You can make reservations up to 6 months in advance at 49 sites.

The North Rim Campground is open from May 15 to October 31, and there are 87 sites.

Trailer Village is located on the South Rim and offers RV spots with full hookups. There are 123 sites, and you can make reservations up to 13 months in advance.

Best Places to Stay

We haven’t stayed in Grand Canyon South Rim yet, but we recently returned from a visit to Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim where we stayed in the Cabins. Each cabin is located near the main lodge and you’re also just steps away from amazing views and hikes. It made it easy to get up for sunrise photos and stay up late for astrophotography from the lodge or Bright Angel Point.

It was also convenient to the Visitor Center and the Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room where we had all our meals. We had just come from Bryce where the food was amazing, so in comparison, the food wasn’t as impressive. The highlight here was the epic canyon views surrounding the lodge. You get great views while dining, and they have multiple sitting and viewing areas at the lodge.

If the cabins at the Grand Canyon Lodge are booked, check the map below for more places to stay nearby.

What to Pack

• Sunscreen, sun protection
• Down jackets in Spring / Fall / Winter
• Food
• Hiking shoes if you plan on doing moderate to challenging hikes.
• Reusable water bottles (our current favorites)
• Day Pack
• Camera

More Resources

• Moon USA National Parks Guide
• National Park Annual Pass
• Complete Guide to the National Parks of the West
• National Parks Passport
• Lonely Planet Southwest USA Travel Guide

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Your Complete Guide to the Arizona Hot Springs Hike

About Arizona Hot Springs

5.8-mile loop, moderate, over 1200 feet elevation change

Arizona Hot Springs is a beautiful natural hot spring located near Lake Mohave along the Colorado River. You hike to a colorful and narrow slot canyon and will find three main soaking pools of varying temperatures dammed by sandbags.

Find the official trail map here. You can also use the Alltrails map and if you have Alltrails+, you can download it have access to it offline.

How Hot are the Arizona Hot Springs?

The warmest pool is roughly 110°F. After the three main pools, the smaller pools in the area don’t have much warmth.

It is an extremely popular hike, so expect to see some crowds if you’re hiking on a nice day. You can avoid them by going early and hiking in before sunrise. Or wait for a quieter window in between groups.

How much time does it take to hike to Arizona Hot Springs?

Most online reports and everyone we talked to told us the hike takes 6-7 hours (not including time to soak), making me nervous that we’d be hiking back in the dark. We were prepared for a challenging and long hike but managed to do the loop in 4 hours, walking at a steady pace with a few breaks along the way. Although you shouldn’t underestimate the hike, if you’re confident in navigating a trail and can keep a decent pace, it should only take 3-4 hours.

Is the Arizona Hot Spring Trail Open?

Due to extreme heat, the trail is closed from May 15 to September 30.

See Related: The Best Things to Do at Lake Mead National Park

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Beware of brain-eating amoeba (Naegleria Fowleri), a risk in thermal pools. For that reason, I wouldn’t put my head in the water. They can travel up your nasal passage and cause fatal infections.
• Flash floods happen here, so do not attempt the hike if there is rain or thunderstorms nearby.
• You may see rattlesnakes along the trail, especially in warmer weather.
• Pack enough water and wear sunscreen. Sunstroke and dehydration are serious concerns, especially with little to no shade along the hike.
• You hike through A LOT of gravel. It can feel brutal and slow you down. Mentally, it’s hard to push through the boring and long gravel sections.
• Since you will be near the Nevada-Arizona border, the time zone may change back and forth depending on the time of year. Arizona does not observe daylight savings. In the summer, the time is the same, but there is an hour difference in the winter.

Where is Arizona Hot Springs

Arizona Hot Springs is located on the Colorado River just south of the Hoover Dam, near river mile 59.75. With its location near the water, you can access the springs from the river (kayaking/floating) or by hiking 3.1 miles (5.8 miles for the entire loop). The hot springs are inside a narrow slot canyon where someone created multiple pools using sandbags.

How to Get to Arizona Hot Springs

There are three main ways to get to Arizona Hot Springs.

The 5.8-mile loop hike is the first and most common way to get to the hot springs. It allows you to explore canyons, soak in the hot springs, and take a cold dip in the river before heading back. We ended up hiking the loop clockwise. Some of our friends like the hike counterclockwise, so you hit the river first and go from the coolest to hottest pools.

You can also kayak or float down 4 miles from the Hoover Dam, which requires a special permit and fee. You can only get this by booking a guided trip or a service to drop you off.

The third option is to paddle 8 miles upriver from Willow Beach. There is no launch permit fee here. Boat and kayak rentals are available at Willow Beach, but be sure to make reservations during holidays and weekends.

Fees at Arizona Hot Springs

Arizona Hot Springs is located within Lake Mead National Park, which means that the entry fees apply. You do not pass through any pay gates to arrive at the parking lot, but they can check the lot for permits.

Entrance Fees in the park are $25 per vehicle for seven consecutive days, or you can get an Annual National Park Pass for $80 (we highly recommend it if you love the outdoors and national parks).

See Related: 7 Stunning National Parks near Las Vegas

Where is the Trailhead

The trailhead is easy to find. It’s on the north side of State Route 93. If you’re coming from the Lake Mead Visitor Center, follow US Hwy 93 easy 8.4 miles (or 4.2 miles past Hoover Dam). From Kingman, AZ, the trailhead is .2 miles before mile marker 4.

When you pull into the parking lot, the trailhead is on the far end of the lot. There is an information sign as well as trail markers. When starting the trail, you will walk under the bridge / US Hwy 93.

Arizona Hot Springs Trailhead Coordinates: 35.9801752,-114.6984124 (map)

The Trail + Loop

You can hike to Arizona Hot Springs multiple ways. The main lollipop loop encompasses the White Rock Canyon Trail and the Hot Spring Canyon Trail, which both start from the same parking lot. After 0.4 miles, you will come to a split with a sign pointing to White Rock Canyon on the right and the Hot Spring Canyon on the left.

See More: 15 Fun Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

Most guides will instruct you to start on the White Rock Canyon Trail, make your way down to the river, then cut back up to climb a 20 ft 18-rung ladder that leads to the hot springs. Then you head back via the Hot Spring Canyon Trail.

We did the hike in reverse. The plan was to hike back the same way since it cuts down the distance, but we decided last minute to complete the entire loop.

The Hot Spring Canyon Trail was steeper, with some loose gravel, making it slippery, while the White Rock Canyon Trail is gradual but almost entirely on loose gravel (not fun IMO).

Most of the trail is easy to follow. We recommend downloading the GPS map or offline google maps. The one confusing portion is near the river. If you go down to the beach, you need to backtrack to find White Rock Canyon Trail. The trail along the river also cuts back and forth, so look for markers (some not along the river).

Now that we’ve done both sides of the trail, if we were to do the hike again, we would only do the Hot Spring Canyon Trail down and back. The only downside is that you will miss views of the Colorado River from above.

Local Tip: You can extend the hike by adding the Liberty Bell Arch trail, an offshoot of the White Rock Canyon Trail.

The Hot Springs

As you approach the hot spring, your experience will be slightly different depending on which side you come from. We entered from the Hot Spring Canyon Trail. As the canyon starts to narrow, you’ll hear voices.

When you’re roughly 20 feet away, there is a steep portion to scramble down. That’s where we found a big group of Korean Ahjummahs (older ladies) getting dressed in the open area just before the first pool (Koreans love a good soak). This is the best spot to change. We dropped our gear off at the open area after the third pool.

At this point, you can see the source of the hot spring pouring out of the rocks. The first spring, which is the hottest, is roughly 110°F. If that’s too hot or crowded, you can try the following two pools that get cooler and cooler. The first two pools are smaller than the last pool and vary from knee to waist-deep. Even if you don’t plan on soaking, you still have to walk through the pools to continue on the trail.

When you’re ready to leave, there is a 20-foot, 18-rung ladder you need to climb down to head down to the beach or White Rock Canyon trail. You can also head back out the way you came.

Local Tip: We highly recommend water shoes or hiking sandals. Not only are you unsure if there is anything sharp in the bottom of the pools, but it makes it easier to navigate the uneven terrain. Jacob loves these, and they even dried as we walked back to the car.

Essential Tips for First Timers

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction. There are portions where the hike is slippery that require some scrambling. Jacob’s water shoes did just fine. I used a combination of hiking boots and sandals (I carried my hiking boots over my head in the water section).
• Get Alltrails+ and download the trail map to ensure you have access to it offline.
• Bring lots of water and sun protection. Much of the hike is exposed, and during shoulder season, it is incredibly hot.
• Leave no Trace – One of the biggest complaints is the amount of garbage on the trails and campsites. Be good stewards of the land and pack out anything you pack in. It helps to have a small daypack to put away any garbage. If you’re feeling up to it, you can pick up any trash you see along the way to leave it better than you found it.
• Weekends are busy. We went on a weekday and still ran into big groups of people, but it was much less crowded than photos we’ve seen from weekends.
• Even if you plan on being back to the car before the sun sets, it’s always a good idea to have a headlamp and some extra supplies in case something happens, or you’re slower than expected.
• It’s good practice never to hike alone. Also, notify someone (not with you) and tell them where you’re hiking and your ETA back home.

What to Pack

• Bring Lots of Water – these are our favorite travel water bottles tested on the road. They recommend you pack one gallon per person on this hike.
• Water Filter (in case you want to refill at the river)
• Food and Snacks
• Sun Protection (sunblock, sunglasses, hat, layers)
• Navigation Tools (google offline maps, Alltrails+)
• Battery for your phone
• Headlamp
• Layers (gets cooler in the shade but hot in the sun)
• Water Shoes / Sandals
• First Aid Kit
• Pack Towel
• Day Pack + Dry Sac (or waterproof backpack to keep your gear dry)
• Camping Gear – if you plan on staying overnight

Camping at Arizona Hot Springs

If you are camping, this is backcountry camping which means there is no trash, potable water, or designated campsites. It gets crowded on weekends, so it can be hard to find a spot. There are two vault toilets just south of the beach. Please Pack Out whatever you pack in.

See More: 11 Breathtaking Canyons in the US You Can’t Miss

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Places to Stay Near Arizona Hot Springs

What’s Nearby

• Hemenway Park (9.6 miles W / 12 min, map)
• Las Vegas (40.4 miles NW / 45 min, map)
• Red Rock Canyon (57.1 mi W, 59 mi, map)
• Valley of Fire (70.1 miles N / 1 hr 25 min, map)
• Grand Canyon West (86.1 miles E / 1 hr 35 min, map)
• Lake Havasu City (126 mi S, 2 hr, map)

See More: 15 Incredible Weekend Trips from Las Vegas to Take Next

More Resources

• Save on Las Vegas Attractions with this Sightseeing Pass
• Day Trips from Las Vegas
• 101 Things to Do in Las Vegas
• Flight Deals to Las Vegas

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About Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead is America’s first and largest national recreation area and is managed by the National Park Service. It covers 1.5 million acres, including mountains, canyons, valleys, and two lakes, Lake Mead and Lake Mohave. It is home to the Hoover Dam and is also the largest reservoir in the US (in terms of capacity), providing water to Arizona, California, and Nevada.

When Lake Mead is at its fullest (which it hasn’t been since 1983), there are 759 miles of shoreline, 247 square miles of surface, and it’s 532 feet deep. There are all kinds of activities at Lake Mead, including boating, fishing, hiking, camping, biking, and more.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Hours: The park is open year-round, 24 hrs a day.
• Fees:
  • Vehicle Daily Pass (1-7 Days): $25
  • Lake Use Fee Vessel (1-7 Days): $16
  • Individual Daily Pass: $15
  • Motorcycle Daily Pass: $20
  • Annual Pass Vehicle: $45
  • Annual Pass Vessel: $50
• Save money by getting an America the Beautiful Annual National Park Pass if you plan on going to multiple parks. Lake Mead is one of the pricier parks, so it’s worth getting the annual pass that covers all the national parks, monuments, historic sites, and BLM land.
• Check the website or stop by a Visitor Center to learn about current conditions and closures.
• Temperatures vary significantly from summer (highs up to 117°F) and winter (lows of 30°F). Be sure to pack accordingly.
• Plan what you want to do and where you want to go ahead of time since the park is massive.
• Time changes can be confusing since the park is in Nevada and Arizona. Arizona is on Mountain Standard Time but doesn’t observe daylight savings. That means the times are the same during the summer, but in the winter, it changes forward one hour when you cross the state border. If you’re close to the border, the time will swap back and forth. Many outfitters go by Nevada time, assuming most visitors come from Las Vegas, but double-check with them.
• There are six main entrances to the park: Northshore, Lake Mead Boulevard, Lake Mead Parkway, Boulder, Temple Bar, and Meadview. There are also southern entrances at Willow Beach, Katherine Landing, and Cottonwood Cove.

Where is Lake Mead Located

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is located in Southeast Nevada and Northwest Arizona.

How Far is Lake Mead from Las Vegas

Lake Mead is about 25 miles or 20 minutes southeast of the Las Vegas Strip.

How to Get to Lake Mead

A car (or rental car) is the best way to get around Lake Mead. Keep in mind that if you’re going from Vegas, you’ll have phone service until you get close to the park.

An excellent place to start is the Lake Mead Visitor Center, located off of U.S. 93 southeast of Boulder City, Nevada.

Lake Mead Visitor Center
10 Lakeshore Rd
Boulder City, NV 89005 (map)

7 Best Things to DO in Lake Mead National Recreation Area

1. Boating

Boating is one of the most popular things to do in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. You can rent all types of boats, including sports boats, pontoons, fishing boats, houseboats, and personal watercraft.

We rented a pontoon boat from Lake Mead Mohave Adventures at Willow Beach Marina. It was a relaxing way to enjoy the water (although the summer is much busier) and see some popular landmarks. We even jumped into the cold water for a quick dip.

You can rent pontoons that seat up to 12 people, with daily rates starting at $400.

Please review all the details on their website for what you need to bring your boat in and where to best launch your vessel.

Local Tip: One thing to keep in mind is that if you rent from one of the Nevada marinas, you must meet their state of residence boating education requirements. A lot of people like to boat on the Arizona side since you can rent one without a boating license. Every operator will need to receive a safety briefing before operating the vessel.

See More: 15 Fun Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

2. Fishing

What you can catch: striped bass (best known for this with some catches weighing in at over 40 pounds), then rainbow trout, catfish, sunfish, large and smallmouth bass, and crappie.

As a starting point, check out Hemenway Fishing Pier, Willow Beach Fishing Pier, and Katherine Landing Fishing Pier. Willow Beach is particularly popular on Fridays because they do a routine release of Rainbow Trout.

Local Tip: Depending on which state you are fishing in, you need the corresponding state’s fishing license. You can usually pick these up in nearby towns or most park marinas.

3. Water Sports

You can bring your own or rent kayaks, canoes, SUPs, or jetskis in most marinas or even do a tour.

Since living in Vegas, Emerald Cove has been on our bucket list, and we finally got to go with Evolution Expeditions. We loved our guide, who made sure the group stayed together, gave us insight into the landscape and history of the area, and even helped us take tons of photos and videos.

The cave itself gets busy! Even when we went in the off-season, we had to wait to get in. During the summers, waits can be over an hour.

If you own a kayak, canoe, or SUP, there are plenty of launching points to go on your own. We need to bring our inflatable SUP to Willow Beach next summer. Another excellent launch point from Lake Mead is Canoe/Kayak Beach in Hemenway Harbor.

Local Tip: If you want to launch near Hoover Dam, you are required to go with a permitted outfitter or hire an outfitter to provide livery service since there is a security zone in that area. Find the deets here.

See More: 7 Breathtaking National Parks Near Las Vegas

4. A Dinner Cruise to Hoover Dam

If you prefer to sit back and relax while seeing the sites, check out Lake Mead Cruises. They offer a variety of cruises throughout the day, but we decided on the Dinner Cruise. We enjoyed a 3-course meal (you select your main dish), then roamed the beautiful paddle-wheel ship to enjoy the views. On scorching days, you can enjoy the views from the two temperature-controlled floors. Check out Reel here.

Local Tip: It wasn’t quite during sunset, it ended right before, but it will provide you the best light out of the cruise options.

5. Hoover Dam & Boulder City →

If you’re visiting Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam is worth visiting. You can take a full tour, stop by for get a view of the dam, see it from the sky, or even walk across it.

If you’re looking for an exclusive view of Hoover Dam, check out the Hoover Dam Raft Tour. It starts at the base of Hoover Dam, and they are the only company that is allowed down there. You really feel the scale of the dam from the bottom. Afterward, the tour takes you down to Willow Springs making a couple of stops along the way. Lunch is included too! See more details about the tour here.

Dam Tours range from $10-30, depending on what you want to see. If you don’t want to bother with driving yourself, there are also a bunch of tours that take you to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas. We’ve linked to a few options below.

• Las Vegas to Hoover Dam Tour
• Small Group Hoover Dam Tour
• Grand Canyon West + Hoover Dam

You can also explore Boulder City, which has a small-town charm, plenty of food options, outdoor adventures, a railroad museum, and more. It’s a great spot to make your home base if you want to spend more time at Lake Mead.

See More: Take A Look Inside the Iconic Hoover Dam Tour

6. Northshore Road or Northshore Drive

Scenic drives are perfect when you need a low-key day, or the weather is too hot for you. Northshore Road takes you through brilliant red boulders stretching almost fifty miles. If you want to hop out for a hike, check out the Northshore Summit Trail.

We take it all the time to visit one of our favorite state parks, Valley of Fire. We’ve even stopped along this road for some astrophotography.

Here are a couple more scenic drives to check out:

• Lakeshore Road – scenic south shore of Boulder Basin
• Pearce Ferry Road – colorful desert landscapes with Joshua Tree forests

Local Tip: Gas stations are hard to find, so fill up when you can.

See More: 21 Best Road Trips in the USA

7. Hiking

Although the lakes are the main attraction, there are also some great hikes. You can hike 15 trails, including two that take you to different hot springs and one that leads you through a historic railroad trail. Our favorite hike so far is Arizona Hot Springs!

We don’t recommend hiking in the summer since temperatures can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit even in the shade. Always be aware of closures and have plenty of water and hiking gear.

Lakeshore Area

• Historic Railroad Trail – Easy 7.5 miles Round Trip | 445 ft Elevation Change
• River Mountains Loop – Easy 34 miles Round Trip | 750 ft Elevation Change
• White Owl Canyon – Moderate 2.2 miles Round Trip | 300 ft Elevation Change
• Bluffs – Moderate 3.9 miles Round Trip | 145 ft Elevation Change

Northshore Area

• Redstone – Easy 1.1 miles Round Trip | 80 ft Elevation Change
• Wetlands – Moderate 1.5 miles Round Trip | 110 ft Elevation Change
• Callville Summit – Moderate 2.7 miles Round Trip | 150 ft Elevation Change
• Northshore Summit – Moderate 1 mile Round Trip | 205 ft Elevation Change
• St. Thomas – Moderate 3.9 miles Round Trip | 85 ft Elevation Change

Lake Mohave

• Fisherman’s – Easy 1.8 miles Round Trip | 35 ft Elevation Change
• Lake View – Moderate 4.7 miles Round Trip | 115 ft Elevation Change
• Liberty Bell Arch – Challenging 5.5 miles Round Trip | 275 ft Elevation Change (Closed May 15 – Sept 30)
• Gold Strike Hot Springs – Challenging, 4.7 miles Round Trip | 935 ft Elevation Change (Closed May 15 – Sept 30)
• White Rock Canyon – Challenging, 6.5 miles Round Trip | 885 ft Elevation Change (Closed May 15 – Sept 30)
• Arizona Hot Springs – Challenging, 5 miles Round Trip | 755 ft Elevation Change (Closed May 15 – Sept 30)

Local Tip: You can join ranger-led hikes year-round with summer hikes held in the evenings.

See More: 15 Best Day Hikes in the US to Put on Your Bucket List

Bonus: Swimming

During the hot summer days, there’s no better way to cool off than jumping in the water.

With that said, be aware that there are no designated swimming areas and no lifeguards on duty.

Boulder Beach and Willow Beach are popular swimming spots. We jumped in from our pontoon boat, too. Check out more popular sites here.

When the weather cools, you can still enjoy the water if you seek out the hot springs!

More Things to DO in Lake Mead

• Camping – Tent and RV camping at 15 different sites. Some of the most popular are Boulder Beach, Callville Bay, and Echo Bay. You can rent an RV here.
• Biking – $5 daily entrance fee valid for up to 7 days. Some popular trails:
  • River Mountains Loop Bike Trail
  • Historic Railroad Trail
• Backcountry Roads / Off-Roading 
• Scuba Diving at Black Canyon and Scuba Beach at North Boulder Beach.
• Horseback Riding
• Visitor Center – Get info from rangers and learn about the park. Also, become a Junior Ranger!
• Hunting 
• Photography

Essential Tips

• Check water levels before using launch ramps. They can change significantly, and many launch ramps have shut down because of lower water levels.
• Water temperature varies by season, with an average of 95 degrees F in the Summer and 47 degrees F in the winter.
• Some areas/beaches may reach capacity (especially in the summer). Check their FB page for updates. 
• Use Leave no Trace Principles.
• Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Be sure to stay hydrated.
• Do not hike alone, especially during the summer.
• When boating, make sure you clean your boat and equipment thoroughly to prevent the spread of quagga mussels.
• Rent a boat from the Arizona marinas vs. ones in Nevada if you don’t have a boating license.
• Get an America the Beautiful Annual National Park Pass if you plan on going to multiple parks.

What to Pack

• Layers – pack light layers. It can be colder on the water. Also, if you’re hanging out in Vegas, the casinos are always pumping the AC. Check out our favorite travel jackets here.
• Swimwear
• Sun protection (hat, glasses, sunscreen, rashguard)
• Flip flops and water shoes for walking through rocky areas.
• Hiking shoes (see best travel shoes)
• City clothes for Vegas.

Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits and our carry-on essentials for every flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping in Lake Mead

There is a wide variety of camping sites available in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. You are limited to a total of 90 days within any consecutive 12-month period and 30 days in any developed campground. Also, be sure to review all the other rules, regulations, and closures.

Fees are $20 per site and posted at the entrance to the campground. Some require reservations, while others are First Come, First Served.

First Come, First Serve

• Boulder Beach Campground, Lake Mead (148 Tent/RV Sites with Wifi Access, No Hookups or Showers)
• Las Vegas Bay Campground, Lake Mead (84 Tent/TV Sites with Wifi Access, No Hookups or Showers)
• Echo Bay Campground, Lake Mead (37 Tent/TV Sites, No Hookups, Showers, or Wifi)

Reservations Required

• Boulder Beach Group Campground, Lake Mead (5 Tent/RV Sites with Wifi Access, No Hookups or Showers)
• Callville Bay Campground, Lake Mead (52 Tent/TV Sites with Wifi Access, No Hookups or Showers)
• Cottonwood Cove Campground, Lake Mohave (45 Tent/TV Sites with Wifi Access, No Hookups or Showers)
• Katherine Landing Campground (157 Tent/TV Sites with Wifi Access, No Hookups or Showers)
• Willow Beach RV/Campground (8 Tent / 28 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, Wi-fi)

RV Sites

• Lake Mead RV Village (115 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, Wi-fi)
• Callville Bay RV Park (5 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, Wi-fi)
• Echo Bay RV Park (58 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, No Wi-fi)
• Temple Bar RV Park (10 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, Wi-fi)
• Cottonwood Cove RV Park (72 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, Wi-fi)
• Katherine Landing RV Park (25 RV Sites, Hookups, Showers, Wi-fi)

Best Places to Stay at or Near Lake Mead

What’s Nearby

• Hemenway Park (3 miles SW / 7 min, map)
• Las Vegas (30.1 miles W / 39 min, map)
• Red Rock Canyon (44.5 mi W, 50 mi, map)
• Valley of Fire (62.9 miles N / 1 hr 20 min, map)
• Muddy Mountains Wilderness (72.3 miles / 1 hr 29 min)
• Grand Canyon West (93.2 miles / 1 hr 37 min)
• Lake Havasu City (137.5 mi S, 2 hr 15 min, map)

More Resources

• Save on Las Vegas Attractions with this Sightseeing Pass
• Day Trips from Las Vegas
• 101 Things to Do in Las Vegas
• Flight Deals to Las Vegas

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15 Best Things to Do in Lake Havasu City AZ

For us, it’s an easy day trip or weekend trip from Las Vegas. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites at Lake Havasu, and it was a great home base. It’s located right next to the London Bridge, and we were able to walk to all the major attractions. More on our hotel later in this post! For now, let’s get into the best things to do in Lake Havasu City.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Lake Havasu City

More Things to Do in Lake Havasu

• Aquatic Center – Indoor water slide, wave pool, splash park, etc. Great for kids.
• Area 66 UFO Museum in Yucca (40 mins NE)
• Birding – Lake Havasu is a birder’s paradise with over 350 identified species of birds.
• Bowling at Havasu Lanes and Keglers Pub – Bowling, darts, billiards, and pub food.
• Bucky’s Rare Odd & Unusual – antique shop
• Casino – Havasu Landing is located on Chemehuevi Reservation on the California side of Lake Havasu. There’s a $2 round trip ferry to get there.
• Copper Still Distillery – $8 and up
• Desert Diamond Distillery Factory Tour
• Flying X Saloon – bar and live music venue
• Franconia – meteorite hunting
• Golfing at Lake Havasu Golf Club
• Grand Island Disc Golf Course
• Grace Arts Live – Live theater with both classics and contemporary shows.
• Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
• Havasu Riviera State Park
• Lake Havasu City Visitor Center
• Kokomo Beach Club – located by the lake and has a pool.
• Memorial Walkway along Bridgewater Channel.
• Movies Havasu – Family-operated movie theater.
• Off-Roading
• Rockhounding – You can find agates, quartz, geodes, gneiss, fossils, copper, chrysocolla, gold. See this resource.
• Shops at Lake Havasu or Havasu North Shopping Center – A large shopping center with all the big box brands.
• Vortexes

Hiking in Lake Havasu City

Don’t leave your hiking boots at home. Lake Havasu is more than just water recreation. Download Alltrails+ so you can have access to the trail maps even when you don’t have service.

• Crossman Peak – 14.4 mile RT moderate hike that features a waterfall.
• Dead Burro Canyon Trail – 7.5 mi strenuous, nice views of the valley
• Mallard Cove Trail – 5.3 mi loop, wildflowers in spring.
• Water Tank Trail – 6.2 mi easy, nice views of lake havasu.
• More Hikes

Where to Eat in Lake Havasu City

• Angelina’s Italian Kitchen (, Italian)
• BaBaLoo Lounge (, Gastropub, Cuban)
• Blue Chair (, Bar) – We ate here as a recommendation from Captain Tera. The food isn’t the best, but it’s good enough, and it has a great atmosphere with live music. The sign outside said, “If the food, drink, and service are not up to your standards… please lower your standards.”
• Boat House Grill ( Seafood)
• Cha-Bones (, Seafood) – also recommended by Tera.
• College Street Brewhouse and Pub (, Pub)
• Hangar 24 (, Bar)
• Golden Phoenix Chinese Restaurant (, Chinese) – We got the lunch special Almond Chicken and Pepper Steak. We like taking a gamble and trying random Asian spots and supporting the local restaurants. Jacob liked the bossy, mean Chinese lady who was yelling at her employees/husband. Reminded him of someone… haha
• Juicy’s the Place with the Great Food (, American) is recommended by many blogs.
• La Vita Dolce Italian Bistro (, Italian) – Ate here bc we were craving Italian. We ordered the linguine and clams and shrimp scampi. The pasta was not al dente, but they were generous with their clams. If you like Olive Garden, you’ll be just fine.
• Mudshark Brewery and Public House (, Breweries, Sandwiches)
• Peggy’s Sunrise Cafe (, Brunch)
• The Red Onion (, Brunch)
• Rusty’s Restaurant (, Brunch
• Scotty’s Broasted Chicken & Ribs (, BBQ
• Shugrue’s (, Wine, Seafood, Steak) – One local told us a lot of people in town will say this is the best restaurant in Lake Havasu, but it’s overrated.

Lake Havasu Hotels Near London Bridge

When we travel, we like to stay central. During our visit, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites.

The location is amazing. It’s a short walk to the English Village, London Bridge, and all the waterfront shops and restaurants. Plus the staff was friendly, rooms are comfortable, clean, and you always know what to expect.

They include a hot breakfast which gave us one less thing to worry about during our trip.

We stayed on the second floor which didn’t have a view of the bridge, but if you’re up on the fourth floor, you should be able to get a view.

For more hotel options, see the map below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential TIps

• Getting to Lake Havasu usually requires driving. There is a small municipal airport (HII) in town but the closest major airports are:
  • Laughlin Bullhead International Airport (IFP) in Bullhead City, AZ which is roughly 1 hr 2 min or 65 miles away
  • McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, NV which is about 2.5 hrs or 150 miles away
  • Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in Phoenix, AZ that is roughly 3 hours or 210 miles away
• Look for the best rental car pricing here.
• When hiking, bring water and wear sunscreen, not many trails in Lake Havasu have shade. Avoid hiking in the summer as temperatures are extremely hot.
• Pack out what you pack in Leave no Trace Principles. Or leave it better if you’re feeling up to it.
• Never hike alone and make sure other people know where you are going.
• Beaches and parking are crowded during the summer so have backup plans or leave early to get your spot.
• There are events throughout the year, it’s best to check what upcoming events there are in case that affects any of your plans.

What to Pack

• Always Bring Layers – layers are essential when you travel. These are our favorite travel jackets.
• Dresses – I like to wear flowy summer dresses to boating destinations. These are great travel dresses.
• Shoes – If you’re going out at night, you’ll probably want some dressy shoes, but make sure you bring a pair of comfortable travel shoes as well.
• Water Bottle – These are our favorite water bottles.

Want to know what to wear to the airport? These are our ideal airport outfits and our carry on essentials for every flight.

What’s Nearby

• Parker, AZ (45 min / 38.5 mi, map) – Nellie E Saloon The Desert Bar – Quirky, rustic watering hole, built on the site of a former mining camp, open weekends Oct–Apr.
• Oatman, AZ (1 hr 10 min / 54.2 mi, map) – along route 66 an hour north of Lake Havasu
• Kingman, AZ (1 hr / 59.9 mi, map) – Nearby, Historic Route 66 Museum and memorabilia, Desert Diamond Distillery, Mohave Museum of History and Arts.
• Las Vegas, NV (153 mi north, 2 h 45 min, map)

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11 Best Things to Do in Kanab UT

Kanab, Utah has been the perfect home base for many of our outdoor adventures. Not only is it located in the middle of several amazing National Parks, but there are also plenty of off-the-beaten-path adventures.

You can try your luck at the Wave, one of the hardest permits to get, visit the largest and most beautiful animal sanctuary, hike through caves and tunnels, or get a taste of the old western movies shot in the area.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Kanab outside of the major National Parks like Zion and Bryce. If you plan on exploring the parks, skip to the guides here.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Kanab Utah

More Things to Do in Kanab Utah

• Buckskin Gulch – longest and deepest slot canyon in the Southwest
• Disc Golfing
• Dixie National Forest – check out the sunset at Strawberry Point Overlook
• Horseback Ride
• Jackson Flat Reservoir – play on the water
• Kanab Heritage House – originally completed in 1894
• Kaibab National Forest – great for hiking, biking, and camping
• Kanab Heritage Museum – learn about Kanab’s history and ancestry
• Maynard Dixon Home – historic home in Mount Carmel
• Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyons – local favorite slot canyon (looks similar to Antelope Canyon). You can also sandboard here.
• Red Pueblo Museum – artifacts from ancient and pioneer inhabitants in the area

National Parks Near Kanab Utah

• Bryce Canyon National Park – Small National Park known for its hoodoos. Easy to explore in 1 day.
• Grand Canyon National Park – The North Rim is closest to Kanab, but the South Rim has the best and most iconic views.
• Zion National Park – Zion gets extremely busy now so plan ahead. Don’t miss Angels Landing, Canyon Overlook, and The Narrows.

See More: 15 Best Hikes in Zion National Park

National Monuments Near Kanab Utah

• Cedar Breaks National Monument – Offering views similar to Bryce Canyon but with fewer crowds. They also have star parties at Point Supreme Overlook.
• Grand Staircase National Monument – A playground for canyoneers, hikers, and off-roaders. The Archaeological/Geological Center is in Kanab with three other visitor centers spread throughout.
• Lake Powell – One of the best spots for water recreation.
• Pipe Spring National Monument – Explore a pioneer fort built in the 1870s.
• Vermilion Cliffs National Monument – Covers a massive amount of land with no visitor centers or developed campsites. Find huge cliffs, beautiful slot canyons, and amazing rock formations.

See More: 11 Things to Do in Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

State Parks Near Kanab Utah

• Kodachrome Basin State Park – 67 huge monolithic stone spires standing from 6 to 170 feet tall.
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes – Play in the dunes with off-road vehicles or sandboards.

Scenic Drives Around Kanab UT

• Angel Canyon – Drive through Best Friends Animal Sanctuary and take in the beautiful surroundings.
• Utah Scenic Byway 12 – Utah’s first “All American Highway”
• Highway 14 to Duck Creek – A beautiful high mountain drive.
• Johnson Canyon – A scenic drive that takes you through areas where pioneer families homesteaded.
• Marble Canyon Loop – 190-mile loop with views of sandstone cliffs, desert, ridges, and more.

Essential Tips

• Kanab is a small town, so hours might be limited at stores and restaurants. Plan accordingly, so you’re not forced to skip meals.
• On busy weekends and holidays, restaurants get filled quickly. Make reservations as early as you can. Sego was booked a few days out.
• If you plan on visiting multiple National Parks, get an annual park pass.
• Bring lots of sunblock and water, especially if you visit in the summer.
• Layers are always smart to protect you from the sun and keep you warm in the evenings.
• Temperatures can change drastically from day to night.
• Bring solid hiking shoes with good traction. These are our favorites.

Where to Eat in Kanab UT

• Angel Village Cafe – $5 vegan buffet with a rotating menu and beautiful views.
• The Cave Cafe – Delicious paninis and smoothies.
• Kanab Creek Bakery – We didn’t get a chance to try their hot food, but their croissants were good.
• Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen – Started by one of the co-founders of Best Friends, this Vegetarian restaurant has yummy pizzas and more.
• Sego Restaurant – One of the nicer restaurants in town. Make a reservation as early as you can.
• Wild Thyme Cafe – Our favorite meal in town. The Tropical Piggy is delicious!

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