7-Day Southwest National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

Ever dreamt about hitting the road and soaking in the unreal beauty of the Southwest National Parks? Well, I just did that, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of epic. In this seven-day Southwest National Parks itinerary, you’ll make stops from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park, with a few hidden gems like the Valley of Fire State Park and Sand Hallow State Park thrown in for good measure.

Honestly, I used to be the “Why go on a road trip in the U.S. when there are beaches in the Bahamas?” kind of person. But oh, how wrong I was to overlook this region. Y’all, UTAH…breathtaking! Utah and its neighbors have completely turned my travel preferences upside down. There’s something indescribably magical about the Southwest National Parks, a beauty that photos or words can barely capture.

And of course, in true Eileen fashion, I had to include some elements of Latin history. Did you know the entire Southwest region used to be part of Mexico until 1848? Due to the Mexican-American War, Mexico had to give up most of the area to the U.S. On this road trip, every turn told a story, and I was all in for uncovering these tales, one breathtaking sight after another.

Your top questions answered:

• Driving from Las Vegas to Zion National Park: This drive is about two hours and 30 minutes straight. Make sure to leave Las Vegas early to enjoy one full day at Zion!
• Zion National Park Entrance Fee: Without the Annual National Park Pass, it costs $35 per car to enter Zion. That $35 fee doesn’t include parking in Zion, which ranges from free to about $40 for the whole day.
• Zion National Park vs. Bryce Canyon: Both parks are truly stunning, and you can’t go wrong with either one. But if you only have time to visit one, I recommend Zion. Zion offers a variety of easy hikes, like the Emerald Pools hike, to more advanced hikes, like Angels Landing. 

Things You Should Consider

Reviewed

Travellers Autobarn
Kuga Campervan

This road trip gave me the perfect opportunity to experience van life. The theme of this Southwest National Parks trip was ADVENTURE & SPONTANEITY, so something that we would be able to sleep and cook in was ideal. We decided on the Kuga Campervan from Travellers Autobarn, which was one of the best decisions. The camper van had a mini-fridge, gas stove, sink, and microwave. It also had a dining area that quickly converted into a comfortable queen bed. We rented from the LA location, but they also have locations in Vegas, San Francisco, Denver, and Settle.

DAY 1: DRIVE LOS ANGELES TO LAS VEGAS

State: California | Total Drive Time: 5 hours | City We Slept In: Las Vegas, NV | Campsite: Macy’s Parking Lot (free)

To be honest, Day 1 started off a little rocky. After stopping at Target to get some road trip snack essentials, we noticed a nail in the tire. We got Travellers Autobarn to fix that, but it put us a tad behind schedule. The drive was about five hours, but it was one straight road, so it was a pretty easy and smooth drive. Once we arrived in Vegas, we realized the camper van’s gear shift had stopped working. Fortunately, we had just parked in a Macy’s parking lot, but this put us even more behind schedule since we couldn’t make it to our first trip stop. Travellers Autobarn scheduled us to get a new camper van in the morning, so we called it a night. It was a rocky start, but what’s a Southwest National Parks road trip without at least a little car trouble?

DAY 2: HIKING IN VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK

State: Nevada | Total Drive Time: 2hr 24min | City We Slept In: St. George, UT | Campsite: Cracker Barrel Parking Lot (free)

Free from car trouble, our first stop on our Southwest National Parks adventure was Valley of Fire State Park ($20 entry fee). Valley of Fire State Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails that showcase its stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and ancient petroglyphs. 

I wanted to go here for the Fire Wave hike, but it was closed due to extreme heat. Instead, we did the White Domes Hike, which I highly suggest doing either super early in the morning or closer to sunset. Do not be like us and go here when the sun is at its peak. We went around noon: it was HOT, and there were NO shaded areas. But aside from that, the hike itself was pretty easy.

Best Valley of Fire State Park Hikes

• Fire Wave Trail – Not to be missed, this relatively easy hike leads to incredible striped sandstone formations reminiscent of waves of fire. It’s about 1.5 miles round trip and offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially near sunset.
• White Domes Trail – This 1.25-mile loop trail takes you through a varied landscape of sandstone formations, a narrow slot canyon, and the remains of an old movie set. It’s known for its contrasting colors and diverse scenery. Be prepared for lots of sand in your shoes!
• Mouse’s Tank Trail – This is an easy 0.75-mile round-trip walk that takes you through a sandy trail lined with rock walls covered in ancient petroglyphs. The trail leads to a natural basin that collects rainwater, known as Mouse’s Tank.
• Rainbow Vista Trail – This one-mile trail lives up to its name by offering panoramic views of multi-colored rock formations, making it a great spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
• Atlatl Rock – This short walk up a metal staircase offers close-up views of ancient petroglyphs, including images of the atlatl, a prehistoric hunting tool. It’s more about the cultural experience than the hike itself.
• Elephant Rock Trail – A quick and easy 0.3-mile loop that leads to one of the park’s most iconic rock formations, resembling an elephant. It’s easily accessible and a perfect quick stop.
• Prospector Trail – This moderate 2.3-mile trail offers a bit of everything, from historic sites to stunning desert vistas. It’s a great choice for those looking to explore the park’s natural beauty a bit deeper.
• Seven Wonders Loop – For the more adventurous, this 7-mile loop combines several trails, offering a comprehensive tour of the park’s most impressive sights, including slot canyons, arches, and panoramic vistas.

So, we picked St. George, UT, to sleep for the night—a town near Zion National Park, which was our next stop. Now, you might’ve heard that Walmart parking lots are the go-to for campervan stays, but guess what? Not always the case. Luckily, I whipped out my iOverlander app and found us a sweet spot. Turns out, Cracker Barrel parking lots are a haven for campervan and RV travelers. And yes, that was the night we ended up using the sprinkler system for a quick shower. Gotta love those impromptu solutions, right? 😂

DAY 3: ONE DAY IN ZION NATIONAL PARK + SAND HOLLOW STATE PARK

State: Utah | Total Drive Time: 3hrs | City We Slept In: Kanab, UT | Campsite: Kanab RV Corral ($40/night)

The next day, we were all pumped to hit Zion National Park and dive straight into the Narrows hike. But, you know what they say about best-laid plans—turns out, Mother Nature wasn’t on our side. Flash floods had rolled through just days before, and with more rain on the radar, trekking through the Narrows was a no-go. I was a little bummed since it was a bucket list activity for me, but hey, Zion’s got no shortage of awesome backups. So, we switched gears to the Emerald Pools hike instead. Honestly, I hadn’t even Googled this one, so every twist and turn was a total surprise.

And wow, was I blown away! The Emerald Pools hike was, hands down, my favorite part of this Southwest National Parks road trip. Imagine me, every few seconds, stopping in my tracks and just going “woooow.” The views were insane. And for someone who loves water as much as I do, discovering three different waterfalls and pools along the way was like hitting the jackpot. The whole adventure took us about 2-3 hours round trip, and trust me, it was worth every single second.

Best Hikes in Zion National Park

• Emerald Pools: This hike is a real gem, especially if you’re just dipping your toes into the hiking world like me. It’s a series of trails that lead you to three tiers of pools and waterfalls, each more breathtaking than the last. The lower pool is super accessible, making it a great start. As you move up to the middle and upper pools, the trail gets a tad more challenging, but it’s nothing a beginner can’t handle. Plus, the reward of seeing those waterfalls cascading into crystal-clear pools surrounded by lush greenery? Totally worth it.
• The Narrows: Picture walking between massive, smooth sandstone walls, walking through the Virgin River. That’s The Narrows. It’s unique because much of the hike is in the water, which can be a cool respite on a hot day. The difficulty can vary dramatically with the water level, so it’s a bit of an adventure. Just make sure to check the weather and flood warnings—safety first, right? It’s an experience unlike any other, with the canyon walls towering hundreds of feet above you. No wonder it’s a bucket-list hike for many. You can rent all the gear needed for this hike at a local shop in Zion. 
• Angel’s Landing: As much as I’d like to be a daredevil, there’s a certain level of fearlessness you need to do Angel’s Landing. Yes, it’s known for being one of the more challenging and exposed hikes out there, with narrow paths and sheer drop-offs. This is one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, with about 12 people dying on it, so now there’s a permit system in place to manage the number of hikers. If you’re up for it and lucky enough to snag a permit, reaching the summit gives you a 360-degree view of Zion Canyon that’s just unbeatable. It’s not for everyone, but for those who take the challenge, I’m sure it’s unforgettable.

Easy Hikes in Zion National Park

• Riverside Walk: This is like a leisurely stroll in the park but way cooler. It’s a well-paved path following the Virgin River, leading you right to the mouth of The Narrows. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it perfect for everyone, and offers gorgeous canyon views without much effort. Great for a relaxing day when you just want to soak in nature without breaking a sweat.
• Pa’rus Trail: If you’re looking for a peaceful hike that still offers up some stunning scenery, Pa’rus Trail is it. Fully paved and easy to navigate, this trail meanders along the Virgin River, offering picturesque views of Zion’s majestic peaks and the valley. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the colors light up the sky. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so it’s a fantastic option if you’re bringing your furry friend along.

Since the day was still young after our Zion adventure, we went to Sand Hollow State Park ($15 entry fee). It was just a short 40-minute drive, and bam, we were chilling by a gorgeous red sand lake, feeling like we’d somehow teleported to Maui. It was a total blast, and if you’ve got the time, I’d say definitely add it to your list.

The goal for every night was to sleep in a city that would have us closer to the next day’s activity. Our campsite for the night was Kanab RV Corral. It was only $40/night for an entire hookup site. It also had showers with hot water!! The location was perfect for an early start at Coral Pink Sand Dunes.

DAY 4: BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK + CORAL PINK SAND DUNES STATE PARK

State: Utah | Total Drive Time: 1hr 50 min | City We Slept In: Cannonville, UT | Campsite: Bryce Valley Ranch ($60/night)

Dubai or Utah? The Coral Pink Sand Dunes ($20 entry fee) was gorgeous for pictures but definitely one of my least favorite things from the trip. My boyfriend really enjoyed this place, though. I will admit the sand sledding was a really cool experience. Be prepared to be covered in sand.

Continuing our Southwest National Parks adventure, it was time to drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. The hour-and-a-half drive takes you through some incredible scenery: lush green fields, red cliffs, and pine trees in orange rock formations—so don’t fall asleep!

Once we arrived, we hit the Navajo Trail. Let me tell you, no photo can truly capture the magic of Bryce Canyon National Park; it’s something you have to see with your own eyes. When I first saw the canyon, it literally took my breath away. Every few steps, I stopped just to take in the views, each more stunning than the last.

While the Navajo Trail offered some of the most spectacular views I’ve ever seen, it wasn’t my favorite hike—mainly because I learned I am scared of heights. The start and finish of the trail had me reconsidering my decisions, and I won’t lie—there were moments at the beginning when I was close to tears from fear. But pushing through that fear was worth every second for the views alone.

Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

• Navajo Trail: Despite my fears, this trail is unforgettable. It descends into the canyon, giving you an up-close experience with the hoodoos.
• Queen’s Garden Trail: This hike, often paired with the Navajo Trail for a longer loop, takes you through some fascinating rock formations, including one that resembles Queen Victoria.
• Peek-A-Boo Loop: For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, this trail offers incredible views and takes you deep into the heart of the Bryce Amphitheater.
• Fairyland Loop: This is a longer hike that rewards you with less crowded paths and stunning views of the park. It’s a bit more of a commitment, but the scenery is worth it.
• Rim Trail: Perfect for those who prefer a less strenuous walk, the Rim Trail offers panoramic views of the entire park from above. It’s accessible and provides plenty of photo ops.

DAY 5: PAGE, ARIZONA ATTRACTIONS

State: Utah & Arizona | Total Drive Time: 2hr 48min | City We Slept In: Page, Arizona | Campsite: Glen Canyon Campsite ($14/night)

On Day 5, we kicked things off in a pretty mundane way—doing laundry. We were camped out at Bryce Canyon RV Ranch & Horse Park, a cozy spot just about 20 minutes from Bryce Canyon. This place was a gem, chosen not just for its proximity to the canyon but for its amenities too: laundry facilities, hot showers, and full hookups were precisely what we needed.

While the laundry swirled, we tackled our route for the upcoming days. Initially, our hearts were set on Santa Fe, New Mexico—a place dripping with history as one of the oldest towns in the Americas, rich in Latin culture. I was buzzing with excitement at the thought. However, a day lost to camper van troubles meant the 14-hour-plus round trip to Santa Fe was off the table.

Plan B? Bentonite Hills, Factory Butte, and a finale in Moab, UT. Yet, without a 4×4, navigating Bentonite Hills and Factory Butte wasn’t in the cards. So, off to Page, Arizona, we went.

By the time we got to Page, we were pretty beat from all the hiking and driving. So, we declared Day 5 a chill day, catching up on work and rest. Plus, my boyfriend managed to snap some absolutely stunning photos of me against the scenic backdrop.

While in Page, Arizona, here’s a roundup of attractions and restaurants we either checked out or had on our list:

Attractions in Page, Arizona

• Horseshoe Bend: A breathtaking natural wonder, showcasing a dramatic 270-degree bend in the Colorado River.
• Antelope Canyon: Famous for its wave-like structure and light beams shining down in the narrow openings, it’s a photographer’s paradise.
• Lake Powell: Offers boating, fishing, and stunning landscapes.
• Glen Canyon Dam: An engineering marvel with informative tours and a visitor center.

Restaurants in Page, Arizona

• Big John’s Texas BBQ: For when you’re craving some BBQ.
• El Tapatio: A cozy spot to dive into some delicious Mexican cuisine.
• Slackers: Known for their burgers and casual, laid-back vibe.
• State 48 Tavern: Offers a great selection of beers and hearty American fare, perfect after a day of exploring.

Day 5 turned out to be exactly what we needed—a breather before diving back into our Southwest National Parks adventure, full of unforgettable sights in Page, Arizona.

DAY 6: HORSESHOE BEND + GRAND CANYON

Total Drive Time: almost 7hrs | City We Slept In: Las Vegas | Campsite: Oasis RV Resort ($60/night)

Let me tell you, Arizona was cooking us alive. With temperatures hitting 100 degrees, we were more than ready to hit the road. Before leaving Page, Arizona, we made a quick stop at Horseshoe Bend ($10 entry fee), which was like a teaser before the main event: the Grand Canyon. Growing up, I’d always hear about the Grand Canyon on TV and in movies, so seeing it in person was surreal. But, to be totally honest, it was a little underwhelming. Yes, it was gorgeous, but it didn’t take my breath away as Bryce Canyon National Park did.

The cool thing about the Grand Canyon’s South Rim (which is the most visited section of the park), is its rich history. Did you know that the Spanish were among the first Europeans to lay eyes on it, guided by the Hopi people? Imagine wandering through unfamiliar lands for 20 days, and then, bam, you stumble on the Grand Canyon. The Coronado expedition even tried (and failed) to reach the canyon’s bottom over three days. Nowadays, though, there are trails that let you hike right down into the canyon. We decided to pass on the hiking this time around and just soaked up the views.

History aside, standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon is a moment I’ll never forget. It’s a reminder of just how majestic and awe-inspiring nature can be, even if Bryce Canyon still holds the top spot to me.

Again, Arizona was unbearably hot, so we drove straight back to Las Vegas from the Grand Canyon. Now, driving from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas is a bit of a trek—about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and the exact route you take.

DAY 7: MEO WOLF

State: Nevada & California | Total Drive Time: 3hrs 48mins | City We Slept In: LA | Campsite: random parking lot ($10/night) 

We chose to do something trippy on our last full day with the van. Meow Wolf is supposed to be an “immersive” museum, but it honestly is just some cool lights and projections. I really liked it, but bae wasn’t a fan at all. For the price, it wasn’t really worth it. But again, I did enjoy it.

We drove back to LA, got some Randy’s donuts, and turned the van back in. And that concluded our phenomenal seven-day Southwest National Parks Road trip.

This was such an unforgettable experience. There was camping, hiking, swimming, and memorizing views. I’m already planning another trip to Utah; that’s how much I liked it!

If you have any other questions on planning a Southwest National Parks road trip, check out 10 Tips For Planning The Ultimate A Road Trip.