TLDR

Location – Arches National Park is located in eastern Utah, just north of Moab. It is famous for its stunning red rock formations, including over 2,000 natural stone arches, pinnacles, and massive rock fins.

Timed Tickets – Timed Entry Tickets are now required from April 1 to July 6 and August 28 to October 31, 2025. It doesn’t cost extra but there is a $2 service fee. If you have camping, backcountry, Fiery Furnace, or special use permits, they qualify as your ticket. You also don’t need one if you are doing a tour with an approved company.

Hikes / Attractions – Devils Garden (our fave), Delicate Arch, Double Arch

Wildlife – Mule Deer, Desert Cottontail Rabbits, Coyotes, Kangaroo Rats, Western Rattlesnakes, Western Collared Lizards, Golden Eagles, Great Horned Owls, Tarantulas, Scorpions

11 Best Hikes in Arches National Park You Simply Can’t Miss

1. Balanced Rock

Distance: 0.3 Mile   |   Difficulty: Easy

You get a great view of this picturesque rock from the road, but this short stroll gets you right next to it to really appreciate its size and keeps you hoping that the rock stays balanced. 

See More: 9 Things You Can’t Miss at Arches National Park

2. Double Arch

Distance: 0.5 Mile   |   Difficulty: Easy

This gravel-surfaced trail takes you to the base of two giant arches that span above you.

See More: 9 Most Famous Arches in Arches National Park

3. Windows Loop

Distance: 1 Mile   |   Difficulty: Easy

A well-marked trail takes you to North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. You can climb into both the North Window and Turret Arch for great photo ops, but can only see the South Window from below. (Has anyone scrambled up there? It doesn’t look easy.)

4. Landscape Arch

Distance: 1.6 Miles   |   Difficulty: Easy

This is a relatively easy hike in Devils Garden and takes you to one of most recognizable arches in the park. You also have optional side trips to Tunnel and Pine Tree arches.

5. Broken Arch Loop

Distance: 2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Easy

Most people skip over Broken Arch for the more popular arches, so it leaves it less crowded. It’s a relatively easy hike and you get to play under an arch (that doesn’t look broken at all. It does have a split though)!

6. Park Avenue

Distance: 2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Moderate

This hike works best if you have someone who isn’t interested and just wants to drive. You can get dropped off at the Park Avenue parking area, then follow the trail through the canyon until you reach the Courthouse Towers where they pick you up!

See More: The Ultimate Guide to Arches National Park

7. Fiery Furnace

Distance: 2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

This hike can only be accessed through a ranger-led hike. Sign up at the visitor center, and explore this labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons. It does require scrambling! Sign up early. When we arrived, all the slots were taken.

8. Delicate Arch →

Distance: 3.2 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

Slick rock and no shade can make this trail difficult. During the day it can be brutally hot. It is easily one of the most crowded hikes since it’s the most popular arch in the world. Check out our guide for the Delicate Arch hike.

See More: Delicate Arch Hike in Arches National Park

9. Tower Arch

Distance: 3.4 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

This trail has steep climbs and has you walking through sandstone fins and sand dunes, but you get to visit a unique arch with a tower attached! This is a great hike to get away from the crowds.

10. Double O Arch (Includes Landscape Arch)

Distance: 4.5 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

Although the beginning of this hike is easy, it starts to get more difficult after you pass Landscape Arch. There are narrow ledges and areas with exposure to drop-offs.

11. Devils Garden (Primitive Trail, Includes Double O and Landscape) →

Distance: 7.8 Miles   |   Difficulty: Strenuous

This hike was the highlight of our trip, and we highly recommend it! It gives you a chance to see multiple arches, including Landscape and Double O. The arches are beautiful, but the hike itself is also very fun and diverse. It requires some scrambling and has some exposure to heights. We saw some folks turn back.

I have a terrible fear of heights, but it wasn’t as bad as I anticipated. You should be fine as long as you have a good pair of hiking shoes with good traction.

See More: How to Hike the Devil’s Garden Trail Arches National Park

Map of the Best Hikes in Arches National Park

Essential Tips

• Pick up a National Park Annual Pass, especially if you’re planning on visiting the other parks in the area. It will save you money and time.
• We love collecting stamps at the National Parks on our National Park Passport.
• It’s good to have solid hiking shoes, especially on the longer hikes since there will be scrambling involved.
• Get AllTrails+ so you have access to the trail maps offline.
• Bring lots of water! These are our favorite travel water bottles. We usually carry a bladder on the longer hikes and an insulated water bottle (we like the trail series) for shorter hikes.

Best Places to Stay in Arches National Park

What’s Nearby

• Canyonlands National Park (26.2 mi / 30 min, map)
• Capitol Reef National Park (133 mi / 2 hr 5 min, map)
• Mesa Verde National Park (150 mi / 2 hr 50 min, map)
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Park (191 mi / 3 hr 22 min, map)

Planning Checklist

More Resources

• Arches & Canyonlands National Park Guide
• Best Easy Day Hikes Canyonlands and Arches National Parks
• Utah Map
• Arches National Park Map
• Annual National Park Pass
• USA National Parks Guide
• National Park Passport

Have you been to Arches National Park? What were your favorite spots there?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

Planning Checklist

Have you visited Arches? Are there any favorite things to do in Arches National Park that we missed?

1. The Great Chamber

Ever since we saw photos of the Great Chamber, we knew we wanted to see it in person. After doing some initial research, we saw that the drive out there isn’t easy. You take sandy roads to get there, so having experience and the right vehicle is important.

Since we didn’t want to stress out about getting there, we went on a tour with Roam Outdoor. Not only did they get us out there quickly, but our guide also snapped photos of us, gave us suggestions on how to avoid messing up the sand, and even pointed out fun photo spots we would have missed.

Local Tip: Most tours start around 9 am, so arrive earlier to get the space to yourself. The sand will also have fewer footprints. It usually gets “reset” by the next day from the strong afternoon winds. 

Photography Tip: Bring a wide lens! We brought our 5D Mark IV (full-frame) and our 16-35mm and 14mm. Although both worked, we didn’t have room to move around with the 16mm. We highly recommend the 14mm or you’ll be stuck stitching photos together in post. Also, be careful with your gear. The sand is very fine and can seep into every nook and cranny.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Utah Bucket List

2. The Wave →

The Wave is one of the hardest hiking permits to get in the US but well worth the effort. Since you have to go through a lottery, you should try your luck each morning you’re in Kanab. The local lottery is done with geo-fencing now so you just have to be in the area.

If you’re unable to get the permit, there are still plenty of great excursions in the area.

Local Tip: If you win a permit, it’s for 2 days after you win it although you still need to go for an orientation the next day.

See More: How to Get the Wave Permit

3. Belly of the Dragon

37.2117092,-112.687328, map

This was a fun and quick excursion and perfect for a hot day. You can see the tunnel from the parking lot, and the hike through the tunnel is short. If you want to hike longer, you can extend it up through the wash for approximately 4 miles, but the tunnel is the highlight.

If you plan on going later in the evening when it’s getting dark out, bring a headlamp with you. Some of our friends told us it’s much more fun trying to navigate the cave in the dark.

Local Tip: It’s used as drainage for the upper canyons, so if it’s rainy at all, don’t try to do this hike.

4. Via Ferrata

We’ve done a few Via Ferratas before, but this one felt like a true adventure.

There are portions of this Via Ferrata that had us sweating, especially the area where you traverse using your hands on the rock. But it made it much more memorable. On top of that, after we finished, we rappeled off a 180 ft rock face back to home base. This made it a UTV, Via Ferrata, and Rappeling experience all packaged into one.

If you’ve never heard of a Via Ferrata before, it’s basically a metal course scaling up a sheer wall. You are safely harnessed and locked in and the guide is there to help you along the way.

Local Tip: Since you’ll be stepping on thin metal rungs to make your way up, it helps to have shoes with good traction, like hiking boots. You can still make it through safely without them, but it’s more for peace of mind.

See More: Easy Beginner’s Guide to Via Ferrata

5. White Pocket →

36.9561127,-111.913096, map

We first visited White Pocket years ago when our photographer friend told us he liked it better than the Wave. After having been to both, we can attest to the beauty of both. The Wave formation itself is unlike anything else we’ve seen, but the entire White Pocket area was more fun to shoot.

The road to get to White Pocket is very sandy and a lot of people get stuck. You either need a high-clearance 4 wheel drive vehicle or go with a guide, which we tend to prefer.

We off-road quite a bit, but Jacob still doesn’t have much experience driving through soft sand.

Local Tip: The landscape is delicate so watch where you’re stepping to protect the brittle rocks and vegetation.

See More: What You Can Expect at the Amazing White Pocket AZ

6. Moqui Cave

4581 US-89, Kanab, UT 84741, map

This is the perfect way to cool off and take a break from the heat.

It was once a bar where famous actors, like John Wayne, would frequent after filming Westerns. Now it’s a family-run cave and museum with ancient artifacts, dinosaur tracks, and florescent rocks (we love our rocks!).

Although they no longer serve alcohol, you can grab a bevvie and sit where John Wayne used to sit. Also, be sure to ask someone about the huge family wooden carving.

They have a delicious panini food truck outside and plan on converting one of the spaces inside to better host live music, screenings, and events. It was one of our better meals in Kanab (I liked the pesto grilled cheese).

Local Tip: The inside temperatures never go above 65, so bring a light jacket.

7. Kanab Sand Caves

37.1211534,-112.568339, map

Just south of Moqui Cave is another interesting cave formation with five openings.

It can be confusing because other bloggers and visitors have called these Moqui Caves as well (google maps also has it mislabeled). The locals know it as the Sand Caves.

These are manmade caves that they used to mine sand back in the day, but the process was short-lived.

You can actually walk to these Sand Caves from Moqui Cave, but it’s slightly shorter if you park in the pullout just south of it (to the right if you’re going south). You will see the caves across the street and sometimes people in them.

The trail starts on the other side of the road as you scramble to the higher ledge on the cliffside and follow it over to the caves. 

Local Tip: The hike is only 0.5 miles but can get steep in certain sections. We recommend following the trail to the left where it’s least steep, get up to the main ledge, then traverse across to the caves. We highly recommend shoes with good traction. Some people say it’s not safe for kids, but we saw families with young kids there too.

8. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, map

We love our boys and are so happy we got them from a shelter in Atlanta. But ever since we moved to the West Coast, we’ve heard so much about Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

It’s not only the largest no-kill shelter in the US but the grounds are stunning and spans 4,000 acres + 30,000+ acres leased from BLM.

Our tattoo artist that did our ring tattoos first told us about Best Friends. He brings his dogs and stays here often to volunteer and hang out with other dogs. Ever since we’ve been meaning to visit.

We did a general tour and saw the pigs, dogs, cats, and horses, but you can also go on a tour specific to what you’re interested in seeing. Check out the schedule and book your free tour here.

There are also some areas you can explore on your own like Angels Rest, and don’t forget to grab a $5 vegan lunch buffet at the Angel Village (hard to beat that price in the area).

Local Tip: We weren’t able to get cell service at the sanctuary but if you’re near any of the buildings, they should have wifi available.

9. Toadstool Hoodoos →

36.9561127,-111.913096, map

A 1.8 mi out and back hike with really cool photo ops.

We love short and easy hikes that give you a high reward. The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is one of these great hikes that end with beautiful rock formations. We want to head back here for some astrophotography – who wants to join?

See More: How to Hike to Toadstool Hoodoos Utah

10. Little Hollywood Museum

297 W Center St, Kanab, UT 84741, map

We didn’t have time to check out the Little Hollywood Museum, but we have friends that have done photoshoots here. Admission is free and you’ll find a gift shop and movie sets on the backlot.

Kanab was once home to some of the most iconic westerns, which earned them the name Little Hollywood.

When you walk around town, you’ll see plaques commemorating different key people in the industry.

Local Tip: They also hold Dutch-oven dinners with western entertainment served at their Chuckwagon cookout.

11. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

12500 Sand Dune Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, map

The Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a local favorite. You can hike and bike to explore the dunes, or rent a sandboard or sled and fly down the hills. You can even zoom throug the dunes on an OHV.

Local Tip: The sand didn’t look super pink to us but it helps to go around sunset.

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

Best Places to Stay in Kanab Utah

We stayed at the Best Friend Roadhouse and Mercantile in town, and it’s easily our favorite pet-friendly hotel. There are multiple room options, from a standard room to a two-level suite. Each room is comfortable and beautifully designed for both you and your pets in mind.

When we walked into our room, we were pleasantly surprised to find a cat tree, food bowls, and litter box laid out. There’s an additional pet bed that pulls out from under the human bed.

You’ll also find a beautiful dog park in the back and self-service pet washing facilities with cleaning products.

Our two boys have traveled with us to multiple places, and we’ve never seen them so happy at a hotel. If you don’t have your own pets with you, you can even have a sleepover with an adoptable pet.

You can also use the map below to find other hotel options.

Planning Checklist

More Resources

• Utah Travel Guide
• Utah Road & Recreation Map
• Zion National Park Guide
• Southwest Road Trip Guide

Any more things to do in Kanab Utah that we missed? What is an absolute must-do for you?

TLDR

Location – St. George is located in the southwestern corner of Utah, near the Arizona border, and is part of the stunning red rock landscape of the Mojave Desert. It’s a great place to visit for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and easy access to outdoor adventures in places like Zion National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, and the nearby Sand Hollow Reservoir. The city also offers a charming downtown, golf courses, and a growing arts scene.

Hikes / Attractions – Pioneer Park, Snow Canyon State Park, Moe’s Valley Bouldering, The Vortex

Where to Eat – Angelica’s Mexican Grill, Viva Chicken, Sloth Cookies

Where to Stay – The Advenire Hotel, Greater Zion’s first-ever luxury boutique hotel

1. Pioneer Park

375 Red Hills Pkwy, St. George, UT 84770, map

When we drove up to Pioneer Park, we were blown away by the landscape within the city. The popular thing to do is climb up Dixie Rock (or Dixie Sugarloaf) to enjoy the sunset and get the best views of the city.

We also loved the slot canyons (the St George Narrows), and we later noticed the rock climbing in the park. Because it had rained the day before, we didn’t want to ruin any of the climbs, but we’ll be back for sure.

Local Tip: There are two separate parking lots, one specifically for Dixie Sugarloaf and another that takes you to the loop.

2. Snow Canyon State Park

1002 Snow Canyon Dr, Ivins, UT 84738, map

Fees: $15 per vehicle ($10 for Utah residents)

When we visited Snow Canyon State Park, we only had a few hours in the afternoon. We decided to hike to Scout Cave and Jenny’s Canyon.

Scout Cave itself was really beautiful, although the hike overall wasn’t that interesting. Jenny’s Canyon is a short approach and an easy 10 minute stop.

Amazingly, this state park is only 10 minutes from the city. After talking to a few locals, they told us it’s often overlooked by visitors since they are so focused on visiting Zion.

When we have more time, next we want to check out the Lava Tube Trail, which is the hike that several locals recommended.

Local Tip: There’s a ton of hiking within Snow Canyon, and had we known better, we would have set aside a full day just to explore the rest of the park.

Photo Tip: If you can’t do sunrise or sunset, Scout Cave looks much better in the morning light than the afternoon or evening light.

See More: 101 Things to do in Utah State – Your Ultimate Utah Bucket List

3. Red Cliffs Recreation Area

345 East Riverside Drive St. George, UT 84790, map

If you’re looking to explore areas of the desert, check out Red Cliffs Recreation Area. The massive red sandstone cliffs will remind you of how small you are and you can step back in time as you see remnants of a Virgin Anasazi habitation.

One of the most popular easy trails is the Red Reef Trail. You can also check out the Orson Adams House to get a glimpse at pioneer life and see dinosaur tracks on the Silver Reef Trail.

Local Tip: Parking is very limited (only 52 general-use parking spaces) which can cause traffic. You also have to drive through tunnels that will only fit vehicles less than 12 feet in height or width.

4. Moe’s Valley Bouldering

37.0699343,-113.6275344, map

If you boulder, this is by far the best thing to do in St George. People say it’s soft, but regardless of grades, we found the climbs to be a lot of fun. It’s also a great intro to outdoor bouldering if you’re strictly a gym climber.

Our favorite area so far is Super Mario Land, but I’m sure we’ll continue to find more fun spots in Moe’s Valley.

Local Tip: We picked up the bouldering guide at The Desert Rat (shop local!). The book covers the entire St George area. Also, if you forget any outdoor gear, this is where you can pick up supplies.

5. The Bowl AKA the Vortex Hike

37.280004,-113.7413139, map

The Vortex hike is a unique hike, and if there’s one hike you do near St George, we recommend this one. Not only is the Vortex itself dope, but the entire hike is interesting.

It’s really popular and busy on weekends, but on our mid-week visit, we only saw 1 other group as we were leaving. It’s a moderate hike that is roughly 2.16 miles roundtrip and should take roughly 1-1.5 hours (not including the time you want to hang out there).

Keep in mind that you’ll be driving on unpaved roads for the last 5 miles. It had recently snowed when we went so there were parts of the road that were really muddy with a few sketchy spots. It always helps to have high clearance and 4-wheel drive, but we saw a minivan in the parking lot too.

Photo Tip: The position of the sun makes a huge difference when it comes to photographing the Vortex. You need to either be there at dawn, dusk, or midday when the sun is at its peak to avoid harsh shadows on the rock feature. If it’s a cloudy day, anytime is fine

Hiking Tip: We highly recommend getting an offline map for the trail since some cairns were hard to find. Download Alltrails+ and get the maps so you don’t have to worry about getting lost.

6. Red Hills Desert Garden

375 Red Hills Pkwy, St. George, UT 84770, map

We weren’t sure what to expect at this free desert garden. At the entrance, it didn’t seem like anything special. But the further we got in, we were pleasantly surprised at how much fun it was to explore.

It features 5,000 water-efficient plants, dinosaur tracks, and a replica slot canyon. If you plan on visiting Pioneer Park, the Red Hills Desert Garden is right next to it.

Local Tip: There’s a bridge above the artificial slot canyon that’s a great spot to shoot photos of people down below.

7. St George Utah Temple

250 E 400 S, St. George, UT 84770, map

The temple is hard to miss in St George. It is the longest operating temple of the Church. 

When they finish their renovations, they will have an open house where you can check out the inside. After that period, the public won’t be allowed inside but can still enjoy it from the exterior grounds.

Local Tip: The Temple was covered in scaffolding, so I wouldn’t recommend visiting it now, but you can get a great view of it in the distance from Dixie Sugarloaf where you don’t notice the construction. 

8. St George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm

2180 E Riverside Dr, St. George, UT 84790, map

Fee: $10 adult / $5 children

Did you ever have a dinosaur phase as a kid (or are you still into dinosaurs)? I had no idea that St. George had so many fossils in the area.

This museum lets you get up close and personal with fossils and also has five life-sized models. On top of that, there’s a real fossil prep lab at the facility and park to enjoy.

9. Kayenta Art Village

851 Coyote Gulch Ct, Ivins, UT 84738, map

If you love art, head over to this small community of art galleries and studios. At the Kayenta Art Village, you’ll also find theatre, art festivals, and restaurants.

Local Tip: If there is a specific spot you want to visit, call ahead to get the current hours at a specific shop or gallery. We visited based on the overall village hours and a lot of spots were still closed.

10. Little Black Mountain Petroglyphs

36.982827, -113.503066, map

If you love getting a glimpse into history, check out this short 0.8 mi hike to find over 500 individual rock-art designs on the cliffs and boulders, including work from the Great Basin, Western Anasazi, and Lower Colorado River.

Local Tip: The main access route is currently shut down because the state leased land for a gravel pit. The best way to head there is via the Glitter Mine’s direction, but it doesn’t hold up well in rain and impassable during heavy rain.

11. Tuacahn Amphitheater Show →

1100 Tuacahn Dr, Ivins, UT 84738, map

When we stopped by, they weren’t doing any shows (due to COVID), but seeing it reminded us of the Red Rock amphitheater near Denver.

This beautiful outdoor amphitheater brings music and performances right inside a canyon. The red rock backdrop is absolutely stunning and after our visit, we want to come back to see a show here.

Since opening in 1995, they’ve produced 60+ major musical theatre productions and hosted over 200 concerts. This year, they’ll have productions like Disney’s Frozen, Anastasia, Jersey Boys, and more.

Local Tip: If you want to check out this beautiful amphitheater but don’t have time for a show, they have a Cafe that overlooks the space.

See More: The Best Broadway on Broadway – Your Ultimate Guide

12. Sand Hollow State Park

3351 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737, map

Fees: $20 weekday / $25 weekend per vehicle ($15 / $20 for Utah residents)

The contrast of red sandstone landscapes and blue waters is stunning. This is one of Utah’s newer state parks and easily one of the most popular for water recreation.

You can boat, fish, and dive at the Sand Hollow Reservoir, ride on the dunes of Sand Mountain, and camp in a campground or beach.

Local Tip: Their social media is a great way to get up-to-date info and current conditions.

See More: 15 Amazing Things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park

13. Quail Creek State Park

472 5300 W, Hurricane, UT 84737, map

Fee: $20 per vehicle ($15 for Utah residents)

Boaters and anglers love this reservoir with some of the warmest waters and mild winter climates. On top of that, you can camp, hike, and explore the beautiful landscapes. 

The maximum depth of the reservoir is 120 feet, which allows them to stock it with rainbow trout, bullhead catfish, and crappie. There’s also largemouth bass and bluegill.

14. Brigham Young Winter Home

67 W 200 N, St. George, UT 84770, map

The Brigham Young Winter Home wasn’t open when we visited (also COVID), but we got a chance to check out the exterior.

As noted by the name, it is where Brigham Young and his family lived in the winter months. When it’s open you can take a tour where they tell you about Young’s family life and role in directing the settlement. 

15. Town Square Park

50 S Main St, St. George, UT 84770, map

Town Square Park is a beautiful spot right inside the downtown historic district (where we stayed). Not only is it surrounded by the most prominent historic buildings, but it also has water features, plenty of space to relax, and a beautiful vintage Carousel.

When we went in mid-March, there were several trees with spring blooms. We also saw a few engagement sessions being shot here.

Local Tip: They hold events throughout the year, including First Night, Art Festivals, Summer Movies on the Square, and more.

Planning Checklist

How many of these have you done? Any things to do in St George UT that we missed?

Planning Checklist

Can you think of any other things to do in Utah? What would be on your ultimate Utah bucket list?

TLDR

Location – Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, near the town of Springdale. It’s known for its dramatic red rock canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows.

Our Fave Hikes – Angels Landing, The Narrows, Canyon Overlook Trail

Wildlife – mule deer, bighorn sheep, rock squirrels, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and California condors

Where to Stay – Hotel deals near Zion National Park

Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

1. Angels Landing →

37.259271,-112.9535189, map   |   Shuttle Stop 6

5.4 miles, 1488 ft elevation, strenuous

NOTE: Angels Landing requires a permit to hike. Find details about the lottery here.

Angels Landing is easily the most popular hike in the park. You would think that means it’s an easy hike, but it almost destroyed us going in with that mindset. On top of that, there are exposed sections, so it can be a mental challenge for those afraid of heights.

We’ve only hiked it once, and haven’t done it since seeing the videos of the insane lines that look like you’re waiting for a Disneyland ride. It’s still worth doing once.

Local Tip: They recommend arriving to the park 90 minutes before you want to start your hike. The lines can get really long simply to start the hike.

See More: How to Hike Angels Landing

2. The Narrows →

37.3043836,-112.9489628, map   |   Shuttle Stop 9

3 -16 miles, difficult

The Narrows can be hiked in two ways. The popular option is the bottom-up hike since it’s only a day hike. Depending on how fast you hike, you can go up as far as Big Springs (10 miles) before hiking back out. Most people hike up 3-4 miles and then back.

The top-down hike, which is what we highly recommend, requires a wilderness permit. It’s a 2-day 16-mile thru-hike and an amazing experience to have the canyons to yourself on the first day. You even get to camp inside the canyon. Who needs sleep meditation apps when you have the natural sound of the river!

The second day you meet up with all the day hikers and it can get crowded. Check out our guides for The Narrows here.

Local Tip: Regardless of which hike you plan on doing, we highly recommend water shoes. People also recommend renting dry suits (I rented one), but they’re really not necessary most of the year.

See More: Your Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Narrows Zion National Park

3. Canyon Overlook Trail →

37.2134944,-112.9440808, map   |   No Shuttle Stop

1 mile round trip, 442 ft elevation, easy to moderate

When it comes to the best bang-for-buck hike, the Canyon Overlook Trail wins the pot. It’s a relatively easy hike that gets you an amazing panoramic view of Zion Canyon. You also get to walk through a large natural cave.

This hike gets really crowded too and is popular for sunrise.

Local Tip: Parking is limited and can fill up quickly so try to get here early.

See More: How to Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail

4. Emerald Pools

37.238402,-112.9666363, map   |   Shuttle Stop 5 or 6 (6 takes slightly longer)

1.2 miles round trip, easy

The glistening pools and waterfalls of Emerald Pools are worth a visit. Lower Emerald Pool is the easiest to get to and is mostly flat. The upper pool adds less than a mile to the hike but gains a couple hundred feet in elevation. Like most hikes, the further you go, the fewer the people you’ll see

Local Tip: Swimming is not allowed in the pools.

See More: 15 Best Hikes in Zion National Park

5. Zion National Park Lodge

1 Zion Lodge, Springdale, UT 84767, map   |   Shuttle Stop 5

The Zion Lodge is the only in-park lodging at Zion National Park. But regardless of if you plan on staying there, it’s worth stopping by to get food, run to the restroom, and ask the rangers for up to date info on the park.

There are two dining options in the lodge, and there’s also a Beer Garden Cart that serves local microbrews.

Local Tip: If you want to save money, you can also bring your own picnic and then grab a couple of local brews from the cart.

6. Weeping Rock

37.271002,-112.9381864, map   |   Shuttle Stop 7

0.4 mile walk, eaasy

Note: This hike is currently closed.

Weeping Rock is exactly what it sounds like, it’s a rock that is “crying.” It’s a short walk to an iconic spot where you’ll find trickling streams of water on the rock wall covered in fern and moss.

Local Tip: The trail is not recommended for wheelchairs or strollers because it’s narrow.

7. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

37.309081,-113.0544017, map

If you’re visiting the park, you’ll most likely be taking the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive whether you’re driving or taking the shuttle. You can only drive into the park during the offseason and the parking spots are extremely limited. From April through October, you can only take the shuttle.

Be sure to look up from time to time as you drive through the canyon to appreciate its sheer size and magnificence. Just make sure the driver is watching the roads for turns, pedestrians, and wildlife.

You can also check out:

• Zion Park Scenic Byway – 54 miles one way. The canyon scenic drive is part of this. Switchbacks and two narrow tunnels.
• Zion-Mount Carmel Highway – 25 miles. Goes through Mt Carmel tunnel (pictured below).
• Kolob Canyons Road / Kolob Fingers Road Scenic Byway – 5 miles. Narrow winding canyons, wooded trails, and fewer crowds.

Local Tip: The shuttle closes between Thanksgiving and late December (and again from January to President’s Day weekend) which is the perfect time to drive through the canyon to see it in the winter.

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

8. Observation Point

37.2806923,-112.9406111, map   |   Shuttle Stop 7

6.7 mile round trip, 2100 ft elevation, difficult

Observation Point is another great hike in Zion National Park. This hike gives you amazing views of the canyon from above, and you even get to look down on Angels Landing dotted with hikers.

9. Watchman Trail

37.200584,-112.9879113, map   |   Shuttle Stop 1 (Visitor Center)

3.1 mile loop, 650 ft elevation,  moderate

The Watchman Trail starts at the Visitor Center and is a great introduction to the beauty of the park. At the end you get a viewpoint of the Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon, Watchman Peak, and Springdale.

Local Tip:  If it’s been raining, this trail can be muddy. We love these hiking boots since they’re ready for any situation.

10. Riverside Walk

37.2849327,-112.9492016, map   |   Shuttle Stop 9

1.9 miles round trip, 193 ft elevation, easy

The Riverside Walk is known as the Gateway to the Narrows. It’s the paved portion of the hike along the Virgin River that you walk to get to the Narrows trailhead.

Even if you’re not planning on hiking the Narrows, the Riverside Walk is the perfect spot to see a portion of the canyons, picnic, and splash in the river.

11. Checkerboard Mesa

37.2245664,-112.8889236, map   |   No Shuttle Stop

The Checkerboard Mesa is close to the East entrance of Zion National Park. You can actually see the unique checkered cracks right from the road. There are a few pullouts along the highway if you want to get out to take some photos.

12. The Subway

37.309081,-113.0544017, map  |   No Shuttle Stop

7 miles, strenuous and technical

The Subway is the next permitted hike we want to do. It’s similar to the Narrows but much more technical and requires you to scramble over boulders, swim through cold water, and climb down waterfalls. Ropes aren’t required but are helpful to get over cliffs and lower your gear.

The hike takes you to a gorge that looks like a subway tunnel. We’ve heard mixed reviews on whether it’s worth the effort, but we have to see for ourselves. Some of our friends went and told us depending on the weather and rainfall in previous days, it could look muddy and gross instead of what you often see in the photos.

Pro Tip: When hiking to the Subway bottom-up, you don’t need to rappel or swim, but you will still be hiking in water. Our friend did both and recommended the top down if you’re experienced at canyoneering. You need to be able to comfortably set up anchors, down climb, and rappel.

See More: 11 Most Difficult Hiking Permits to Get in the US

13. Human History Museum

37.2093279,-112.9826257, map   |   Shuttle Stop 2

Head to this cultural museum to learn about the history of the American Indians, pioneers & Zion National Park. It’s a great spot to stop if you need to escape the heat or cold. It’s also a great spot for sunset and much less crowded than Canyon Junction.

14. Canyoneering and Rock Climbing

There are multiple options when it comes to canyoneering and climbing in the park. Most canyoneering trips require permits.

For climbing, there aren’t many great routes for inexperienced climbers and there aren’t many top rope or sport climbing areas. We haven’t picked up our own trad gear yet, so that may have to wait. 

We saw a couple of small bouldering areas, which we’re excited to check out first. Day climbs do not require permits, and you can check out the popular routes here.

Pro Tip: There may be closures due to nesting. Check this site and the Visitor Center for the most up-to-date info on closures.

15. Court of Patriarchs

37.2366589,-112.9625082, map   |   Shuttle Stop 4

The Court of Patriarchs is made up of three sandstone peaks on the west side of the canyon. They are one of the most recognizable features in the park and are named after biblical fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

You can see them from almost anywhere in the valley, but for the classic shot, get off at the 4th shuttle stop and take the short trail that leads to the viewpoint. There are also other great vantage points around the area if you do a little bit of exploring.

Planning Checklist

What types of hikes do you typically like to do? Which of these Zion hikes above have you done or would you like to do?

11 Things to Do in Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (AZ + UT)

1. Canyon Boat Tours

100 Lake Shore Dr, 86040, map

Update: Because of current water levels, they are not offering the Antelope Canyon adn Navajo Canyon tours.

We went on the Canyon Adventure Boat Tour, which took us to Antelope Canyon and Navajo Canyon. Keep in mind that although this is part of the same Antelope Canyon that you can tour on land, this portion of the canyon is filled with water.

Some guests were confused between the two since it didn’t look like the photos they’d seen. We also got to see Glen Canyon Dam from the water and other beautiful formations.

Along the way, the captain will point out significant landmarks and the other staff on board can help answer any questions.

Local Tip: They only allow a certain number of people on the top of the boat, so arrive early if you want to get a seat up there. If you don’t get a seat up top, windows downstairs do open. They also provide water, coffee, and lemonade on all the cruises, but if you think you’ll get hungry, you should pack some snacks.

See More: Your Complete Antelope Canyon Guide – Slot Canyon Tours

2. See Rainbow Bridge

Lake Powell, 84533, map

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is only 160 acres, making it one of the smallest National Park units. But within that small piece of land, you can find one of the largest natural bridge in the world a s well as other unique features.

This is a trip of its own. On our first trip, we didn’t get to see Rainbow Bridge, because we didn’t realize how long it takes with a boat. Luckily a month later, we were able to rent a boat for the day to finally see it.

Getting to Rainbow Bridge takes some planning as it can only be accessed by water or long hikes. Here are your options:

• Hike the North Trail (17.5 miles / primarily through Navajo Tribal Lands)
• Hike the South Trail (17.2 miles / primarily through Navajo Trival Lands)
• Rent or Bring Your Own Boat (check boat rentals here)

A few notes if hiking:

• Contact Navajo Parks for permits if you plan on hiking.
• When hiking, you can do it one way as long as you arrange a pick up through the Wahweap Marina.
• Check the weather – do not hike if rain is in the forecast

See More: Your Complete List of All National Parks in the US

3. Take a Float Trip Down the Colorado River

199 Kaibab Rd, 86040, map

Head into Page, AZ and join Wilderness River Adventures for a float tour down the Colorado River. Starting at the Glen Canyon Dam, your expert guide will take you down the Colorado River telling you more about the history of the area and pointing out significant landmarks like the Petroglyphs.

The highlight of this trip was getting to see Horseshoe Bend from inside the canyon. When you looked up, you could see a crowd of tiny humans dotting the edge. 

You can even hop in the water, but keep in mind that unlike Lake Powell where the water gets warm in the summer, the river says a cool 47 degrees all year round.

Local Tip: Do yourself a favor and take the very first tour of the day. The morning will start out chilly on the water, so you’ll want to bring a light jacket, but by the end, it will be quite warm. Midday tours can get hot.

4. Rent Your Own Boat

2F4X+RH, Utah, map

Boating is by far the most popular activity in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. If you have your own boat, there are four marinas with ramps where you can launch a private vehicle (click here to see the full list)

You can also rent a boat at the Wahweap or Bullfrog Marinas. You have the choice between a Pontoon Boat, Powerboat, Weekender Boat, or Jetskis. During our visit, we took a Powerboat out for a half-day rental. 

Neither of us have much boating experience but they walked through all the basics and we went out to explore some of the canyons on our own.

Lake Powell is also a popular spot to go fishing! Since the lake borders the Utah and Arizona line, be sure you have a fishing license from both states. Click here for more on fishing regulations and conditions.

Local Tip: Be sure to make reservations ahead of time, especially during the summer. We had a few people ask us if we could take them out for a ride since no boats were left. Also, arrive 20-30 minutes before your reservation to fill out all the appropriate paperwork so you have the maximum time on the water.

5. Tour the Glen Canyon Dam

US-89, 84533, map

Update: Tours are currently closed.

The Glen Canyon Dam is the second largest concrete arch dam in the US. Take the 45-minute long tour to learn more about its history and how it functions.

Each tour allows a maximum of 20 people and you can only make reservations in person at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center up to 24 hours in advance. Tickets prices are $5 for adults 17-61, $2.50 for kids 7-16, free for children 0-6, and $4 for anyone 62+.

See More: Touring the Iconic Hoover Dam

6. Kayak Lake Powell

2F4X+RH, Utah, map

Glen Canyon is all about the water sports. If you want to see the lake at a slower pace, rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard. We saw a ton of people kayaking in the canyons, and unlike the boats, they were able to get right next to the walls and even pull them up on shore to sit out on the rocks.

Local Tip: Apply lots of sunblock! Since they are sit-on-top kayaks, don’t forget your legs. I’ve gotten some gnarly sunburns from forgetting to reapply when kayaking.

7. Visit Lees Ferry

Spencer Trail, 86036, map

Lees Ferry is the only place where you can drive to the Colorado River within Glen Canyon. It’s where we ended our float tour, and the launching point for Grand Canyon rafting trips.

Fishermen launch from here to head upstream for world class trout fishing, and backpackers end 4-5 day hikes through the Paria Canyon Wilderness Area here as well. 

Just upstream from the Lees Ferry launch ramp, you’ll find the historic ferry crossing site and a few historic buildings. It was the spot where pioneers, miners, Indians, and tourists crossed between 1872 to 1928.

See More: 11 Breathtaking Canyons in the US You Must Visit Next

8. Hike to Horseshoe Bend

36.8790774,-111.5206624, map

Lake Powell is definitely the main attraction of Glen Canyon National Park, but don’t forget about exploring all the beautiful spots on dry land.

Horseshoe Bend is probably the most popular day hike by far. We stopped by to catch sunset here. Here are some of the other day hikes you can explore:

Hiking Tips:

• Click here for directions to the hikes and more info.
• Download Alltrails+ to have access to trail maps offline.
• There is little to no shade on most hikes and cell phone reception is spotty.
• Bring lots of water and dress appropriately.
• Wear sunscreen and remember to reapply.
• If there is potential for flash floods, do not hike any trails through washes.

Local Tip: If you prefer exploring on two wheels, there are miles of mountain biking trails. Find more details here.

9. Take a Scenic Drive

There are a couple backcountry roads you can take for a scenic drive. The first is the Burr Trail. You get great views of the Henry Mountains and takes you through Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Capitol Reef National Park, and Grand Staircase-Escalate National Monument. 

You can also drive along the Hole-in-the-Rock Road which follows the trail of early pioneers from Escalante, Utah to Hole-in-the-Rock.

Burr Trail
Distance: 67 miles one-way
Roads: Mix of paved and dirt roads. Impassible when wet. Four-wheel drive required for some sections.

Hole-in-the-Rock Road
Distance: 62 miles one-way
Roads: High-clearance vehicle required. Last five miles require 4-wheel drive.

Other Tips:

• Check with a ranger or call 435.826.5499 for road and weather conditions.
• Cell service is unreliable. It’s always a good pracitce to let someone know your itinerary so you can be found in case something goes wrong.
• Pack out everything you pack in.
• Take plenty of drinking water and snacks.

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

10. Get a Different Perspective at Muley Point

Muley Point Rd, 84531, map

Muley Point is on the far corner of the San Juan Arm. From here you can get views of Monument Valley, Navajo Mountain, and beautiful canyons of the San Juan River. 

Just outside of the park in the Cedar Mesa area, you’ll find well-preserved prehistoric archaeological sites in the alcoves and canyons. Be sure not to touch, lean, or climb on any of the remains to help preserve them.

11. Explore the Escalante Backcountry

755 W Main St, 84726, map

The Escalante area is usually overlooked because it doesn’t have a marina or access to Lake Powell, but it has some of the best backcountry hiking and camping in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Local Tip: The Escalante Interagency Visitor Center will be your best resource for planning trips in this area. You can call them at 435.826.5499 for permit info and road conditions.

Planning Checklist

What’s your favorite water and outdoor activities on a lake trip? Have you been to Glen Canyon?

15 Best Hikes in Zion National Park

5 Best Easy Hikes in Zion

1. Canyon Overlook Trail →

Trailhead Coordinates: 37.213341, -112.940680, map

Distance: 1 mile roundtrip, 213 ft elevation gain
Time: < 1 Hour
Difficulty: Easy
Traffic: Crowded

This trail leads you to one of the best photography spots in the park. The trailhead is near the East entrance just before the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. After a short hike up from the street, you go through a large natural cave and are rewarded with an extraordinary view of Zion Canyon below.

More: How to Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail

2. Emerald Pools Trail →

Shuttle Stop 5 or 6 (6 takes slightly longer)

Distance: 1.2-3 Miles, 552 ft elevation gain
Time: 1-3 Hours
Difficulty: Easy
Traffic: Crowded

This collection of trails gives you a few different options, with spectacular views of greenery, Pools, and waterfalls. The Lower and Middles Pools can be reached from the same trailhead, while the Upper Pool has a different starting point. This trail also allows you to walk under a waterfall.

See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Zion National Park

3. Riverside Walk →

Shuttle Stop 9

Distance: 1.8 mi miles roundtrip, 206 ft elevation gain
Time: 1-2 Hours
Difficulty: Easy
Traffic: Crowded

Also known as the Gateway to the Narrows, this paved path takes you from the Temple of Sinawava to the Virgin River. You can then enjoy the entrance of the Narrows and even wade around in the river before making your way back.

4. Watchman Trail →

Shuttle Stop 1 (Visitor Center)

Distance: 3.1 mile loop, 646 ft elevation gain
Time: 1-3 Hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Traffic: Crowded

Visitors often overlook this trail, but it offers a stunning view of the valley. Although it doesn’t climb the heights of the Watchman itself, it’s a great introduction to the park’s beauty.

5. Weeping Rock →

Shuttle Stop 7

Update: Trail currently closed.

Distance: 0.4 Miles
Time: < 1 Hour
Difficulty: Easy
Traffic: Very Crowded

This short stroll takes you to the famous weeping wall, where you see trickling streams of water and hanging gardens of fern and moss. It’s not our favorite “hike” in Zion, but it takes you to one of the most iconic parts of the park. The trail is narrow, so it is not recommended for wheelchairs or strollers.

5 Best Moderate to Strenuous Day Hikes

6. Angels Landing →

Shuttle Stop 6

Distance: 4.1 Miles, 1617 ft elevation gain
Time: 2-4 Hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Very Crowded

One of the iconic hikes in Zion National Park, Angels Landing is not for the faint of heart (or anyone with a fear of heights). Sections of the trail offer chains to help steady yourself as you navigate the part with drop-offs on both sides. The views at the top are truly stunning!

Local Tip: Angels Landing requires a permit to hike starting April 1, 2022. Find details about the lottery system here.

More: 15 Most Dangerous and Scariest Hikes in the World

7. Observation Point →

Shuttle Stop 7

Distance: 6.7 Miles out and back, 2131 ft elevation gain
Time: 4-6 Hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Moderate to Crowded

Observation Point is a Zion classic giving you glimpses of Echo Canyon and rewarding you with a fantastic view of the park. This 8-mile round trip hike has a more than 2,100 feet elevation gain. The sharp ridge you see in the center is Angel’s Landing.

8. Kolob Arch →

Trailhead Coordinates: 37.4378783, -113.1920637, map

Distance: 15.1 Miles roundtrip, 1781 ft elevation gain
Time: Full Day
Difficulty: Moderate
Traffic: Moderate

Kolob Arch is the second longest arch in the world, although many still argue that it’s larger than Landscape Arch. You can reach the arch from Kolob Canyons Road at Lee Pass or the Hop Valley Trailhead, but both are 7-mile treks.

9. The Subway (Bottom-Up) →

Trailhead Coordinates: 37.2908319, -113.0968386, map

Distance: 7.0 Miles round trip, 1305 elevation gain
Time: Half Day
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Low

The subway is a gorge that looks like a subway tunnel. Although the bottom-up hike doesn’t require rappels or swims, you still hike through water and need a permit to hike. For more technical hikers, the Top to Bottom hike is also spectacular!

More: 11 Most Difficult Hiking Permits to Get in the US

10. Zion Narrows (Bottom-Up) →

Shuttle Stop 9

Distance: 3-8 Miles
Time: 2-6 Hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Traffic: Very Crowded
Best Time to Go: April until Oct

This hike is perfect for a hot summer day. You can go as far up the river as you want before you turn around, but try to make it up to the most iconic portion called Wall Street. The brochure says this one is careful and moderate, but in our opinion, sometimes it’s easier to climb stairs for hours than tread through the water.

Local Tip: Hiking the Narrows depends on the water levels. Check the National Parks site for any trail closures.

More: Our 2-Day Narrows Backpacking Trip

5 Best Backpacking Trails

11. The Barracks →

Distance: 20 Miles
Time: 2-3 Days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Low

The Virgin River has two main forks. The North Fork is most frequented because of The Narrows, but the East Fork offers equally beautiful canyons in much more solitude. There are also many side canyons to explore as you hike through the Parunaweap Canyon. The majority of this hike lies outside of Zion in its neighboring BLM.

12. La Verkin Creek Trail →

Distance: 18.6 miles round trip, 2326 ft elevation gain
Time: 2 Days
Difficulty: Moderate
Traffic: Low
When to Go: Year Round

Most people use this trail to visit Kolob Arch, but you can make it an overnight trip to take your time and soak in all the beauty. The campsites along the trail are superb, and you can tack on an additional 5 miles round trip hike to Beartrap Canyon falls.

13. The Trans-Zion Trek or Zion Traverse →

Distance: 48 Miles point to point
Time: 3-5 Days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Low

This hike takes you through several trails in the park, bringing you from one corner of Zion to the other. You will need to get all the appropriate permits, but it’s well worth it as you will see portions of the park that most people don’t get a chance to experience.

14. West Rim Trail →

Distance: 16-18 Miles
Time: 2 Days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Moderate
Best Time to Go: April to Oct

Starting at Lava Point, this trail has some of the best views in Zion, including canyons, springs, trees, and flowers. And you can add on a side trip to Angels Landing too!

15. Zion Narrows (Top-Down) →

Distance: 16 Miles
Time: 2 Days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Traffic: Moderate

Although you technically can do the entire hike as a day hike if you’re fast, but taking time to camp halfway through was really nice. The hike requires a permit, and you are in the water for a large portion of the hike. Check out our guide to the Narrows hike for more details.

More: Backpacking Gear List for the Zion Narrows Hike + Tips

Planning Checklist

What types of hikes do you typically like to do? Which of these Zion hikes above have you done or would you like to do?

The Mighty 5 Utah National Parks Road Trip

1. Zion National Park →

1101 Zion Mount Carmel Hwy, Hurricane, 84737, map

Entry Fee: $35 for 7 days (or $80 for an American the Beautiful Pass)
Can’t Miss Spots: Zion Narrows, Angels Landing, Canyon Overlook
Where to Stay: Search for Hotel Deals near Zion National Park

Zion National Park has amazing hikes taking you to the top of massive sandstone cliffs, along weeping walls, and through narrow slot canyons. There’s a wide range of difficulties when hiking here. Even though you get to see a lot of highlights from the scenic drive, the most beautiful parts have to be explored on foot. 

Local Tip: Zion has become incredibly popular and since everyone goes to the valley, it gets ridiculously crowded. Consider going during the week, doing a sunrise or night hike, or checking out some lesser trafficked trails like Observation Point or Hidden Canyon Trail. The Narrows top down hike also has no people on the first day and then you meet up with the day hikers on your second day.

See More: 15 Best Hikes in Zion National Park

2. Bryce Canyon National Park →

UT-63, Bryce, 84764, map

Entry Fee: $35 for 7 days (or $80 for an American the Beautiful Pass)
Can’t Miss Spots: Bryce Amphitheater, Inspiration Point, Natural Bridge
Where to Stay: Hotel Deals at Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon is made up of multiple amphitheaters and bowls carved into the edge of a high plateau. Amidst these amphitheaters are irregular rock columns called hoodoos.

Bryce has the largest concentration of hoodoos found anywhere on Earth. This park is relatively small and you can cover a lot in a day. If you only have a few hours, you can do the short scenic drive and pull out to the different viewpoints. Otherwise, you can hike to see the hoodoos up close.

Local Tip: If you’ve already been, try visiting closer to winter to see the hoodoos covered in snow.

See More: 9 Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

3. Capitol Reef National Park

UT-24, Torrey, 84775, map

Entry Fee: $20 for 7 days (or $80 for an American the Beautiful Pass)
Can’t Miss Spots: Scenic Drive, Cathedral Valley, Fruita Schoolhouse
Where to Stay: Capitol Reef Hotel Deals

We’ve only explored a small portion of Capitol Reef and definitely want to go back. This national park has 140 miles of roads, 150 miles of hiking trails, and even an orchard where you can pick and eat fruits in season.

Last time we visited the area, we stayed at Ofland Hotels and had so much fun. Check out our Reel.

Local Tip: There’s a lot of distance to cover throughout the park so come with a full tank of gas.

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

4. Canyonlands National Park

Grand View Point Rd, Moab, 84532, map

Entry Fee: $30 for 7 days (or $80 for an American the Beautiful Pass)
Can’t Miss Spots: Mesa Arch, Grand View Point, White Rim Road
Where to Stay: Hotels Deals in Canyonlands

Canyonlands National Park covers a massive 337,598 acres of land. There are canyons, mesas, buttes, arches, spires, and more. The park has 4 distinct sections: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and Horseshoe Canyon. Island in the sky is the most accessible and what most people see, and the Maze is the most remote area.

We didn’t have the best weather when we visited and had fog cover most of the landscape when we arrived, so we’ll need to make a trip back soon.

See More: 101 Places to Visit in the USA

5. Arches National Park →

Arches Entrance Rd, Moab, 84532, map

Entry Fee: $30 for 7 days (or $80 for an American the Beautiful Pass)
Can’t Miss Spots: Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden, 18-Mile Scenic Road
Where to Stay: Arches National Park Hotel Deals

Arches National park has over 2,000 natural stones arches. You can see the best arches from the scenic drive or from short hikes, but those who want to get out for longer hikes have plenty of options too. Our favorite hike so far was the Devil’s Garden hike; it had so many arches to see along the way. It might seem like a long hike, but we saw some retired hikers that smoked us on the trail.

Local Tip: If you’re looking for something unique to do, sign up for a Ranger-Led Fiery Furnace Hike. Spots fill up in advance, so it’s recommended you book online sooner than later.

See More: 9 Amazing Things to Do at Arches National Park

Planning Checklist

Have you visited all of the Mighty 5? Which one was your favorite?