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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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7 Days Southern Utah Trip Itinerary

Southern Utah Adventure Itinerary

Embark on a week-long journey through the heart of Southern Utah's majestic national parks and awe-inspiring monuments. Your adventure begins at the iconic Zion National Park, where towering cliffs and serene valleys await. Immerse yourself in the splendor of nature with a hike through The Narrows, feeling the Virgin River's cool waters at your feet.

Next, witness the unique geological wonders of Bryce Canyon National Park. Be mesmerized by the endless sea of hoodoos and amphitheaters that paint a picture of natural artistry at sunrise and sunset. Here, the Fairyland Loop Trail offers an unforgettable trek amidst the spire-shaped rock formations.

Your journey continues at Capitol Reef National Park, a hidden gem with diverse landscapes to explore. From historic orchards to the striking Waterpocket Fold, experience the wide array of scenic drives and hiking trails that reveal Capitol Reef's beauty and solitude.

Arches National Park will be your next stop, where over 2,000 natural stone arches create a surreal and photogenic environment. Capture the perfect shot of Delicate Arch and explore the park's myriad of landscapes, from spires to balanced rocks.

Canyonlands National Park offers a dramatic desert canvas carved by the Colorado River. Each of its four districts presents a unique adventure, from the breathtaking panoramas at Island in the Sky to the intricate trails at The Needles.

Your expedition takes you further into the heart of the American West at Monument Valley. Marvel at the towering buttes and vast, open landscapes that symbolize Western movies and Navajo culture. Experience the Valley Drive or a guided tour to soak in this majestic area's history and beauty.

Conclude your adventure at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a sprawling wilderness that invites endless exploration. From slot canyons to towering cliffs, the monument is a testament to natural beauty and the spirit of adventure. Whether you're hiking, backpacking, or simply soaking in the views, Grand Staircase-Escalante offers an unparalleled conclusion to your Southern Utah journey.


Recommended Activities

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    Zion National Park

    Zion National Park offers breathtaking canyon views and hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry trails. The park is known for its towering rock formations, beautiful valleys, and diverse ecosystems. The Virgin River running through the canyon creates a lush, green oasis in the desert, providing a stark contrast and stunning scenic vistas. Its unique geography makes it a must-visit for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.
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    Bryce Canyon National Park

    Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its unique geology, consisting of a series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The park is home to the world's largest collection of hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) that create a stunning, otherworldly landscape. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly breathtaking views as the colors of the rocks shift dramatically. It's a prime spot for hiking, stargazing, and experiencing the majesty of nature.
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    Capitol Reef National Park

    Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem among Utah's national parks, offering stunning landscapes with fewer crowds. The park features the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long warp in the Earth's crust, providing unique geological formations, cliffs, canyons, and domes to explore. Known for its fruit orchards, historical sites, and scenic drives, Capitol Reef offers a diverse range of activities for visitors. The park's lesser-known status allows for a more serene and intimate exploration of Utah's natural beauty.
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    Arches National Park

    Arches National Park is a marvel of natural architecture, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, towers, and balancing rocks, beautifully sculpted by millions of years of erosion and geological activities. The park's unique landscape offers surreal scenery and ample opportunities for photography, hiking, and stargazing. Iconic formations like Delicate Arch have become symbols of the American West's wild and rugged beauty, making it an essential visit for those seeking to experience the grandeur of nature.
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    Canyonlands National Park

    Canyonlands National Park offers a vast wilderness of deep canyons, towering mesas, and dramatic desert landscapes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Its diverse terrain is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves, each offering unique adventures and vistas. The park is a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and off-road enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the Earth's geological history and unparalleled views of the Utah landscape.
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    Monument Valley

    Monument Valley, with its iconic red sandstone buttes and vast, empty desert, epitomizes the American West's classic imagery. Located on the Navajo Nation reservation, it offers a unique cultural experience alongside its stunning landscapes. The Valley Drive, a scenic road through the park, provides up-close views of the monuments, while guided tours offer insights into Navajo culture and history. Its dramatic scenery has been the backdrop for numerous films, making it a must-visit for those wanting to step into a living picture of Western heritage and natural splendor.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

    Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a vast wilderness area that offers a sense of adventure and exploration unlike any other. Its terrain includes dramatic stair-stepped cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and sweeping plateaus. This monument is a treasure trove for geologists, paleontologists, archaeologists, historians, and adventurers alike. Its remote areas provide solitude and untouched natural beauty, making it an ideal location for hiking, backpacking, and canyoneering. The Monument's vast landscapes encapsulate the rugged and wild spirit of the American Southwest, offering endless opportunities for discovery and awe.
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Restaurants

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    Hell's Backbone Grill

    Hell's Backbone Grill

    Nestled in Boulder, Utah, this remote restaurant offers upscale dining with a focus on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, surrounded by the stunning landscape of Grand Staircase-Escalante.
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    Black Bear Diner

    Black Bear Diner

    Located near Bryce Canyon, this diner is known for its rustic atmosphere, huge portions, and bear-themed decor, offering a unique and hearty dining experience after a day of exploration.
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    Cafe Diablo

    4.3
    $$$$

    Cafe Diablo

    In the heart of Torrey, not far from Capitol Reef National Park, Cafe Diablo offers an imaginative Southwestern culinary adventure with dishes prepared using local ingredients.
    4.3
    $$$$
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    Milt's Stop & Eat

    Milt's Stop & Eat

    A Moab classic since 1954, Milt's offers the best in diner fare, with delicious burgers and shakes. It's the perfect nostalgic pit stop while exploring the nearby national parks.
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    The Spoke on Center

    The Spoke on Center

    Located in Moab, this unique eatery combines great food with motorcycle culture, offering an eclectic menu in a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for adventurers.
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    Cottonwood Steakhouse

    Cottonwood Steakhouse

    This open-air steakhouse in Bluff offers a unique dining experience with its outdoor seating and authentic Southwestern dishes, providing a perfect blend of adventure and cuisine.
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    El Diablo Cafe

    El Diablo Cafe

    A quirky and vibrant spot in Springdale at the entrance to Zion National Park, known for its fresh, bold Mexican flavors and striking views of the surrounding cliffs.
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    Ray's Tavern

    Ray's Tavern

    A beloved local hangout in Green River, Ray's Tavern is famous for its juicy burgers and friendly atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of rural Utah.
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Hotels

  • Amangiri

    Located in the heart of the desert near Lake Powell, Amangiri is a luxury resort blending into the landscape with a design that compliments the natural beauty of the area. Its secluded location offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views and high-end amenities.
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    Under Canvas Zion

    Under Canvas Zion

    This glamorous camping site near Zion National Park offers a unique way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Luxurious tents with beds and private bathrooms are set in beautiful surroundings, offering a unique blend of nature and luxury.
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    Kokopelli Cave Bed and Breakfast

    Kokopelli Cave Bed and Breakfast

    This one-of-a-kind bed and breakfast is built into the cliffs of Farmington, New Mexico. The cave suite offers privacy, comfort, and a unique atmosphere with modern amenities, all while being embedded in an authentic cave dwelling.
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    Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa

    Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa

    Located on the banks of the Colorado River near Moab, this ranch resort offers luxurious accommodations with stunning river and red rock views. The resort blends rustic charm with premium amenities, creating a perfect base for exploring the surrounding national parks.
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    The Shooting Star RV Resort

    The Shooting Star RV Resort

    Near Escalante, this RV resort features unique Airstream trailers themed after classic Hollywood stars' trailers and offers a drive-in movie theater for guests. It's a nostalgic experience that combines comfort, style, and the great outdoors.
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    Desert Pearl Inn

    Desert Pearl Inn

    This inn offers a tranquil oasis on the edge of Zion National Park. With spacious rooms, a riverside location, and beautiful desert landscape views, it provides a peaceful and picturesque base for exploring the park.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    OVERTIME: The Road To Gold Tour in Cedar City

    OVERTIME: The Road To Gold Tour in Cedar City

    OVERTIME: The Road To Gold TourNot all those who wander are lostThis great quote defines Overtime and his journey to success in the music business. Hailing from Montana as now one of the most well known independent musicians born and raised, Overtime...
    Map IconBlackbird Bar in Cedar City (105.51 mi)
    Calendar Icon29 Sep 2024
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    Ryan Hamilton

    Ryan Hamilton

    The event will take place at The Tuacahn Amphitheatre in Ivins.
    Map IconThe Tuacahn Amphitheatre in Ivins (143.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon26 Oct 2024
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    KC And The Sunshine Band

    KC And The Sunshine Band

    The event will take place at The Tuacahn Amphitheatre in Ivins.
    Map IconThe Tuacahn Amphitheatre in Ivins (143.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon8 Nov 2024
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    Country Jam Colorado

    Country Jam Colorado

    The event will take place at Jam Ranch in Mack.
    Map IconJam Ranch in Mack (158.74 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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    Firefall with special guests The Doubious Brothers

    Firefall with special guests The Doubious Brothers

    The event will take place at James M Robb-Colorado River State Park-Fruita Section in Fruita.
    Map IconJames M Robb-Colorado River State Park-Fruita Section in Fruita (161.1 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Sep 2024
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    Black Jacket Symphony Presents Elton John's 'Madman Across the Water'

    Black Jacket Symphony Presents Elton John's 'Madman Across the Water'

    The event will take place at Grand Junction Convention Center in Grand Junction.
    Map IconGrand Junction Convention Center in Grand Junction (165.43 mi)
    Calendar Icon19 Oct 2024
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    Rick Springfield and Richard Marx Together On Stage

    Rick Springfield and Richard Marx Together On Stage

    The event will take place at Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction.
    Map IconAmphitheater at Las Colonias Park in Grand Junction (165.64 mi)
    Calendar Icon13 Jul 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Do you care about ticking the list of national parks, specifically, or are you interested in the more off the beaten path state parks, national monuments, BLM spots? Utah has ...

    Suggestion for a 7 day trip through Southern Utah National Parks?

    Do you care about ticking the list of national parks, specifically, or are you interested in the more off the beaten path state parks, national monuments, BLM spots? Utah has ...

    /r/nationalparks
  • Reddit Icon

    Thoughts on Southern Utah Itinerary Im in the process of planning 2.5 week fall trip in October to southern Utah from Texas. Weve previously been to Moab to see Canyonlands an...

    Thoughts on Southern Utah Itinerary

    Thoughts on Southern Utah Itinerary Im in the process of planning 2.5 week fall trip in October to southern Utah from Texas. Weve previously been to Moab to see Canyonlands an...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    The parks are great and all but trust me, you could stay in many of the towns in southern Utah and explore the nearby area for months without running out of things to see.

    Planning a trip to see southern Utah National Parks

    The parks are great and all but trust me, you could stay in many of the towns in southern Utah and explore the nearby area for months without running out of things to see.

    /r/Utah
  • Reddit Icon

    If you only have time for one national park, Bryce Canyon would get my vote. Since we have so many national parks though, some of our state parks get overlooked. Kodachrome Ba...

    What shouldn't I miss on a road trip through Southern Utah?

    If you only have time for one national park, Bryce Canyon would get my vote. Since we have so many national parks though, some of our state parks get overlooked. Kodachrome Ba...

    /r/Utah
  • Reddit Icon

    My family and I are planning to take a road trip to Southern Utah and Northern Arizona and I was looking for some advice on our trip plan. None of us are too big into hiking -...

    Suggestions for a Southern Utah Trip

    My family and I are planning to take a road trip to Southern Utah and Northern Arizona and I was looking for some advice on our trip plan. None of us are too big into hiking -...

    /r/nationalparks
  • Reddit Icon

    My favorite southern Utah locations are Zions National Park, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef. Look into Route 12 and Highway 89 do your best to stay off I-15. Id say two days in...

    Any roadtrip advice for Southern Utah?

    My favorite southern Utah locations are Zions National Park, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef. Look into Route 12 and Highway 89 do your best to stay off I-15. Id say two days in...

    /r/Utah
  • Reddit Icon

    I am planning a solo road trip to Southern Utah from St. Louis the first two weeks of October. My plan is to drive to Colorado Springs, head south to Albuquerque, and then get...

    Road trip to Southern Utah

    I am planning a solo road trip to Southern Utah from St. Louis the first two weeks of October. My plan is to drive to Colorado Springs, head south to Albuquerque, and then get...

    /r/Utah
  • Reddit Icon

    Even though southern Utah has several famous national parks, it totally worth going out of your way to Cedar Breaks National Monument. The scenery is absolutely stunning!

    Even though southern Utah has several famous national parks ...

    Even though southern Utah has several famous national parks, it totally worth going out of your way to Cedar Breaks National Monument. The scenery is absolutely stunning!

    /r/roadtrip

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Take It Easy - 2013 Remaster

    A classic road trip song that embodies the spirit of adventure and the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    Fleetwood Mac - Go Your Own Way - 2004 Remaster

    This track encourages independence and forging your own path, perfect for exploring new landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
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    U2 - Beautiful Day

    U2 - Beautiful Day

    Uplifting and positive, this song captures the essence of appreciating the beauty of our surroundings.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

    Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

    A reflective tune about exploring the vast, scenic landscapes of America.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run

    An energetic anthem that ignites the desire to hit the road and embrace freedom.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    A classic song with mysterious and captivating lyrics, perfect for driving through the desert landscapes.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    The Doors - Riders on the Storm

    The Doors - Riders on the Storm

    This song's moody atmosphere is great for driving through stormy weather or reflecting on the journey.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Road Trippin'

    An acoustic ballad that celebrates friendship, adventure, and the open road.
    Listen on Spotify
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A heart-pumping track that's all about traveling and the many roads of life.
    Listen on Spotify
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  • Music Icon

    Bon Jovi - Wanted Dead Or Alive

    Bon Jovi - Wanted Dead Or Alive

    Its Western-themed lyrics and rock sound make it a fitting choice for exploring the American Southwest.
    Listen on Spotify
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