vacation planner 2015

Get free guides to other parks at NationalParkTrips.com.
Utah Parks
VACATION PLANNER 2015
Parks
Map
Get oriented with a
map of Utah and its
national parks, plus
an epic road-trip
route through canyon
country to see all five.
Arches &
Canyonlands
Zion &
Bryce
Canyon
What to see, where
to hike, and how to
find rock art in the two
parks closest to Moab.
Top attractions among
the hoodoos and rock
pillars in these southwestern Utah parks.
Capitol
Reef
Travel
Logistics
Discover the magic of
this little-known park
in south-central Utah,
home to excellent hiking trails, historic sites,
and lovely vistas.
All the details on getting to the Utah parks
by plane, shuttle, or
car, plus need-toknow info on lodging
and camping.
PARKS OVERVIEW
Utah’s five national parks make for an unforgettable road trip through canyon country.
80
DAY 1
UTAH
NEVADA
COLORADO
191
70
50
50
15
DAY 10
DAY 8
5
4
1
CAPITOL REEF
ARCHES
DAY 3
3
CANYONLANDS
191
BRYCE CANYON
2
ZION
DAY 4
15
GRAND
CANYON NP
DAY 6
160
ARIZONA
NEW
MEXICO
1. ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
4. CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK
Marvel at more than 2,000 natural rock arches at this park just outside
of Moab. Some of the formations can be spotted from the road, but the
best require a scenic hike. Don’t miss the famous Delicate Arch (3 miles
round-trip) or the 7-mile (round-trip) Devils Garden Loop.
One of Utah’s best-kept secrets, this south-central park preserves unique
geology (including the 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold, a “wrinkle” in
the earth’s crust), a preserved Mormon frontier settlement, and vast
wilderness ideal for multiday backpacking trips.
2. BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
5. ZION NATIONAL PARK
Famous for its weird and wonderful hoodoos—bulbous rock pillars—this
southwestern Utah park also offers hiking, horseback riding, camping,
and some of the country’s darkest skies for stargazing. Drive the park’s
scenic road for access to a dozen stunning overlooks.
Cliffs, slot canyons, and dizzying views: This southwestern Utah park has
them all. Two classic Zion experiences: hiking the 5.4-mile (round-trip)
West Rim Trail to Angels Landing and exploring one of the country’s best
slot canyons in the 16-mile (one-way) Virgin River Narrows.
3. CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK
So expansive it’s divided into four districts, Canyonlands delivers a
quintessential desert experience: deep canyons, prehistoric rock art,
rivers, and sweeping overlooks. Go to the Needles District for top-notch
hiking and backpacking, Island in the Sky for wide views, and the Maze to
explore strikingly remote terrain.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
Turn the page for details on pulling off
this epic, 10-day Utah road trip.
ILLUSTRATION BY PETER SUCHESKI
UTAH’S BEST ROAD TRIP
From Arches to Zion: Explore all five of Utah’s national parks on this 10-day, 1,300-mile route to
slot canyons, hoodoos, whitewater rivers, and slickrock—plus, a side trip to the Grand Canyon.
START: SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
CHIMNEY ROCK, CAPITOL
REEF NATIONAL PARK
DAY 1
Salt Lake City to Moab: 234 miles
Start in the city, where you can tour historic
Temple Square and check out the new City
Center outdoor mall. Or pick up a Connect Pass
for access to 13 attractions, including Clark Planetarium and Utah Olympic Park in Park City. Then
head south on I-15 to Provo, then southeast on
UT 6/US 191 to I-70 at Green River. Then drive
south on US 191 to Moab.
DAY 2
Moab
Surrounded by hiking and mountain biking trails,
Moab is an excellent base for enjoying Utah’s
slickrock canyon country. This outdoor mecca
also offers plenty of options for shopping, dining
and lodging. Visit the world-famous natural arches in Arches National Park and tour the Colorado
River Scenic Byway just outside town.
DAY 3
Moab to Bluff: 106 miles
From Moab, continue south on US 191 to Canyonlands National Park. Cruise through the
Island in the Sky District (32 miles from Moab)
and stretch your legs with a dayhike to Mesa
Arch or Upheaval Dome. Continue south on US
191 to Blanding and stop at Edge of the Cedars
State Park to see an Ancestral Puebloan village
dating to 825 AD. Then it’s 25 miles on US 191 to
Bluff, where you can watch the sunset over the
San Juan River. Extra day? Consider heading east
to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado.
DAY 4
Bluff to Grand Canyon Village:
255 miles
From Bluff, drive southwest on US 163 through
Mexican Hat and the wind-sculpted buttes of
Monument Valley. At Kayenta, drive southwest
on US 160 to Tuba City. From there, AZ 264 follows the Hopi Arts Trail, a coalition of traditional
Hopi galleries and artists. If you’ve got time, visit
the highlights and stay over in Tuba City. Head
south on US 89 to Cameron, then drive west
on AZ 64 to Grand Canyon National Park East
Entrance. Continue west into the park on Desert
View Drive to Grand Canyon Village.
Alternate North Rim route (296 miles from
Bluff) in summer and fall: At US 160/US 89 junction, drive north on US 89. Turn west on US 89A
toward Marble Canyon and Jacob Lake. At Jacob
Lake, drive south on AZ 67 to Grand Canyon
North Rim Entrance.
DAY 6
Grand Canyon to Kanab: 206 miles
From US 89/US 89A continue on US 89A from
Jacob Lake to Fredonia and Kanab, Utah. This
historic town is a convenient base from which
to explore Grand Staircase-Escalante National
Monument. Extra time? Detour to Page, Arizona,
gateway town to Lake Powell and the massive
Glen Canyon Dam.
DAY 7
Kanab to Cedar City: 99 miles
Continue your slickrock sojourn by driving north
and west on UT 9 to Zion National Park, where
you can dayhike to Weeping Rock or Emerald
Pools (services are available in nearby Springdale and Hurricane). If weather conditions are favorable, don’t miss a hike into the Zion Narrows.
From Zion, continue west on UT 9 to I-15 and
drive north on I-15 to Cedar City. This is a great
area for a theater fix: Head to Tuachan Amphitheater in Ivins for top musicals or to the Utah
Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City.
DAY 5
DAY 8
Explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders with at least a day in the park.
From Cedar City, drive east on UT 14 to Cedar
Breaks National Monument and stretch your
Grand Canyon National Park
PHOTO BY ISTOCK, MAP COURTESY NPS.GOV
Cedar City to Torrey: 189 miles
legs in meadows surrounded by dramatic
sandstone spires. Continue to US 89 and drive
north on US 89 to UT 12. Head east on UT 12 to
Bryce Canyon National Park and hike among
the hoodoos (layover options: two park campgrounds, Ruby’s Inn near the park, or lodging in
Panguitch). Make sure to visit a few park overlooks for a view over the vibrantly colored rocks,
especially in the northern amphitheater area.
From Bryce Canyon, drive east and north on UT
12 to Torrey.
DAY 9
Torrey/Capitol Reef
Spend the day in Capitol Reef National Park, located 30 miles from Torrey, exploring a slickrock
wonderland. Head for dayhikes and scenic drives
in Capitol Reef’s Cathedral Valley or the Waterpocket District, or tour the preserved frontier
settlement at Fruita.
DAY 10
Torrey to Salt Lake City: 213 miles
To close your loop, drive north on UT 24 to US 50
west. Continue on to I-15 north to Salt Lake City.
END: SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
ARCHES &
CANYONLANDS
POINTS OF INTEREST
What to see and do in the Moab-area parks.
ARCHES
Delicate Arch
You’ve likely seen photos of this dramatic, 65-foot-tall rock arch
already (look to the left if not)—now check out the real thing. Short
option: Park at the Delicate Arch Viewpoint and take the short trail to
a long-distance look. Longer option: Hike the 3-mile (round-trip) trail
from Wolfe Ranch to see it up close.
Fiery Furnace
This wild, trail-less zone encompasses giant boulders, narrow squeezes, and sheer rock cliffs. To explore it, pick up a permit at a park visitor
center or join a ranger-led tour (the best option for beginners).
CANYONLANDS
Needles District
Located in the southeastern part of the park, the Needles contains
popular hiking trails through a desert decorated with rock spires. It’s
also one of the best places for overnight backpacking trips. You’ll find a
visitor center, ranger programs, and the Squaw Flat Campground here.
Island in the Sky District
Unpaved
2-wheel-drive road
Overlook/
Paved road
Unpaved
4-wheel-drive road
Locked gate
Trail
Horseshore Canyon Unit to 70
and Green River
49mi
79km
North
Rapids
Boat launch
Self-guiding trail
Ranger station
Campground
Primitive campsite
Picnic area
Moab to 70
30mi
48km
Island in the Sky
Visitor Center to 70
45mi
73km
ARCHES
191
BOWKNOT
BEND
5 Kilometers
5 Miles
C
N
Y
Island in the Sky Visitor Center via SR 313 32mi/51km
Needles Visitor Center
76mi/121km
Horseshoe Canyon Unit via I-70
101mi/162km
Horseshoe Canyon Unit via State 24
119mi/191km
Hans Flat
133mi/74km
313
128
279
N
I
O
R
I N
O
P
T
L
C
A
H
H
E
O
B ar
rie
MI
r
Mineral
NE
R
NY
NG
CANYO
Experienced hikers visit the untracked Maze area for solitude, scenery,
and adventure—trips to this zone usually require several days. There is
a ranger station, but no visitor center.
N
191
Pucker Pass
BIG
hief
(Horset
Road
Maze District
Canyonlands
National Park
Headquarters
ON
FLAT
Trail)
Moab to Monticello
53mi
85km
Potash
T
I N
P O
E F
H I
E T
R S
H O
DEAD HORSE POINT
STATE PA RK
Potash
C K
N
Neck Spring
N
M
R
RE
TU
PA
S
E
T
Riv e
I
W
e
W
D
BO ER
TT S O N
OM
AN
NY
LO
ON
GBA
CK
CA
RY
P O
HO
CANYONLANDS
A
N
M
O
I N
Y
I
N
T
MONUMENT
BASIN
E
T
I
H
W
K
C
en
C
T
CA
NY
ON
BER
H
T
ON
R
6080ft
1853m
Junction
Butte
YO
N
Hatch Point
N
R
M
C A N
M
4582ft
1397m
YO
A
SE
GOO
Grand View
Point Overlook
Gre
Panorama
Point Overlook
Little Bridge
Canyon
LA
4880ft
1487m
R
IL
LA
RD
CA
NY
Buck
Canyon
Overlook
Orange Cliffs
Overlook
TE
Ekker Butte
6226ft
1898m
NATIONAL
ad
H
I
L
STI
M
Head to this standalone unit northwest of Island in the Sky to see the
Great Gallery, one of the country’s best panels of ancient rock art. Hike
the strenuous 7-mile (round-trip) trail from the rim to reach the panel.
T C
H A
BUC
K
6240ft
1902m
A
Cleopatras Chair
6250ft
1905m
5745ft
1751m
3920ft
1195m
N
BASIN
HY
U RP
Musselman
Arch
6mi
10km
R
CANYON
Ro
CA
E
LW
Horseshoe Canyon
Anticline
Overlook
P
T
SPRINGS
TURKS
HEAD
GLEN
Pyramid
Butte
CK
RO
Candlestick
Tower
Overlook
6000ft
1829m
SODA
Airport
Tower
R im
White
Willow
Flat
Green River
Overlook
I
E
Washer
Woman
Arch
Mesa Arch
Candlestick Tower
5865ft
1788m
4480ft
1365m
H
Aztec
Butte
5mi
8km
BASIN
W
No river access along this
portion of Potash Road.
TH
hi t
SPRING
ad
3920ft
1195m
H
Buttes
of the
Cross
ISLAND IN
THE SKY
Holeman Spring
Canyon Overlook
S
ST
E
P
U
R
N
YO
5760ft
1756m
HOLEMAN
Ro
Rim
6mi
10km
Upheaval Dome
A
ES
NE
I
CA
N
AY
S
m
L
Whale
Rock
GR
ME
AV
tt o
DO
HE
Bo
M
5680ft
1731m
E
UP
o
ER
Dead Horse Point Overlook
Gooseneck
Overlook
(no river access)
G O OS
YO
tat
YON
CAN
A
Potash Road
SH
CA A
NYOFER
N
5920ft
1804m
a il
er Tr
Sha f
R o ad
Shafer Canyon Overlook
4560ft
1390m
Po
No through road
in Horseshoe
Canyon Unit
AN
Island in the Sky
Visitor Center
Y O
N
AIL
TR
The
Breach
C
RED SEA
FLAT
Moses and
Zeus
A
M E S
C
R
CA
U
MEANDE
RSE
HO
B
UP
H EA
Upheaval
VAL
Bottom
Hardscrabble
Bottom
Fort
Ruin
Fo
r t Bottom
AN
ER
AT
W
HORSESHOE
CANYON
UNIT
r
THI
EF
TAYLOR
Great Gallery
pictographs
4800ft
1463m
YON
Visitor Center
N
H
O
CAN
Y
Horseshoe
Canyon
Unit to 24
32mi
51km
Colora do
L O
W
S
4025ft
1227m
The
Knoll
CA
AL
Mineral Bottom
R
S
U
O
E
MOAB
Petroglyphs
LO
O N
N Y
ek
C A
Cre
P
H
S
A
R
E
N
I
M
R
L
L
ON
E
NY
The closest district to Moab, Island in the Sky is the place for rim-side
views over deep, vast canyons. Hiking trails to arches and domes
descend into this area, and the White Rim Road, popular with mountain
bikers and ATVers, circles the district. Contains a visitor center, ranger
programs, and Willow Flat Campground.
Moab
Information
Center
G
A
AR
O
P
N
IN
D E
A D
M A N
O
PARK
Moab
Moab to Areas in the Park
T
1
BYRINTH
1
0
NATIONAL
Visitor
Center
LA
0
Drinking water
Drink one gallon of
water per person per
day in this semi-desert
environment.
6240ft
1902m
ON
NY
ON
CA
W
UA
ST
Cre
ek
LO
THE NEEDLES
t
C LO
CY
L A NE
S
B
A
Paul
Bunyans
Potty
Peekaboo
Spring
South Sixshooter
Peak
6132ft
1869m
Ind
i
Gothic Arch
Druid Arch
N
T
CA
NY
O
H
HORSE
E
A
North Sixshooter
Peak
6374ft
1943m
Tower Ruin
Dugout
Ranch
Castle
Arch
T
VI
DA
Fortress Arch
LE
ek
C re
S
Angel Arch
ys
211
CA
bb
NY
ON
Bo
All Glen Canyon NRA lands
north of this line require
backcountry permits that are
issued by Canyonlands NP.
Special regulations apply.
Upper Jump
le
Ho Area frequently impassable
for 4-wheel-drive vehicles
Y
LE
VAL
ER
Cleft
Cathedral Point Arch
7120ft
2170m
N
E
E
F
B
A
S
I
N
ood
Needles
Vistor Center
to
Monticello
49mi
79km
NEWSPAPER ROCK
RECREATION SITE
Petroglyphs
el
l
B
nw
M
O
Permit required
for vehicle entry
EN D
U
PS
NY
C r eek
Wedding Ring Arch
PARK
Cedar Mesa
6987ft
2130m
CA
tt o
RUIN
GY
Co
6407ft
1953m
Caterpillar Arch
No
r th
IMPERIAL
LAV
HO
BUTLER
FLAT
Permit required
for vehicle entry
Wooden
Shoe
Overlook
Wooden Shoe
Arch
an
FL
ER
R
TA
Big Drop Rapids
3700ft
1128m
AT
CA
Roadside
Ruin
Cave Spring
10mi
16km
Squaw Flat
CAN
Y ON
Mile Long
Rapids
Devils
Kitchen
CHESLER
PARK
T
Joint ra i l
ON
Teapot
Rock
6221ft
1896m
W
V IL
E
C
CT
do
ra
lo
5632ft
1717m
I D
G E
er
S.O.B. HILL
CANY
Co
To 95
R
YON
CROSS
G
Ri
v
R
I
O
B
AN
DE
G
N
Flin
t
C O U N T R Y
4960ft
1512m
SQUAW
F L AT
CA N Y O N
E R N I E S
ELEPHANT
HILL
CANYON
A
F I N S
il
Pothole Point
ING
E
T H E
4880ft
1487m
y
one- w a
Silver
Stairs
S PR
T H
Road ends
3 miles
C ANY ON
Brown Betty
Rapids
Needles Outpost
Needles
Visitor Center
BIG
a
Tr
Big Spring
Canyon Overlook
ish
an m
S p o tto
E
LOWER RE D LAK
B
R O C K S
The
Doll
House
The
Golden
Stairs
Needles Overlook to 191
22mi
35km
Cre
ek
Lower
Jump
YON
S T A N D I N G
Bagpipe
Butte
6679ft
2036m
OF
Cr
4880ft
1487m
S
Bagpipe
Butte
Overlook
N
Colorado River
Overlook Salt
Slickrock Foot
3855ft
1175m
R
O
Indi
an
R
4880ft
1487m
Confluence
G
Y
DE
The Slide
A
N
E
A
AN
BA
ELA
TER
ITE
S
F
F
I
L
L A N D
6295ft
1919m
Confluence Overlook
ANT
ELEPH
C
Harvest Scene
Pictographs
THE MAZE
Chimney Rock
5563ft
1696m
C
H A
P P
Y
Chocolate
Drops
The
Plug
The
Wall Lizard
Rock
Needles
Overlook
LO O P
k
ee
Elaterite Butte
6552ft
1997m
ON
NY
CAN
5120ft
1561m
THE
ME
ON
PARK
DEVIL
S
C A NY
SI
TRA
IL
Maze
Overlook
N
NOR
TH
White Crack
NATIONAL
S al
PETES MESA
AREA
CA
NY
SQ
CA
CANYONLANDS
YON
E
CAN
RS
NE
O
one
-w
ay
H
POCK
ET
RECREATION
French
Spring
N
Natural Arch
er
Hans Flat
Riv
Hans Flat to 24
46mi
74km
La
Hans Flat to 95
and Hite Marina,
Glen Canyon NRA
58mi
93km
ke
Po
w
DARK CANYON PRIMITIVE AREA
(Bureau of Land Management)
Cathedral Butte
7940ft
2420m
LT
SA
K
EE
CR
M
A
ES
MANTI-LA SAL
NATIONAL FOREST
PHOTO BY ISTOCK, MAPS COURTESY NPS.GOV
UTA_TripPlanner2015.indd 12
7/2/15 9:25 AM
ZION
Zion encompasses 146,560 acres of high desert, lush canyons, and redrock domes.
POINTS OF INTEREST
To Cedar City,
Cedar Breaks National Monument,
and Salt Lake City
These diverse destinations are all
just a shuttle stop away.
Exit
42
15
Cre e k
Taylo
r
C a n y o ns
Creek
Trail
Lee Pass
Trailhead
Kolob
Reservoir
8118ft
2475m
ek
Tr
l
re
AU
La
P L AT E
Kolob
Kolob Arch
Arch Trail
LOB
KO
Vehicles longer than
19 feet/5.8 meters are
not allowed on Lava
Point Road. Unpaved
roads are impassable
when wet.
i
Tra
UP
on
ny
Ca
Ko
lob Terrace Ro
ad
at
E
N
A
I C
R
R
E
TEA
st Rim
We
Left Fork
Trailhead
ki n
N
A T
I
O
N
A
L
MES
A
Grapevine
Trailhead
Right Fork
Trailhead
P A
HURRICANE
R
K
9
Ch i n l e
ve
r
Grafton
Springdale shuttle
route
Zion Canyon shuttle
route and shuttle stop
Spring through fall, the Zion
Canyon Scenic Drive is open
to shuttle buses only.
5 Kilometers
3
4
5 Miles
Other Visitor Information
ft o
G ra
Paved road open to
private vehicles
Ranger station
Campground
Unpaved road
(impassable when wet)
Drinking water
Primitive
campground
Trail
Unpaved roads are
impassable when wet.
Smithsonian Butte
Scenic Backway may be
closed in winter.
a
w
y
Shuttle Information
4
2
Restrooms
S
3
il
e
D r iv
Zi
on
-
ny
nt
C a rm
East Entrance
ay
e l Hi g h w
To 89 at Mt Carmel Junction,
(north to Bryce Canyon NP;
south to Kanab, Grand
Canyon NP, and Page, Arizona)
Tunnel
South
No bikes or pedestrians
allowed. Large vehicle
restrictions.
m
o n i a n B u t te S c e n i c B a
ith s
or
k
V
i
ir g
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
n
PA
Rockville
(ghost town)
2
1
Tra
Coalpits Wash
North
1
Tr
a
r
n
To Pipe Spring National Monument and
Grand Canyon National Park
0
m
Watchman
il
59
0
n ic
N
South Entrance
Ri
Hurricane
Ri
9
u
Mo
ve
rgi
Spring through
fall, the Zion
Canyon Scenic
Drive is open to
shuttle buses
only. Private
vehicles are not
allowed beyond
Canyon Junction
Ri
9
st
Tunnel
F
To 15 exit 16,
St George,
and Las Vegas,
Nevada
Ea
Zion Human History Museum
Springdale
Vi
Weeping
Rock
Angels
Landing
N or t h
Springdale / Zion Canyon Shuttle
and Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
and Tunnel information
Sce
O
Vehicles pulling trailers
not recommended.
Narrow winding road
with steep grades. Upper
section not plowed in
winter.
on
ZI
ad
Ro
ce
Canyon Junction
ra
Te
r
lo
b
Ko
Virgin
Temple of
Sinawava
Zion Lodge
Court of the
Patriarchs
9
La Verkin
ON
The Grotto
Emerald Pools
Trails
Ca
17
Zi
on
Toquerville
CANY
ORDERVILLE
il
Tra
C ree k
N
WS
O
U
I
Riverside
Walk
Unpaved roads are
impassable when wet.
La Ver
RRO
THE NA
PLA
U
UR
H
l
ST
U
ck
n Ro
ad
Bridge
Road
Chinle
Trailhead
turn on Anasazi Way
Ea
st
Fo r
i rg
k V
RU
NU
WE
AP
CANYON
er
in R i v
Wilderness
In 2009, Congress protected nearly 84
percent of the park as wilderness under
the 1964 Wilderness Act. Wilderness
designation protects forever the land’s
wilderness character, natural conditions,
opportunities for solitude, and scientific,
educational, and historical values.
Picnic area
the country’s most memorable hikes. This 5,790foot sandstone prow towers above the Virgin
River, offering the best views in Zion. The trail is
steep—it gains 1,500-plus feet in 2.4 miles—and
terrifying if slick (or if you have vertigo). But
cables provide sure grips on the exposed fin that
leads to 360-degree vistas.
Weeping Rock
Water drips down sandstone rock—reminiscent
of tears—and creates hanging gardens. Participate in ranger programs, walk one of the many
trails leaving from this area, or peer up at Angels
Landing and Big Bend.
Temple of Sinawava
The shuttle ends at this 3,000-foot natural red
rock amphitheatre forming the northern end of
Zion Canyon. Named for a powerful Paiute deity
known as the Coyote God, this formation is the
gateway to The Narrows (a long, life-list slot
canyon that requires special gear and lots of
endurance) via the 1-mile Riverside Walk trail.
PHOTO BY TAM GERALD SANDERS, MAP COURTESY NPS.GOV
i
Tra
AT
EA
SA
To St George and
Las Vegas, Nevada
PA
eak s
te P
l
Trai
PL
E
Z
Exit
27
E
hga
B
M
il
c
N or t
LO
TH
Enjoy a picnic in this cottonwood grove while
enjoying views of the Virgin River and Angels
Landing. Restrooms and water are available;
many trails leave from here.
Depart from the Grotto shuttle stop for one of
d
Wil
KO
SMI
The Grotto
Angels Landing
a
Tr
Wildcat
Canyon
Trailhead
R i v er
RS
R
il
Vi r g i n
Fo rk
N o r th
R im
West
WE
Tra
West Rim
Trailhead
Lava Point
Overlook
HO
LO
15
C o n ne ct o r
West Rim
Rd
PE
C
R
l
Beyond this point, road
not plowed in winter.
Hop Valley
Trailhead
La
Po va
in
tR
d
Lava Point
YON
k Trail
ree
e
La V r kin C
ai
C
in
Verk
ey
L I
F F
S
KOLOB
CA N Y ON S
CAN
Kolob
Canyons
Viewpoint
Timber Creek
Overlook
Trail
ll
Va
The only lodging located within Park boundaries, this hotel has been a part of Zion since the
1920s. After being destroyed by a fire in 1966,
the Lodge was rebuilt in 100 days; its exterior
was remodeled in 1990 to restore the original
rustic appearance.
Today, the Zion Lodge offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins, hotel rooms,
and suites. Cabins come equipped with a gas
log fireplace, private porch, and full bath. Hotel
rooms feature similar amenities, in addition to a
flatscreen television with satellite. Air conditioning and complimentary wireless internet are
also provided.
The Red Rock Grill is the Lodge’s signature
dining room, with indoor and terrace seating. The menu features American cuisine with
Southwestern-inspired dishes. Reservations
required (zionlodge.com; 435-772-7700).
b
Hop
Zion Lodge
lo
Kolob Canyons
Visitor Center
Court of the Patriarchs
A short walk from the shuttle stop of the same
name yields expansive views of one of the
park’s most identifiable landmarks. Named for
the Bible’s Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, these
three craggy peaks of banded sandstone tower
above the surrounding landscape. Take the 3.5mile Sand Bench Trail (round-trip) for a closer
look.
Ko
ad
Located 0.5 mile north of the South Entrance
in Springdale, this museum features permanent displays on the area’s human history: both
Native American culture and pioneer settlements. Zion’s growth as a park is explored in the
context of these histories, bringing its story to
life. A permanent exhibit on water explains its
importance to the ancient people of the area,
and how it created the unique landforms that
define Zion.
Temporary exhibits have included replicas of
Union Pacific Railroad lodging, Civilian Conservation Corps diaries, park ranger photos, and
more. A free 22-minute video shown every half
hour provides a general overview to the park.
Books, maps, posters, and films are available for
purchase and rangers are on hand to answer
questions.
Taylor
Exit
40
Ro
Zion Human History Museum
ZION IN ITS MAJESTY
Trail
Overlook
Unpaved road
0
North
Distance
indicator
3 mi
5 km
Horse/hiking
trail
0.5
Restrooms
Campground
Ranger station
Backcountry campsite
Picnic area
First aid
To Antimony
36 mi
58 km
1 Kilometer
1 Mile
0.5
K
CLIFF
S
0
Emergency telephone
LL
R iv
S
er
Bryce Canyon
Airport
Shakespear Point
7842 ft
2390 m
Y ON
E as
t
To 89
11mi
18km
PIN
HI
For
k
NE
Sev
ier
PI
E
HEND ERSON CAN
LITTLE
TH
12
TR
3 mi
5km
OP
IC
K
River
PIN
CANYON
NY
LOW
Sevier
FFS
Fork
A
M
PB
P L
A T
E A
U
No trailers
beyond
this point
N
U
G
U
S A
LEY
k
ee
Under-the-Rim Trail
(Bryce Point to Rainbow Point)
Hat
Shop
2 mi
3 km
3 mi
5 km
U
Cr
Bryce Point
2 mi
3 km
Paria View
8176 ft
2492 m
P A
BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Creek
Ye llo w
Group site
6800 ft
2073 m
IFF
S
HI
TE
Swamp Canyon
NK
CL
PI
W
Und
erth
7998 ft
2438 m
MA
N
Tropic
Reservoir
e - R i m T r a il
Swamp
Canyon
Connecting
Trail
Past
ure
Sh
N
CANY O
p
h
as
W
ee
Swamp
Canyon Butte
8302 ft
2534 m
East
CH
S WA M P
BEN
3 mi
5 km
Mud Canyon
Butte
8330 ft
2539 m
CA N Y
MUD
Cr
ee
ON
SHEEP CREEK FLAT
k
F ork
CA
U n d er
Noon Canyon
Butte
8466 ft
2580 m
River
-the -Rim Trail
Sevier
Whiteman
Connecting
Trail
NO O
ON
NY
N
GA
TY
UN
CO
TY
ELD
RFI
UN
CO
NE
KA
Piracy
Point
Farview Point
8819 ft
2688 m
W
Natural
Bridge
BR
C ANYO
GE
ID
N
ill
is
Creek
DIXIE
NATIONAL FOREST
U
N
AG
Deer Mountain
7833 ft
2387 m
Horse
Mountain
YO
CLIFFS
A
CA
K
NY
ON
PIN
6 mi
10 km
PO
ND
ER
OS
A
CA
N
Agua
Canyon
This is the place to savor views over the park’s amphitheater, especially
at sunrise, where the hoodoos are positioned to catch morning light. The
Peek-a-Boo Loop Trail descends from this point.
RI
DG
E
SA
Agua Canyon
Connecting Trail
Ponderosa Canyon
River
8815 ft
2687 m
Black
Birch
Canyon
PO
Iron
Spring
ND
ER
O
Under-the-Rim Trail
(Rainbow Point to Bryce Point)
2 mi
3 km
Rainbow Point
THE PROM
ON
Bristlecone
Loop Trail
Yovimpa
Point
Twin
Hills
Fork
RRAL
CO
HOLL
M
TO
Yovimpa
Pass
OW
UT
N
Ea s t
RY
TO
Sevier
Riggs Spring
Loop Trail
HO
O
LL
PIN
W
LI
K C
FFS
This 23-mile backcountry trail extends from Bryce Point in the park’s northern end to Rainbow Point on the southern, passing hoodoos, boulderfields,
creeks, and scenic ridgelines. Dayhikers can sample portions of the trail, but
hiking the whole thing requires three to four days and a backcountry permit.
ce
Bry
Inspiration Point
Sheep Creek
Connecting Trail
Bryce Point
Under-the-Rim Trail
YON
To
King Creek
Looking for a stunning sunset photo op? Head to this overlook in the north
part of the park, one of the few places where the rock formations face west
to catch the evening light. You’ll also see slot canyons below and, if you’re
lucky, peregrine falcons in the sky.
Sunrise Point, near the park visitor center, offers views of well-known
formations such as the Silent City and Thor’s Hammer. The Claron Formation colors are vivid here, and the Navajo Loop Trail leads to 700-year-old
Douglas firs and up to Sunrise Point. At Sunrise, you’ll see Boat Mesa and
Sinking Ship, plus a limber pine with exposed roots.
CAN
7200 ft
2195 m
Rim
Paria View
Sunrise and Sunset Points
N
O
Sunset Point
Rainbow Gate
Road closed from
here to Rainbow Point
during winter storms
T
BR YCE
Lodge
2 mi
3 km
T rail
Natural Bridge
From this overlook, you’ll see many of the park’s most famous rock formations and even out to the Kaibab Plateau (where the North Rim of the Grand
Canyon is located). Enjoy views of hoodoos, fins, and caps and pick out the
different layers of the Grand Staircase.
YO
Bristlecone
Point
Sunrise Point
N
Rainbow and Yovimpa Points
Sinking Ship
7405 ft
2257 m
N
Tower
Bridge
7894 ft
2406 m
See the park’s best views and rock formations from
these favorite scenic overlooks.
NYO
CA N
Visitor Center
7 mi
11 km
CA
Fairyland Loop Trail
ELL
Bryce Amphitheater (see detail map)
POINTS OF INTEREST
Farview Point
ND
SA
C
Trail
Ri m
C
1 mi
2 km
ME
PI
B
DIXIE
NATIONAL FOREST
AT
VAL
LA
Fairyland
O
TR
E ast
7758 ft
2365 m
1 mi
2 km
OW
Y
LL
IR
FA
HO
Hoodoos, arches, and fins galore.
See one of Bryce Canyon’s rock arches at this viewpoint. Erosion of the
Claron Formation rock from ice, rain, and gravity sculpted Natural Bridge, a
deep red arch in the southern end of the park.
River
To Escalante
33mi
53km
Fairyland Point
DAVE
S
BRYCE CANYON
These adjacent overlooks at the park’s southern end offer fantastic views
back over Bryce Canyon’s rock formations. From here at 9,100 feet in elevation, you can clearly see most of the geological Grand Staircase rock layers,
from the uppermost Pink Cliffs to the red Vermilion Cliffs. Visit both points
to get the complete view; hikers can also explore the 7.5-mile Riggs Spring
Loop Trail, which connects the two.
Paria
OL
Y H
JOLLE
CLI
3 mi
5 km
HOODOOS
ON
Mossy
Cave
WATE R
Ditc h
pi c
Tro
CA
Mossy
Cave
Trail
63
087
Group site
Riggs Spring
7480 ft
2280 m
PHOTO BY DEPOSIT, MAP COURTESY NPS.GOV
CAPITOL REEF
Hike slot canyons, tour historic sites, and see the Waterpocket Fold formation at Capitol Reef.
ad
C
ON
RG
M
OU
AI N
NT
SOUT
H
Cr
DRAW
A
ES
E
GU
LC
LS
Cedar Mesa
S
INS
19mi
31km
C
LI
(BLM)
R oad
BENCH
Homestead
Overlook
McMillan
Springs
M O U N TA
DRY
FF
IL
H
k
Steep Creek
Overlook
Deer Creek
Lake
H
NATIONAL
Notom-Bullfrog
Cree
9800ft
2987m
E
RY
IN
) (
U
HEN
TA
Climb 670 feet from the Grand Wash Road trailhead to a view overlooking
Cassidy Arch (named after Butch Cassidy, the famous outlaw who hid out
in the area), a thick rock span. The 1.8-mile (one-way) trail skirts sheer drops
and passes striped rock walls en route to the arch.
BL
R
Sw e e
S
REEF
S H EET S
Oak
PE
o
nwo d Wash
tto
Co
PARK
Lower Bowns
Reservoir
Oak Creek
Oak Creek
Reservoir
10908ft
3325m
k
Wa
sh
CAPITOL
nt
asa
Pleasant
Creek
H
E
ER
UN
Pl e
FOREST
ee
ont
er
y
GO
IN
MO
Cassidy Arch
Larb Hollow
Overlook
Ri v
nd
e
OL
M
R
37mi
60km
UT
UP
10mi
16km
DIXIE
N AT I O N A L
A
CA
I
LS
TS
F LA
H IL
5mi
8km
SO
Burro
Singletree
LDE
Hikers looking for excellent views—including the Fruita Historic District, the
Waterpocket Fold formation, and rock domes—should head to this 2.3-mile
(one-way) trail that leads to a vista 1,000 feet over the park. Pick it up at the
Hickman Bridge trailhead in the Fruita Historic District.
ES
LL
UE
ITE
BL
ek
CAINEVILLE
4600ft
1402m
Notom
Golden
Throne
C A PI T
BOU
Rim Overlook Trail
M
E
To Hanksville
F rem
NT
Cre
Driv
Slickrock
Divide
IL L
River
Ford
5mi
8km
L D
F O
10mi
16km
EV
RT
H
BE
T
D
Orientation
Pullout
Behunin
Cabin
9mi
13km
IN
VI
ep
AN
SH
A
NO
h
Was
De
GR
GROVER
le
Ro ad
ET
Fruita
n ic
12
er
vi l
TN
E T
Fr em on t R i
v
ne
24
RT
H
K
Historic Fruita School
Petroglyphs
Hickman Bridge
Capitol Dome
Sce
The place to be when the sun goes down, Sunset Point has dramatic views
over Capitol Reef’s rock formations and lovely evening light. To reach it,
head to the Goosenecks Overlook and pick up the Sunset Point Trail from
the parking lot. A short (.3-mile) trail leads right to the overlook.
Gifford
Farmhouse
T
l
t
AR
R
C
5500ft
1676m
R
e
NO
Fruita Historic District
The
Castle
Visitor Center
6843ft
2085m
tn
E
Ro
H
H ar
O
Panorama
Point
C re ek
Goosenecks Overlook
24
E
P
Chimney
Rock
ra
Factory Butte
6321ft
1927m
S
Cai
S
R
11mi
18km
E
ed
E
E
E
AN
YO
N
TORREY
E
D
T
C
Twin
Rocks
L
th
TH
H
A
SPRIN
G
D
C ree
T
ek
Primitive campground
NE
ek
Lower South Desert
Overlook
24
To
Bicknell
Cr e
U
I D
Ca
D eep
O
M
Temple of
the Moon
W
Sunset Point
S
Campground
Roads may become impassable due
to weather.
Temple of
the Sun
Cre
Picnic area
Distance
indicator
0.5mi
0.8km
twa ter
Upper
South Desert
Overlook
Pol k
Hartnet
Junction
Unpaved road
(high clearance
4-wheel-drive
recommended)
LEY
D
Step back to the time of frontier pioneers at the preserved Fruita settlement, site of a small community from the 1880s to early 1940s. Visit the
Gifford House, built in 1908 by a Mormon settler and occupied until the F I S H L A K E
N AT I O N A L
late ‘60s, for a glimpse of life in historic Fruita. The home now holds a small
gift shop and bakery, famous for its delicious pies. The park maintains the F O R E S T
fruit orchards planted by early residents, including apple, peach, pear,
and cherry trees, and a one-room schoolhouse still stands in the area. The
Fruita Historic District is located just east of the park’s visitor center.
S ul p hu r
9256ft
2821m
VA
L
AIN
NT
6938ft
2115m
ek
Road closed
during winter
Elkhorn
Upper Cathedral Valley
Overlook
AL
OU
Sa
Fruita Historic District
EDR
M
Cre
Cathedral
Valley
CAT H
Gypsum
Sinkhole
CK
k
BL
MONOLITHS
A
Ranger station
Overlook
Unpaved road
To Fremont
and 72
W
A
The best viewpoints, trails, and attractions in this
under-the-radar park.
M
POINTS OF INTEREST
5687ft
1733m
Bitter Creek
Divide
E
M
CIRC
L
rr
Creek
p
H
ee
LC
St
AK
S
GU
AP
Mu
ley
SA
YO N
ME
CA N
E
SW
I ST
T
TH
EY
C ree k
L DEY
F O M UL
Post Corral
NY
CA
H all s
T WI S T
(Bureau of Land Management)
L CH
C reek
GU
ON
E
River
HEADQUARTERS CANYON
ek
Burr Trail
Switchbacks
Cr e
SURPRISE CANYON
7170ft
2186m
WAGON
BOX
MESA
TH
E s ca la n t e
BUREAU OF
LAND MANAGEMENT
LL
TW
SE
GRAND STAIRCASE-ESCALANTE
NATIONAL MONUMENT
Calf Creek
KE
L EY
r
OR
A
VA
De e
ST
12
Strike Valley
Overlook
PE
H
UD
ES
LA
E
R o ad
il
MU
Tra
36mi
58km
OC
Bu
RP
Anasazi
State Park
TU
RIK
BOULDER
TE
6593ft
2010m
AN
ST
WA
PANORAMA POINT
R
TA
To Starr Springs
and 276
Muley Tanks
Halls Creek
Overlook
N
YO
N
CA
DL
M
O
D
ON
O
NY
E
CA
ID
HALLS CREEK
NARROWS
DY
M
ME
SA
5 Miles
er
(National Park Service)
LL
te
RECREATION AREA
HA
lan
Riv
5 Kilometers
To Bullfrog Marina,
Glen Canyon
National
Recreation Area
Y
O
ca
0
PURPLE
HILLS
NATIONAL
O
Si
Es
0
Red
Slide
GLEN CANYON
h
Was
EA
ST
3877ft
1182m
GET SOCIAL
Follow us on Facebook to get the latest
deals and news for Utah travel. Facebook.
com/myzionpark
PHOTO BY ISTOCK, MAP COURTESY NPS.GOV
il
ad
ris
North
Tra
Ro
Har
CLIFFS
A
E
Brimhall
Bridge
4800ft
1463m
ES
CL
M
IR
lv
C
M
k
er
ee
N
Cr
SO
ls
OM
l
Fa
rr
TH
Bu
BIG
To Escalante and
Bryce Canyon National Park
TRAVEL LOGISTICS
Need-to-know details for planning your Utah national park trip.
ARCHES
Getting there Arches sits just 5 miles north of
Moab, Utah. Its one entrance is off US 191 on the
south end of the park.
Transportation Air: The closest airport to
Arches is Canyonlands Field in Moab, which
serves limited commercial flights and charter
flights. Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado has connecting flights from 6 major cities
and is a 90-minute drive from the park. The
closest international airport is in Salt Lake City, a
3.75-hour drive. Shuttle: Several private shuttle
companies are based in Moab. Visit discovermoab.com for details.
Gateway town Moab is a lively mecca for
outdoor recreation and offers plenty of lodging,
dining, groceries, and outfitters.
Visitor Centers
Arches Visitor Center is located near the
Entrance Station off US 191. There, you’ll find
a staffed information desk, ranger programs,
bookstore, and backcountry office.
Camping
its 99 sites remain open year-round. Coin-op
showers are available at the general store; there
are no RV hookups, but in summer there is a
dump station. RV sites can be reserved at recreation.gov ($15/night). Sunset Campground is
1.5 miles south of the visitor center. Open MaySeptember; some sites can be reserved at recreation.gov ($15/night). Backcountry camping
must be at designated sites only and requires
a permit; buy one up to 48 hours in advance in
person at the visitor center ($5-$15/permit).
CANYONLANDS
Getting there Generally, Canyonlands is
located southwest of Moab, but visitors access
Canyonlands’ three districts (and the Horseshoe
Canyon Unit) separately. Island in the Sky is 33
miles from Moab via Utah Route 313, and the
Needles are 74 miles southwest via Utah Route
211. Getting to the Maze, located in the park’s
southwest, requires driving rough, 4WD roads.
Horseshoe Canyon is 120 miles from Moab.
Transportation Air, bus, train: See Arches.
Gateway town Moab
Devils Garden Campground is open year-round
and has 50 sites and flush toilets, but no showers or RV hookups. Sites fill up quickly spring
through fall; reserve in advance at recreation
.gov. The park also offers limited backcountry
camping; get a free permit at the visitor center.
Visitor Centers
BRYCE CANYON
Camping
Getting there Bryce Canyon is in southwestern Utah, between Zion National Park and
Glen Canyon. The park has one main entrance,
located on Utah Route 63.
Transportation Air: The closest airports to Bryce
Canyon are in Cedar City, Utah (80 miles away;
connections to Salt Lake City) and St. George,
Utah (125 miles away; connections to Salt Lake
City and Denver). Major airports are in Las
Vegas and Salt Lake City, each about 270 miles
away. Shuttle: The free Bryce Canyon shuttle
runs from May to October and connects Bryce
Canyon City to Bryce Point.
Gateway town Tiny Bryce Canyon City is the
closest town and offers a few hotels, dining,
shopping, and a campground.
At Island in the Sky, Willow Flat Campground
has 12 first-come, first-serve sites. No running
water; maximum RV length is 28 feet ($10/
night). In the Needles, Squaw Flat Campground
has 26 first-come, first-serve sites. Water is
available year-round; maximum RV length is 28
feet ($15/night). Backcountry camping is very
popular at Canyonlands and requires a permit.
Reserve one online up to 4 months in advance
at canypermits.nps.gov, or try for a walk-in permit up to one day ahead ($30/permit).
Island in the Sky Visitor Center is 40 minutes
from Moab. Farther south, the Needles Visitor
Center is on Utah Route 211. Both offer exhibits,
rangers, the park movie, a bookstore, and backcountry permit stations.
ence exhibits, a park movie, bookstore, and a
staffed information desk.
Campgrounds
Fruita Campground is the park’s only developed campground. Located along the Fremont
River, the 71-site campground has water and
flush toilets, but no RV hookups. First-come,
first-serve ($10/night). The park also operates
primitive campgrounds with pit toilets and without water: Cathedral Valley Campground and
Cedar Mesa Campground. Both are first-come,
first-serve (free). Backcountry camping options
are plentiful and require a free permit; pick one
up at the visitor center.
ZION
Getting there Zion, sited in southwestern Utah,
has several entrance stations: The South Entrance outside Springdale is the most popular,
but visitors can also access the park via the East
Entrance or Kolob Canyon Entrance (northwest).
Transportation Air: St. George Municipal Airport
(49 miles from the South Entrance) and Cedar
City Regional Airport (60 miles) are the closest
options. Nearby major airports are in Las Vegas
(170 miles) and Salt Lake City (311 miles). Shuttle: The free Zion Canyon Shuttle is mandatory
for getting around the park from spring through
fall and runs every 7 minutes during peak hours.
The free Springdale Shuttle connects various
stops around town to the Zion Canyon Visitor
Center, where you can catch the Zion shuttle.
Gateway town Springdale is just south of the
South Entrance and offers lodging and dining
options, plus groceries, outfitters, and shopping.
Visitor Centers
The main hub is the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, near the South Entrance. It has exhibits,
a staffed info desk, ranger programs, and a
bookstore; catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle here.
Kolob Canyon Visitor Center on the northwest
side also has rangers, exhibits, and a bookstore.
CAPITOL REEF
Lodging
Zion Lodge has motel-style rooms and cabins
3 miles north of the South Entrance, plus a
restaurant. Both are open year-round. Reservations: zionlodge.com.
The Bryce Canyon Lodge is open from March
through November. The lodge also has a fullservice restaurant and gift shop. Reservations:
foreverlodging.com/brycecanyon.
Getting there Capitol Reef is located in southcentral Utah, a 2.5-hour drive from Moab and
a 3.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City. The main
entrance is on the west side of the park off
Utah Route 24, but visitors can also enter at the
east end (near Orientation Pullout) and via 4WD
roads in several other locations.
Transportation Air: The closest airports are
in Moab (2.5 hours), Cedar City (3 hours), and
Grand Junction (3 hours). The closet major
airport is in Salt Lake City (3.5 hours).
Gateway towns Torrey is a few miles west of
the park’s main entrance and features several
motels, plus restaurant options and groceries.
Camping
Visitor Centers
The North Campground is east of the visitor
center, near the park general store. Some of
Capitol Reef Visitor Center, in the Fruita Historic
District near the Entrance Station, features sci-
Visitor Centers
Bryce Canyon Visitor Center is located near the
Entrance Station and has a ranger desk, exhibits, and a park movie.
Lodging
Camping
Zion has three developed campgrounds. The
largest, Watchman Campground, is located
just past the South Entrance and is open
year-round. Reservations can be made for trips
March-November. Some electrical hookups
provided; dump station available ($16-$20/
night). South Campground is just to the north
and offers 127 first-come, first-serve campsites.
Open March through November; no hookups,
but there is a dump station ($16/night). Lava
Point Campground has 6 first-come, first-serve
sites on the north end of the park but no water.
ABRA KANABRA!
Explosive colors. Dynamic landscapes. Friendly folks. Views that go on
forever. There’s only one way to experience the magic of Kanab in Southern Utah:
start planning a trip today. For tips, go to visitsouthernutah.com