As a popular travel destination in the United States, Utah offers stunning natural landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From desert drives to mountain hikes, there’s something for everyone to experience on a road trip through this beautiful state.
In this article, we’ll help you craft the perfect Utah road trip itinerary, covering some of the must-see destinations and activities along the way.
Preparing for Your Utah Road Trip
Before embarking on your journey, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure you’re prepared for the trip. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Since you’ll be covering a lot of ground on your road trip, it’s important to choose the right vehicle. If you plan on doing some off-roading or visiting remote destinations, consider renting a 4×4 or an SUV with high clearance.
Packing Essentials
Utah’s climate can vary greatly between regions, so make sure to pack accordingly. In general, you’ll want to bring comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for hiking. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water as well.
Researching Routes
Utah offers several scenic byways that are perfect for road trips, including the Scenic Byway 12 and the Mirror Lake Highway. Do some research beforehand to decide which routes best fit your itinerary and interests.
The Ultimate Utah Road Trip Itinerary
Now that you’re prepared, let’s hit the road and explore some of the top destinations and activities in Utah!
Day 1: Salt Lake City to Moab
Start your journey in the capital of Utah, Salt Lake City. Here, you can visit popular attractions such as Temple Square and the Great Salt Lake. Then, make your way to Moab – a small town known for its proximity to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
Day 2: Moab
Spend the day exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Be sure to take a scenic drive through Arches’ famous red rock formations and hike to some of the stunning viewpoints in Canyonlands.
Day 3: Moab to Monument Valley
From Moab, head south towards Monument Valley – a region known for its iconic sandstone formations. Along the way, you can take a detour to visit Natural Bridges National Monument and hike through stunning slot canyons.
Day 4: Monument Valley to Bryce Canyon
Next, make your way to Bryce Canyon National Park where you’ll witness the unique hoodoos – tall, thin spires of rock. Take a leisurely hike through the park and catch the sunset at one of the viewpoints for an unforgettable experience.
Day 5: Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park
Drive through scenic highways to reach Zion National Park, known for its towering cliffs and sweeping vistas. Spend the day hiking some of the park’s more popular trails, such as Angels Landing or the Narrows. If you’re into camping, Zion National Park offers several campgrounds making it possible to spend the night under the stars.
Day 6: Zion National Park to Salt Lake City
As your trip comes to an end, make your way back to Salt Lake City. You can spend the day exploring more of the city’s attractions or take a stroll around Mirror Lake before heading home.
Conclusion
A road trip through Utah is a perfect way to experience all this beautiful state has to offer. From the stunning red rock landscapes to the towering cliffs of Zion National Park, there’s something for every nature lover to enjoy. Just remember to plan, pack accordingly, and embrace the adventure as you explore Utah on your road trip! Happy travels!
Do you have any favorite destinations or activities in Utah that we missed? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your experiences and recommendations.
