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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

1
Zion National Park
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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.
2
Bryce Canyon National Park
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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.
3
Capitol Reef National Park
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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
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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
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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.
6
Monument Valley
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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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Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
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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.

Tasty Picks

Hell's Backbone Grill
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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.
Black Bear Diner
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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.
Cafe Diablo
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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
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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.
The Spoke on Center
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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.
Cottonwood Steakhouse
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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.
El Diablo Cafe
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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.
Ray's Tavern
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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.

Stay Recommendations

Amangiri
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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.
Under Canvas Zion
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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.
Kokopelli Cave Bed and Breakfast
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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.
Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa
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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.
The Shooting Star RV Resort
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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.
Desert Pearl Inn
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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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