10-Day Road Trip Through Southern Utah: Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits!

Southern Utah’s iconic red rock landscapes and endless skies make it one of the most breathtaking road trip destinations in the U.S. This 10-day itinerary blends awe-inspiring national parks with charming small towns, offering a route that’s ideal for families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike.

Day 1: Arrival in St. George

Where to stay: St. George, UT
Why here: It’s the perfect launchpad with plenty of accommodations, dining, and gear shops. Just 45 minutes from Zion.

What to do:

• Explore Snow Canyon State Park if you arrive early.

• Grab dinner in the historic downtown.

• Stock up on snacks and supplies before heading into national parks.

Day 2: Zion National Park

Where to stay: Springdale, UT (right outside the park entrance)
Must-do hikes:

• Easy: Riverside Walk

• Moderate: Emerald Pools

• Challenging: Angels Landing (permit required) or The Narrows (waterproof gear helps!)

Tips:

• Arrive early and take the park shuttle.

• Pack layers—it’s cooler in the canyon.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Drive time: 1 hr 45 min
Where to stay: Bryce Canyon City or Tropic, UT

Highlights:

• Sunrise Point (yes, wake up early!)

• Navajo Loop + Queen’s Garden Trail

• Bryce Amphitheater viewpoints

Tips:

• Bring a jacket—it’s at a higher elevation and cooler than Zion.

• Stargazing here is phenomenal thanks to minimal light pollution.

Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park

Drive time: ~2 hrs 30 min
Where to stay: Torrey, UT

Must-see spots:

• Scenic Drive

• Cassidy Arch Trail

• Fruita Historic District (stop for fresh pie at Gifford House!)

Tips:

• Great spot for a picnic lunch under fruit trees.

• Less crowded—enjoy the calm!

• Pending the time of year you are going, look for Capitol Burger Food Truck!

Day 5: Arches National Park

Drive time: ~2.5–3 hrs
Where to stay: Moab, UT for 3 nights

Top Arches to see:

• Delicate Arch (sunset!)

• Landscape Arch

• Double Arch & Windows Section (great for kids)

Tips:

• Entry may require a timed reservation (check before you go).

• Beat the heat: hike early or late in the day.

Day 6: Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky District)

Day trip from: Moab

Highlights:

• Mesa Arch (sunrise if you're up for it!)

• Grand View Point

• Upheaval Dome

Tips:

• Combine with Dead Horse Point State Park for epic sunset views.

• Pack water and snacks—it’s remote with few amenities.

Day 7: Natural Bridges National Monument

Drive time: ~2.5 hrs from Moab to Blanding, UT
Where to stay: Blanding or camp near Natural Bridges

What to see:

• Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo Bridges

• Short hikes to viewpoints or full loop trail

Tips:

• This is a quieter stop—perfect for reflection and a break from crowds.

• Limited services nearby, so fill your gas tank and bring lunch.

Day 8: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Drive time: ~3 hrs to Escalante, UT
Where to stay: Escalante or Boulder, UT

What to explore:

• Lower Calf Creek Falls (great family hike!)

• Peek-a-boo & Spooky Gulch (slot canyon adventure)

• Hell’s Backbone Scenic Byway

Tips:

• Some roads may require 4WD—check conditions.

• Escalante has charming local diners and quiet lodging options.

Day 9: Monument Valley

Drive time: ~3 hrs from Escalante
Where to stay: Kayenta, AZ (we stayed at KOA when we visited with RV)

What to do:

• Take a guided Navajo tour through the valley

• Stop at Forrest Gump Point

• Learn from local guides about the region’s deep cultural history

Tips:

• Most scenic drive roads are unpaved—tours are highly recommended.

• Monument Valley sunsets are surreal. Don’t miss it!

Day 10: Return via Page or Kanab

Option 1: Drive to Page, AZ (Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend)
Option 2: Drive to Kanab, UT (Explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes or relax)
Option 3: Return to St. George

 Final Tips for the Road:

• Pack layers: Desert temps vary wildly day to night.

• Plan for downtime: Every few days, allow space for slower mornings or simple scenic drives.

• Download offline maps: Service is limited in many areas.

• Park Pass: Consider an America the Beautiful Pass for unlimited park entry.