What you'll do
Looking to spend one week in Utah? I have the perfect itinerary for you! I know I'm biased, but would recommend at least 10 days if possible, however I know that's not feasible for everyone.
This epic 7 day itinerary will include stops and overlooks at ALL FIVE National Park's in Utah and give you a small taste of what the Southwest has to offer.
Day 1: Vegas to Zion
Day 2: Zion
Day 3: Bryce to Capitol Reef
Day 4: Capitol Reef
Day 5: Capitol reef to Moab (via Hanksville)
Day 6: Arches
Day 7: Canyonlands to Salt Lake City
This itinerary is most doable during warmer temps when the days are longer. Winter provides short days here and unfortunately can be very restricting if you only have 7 days. If you plan to come in the winter or when days are shorter, I suggest splitting this into two trips:
Zion, Bryce
Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands
Day 1
The closest major airport to Zion National Park is Las Vegas International Airport, roughly 2.5 hours away by car. To make the most of your road trip, consider arriving on a morning flight. This will allow you to drive to Zion, settle into your hotel, and still have a chance to explore the park that evening.
Day 1: Arrive in Vegas and drive 2.5 hours to Zion. Sunset hike at Canyon Overlook Trail
Valley of Fire State Park
park
State Park between Vegas and Zion
Valley of Fire State Park is a hidden gem nestled between Las Vegas and the epic national parks of Utah and Arizona. With its fiery red sandstone rocks, petroglyphs, slot canyons, and stunning rock formations, this often overlooked Nevada State Park offers a jaw-dropping experience for visitors. There are multiple beautiful hikes and things to see!
If you're flying into Vegas, this is a GREAT stop between Vegas and Zion National Park. This is a dog-friendly park and dogs must be kept on a leash 6 feet or shorter when on the trails.
The classic shot shown above in the first photo is located here: 36.448894, -114.515682
Valley of Fire State Park
Day use entrance fee: $10.00 per vehicle (Non-NV Vehicles: $15.00 per vehicle)
Camping: $20.00 per vehicle, per night (Non-NV Vehicles: $25.00 per vehicle, per night) + $10.00 for sites with utility hook ups
Bike in: $2.00 per bike
Annual Trail Closures: For the safety of guests, staff, and local rescue services, many of the park's trails are closed annually during the warmer months (May-September). This last year, the trails were closed May 15 - September 30, 2024. The Trails include: White Domes Loop, Fire Wave/Seven Wonders Loop/Pastel Canyon/Pink Canyon, Pinnacles Loop, Propect Trail, Arrowhead Trail, Natural Arch Trail (excluding Arch Rock), and Charlie's Spring. These trails have a history of frequent medical calls, search and rescue missions, and fatalities during this time of year. Unfortunately, the demand is more than we are able to safely manage.
Canyon Overlook
Hike
1 mile roundtrip
Talk about big reward for a little effort. I actually prefer this view over the view of Angel's Landing, despite the latter being a more adventurous hike.
STATISTICS AT-A-GLANCE
HIKE NAME: Canyon Overlook Trail
DISTANCE: 1 mile RT
ELEVATION GAIN: 150 feet
RESTROOMS: Yes
DOG FRIENDLY: No
PERMIT: No
FEE: Yes, $35 National Park Entrance Fee OR covered under your America the Beautiful Pass // Fee information HERE
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS: 2wd and paved
TRAILHEAD COORDINATES: 37.213287, -112.940476