5 National Parks in Utah - The Mighty 5
Looking for a detailed guide to the 5 national parks in Utah? Then this is it!
There are five national parks in Utah, each one more breathtaking than the next, offering visitors incredible views and even more incredible hikes. They are known as the Mighty Five.
This article describes what travelers need to know before visiting all the Utah national parks.
Those of you looking for a specific national parks itinerary, or looking to hire a travel advisor for a tour to the Mighty Five, head over to my Plan A Trip or Contact Me tabs and let’s get in touch!
5 National Parks in Utah - The Mighty 5
Zion National Park
Zion National Park, image by Unsplash. All rights reserved for Unsplash.
I’m starting strong here. My top pick for is Zion National Park. This place is BREATHTAKING.
For me, this is the BEST national park in Utah.
Located in southern Utah, at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin, and the Mojave Desert regions, Zion offers visitors a variety of landscapes and wildlife. The vast area that Zion covers includes canyons, slot canyons, mountains, buttes, mesas, monoliths, rivers, and even several natural arches. A total of 289 species of birds, 75 mammal species, and 32 species of reptiles inhabit the area, not to mention the numerous kinds of plants and wildflowers.
The park is open year-round, even offering some free days, and it has two visitor centers where travelers can find maps, brochures, guides, and books to help them navigate Zion.
What to do in Zion National Park
Zion is the PERFECT place for adventure seekers. This park attracts thousands of hikers every year because it is a hiker’s DREAM.
A note of warning, the hiking at Zion is NOT for the faint of heart, literally. I consider myself a pretty fit person and in general, a capable hiker (I do it quite often), but the hikes at Zion completely kicked my butt. There are many trails and some are more difficult than others, not all of them will be as physically exhausting, but this is something to keep in mind.
Those who do not want to go there for the hiking also have the option of doing other activities, such as camping, backpacking, cycling, rock climbing, bird watching, and horseback riding.
There are tour companies that offer private or group tours as well.
How to get to Zion National Park
Travelers who are flying in have four options.
St George Regional Airport is the closest airport to Zion, but it offers a limited selection of commercial flights. From here, Zion is only a one-hour drive away.
Cedar City Regional Airport is also a one-hour drive away from the park.
Those coming from Salt Lake City can fly into Salt Lake City International Airport. After that, they will have to drive four hours to get to Zion.
Finally, travelers can fly into McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. This airport is three hours away by car, but it offers flights from many international and domestic destinations. This is a great option for travelers who might have a bit more time and would like to explore Las Vegas as well.
Those who drive can take Hwy 9 in, it is the main road leading to the park.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
The closest town to the park is Springdale and it offers a great variety of options for any budget. Mount Carmel, Kanab, and St George are further away but they also have lots of stays available.
I will list a few properties that I know of. Now, I have not stayed at any of these properties, so I can not fully recommend them, these are just some that I have heard good reviews about.
That being said, the first property I will highlight was named by Condé Nast Traveler as the best luxury rental in Zion, and if it is good for Condé Nast, then it is good for me! La Fave Luxury Rentals at Zion is a luxury resort that offers luxury homes, villas, and suites. It is located in the heart of Springdale, which is the gateway town into the park. This resort offers a Zion shuttle that stops directly in front of the property. Travelers looking for luxury in Zion can not go wrong with La Fave.
Here are some other options for those looking for a different experience or something more budget-friendly: Desert Pearl Inn, Zion Mountain Ranch, Cable Mountain Lodge, Zion Ponderosa, Red Mountain Resort, and Estancia Resort.
Of course, you can also camp inside the park or around it. Campsite prices range from $20/night to $130/night depending on group size. For those who would prefer to camp, keep in mind that most sites sell out months in advance, sometimes even a year in advance.
Entry Tickets, Fees, and Permits
Zion is extremely popular, it is the most popular of the Mighty 5. The purchase of entrance tickets must be done AT LEAST a month in advance at this website.
Those planning to visit the park with a private vehicle need to pay $35 for entry. Most entry passes for Zion range between $20-$35.
Another great option is to get an annual national parks pass. Annual passes give pass holders access to all the National Parks in the U.S. for an entire year. The price of those passes is $80.
Activities such as climbing, overnight backpacking, and canyoneering require special permits.
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
The park usually sees the most visitors between March and October. When I visited, it was mid-March and it was in 2021. People were barely starting to travel again. My husband and I thought we were going to beat the crowds. We were incredibly wrong! Even during that time, the park was still packed! I am not sure if it is possible to beat the crowds at Zion, but for people who do not mind the cold weather too much, then early March or late October might be a perfect time.
2. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon is a unique site. It is miles and miles of gorgeous rock formations!
This park is open all year. When we went, the weather was cold and snow was still on the ground. This is something to keep in mind about Bryce, the weather is cooler there than in the other parks. I recommend dressing in layers. Although I was there in the winter, the hikes and the sun made me sweat. At some points, I wanted to be in a t-shirt, and at other points, I needed my sweater and jacket.
What to do in Bryce Canyon National Park
The main activities that can be done at Bryce are camping and hiking. But there is also backpacking, overnight backpacking (with a permit), ATVing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
I can’t say which trail I would recommend, since everyone is different, but I LOVED the views we got while being on the Rim Trail and at the different viewing points.
How to get to Bryce Canyon National Park
It is easy to get to Bryce from Zion, and vice versa. That is exactly what my husband and I did. We drove from Bryce to Zion in about an hour and a half. From Zion, travelers can take Hwy 9 east towards Mt Carmel Junction. They can also take Hwy 89 north for 43 miles, then turn right and go east on Hwy 12. At that point, there will be plenty of signs pointing the way to Bryce Canyon National Park.
My husband and I drove to the park from Salt Lake City. To get there, we took the same route that is given on the official Utah State website. We took I-15 S towards Las Vegas then took exit 95 and headed southeast on Hwy 20 to Hwy 89 South. Finally, we took Hwy 12 east and followed signs for Bryce Canyon.
It is a similar route for those who want to drive there from Las Vegas. The only difference is that travelers have to take I-15 North toward Salt Lake City, and then follow the same route I just explained above.
For travelers flying in, St George Regional Airport, Salt Lake International, and McCarran International Airport are all within two to four hours away from Bryce by car.
Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park
For a luxury glamping experience near Bryce, Yonder Escalante is the perfect stay. Travelers can choose to stay in a cabin, a vintage airstream converted into a luxe room, or in an RV site in the comfort of their RV, van, or camper. Regardless of stay, each unit comes with its very own private fire pit. For those traveling with their little ones, this property is family-friendly!
Other options for stays: The Grand, Bryce Canyon Pines, Stone Canyon Inn, Bryce Trails B&B, and Bryce Canyon Villas.
There are two campgrounds in the park, the North Campground has some reservable RV sites that charge $30/per night and tent sites that charge $30/per night. Most of the sites in the Sunset campground are reservable. RV sites cost $30/per night, tent sites are $20/per night, and group sites (which are by reservation only) cost between $55-100/per night
Entry Tickets, Fees, and Permits
An entrance pass for Bryce costs $35 and it must be bought in advance at the same site I listed for Zion National Park. Backcountry permits are issued at the Visitor Center within the park grounds.
Best Time to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park
One thing to keep in mind is that winter can be harsh at Bryce. Sometimes there are snowstorms in this area in March and even in April. This is why the best time to visit Bryce is either during late spring, summer, or September. Temperatures are usually just right in September.
3. Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park left me speechless. Do not underestimate the size of this place, it is HUGE. The park covers an area of 527 square miles filled with canyons, arches, buttes, mesas, campgrounds, hiking trails, and stunning viewing points.
I like to describe this park as the Grand Canyon’s younger and less popular cousin. But just because it is less popular, it does not mean it is less beautiful. After Zion, I would rank this as the second best national park in Utah.
The park is not only big, but it is also very spread out. It is divided into four different regions. There are three districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze, plus the Green and Colorado Rivers that divide them up.
For those that are going to be pressed for time, I recommend focusing on just one area and exploring it well. Those with more time will be able to explore other areas of the park. It takes hours to go from one district to another, so when I went we just picked one district and tried to see as much of it as we could.
What to do in Canyonlands National Park
As I mentioned earlier, the park is divided into districts, but each district has many trails to explore.
The most accessible district in the park is Island in the Sky. This is also the district that is closest to the city of Moab. This was the district that my husband and I chose to focus on when we were there and I loved it. One of the hikes was pretty difficult and I don’t think I would have done it had my rock-climbing husband not been there, but once I got to the top it was SO worth it. That defines what this district has to offer, some hikes are more difficult than others, but regardless of the trail, the views at the end are out of this world. For those traveling with kids, or going on a multi-generational family vacation this is a great option. It is very easy to get to Mesa Arch, one of the most popular spots in this area, making this a great activity for able grandparents and older kids.
The Needles district is full of uniquely shaped sandstone rock formations. However, it is less accessible, it requires more time, and the hiking trails are more difficult. It is a two-hour drive from Island in the Sky and about an hour and twenty minutes from Moab. The great thing about The Needles is that it tends to be less crowded than Island in the Sky and some say it has more scenic views as well. This district is a great option for seasoned explorers and hikers.
The Maze is an excellent place for hardcore adventure seekers. It is more isolated that the other two districts, only accessible by 4x4. I do not recommend going to this district unless those wanting to visit this area have some serious backcountry experience and feel very confident in their exploring abilities. This is not an area of the park to take lightly.
The canyons in Canyonlands were carved out by the Colorado and Green rivers. Both rivers eventually merge. Visitors can canoe or kayak down either or both of the rivers.
How to get to Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands is located close to the city of Moab. Travelers can get to the park by land or air from Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or Grand Junction. The closest airports to the park are Grand Junction Regional Airport and Salt Lake City International Airport. Grand Junction is a two-hour drive away from Canyonlands, while Salt Lake City International is four hours away.
The good news is that this park is about thirty minutes away from Arches National Park.
Where to Stay Near Canyonlands National Park
Moab is the best place to stay in when visiting Canyonlands, in part because it is close to Canyonlands and Arches, so there are a lot of options for lodging in the area.
Sorrel river ranch resort & spa is an excellent choice for travelers who want to be adventurous but who also want to have an upscale experience. The resort has 55 luxurious rooms and suites that offer views of the mountain or the river. They also provide curated adventures for guests, including horseback riding, river rafting, and sky diving!
ULUM Moab provides a unique glamping experience. Their upscale tents are tucked in an expansive, secluded desert just a few steps away from Looking Glass Arch.
Entry Tickets, Fees, and Permits
An entrance pass for Canyonlands costs $30 if you are entering in a private vehicle. For those entering on a motorcycle, it is $25. Unlike Zion and Bryce, tickets for this park do not need to be purchased in advance. There might be a long waiting line to get in, which is why I recommend going earlier in the day if possible.
Best Time to Visit Canyonlands National Park
The best time to visit the park is either between April and May or September and October. Canyonlands is a high desert, so the weather tends to be hotter and more unpredictable. Visitors will want to bring layers and lots of water. Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, making some of the hikes very uncomfortable and even dangerous. It is probably best to avoid this park during the summer.
4. Arches National Park
Arches National Park is made up of over 2,000 natural red-rock arches, giant balanced rocks, massive rock fins, and hundreds of soaring pinnacles.
Here is my honest opinion about Arches:
My final stop in my national parks road trip was Arches National Park. Maybe it was because I was so amazed by Canyonlands, but Arches felt underwhelming. The hike up to see Delicate Arch was really challenging at times, which I liked. But other than Delicate Arch, the rest did not captivate me. That is not to say the park is not one of the best! But if I had to rank them, Arches would not make my top three.
We did get a gorgeous view of Delicate Arch at sunset, and I would visit the park again just for that view.
What to do in Arches National Park
The most popular attraction at Arches is Delicate Arch, and for good reason too, it is spectacular. One can not leave Arches without going to see Delicate Arch. That being said, I will point out that this hike has some difficult areas that might even be scary to some. But it is very doable, it just needs some precaution, that’s all.
But there are lots of other arches that are beautiful too. Landscape Arch, Double Arch, and the Fiery Furnace are all great sights.
But seriously, the park is called Arches for a reason, they are everywhere. At this park, all roads lead to some sort of arch.
How to get to Arches National Park
Arches National Park is located close to the city of Moab. Travelers can get to the park by land or air from Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or Grand Junction. The closest airports to the park are Grand Junction Regional Airport and Salt Lake City International Airport. Grand Junction is an hour and a half drive away from the park, while Salt Lake City International is three and a half hours away.
Where to Stay Near Arches National Park
Moab is the best place to stay for those visiting Arches. Here are some more options for lodging at Moab: Hyatt Place Moab, Moab Springs Ranch, and Red Cliffs Lodge.
Entry Tickets, Fees, and Permits
This is where things will get a bit dicey with this park. As of February 2023, Arches National Park will be implementing a new timed entry policy from April to October that might become a regular rule of the park. During this trial period, visitors will need to reserve their tickets in advance. Additionally, they will also have to choose an entry time slot. Reservations will only be released three months in advance, so it will require some planning!
But all hope is not lost for spontaneous travelers. A limited number of next-day tickets will be available every day at 6 pm Mountain Time. Tickets can be reserved at this website.
Best Time to Visit Arches National Park
The best time to visit Arches is either early Spring or Fall. Extreme heat and monsoon rains can be an issue during the summer months, and frigid temperatures during winter, so it is best to avoid that.
5. Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park, image by Unsplash. All rights reserved for Unsplash.
Capitol Reef National Park is located in south-central Utah. It is filled with canyons, domes, cliffs, and bridges. The park extends almost 100 miles.
Full disclosure, this is the only park that I did not get to visit personally.
What to do in Capitol Reef National Park
Since I have not been to this park, I will not be able to give my personal opinion about the sights as I did with the other parks. However, I will say this, the landscapes in Utah are incredible regardless of location. I am sure that Capitol Reef has some beautiful sites to offer.
Some notable sites are Hickman Bridge, Cathedral Valley, the Frying Pan, and Cassidy Arch.
How to get to Capitol Reef National Park
Travelers can get to the park by land or air from Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or Grand Junction. The closest airports to the park are Grand Junction Regional Airport and Salt Lake City International Airport. Grand Junction is three hours away from the park, while Salt Lake City International is three and a half hours away.
Where to Stay Near Capitol Reef National Park
Torrey is the closest town to the park, but Teasdale and Bicknell are also close by. Capitol Reef Resort and Red Sands Hotel and Spa are both considerable options.
Entry Tickets, Fees, and Permits
An entrance pass for Capitol Reef costs $20 if entering in a private vehicle. For those entering on a motorcycle, it is $15. Unlike Zion and Bryce, tickets for this park do not need to be purchased in advance. There might be a long line to get in, which is why I recommend going earlier in the day if possible.
Best Time to Visit Capitol Reef National Park
The best time to visit Capitol Reef is either during the Spring or Fall when the weather is perfect for hiking. Monsoon season is from July to September, and it can cause closed roads and flash floods. Occasionally there are snow storms during winter, but temperatures are mild during the day. However, icy roads can also cause road closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to see all 5 national parks in Utah?
The best way to see all five parks is either to hire a travel advisor to curate a perfect parks itinerary for you or to do a national parks road trip. While it is not complicated to go from one park to the other, not all parks are as close to each other as Canyonlands and Arches. It takes hours just to get from one district of Canyonlands to the others. I definitely think that having a car is necessary to see all the parks.
What is the best way to get around the national parks?
Parks like Zion, Bryce, and Arches offer shuttle bus services. However, depending on the season those spots might be taken already. That is the thing about visiting these parks, it does take some planning. I recommend either planning well and trying to use the shuttles or renting a car/hiring a driver.
If you could only pick one of these best National parks in Utah to visit, which one would it be?
Without a doubt, Zion National Park. I loved it so much that I am dying to go back someday. The views and the hikes are all incredible. It is very versatile and there is a lot to see, which makes it an exciting place to be at. I could have spent a week in Zion alone! That would be my top recommendation. Zion first, every other park can wait.