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How to Plan the Perfect Grand Circle Tour

Explore cherished national parks on a road trip to remember.

Summer sunrise in the Bryce canyon National Park, Utah.

Getty Images

Commemorate the National Park Service's centennial by hitting picturesque trails and admiring storied sites and dramatic rock formations at iconic national parks across Utah and Arizona.

Today marks the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service , and to celebrate the occasion – and inspire the next generation of visitors to visit America's prized parks and historic sites – the parks will be offering free admission through Sunday. So, now is the perfect time to pile the family into the car, and head to Utah to embark on a Grand Circle Tour of top national parks. Popularized in the 1920s, when the Union Pacific Railroad created the route with the then newly developed National Park Service to encourage visitors to get outside and admire the plateaus and peaks of southern Utah and northern Arizona, this iconic route is not to be missed. If you're ready to embark on an epic road trip , packed with striking scenery, storied sites and plenty of time in great outdoors, here's how to plan a memorable tour of four inspiring national parks.

[See: 15 Must-Visit National Park Attractions ].

Zion National Park

Utah's first national park – established in 1919 – Zion sprawls across the southwestern Utah desert. There are many regions within Zion National Park, but the park is best known for its dramatic red rock cliffs. Visitors can stroll along the Riverside Walk hiking trail and wade into the water to cool off or, for a thrill, climb to top of Angels Landing for striking 360-degree views of the valley below. Not up for hiking? Take a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel or the less-visited Kolob Canyons section of the park. Keep in mind cars are not allowed in the main Zion Canyon during the busy spring and summer months, when visitors must ride the free shuttle system to get to the hiking trailheads. However, visitors can drive their own cars through the Zion Canyon as the crowds diminish, from November to March.

[See: 7 Affordable Ways to Experience America's National Parks ].

Cedar Breaks National Monument

A hidden gem in the mountains above Cedar City, Utah, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a fantastic way to get away from the crowds of Zion and Bryce Canyon. Cedar Breaks' prominent feature is a majestic 2,000-foot-deep amphitheater of reddish-orange rock carved with intricate fissures, and hoodoos (skinny spires). Situated at 10,000 feet elevation, Cedar Breaks offers much cooler visiting conditions than Zion National Park's desert heat. Plus, nights are punctuated by dazzling stars speckling clear skies. Be sure to stick around after sunset when park rangers offer lessons about our solar system via telescope. And don't forget to take notice of the trees along Cedar Breaks' rim – the bristlecone pines are some of the oldest living organisms in the world. Along the Spectra Point/Ramparts Overlook Trail, you'll pass the oldest such bristlecone pine tree in the park, which dates back more than 1,500 years.

Bryce Canyon National Park

An otherworldly expanse of hoodoos and arches make up the geology of Bryce Canyon National Park. Easy access to Sunrise Point, Sunset Point and Inspiration Point allow visitors to watch the shadows creep over the land at sunrise or sunset. Hiking is a must in Bryce, and you need to get below the rim to experience the wonder and awe among the hoodoos. There are many paths leading into the network of formations, and one of the most popular and scenic combines the Navajo and Queen's Garden trails for one of the most spectacular 3-mile hikes in the world. After passing the entrance sign to Bryce Canyon National Park, before you reach the entrance toll booth, make sure to take the road to the left, which leads to the Fairyland Canyon section of Bryce. You'll find spectacular views of the orange-tinged spires without the crowds (or the park fee if you're planning a trip after Aug. 28).

[See: 12 State Parks That Should Be on Your Bucket List .]

North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

Over 1,800 million years of geologic history stand before you at the strata of the Grand Canyon . The North Rim is less accessible than the South Rim and 1,000 feet higher in elevation but worth visiting. You can take your pick from hiking to Bright Angel Point for a spectacular view of the Grand Canyon, or sit in an Adirondack-style chair on the back porch of the Grand Canyon Lodge and partake in one of the ranger-led programs. Mule rides into the canyon date back to the 1920s and range from an hour to a half day. Prices start at $45 per person for a one-hour ride to $90 for a half-day trip. For a meal to remember, dine in the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge's main dining room, which affords unparalleled park views. Just remember to make reservations ahead of time online as spots tend to fill up quickly.

While the Union Pacific Railway may not lead Grand Circle Tour trips anymore, an RV makes for a great family-friendly option, even while tooling down the highway. For more information about how to plan an RV road trip on your own, visit GoRVing.com to learn how to get started, where to go, what to bring and more.

Tags: National Parks , National Park Service , Travel , Vacations

About En Route

Practical advice on the art of traveling smarter with tips, tricks and intel from En Route's panel of experts.

Contributors have experience in areas ranging from family travel, adventure travel, experiential travel and budget travel to hotels, cruises and travel rewards and include Amy Whitley , Claire Volkman , Holly Johnson , Marsha Dubrow , Lyn Mettler , Sery Kim , Kyle McCarthy , Erica Lamberg , Jess Moss , Sheryl Nance-Nash , Sherry Laskin , Katie Jackson , Erin Gifford , Roger Sands , Steve Larese , Gwen Pratesi , Erin Block , Dave Parfitt , Kacey Mya , Kimberly Wilson , Susan Portnoy , Donna Tabbert Long and Kitty Bean Yancey .

Edited by Liz Weiss .

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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The Grand Circle is the ultimate US Southwest road trip

Sep 14, 2020 • 6 min read

White Pocket at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona.

White Pocket at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona © Getty Images

Driving the Grand Circle can take up to three weeks, but a spectacular eight-to-10 day portion centers around the Grand Canyon and features bold colors, fascinating geological shapes and textures and living history of our indigenous culture at every turn. Amidst views, hikes and grandeur, it includes stops in town for local art, cuisine and culture and where to sleep at night. Here’s how to hit the road for the best of the Southwest. 

The Grand Circle consists of five Southwestern states – Arizona , New Mexico , Colorado , Utah and Nevada – and has America’s largest concentration of national parks and monuments. It’s perfect for a majestic road trip of scenic byways, sheer cliffs, and purple, orange and indigo mesas. 

White etchings mark a dark brown stone at Parowan, in Arizona

Parowan & Cedar City, Utah

Parowan is home to the first pioneer settlement in Utah, heritage museums, as well as famous landmarks such as the geometric petroglyphs at Parowan Gap. These ancient symbols were carved into cliff faces along the same path that local people have used for centuries. 

Take a 23 minute drive “downtown” to Cedar City, Utah, and relax after hiking with a wine tasting at IG Winery & Tasting Room , featuring world-class signature blends. Be sure to try one of the famous cinnamon rolls in Parowan Cafe , which are made fresh every morning and can sell out by lunch.  

Kanab, Utah  

Both Parowan and Kanab, Utah, are ideal basecamps for the Grand Circle’s natural wonders. 

One of them, Peekaboo Slot Canyon is a 10-minute drive from Kanab and needs an arranged tour. It is less crowded than the more well-known slot canyon at Upper Antelope (your next stop), but requires some rock scrambling, including about a 12ft hike to enter. The narrow, swirled arches are carved out of sandstone created by centuries of water rushing and are every shade of orange, depending on the sunlight.

Head to “downtown” Kanab for dinner at Rocking V , an eclectic art gallery/cafe for creative dishes. Sleep at Red Canyon cabin, which is set in a quiet area on the edge of town, but close enough to walk to the visitor center. 

If you can afford it, splurge on a flightseeing trip in the morning to get to your next destination for an incredible air tour of Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend and endless views of erosion-sculpted deep gorges weaving in and out of the shimmering blue lake.  

Upper Antelope Canyon, Arizona.Ann Nelson.jpg

Upper Antelope Canyon: Page, AZ 

Page is located directly on Lake Powell. Just four miles out of town is the most photographed slot canyon in the world, Upper Antelope Canyon ( currently closed ). Reservations are required here with a licensed guide , and tours are limited. The soft polished red sandstone has swirls of red, white, tan and pink and the walls glow as the dust particles drift in the shafts of sunlight. It’s highly Instagrammable and simply stunning.  

Grab dinner at Lake Powell Resort and Marina’s waterfront spot, Driftwood for views, high-end burgers, and sustainable seafood. Book a lakefront room for lodging, a small Native American inspired room loaded with upscale amenities and chairs on the patio to enjoy the lake’s breathtaking sunset views. 

View From Grand Canyon Rim.Ann Nelson.JPG

Grand Canyon, AZ

At last, your centerpiece. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and over a mile deep from the river to the rim in some spots – the largest canyon in the world. If you like, you can bicycle around the edge, or simply hike the many trails. 

Highlights on the Southern Rim include Desert View Point and Watchtower, Moran, Lipan and Grandview Point. As you gaze at the scenery, make sure to take a look around at the viewpoint buildings too, such as the 70ft tall Desert View Watchtower ( currently closed ), designed by architect Mary Colter . Arrive before 11am for cooler temperatures, less traffic and fewer lines.

Drive downtown to Grand Canyon Village and dine at the internationally recognized 117-year-old El Tovar located in the historic hotel. Many a president and celebrity has dined here. Sleep at Yavapai Lodge in the national park, which lets you walk or bus about a mile to the South Rim. 

Tourists explore the red orange Wukoki Pueblo Ruins of Wupatki National Monument.

Flagstaff, AZ

Drive 30 miles on historic Route 66 to get to the Wupatki National Monument , an old Indian cliff dwelling between the Painted Desert and Ponderosa highlands, outcropped on red rock across miles of prairie. 

Only a mile out of town is where dwarf planet Pluto was discovered, the 125-year-old Lowell Observatory ( open only to private groups ). This is the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Gaze at the sea of stars, moon and planets for night or day tours.

Just off Route 66,  grab dinner at Tourist Home All Day Cafe , a renovated 1926 house, for an upscale Hash Bowl and drive less than a mile to sleep at Hotel Monte Vista another 20’s era landmark replete with live music, all day happy hour, two swanky lounges, lots of ghost stories and a room as charming as the historic lobby.  

Sedona, Arizona.Ann Nelson.jpg

Sedona is a well-known crystal and art lover’s New Age healing paradise, but it’s also an outdoor haven surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest. Amidst red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests are numerous trailheads in the city to access Sedona’s stunning red rocks.

Drive seven miles south of uptown Sedona and start at Bell Rock for its bell-shaped striped earth-toned mesas. There is a vortex, said to be a zone of spiritual healing energy, near the breathtaking Chapel of the Holy Cross built by owner and rancher Marguerite Brunswig Staude which sits high atop the red rocks.

Sleep at Sky Ranch Lodge for the best views of the city and walk to Mesa Grill for southwestern inspired cuisine and stellar skyline views. Don’t leave without crystals and jewelry from the outdoor mall, Tlaquepaque.   

Artwork In Jerome, Arizona.Ann Nelson.jpg

Driving into this small town you will see some of the most spectacular views in Arizona. Then, downtown is art gallery hopping, or a juicy ghost tour as Jerome was once the “wickedest town in the West” with brothels, opium dens and saloon gun fights replete with potential paranormal phenomenon.

Founded in 1876 and once a copper mining boom town of 15,000 it turned into virtual ghost town (population: 50 people) after the mines closed in 1953. Artists moved in and now the winding switchback streets are now filled with painters, writers, musicians and historians.

Eat at the Haunted Hamburger , for local draft beers, cocktails and supposedly hammer-yielding ghosts. Stay at the perhaps spirit-filled former hospital Jerome Grand Hotel with gorgeous views, gilded artwork, burgundy walls, fine dining and captivating views. Get up in the morning for your last stop. 

Hiker at Watson Lake Prescott Arizona USA

Prescott, AZ

This mile-high city lies in the middle of pinon pine-covered Prescott National Forest, and has more than 15 distinctive hiking and biking trails where you can stretch your legs. Definitely hike Thumb Butte which is only a three and a half mile drive from downtown, but can get crowded. Parts are steep, but there are panoramic views of the city and neighboring mountains.

For a waterfront oasis, you can fish and boat at Watson Lake , which is only a four miles from downtown. Head back downtown for art, performances and dining – we recommend Murphy’s Prescott for elegant but moderately priced seafood. Sleep at the historic Grand Highland Hotel as it sits on Whiskey Row, which is just as famous as the town. 

You might also like: 

Now's the time to plan a fall road trip to these national parks The Grand Canyon: how to get the most from a short trip National Parks: Top 10 US travel experiences

This article was first published Jan 30, 2020 and updated Sep 14, 2020.

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The Grand Circle Road Trip

Zion National Park

Zion National Park

Recommended number of days: 2.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Arches National Park, Delicat Arch

Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

You should check ahead of time regarding potential road closures and/or construction. Please note, some of our road trips do take you along some dirt roads. Please check a map so that you can alter your route accordingly. All our road trips are designed to be helpful guides to help you build an adventure to suit your needs. We don't recommend specific mileage, nor where exactly to stay due to everyones different needs for driving mileage, etc. We recommend plotting out your route on Google Maps and using ours as guides. Then add or remove locations to build the road trip of your dreams!

Featured Outdoor Gear

the grand circle tour

Maine ocean islands provide the only nesting sites for Atlantic puffins in the United States. Eastern Egg Rock in the midcoast region, Seal Island and Matinicus Rock at the mouth of Penobscot Bay, and Machias Seal Island and Petit Manan Island off the downeast coast provide habitat for more than 4,000 puffins each summer.

Popular Topics

Popular road trips, locate a park, outdoor gear, popular national parks.

US-Parks.com

The American Southwest

Grand Circle Itinerary

Zion National Park

Day 1 - Las Vegas to Zion National Park, 165 miles

Day 2 - zion national park to bryce canyon, 120 miles, day 3 - bryce canyon to torrey, 130 miles.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 4 - Torrey to Green River, 145 miles

Day 5 - green river to moab, 80 miles, day 6 - moab to blanding, 160 miles.

Capitol Reef National Park

Day 7 - Blanding to Kayenta, 120 miles

Day 8 - kayenta to page, 120 miles, day 9 - page to tusayan (grand canyon), 145 miles.

Monument Valley

Day 10 - Grand Canyon, 50 miles

Day 11 - tusayan to las vegas, 265 miles.

The Grand Circle: What It Is; Where It Is; and Why You Should Visit It

The Grand Circle encompasses 10 National Parks that are all near each other and are all vastly beautiful.

By: Jared Beeler + Save to a List

the grand circle tour

The Grand Circle is located in the Four Corners region of the US and covers most of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and a small bit of Nevada. All of this region is gorgeous and worth a visit, but the many National Parks that are in this region are some of the most visited and some of the most photogenic. The National Parks that are in this area are Black Canyon of The Gunnison , Mesa Verde , Petrified Forest , Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , Arches , Canyonlands , and Great Basin . Each of these National Parks is very unique even though some of them are less than 100 miles apart.

the grand circle tour

  • Mesa Verde National Park - This National Park is home to some of the best preserved cliff dwellings of the Pueblo people from more than 1400 years ago. The park offers many guided tours to visit these cliff dwellings as well as other hikes that are not guided. If you do not want to hike, there is also a great scenic drive that takes you through the National Park. Along the scenic drive, there are many pull-offs and small hikes to old native dwellings. The National Park runs one campground with many amenities and one fairly priced lodge as well as a restaurant. This park is also home to many species of large animals such as elk, black bears, mountain lions, and many species of birds. 

the grand circle tour

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Join the Adventure: Start Your National Park Bucket List

National Park Bucket List

How to Plan a Grand Circle Road Trip to Utah and Arizona National Parks

This Grand Circle road trip features the best national parks and outdoorsy adventures in Utah and Arizona. 

the grand circle road trip includes Capitol Reef National Park where a road curves through a desert landscape with rocky hills

The longest arch in the U.S., miles of slot canyons, winding river gorges, and otherworldly rock formations — it’s all a part of this Southwest national parks road trip. The Arizona and Utah border shares a landscape of desert plateaus, deep canyons, sandy dunes, and red rocks. Some of the best parts are preserved in over a dozen national and state parks. 

This Grand Circle road trip wraps six national parks into one epic Utah and Arizona itinerary, with tons of other recreation areas, scenic byways, and hiking trails along the way. This guide will help you map out the best route to see as much of it as possible, whether you’re planning a 7-day Southwest road trip or an extended vacation.

The included Grand Circle road trip itinerary has options for 7 to 14 days in Utah and Arizona. Plus, we’ve included a detailed bucket list of destinations you’ll want to target. After spending several weeks in the Southwest over the years, I’ve still barely scratched the surface of this breathtaking region. I know you’ll fall in love with it, too!

Southwest Grand Circle Map

This Grand Circle Map has tags for all the locations on the Southwest road trip below. Click to open a Google Map and save the destinations.

Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary Options

These Grand Circle itineraries all start and end in Las Vegas since the city has an international airport close to the region. For more airport options, scroll down to the tips section at the end.

1 Week Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Las Vegas to Zion National Park Day 2: Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3: Bryce Canyon to Moab Day 4: Arches and Canyonlands National Parks Day 5: Moab to Monument Valley to Page Day 6: Page to Grand Canyon North or South Rim Day 7: Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

10 Day Grand Circle Itinerary

Day 1: Las Vegas to Zion National Park Day 2: Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park via Byway 12 Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park to Moab Day 5: Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse State Park Day 6: Arches National Park Day 7: Moab to Monument Valley to Page Day 8: Page to Grand Canyon National Park Day 9: Grand Canyon South Rim or North Rim Day 10: Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

2 Week Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Las Vegas to Valley of Fire to Zion National Park Day 2: Zion National Park Day 3: Zion National Park or Grand Canyon North Rim Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park Day 5: Kodachrome Basin to Capitol Reef National Park via Byway 12 Day 6: Capitol Reef National Park Day 7: Capitol Reef to Goblin Valley to Moab via Upper Colorado Scenic Byway Day 8: Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse State Park Day 9: Arches National Park Day 10: Moab to Natural Bridges National Monument to Goosenecks State Park Day 11: Valley of the Gods or Monument Valley to Page Day 12: Page to Grand Canyon South Rim or North Rim Day 13: Grand Canyon National Park Day 14: Grand Canyon to Las Vegas via Historic Route 66

The Grand Circle Road Trip Stops

These Grand Circle national parks, state parks, and scenic drives should be on your radar. While you’ll need 2 weeks to fit them all in, you can skip some on a shorter Southwest national parks road trip.

This red rock arch with rock formations in the background is part of a Southwest road trip

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is a must-see on the drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park. It’s located about an hour outside the big city in Nevada.

On a short visit, drive Mouse’s Tank Road , where the pavement cuts through a red rock landscape before opening up to sweeping desert views. With a little more time, you can add on a few of the park’s short hikes. The Fire Wave Trail (1.5 miles, easy) has a huge sandstone formation with swirling stripes of red, pink, and white. The White Domes Loop (1 mile, easy) passes through a slot canyon and alongside domes and ridges splattered with colors.

Recommended time : Half to full day

The pink and orange canyons at Zion are part of this grand circle national parks road trip.

Zion National Park

Zion is many people’s favorite Utah national park. It’s also the most visited one on this itinerary (yes, even more than the Grand Canyon). When you’re wading through a river staring up at soaring red and pink canyon walls, or climbing a narrow ridge that steeply drops a thousand feet to the valley below, it’s easy to see why.

Zion National Park isn’t only for adrenaline seekers, though. The scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway weaves through checkerboard hills and a historic tunnel before dropping to the canyon floor. And family-friendly walks along the river (try the Pa’rus Trail or Riverside Walk ) show off the landscape to mild adventurers.

If you’re able, though, don’t miss some of the bucket list hikes here. Two of the most popular are The Narrows trail (up to 10 miles, strenuous) in the Virgin River and the West Rim trail to Angel’s Landing (5.4 miles, permit required , strenuous). The Canyon Overlook Trail (1 mile, moderate) offers a view of Pine Creek Canyon. And the Emerald Pools trails (up to 3 miles, easy to moderate) lead to lower and upper waterfall basins. Most hikes are along the Floor of the Valley Road, which is closed to private vehicles from April through November. Allow extra time to park and ride the shuttle from the visitor center in Springdale.

With more than a couple of days here, don’t bypass the Kolob Canyon section of Zion. It’s 40 miles north of the Springdale entrance and less busy. Drive to the end of Kolob Canyon Road for the 1-mile Timber Creek Overlook Trail to a sweeping canyon view.

Recommended time : One to three days

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Located near Kanab, Utah, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park makes a great stop between Zion and Bryce Canyon. The 1,200-acre park allows dune buggies and ATVs on the hills. You can also just hike and play in the soft sand.

Recommended time : One to three hours

These orange rock hoodoos in a canyon with green trees are a part of the grand circle Utah road trip.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its hoodoo rock spires that sometimes vaguely resemble people or objects. The sides of the main Bryce Canyon amphitheater are full of these orange stone figurines, with a forest of green to contrast the scene on the basin floor.

On a short visit, aim to catch the sunrise or sunset from a handful of lookouts along the rim. Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, Bryce Point, and Inspiration Point are the must-sees. With a half-day, you can add in a hike to the canyon floor. The Navajo Loop Trail (1.3 miles, moderate) winds down the Wall Street switchbacks and passes a hoodoo named Thor’s Hammer. The Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop (2.9 miles, moderate) crosses through the canyon and by the regal Queen Victoria hoodoo.

For a full day of adventures in the park, start with a challenging morning hike of the Figure 8 Combination (6.4 miles, strenuous) which included the Queen’s Garden, Navajo Loop and Peekaboo Loop. Then, head down the 17-mile Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive to some lesser-visited lookouts like Rainbow Point and Bryce Natural Bridge.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

Neighboring Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin State Park is known for its 67 sedimentary pipes, towering stone spires that rise from a rusty-tinted landscape. A couple of the trails here are open to hikers, bikers and horseback riders . Try the Grand Parade Trail (1.5 miles, easy) on the floor of the basin to see a pair of box canyons or the Panorama Trail (3 to 6 miles, easy to moderate) for the best overview of the park’s geological features. For an elevated view of the surroundings, hike the Angel’s Palace Trail (1.5 miles, easy to moderate) up 150 feet. Or, climb the Eagle’s View Trail (0.25 miles, strenuous) to a 500-foot-high panoramic vista.

Recommended time : Half a day

The Scenic Byway 12 in Utah winding through a rocky landscape is featured on this road trip southwest.

Scenic Drive: Highway 12

The dramatic landscape of Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 takes you from verdant valleys to sweeping canyons and along ridges at the tops of plateaus, covering an elevation range of 4,000 to 9,000 feet. Designated an All American Road by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the route runs for 124 miles between U.S. 89 near Panguitch and Bryce Canyon and State Road 24 in Torrey, Utah, near Capitol Reef National Park. 

Along the way are enough recreational, archaeological and scenic stops to keep you occupied for days. From here, you can access Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Anasazi State Park .

If you stretch this drive into a full day or two, some of the best destinations (besides the national parks) are Hole in the Rock Road outside Escalante for slot canyon hikes, Burr Trail Road to Singing Canyon, and the hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls (6 miles, moderate). Be sure to make a pit stop in Boulder for a burger and homemade pie at the Burr Trail Grill. 

Recommended time : Half a day to two days

A wooden barn with pink cliffs behind it in Capitol Reef is included when you road trip national parks southwest.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park’s diverse features make it the perfect overview of the southern Utah landscape. Called a “wrinkle on the earth,” it’s on the Waterpocket Fold, where rock layers lift 7,000 feet to one side. The geologic features in the park include monoliths, domes, slot canyons, arches, bridges and gorges. Since the Freemont River runs through here, there’s also a contrasting verdant variety of orchards.

A day in the park is enough time for the 7-mile Capitol Reef Scenic Drive , with stops for a couple of hikes. The Capitol Gorge trail (1 to 2 miles, easy) leads to historic rock carvings. The Grand Wash trail (up to 4.4 miles, easy) winds through a narrow canyon. The Cassidy Arch trail (3.4 miles, strenuous) climbs up to a rock span. And the Cohab Canyon trail (3.4 miles, moderate) ends in a view over the orchards of Fruita. Hickman Bridge (1.8 miles, moderate) is another popular trek nearby off State Route 24.

You also don’t want to miss the historic town of Fruita , where you can see an old wooden schoolhouse dwarfed by towering canyon walls overhead, take photos of the old barn at the Gifford Homestead , taste homemade pie at the Gifford House, and seasonally pick heirloom fruit like cherries, peaches and apples from the orchards. Easy-to-reach lookouts like Sunset Point, Goosenecks Overlook and Panorama Point are the perfect spot to end the day.

With more time in the park, spend a full day driving the remote Cathedral Valley to see towering monolithic rocks. It takes about 6 to 8 hours for the full loop on an unpaved, rugged road.

Recommended time : One to two days

Goblin Valley State Park

The combination of an otherworldly landscape and remote location make Goblin Valley State Park seem like another planet. Some of the sandstone rock formations called “goblins” resemble mushrooms and others are taller hoodoos and spires.

The main feature, the Valley of Goblins , packs thousands of rocks into 3 square miles that you can explore freely. Unless you want to hike one of the four established park trails, you can spend less than a half-day here. 

But, consider staying overnight in the campground to experience the light-pollution-free Milky Way views at the certified Dark Sky Park. There are also a couple of yurts available to rent!

Recommended time : Half a day 

The Upper Colorado Scenic Byway runs along a river with red canyon walls looming overhead on this road trips southwest guide.

Scenic Drive: Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway

Spanning about 45 miles between Moab and Cisco, Utah, the Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (State Route 128) follows the winding waterway through soaring canyons. While it’s slightly out of the way if you’re driving from Capitol Reef to Moab for Arches and Canyonlands national parks, the stunning route is worth a couple of extra hours of sightseeing.

If you have time to make stops, pause in Cisco for a ghost town, the Fishers Tower Trail (4.2 miles, moderate) for massive rock formations, JJ’s Mercantile for snacks and souvenirs, and the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage to see film memorabilia and backdrops. There are also spots to stop and picnic.

A Southwest road trip loop should include Arches National Park, where there two windows in a red cliff look like a pair of eyes.

Arches National Park

With over 2,000 stone arches, plus pinnacles, balanced rocks, spires and other intriguing geologic features, Arches National Park outside of Moab is a must-see on a Grand Circle road trip. A timed reservation is required to visit between April and early October. Tickets open three to four months in advance.

Plan for at least a full day in the park if you like to hike. Most trailheads are along the 17-mile Arches Scenic Drive . You can pull over at lookouts like the Courthouse Towers, Balanced Rock, Panorama Point and the Fiery Furnace Overlook. 

With a full day in the park, start at the end of the road for the Devil’s Garden area hikes to Landscape Arch (1.9 miles, easy), the longest one in North America at 306 feet, or Double O Arch (4.1 miles, strenuous). You can make a few quick stops during the middle of the day to spots like Skyline Arch (0.4 miles, easy), Broken Arch (1.2 miles, easy), Sand Dune Arch (0.3 miles, easy), Double Arch (0.5 miles, easy), and the North and South Windows and Turret Arch loop (1 mile, easy). The Windows and Double Arch are in the same area and quick to see if you’re short on time.

You don’t want to leave the park without seeing the 46-foot-high Delicate Arch , freestanding on a sloping red-rock face. The accessible Lower Viewpoint and the Upper Viewpoint (0.5-mile hike, moderate) are the easiest ways to see it from afar. But, adventurous travelers should plan to hike the Delicate Arch Trail (3 miles, strenuous) to the base of the formation. This makes the perfect sunset viewing spot to end the day. Recommended time : One to two days

A, orange-tinted canyon floor seen from the edge of a cliff is part of this 1 week grand circle road trip itinerary.

Canyonlands National Park

The least visited of Utah’s national parks, Canyonlands has four separate districts formed by the Colorado River and Green River. Most visitors head for the Island in the Sky district 30 miles from Moab, or the Needles , 75 miles away. The others are a bit more remote.

On a Grand Circle road trip that only allows a day for Canyonlands, stick to Island in the Sky area. Here, you can drive Grand View Point Road on the mesa top to viewpoints 1,000 feet above the river canyon. Pull over for the Shafer Canyon Overlook, Buck Canyon Overlook, Green River Overlook, and Grand View Point.

With a full day, there’s time to hit some of the park’s shorter trails to spots like the popular Mesa Arch (0.5 miles, easy), which sits on a cliff’s edge, Upheaval Dome (1 to 2 miles, moderate) to peek inside a crater, Whale Rock (1 mile, moderate), a sandstone dome, and Grand View Point (2 miles, easy), along the canyon rim.

In a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you can take the unpaved and winding Shafer Canyon Road 1,500 feet down a cliff. At the bottom, take Potash Road past a gooseneck of the Colorado River below Dead Horse Point State Park and Thelma and Louise Point (where the famous movie ending was filmed) back toward Moab. The drive takes a least a couple of hours. Recommended time : One to two days

Dead Horse Point State Park

A gooseneck wrap of the Colorado River forms the dramatic view at Dead Horse Point State Park. Located outside Moab, it’s down a side road on the way to Canyonlands and pairs well with the park.

Plan to visit around sunset to take in the view from the Dead Horse Point Overlook . Or, allow a couple of hours for trails along the rim.

Recommended time : Two to three hours

A 10 day grand circle itinerary should include a stop at Natural Bridges National Monument, where this white stone arch sits in a canyon with the sun setting in the distance.

Natural Bridges National Monument

Though it’s only a couple of hours south of Arches, Natural Bridges National Monument gets less than 5% of the annual visitors that the national park does. This means far fewer crowds to see the sandstone spans at this park in southern Utah.

The main feature here is the trio of bridges named for the ancestral Puebloans who once lived in the area. Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo are all visible from easy-to-reach viewpoints along a 9-mile scenic drive. If you have a few hours to spend here, consider hiking to the base of a couple of them.

The path to Owachomo , the thinnest and likely oldest in the park, is only about half a mile. It’s about 1.5 miles roundtrip to 268-foot-long Sipapu and 1.4 miles on a strenuous trail to the thick Kachina . A 12-mile primitive and challenging route over mesas and through canyons connects all three. Recommended time : Half to full day

Scenic Drive: Moki Dugway

Highway 261 is both the quickest route from Natural Bridges down to Monument Valley on the Arizona border and a bucket-list drive. The Moki Dugway, a 3-mile dirt-road section carved into a cliff, narrowly twists down switchbacks at a 10% grade. 

While it sounds dangerous, the drive is doable for most smaller vehicles, but not RVs. It has a great pullout spot that overlooks the Valley of the Gods below and Monument Valley in the distance.

The road is part of the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway in the Four Corners regions of southeastern Utah and southwestern Colorado.

Recommended time : Less than an hour

A 2 week grand circle road trip itinerary should include this view at Goosenecks State Park, where a river wraps around a canyon in a horseshoe shape.

Goosenecks State Park

Just outside the town of Mexican Hat, Utah, Goosenecks State Park is named for a pair of U-shaped bends of the San Juan River. Standing high above the rust-tinted water on the cliff rim, you can see it twisting around the layered canyon below.

It’s a quick stop just to take in the view, but the park also has primitive campsites along the rim.

Recommended time : One to two hours

Valley of the Gods

A quieter alternative with a similar landscape to Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods is 35 miles north in Utah. The 17-mile drive here is on unpaved roads with no services. Along the way, you can witness large sandstone formations named for their shapes, like Castle Butte, Battleship Rock, and the Seven Sailors.

The monoliths and pinnacles here are a little less dramatic than the ones in Monument Valley, but there are far fewer visitors and the experience feels more wild and remote. There are a few places for primitive car camping along the way.

The drive is located within the Bear Ears National Monument , under the cooperative management of five local Tribes, the USDA Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. 

Recommended time : Two to four hours

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Red stone monoliths, buttes, mesas and pinnacles poke up hundreds of feet from the desert floor in Monument Valley . Hugging the border of Arizona and Utah, the park has been extensively featured in film and on social media, drawing crowds to a 17-mile driving loop on the Navajo Nation. 

Vehicles can enter on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can book a tour to go further off the beaten path. 

Recommended time : Two hours to half a day

An orange canyon where a river wraps around a rock cliff at Horseshoe Bend is featured on this 7 day southwest road trip.

Page and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

You could spend a whole week in Page, Arizona, hiking through slot canyons, boating on Lake Powell, and exploring the remote reaches of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. 

Aside from the lake and Glen Canyon Dam, the town is best known for Horseshoe Bend , where a short hike leads to a view of the Colorado River wrapped in a U-shape around a canyon, and Antelope Canyon , where narrow slot canyons weave through copper-colored sandstone walls. The canyons are only accessible with a guided tour, so schedule a visit in advance to Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, or the less-crowded Antelope Canyon X. 

The 1.25 million-acre Glen Canyon National Recreation Area sweeps through this area and across the border into Utah with endless options for water activities and remote recreation in the backcountry. Rainbow Bridge National Monument , one of the more popular destinations, is about a 50-mile boat ride from Page. 

Recommended time : Half a day to two days or more

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Circle road trip can include the northern or southern rim of the Grand Canyon (or both) to finish up a loop of Utah and Arizona national parks. The two destinations in Grand Canyon National Park are about 21 miles apart via the footpaths into the canyon, but driving from one to the next is a 220-mile trip. For this reason, most people opt for the popular South Rim, while the North Rim receives just 10% of the annual park visitors.

Grand Canyon North Rim

If you want a less crowded experience at the highest overlooks in the park, the Grand Canyon North Rim is the way to go. Start near the visitor center at Bright Angel Point , where a short but steep path leads to an overlook. You can continue from there on the Transept Trail (up to 4 miles, moderate) for more vantage points along the rim. Next, drive Point Imperial Road and Cape Royal Road to several lookouts, including the highest overlook in the park at 8,803-foot Point Imperial and a view of the Colorado River and Angel’s Window rock formation at Cape Royal (0.8 miles, easy). Other stops on the way include Roosevelt Point, the ancestral Puebloan ruins at the Walhalla Overlook, and Vista Encantada, a great picnic spot.

If you want to hike into the canyon from this rim, the North Kaibab Trail is the only path down. You should start early in the morning to avoid crowds and maximize your time. It’s 14.2 miles each way, but for a day hike you can just walk a couple of miles down or turn around at the Supai Tunnel rest stop (3.4-miles, moderate). Going back up generally takes twice as long as walking down, so plan accordingly and don’t overextend yourself.

The road to the North Rim is only open with full services between May 15 and October 15. 

Recommended time : One day

A sunset creates light and shadows on a large canyon full of layers at the Grand Canyon in Arizona, included on this Southwest national parks road trip.

Grand Canyon South Rim

With miles of trails and overlooks along the rim, and a pair of paths stretching all the way to the canyon floor, the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim is full of things to do.

There are three primary zones in this park, the Grand Canyon Village and visitor center area near the entrance, Hermit Road to the west, and Desert View Drive to the east. For a short and low-adventure visit, you can check out the view near the visitor center from Mather Point and Yavapai Point and walk some of the Trail of Time (2.8 miles, easy), a rim route with geological exhibits. 

With at least a half or full day, you can check out the other two areas. The 7-mile Hermit Road has nine official overlooks and is closed to private vehicles for most of the year. Ride the free hop-on, hop-off shuttle and stop as many times as you want on the ride out to Hermits Rest, which has restrooms and a snack shop at the final lookout. Hopi Point and Mohave Point on this route are popular for sunset, and the final three lookouts between Monument Creek and Hermits Rest) are connected on a 2.8-mile (each way) paved trail for walking or biking. 

Desert View Drive spans nearly 25 miles between Grand Canyon Village and the East Entrance of the park. If you drive in this way from northern Arizona, you can stop at the Desert View area for a 1932 stone tower and observation deck plus amenities like a market, ice cream shop and gas station. Elsewhere along the road are about 10 designated overlooks, many with views of the Colorado River below. The shuttle does not go down this road, so it’s less crowded than other sections of the park.

Hikers should plan to spend at least two days in the park to try out parts of the Rim Trail (13 miles one way), which incorporates the trail of time and Hermit Road vistas, or to hike into the canyon on the South Kaibab Trail (6.8 miles one way) or Bright Angel Trail (9.3 miles one way). You should not attempt to make it to the floor and back in one day unless you’ve trained for it. Instead, aim for turn-around spots like Ceder Ridge (3 miles roundtrip, moderate) on the South Kaibab or Indian Garden (9 miles roundtrip, strenuous) on the Bright Angel.

Scenic Drive: Old Route 66

If you visit the Grand Canyon South Rim on this Southwest road trip, take old Route 66 back towards Las Vegas. The road diverts from Interstate 40 between Kingman and Ash Fork in Arizona and takes a couple of hours to drive. Along the historic route, you’ll pass abandoned gas stations, a couple of retro diners and saloons, and colorful roadside attractions like a giant green head sculpture.

Planning Tips for the Grand Circle National Parks

Jagged orange rock cliffs in Arches National Park are featured on this Utah Arizona road trip itinerary.

Where do you fly into for a Grand Circle road trip in Arizona and Utah?

The Grand Circle road trip loop above starts and ends from the airport in Las Vegas , Nevada, which is about 3 hours from Zion National Park and less than 5 from Grand Canyon National Park. The full 2-week southwest road trip itinerary would be approximately 23 hours of driving, not counting the scenic drives within the national parks.

Another option is to fly into Salt Lake City , Utah, and make a Grand Circle national parks loop starting in Bryce Canyon and doing the rest of the trip in order but ending in Zion for about a 26-hour Southwest road trip. 

There is also an international airport in Phoenix , which would allow you to add Sedona onto the Southwest road trip loop on the way to the Grand Canyon. That drive would be 25-plus hours.

How many days do you need for a Southwest national parks road trip? 

I recommend at least a 2-week Grand Circle road trip itinerary to hit all the destinations mentioned above. Even that amount of time will only give you a day in some parks. If you can only swing a week or 10 days, you’ll either have to cut out stops, briefly sightsee at some of the parks, or stick to shorter hikes. The Grand Circle itinerary options at the top of this post will give you an idea of what you can fit into different amounts of time.

How much does the Southwest Grand Circle road trip cost?

How much you spend on a Utah and Arizona road trip will vary widely depending on factors like flying and renting a car versus driving in your own vehicle or staying in hotels versus camping.

Grand Circle Road Trip Budget Tips

• Purchase an America the Beautiful pass for a year of admission to all the national parks. • Avoid booking hotels in the more expensive and popular areas like Springdale near Zion National Park and Moab near Arches National Park. • Rent a campervan to combine the costs of a rental car and hotel. • Book hotels and campsites a few months in advance for the cheapest options. • Look for hostels and cabins in RV parks to save on hotels. • Grocery shop instead of eating out for every meal (it’s more practical to have picnic lunches most days, anyway). 

What is the best time of year for a Grand Circle road trip?

April through October is the busy tourist season for most national parks road trips in the Southwest, with peaks in summer. Summer is also very hot at the lower desert elevations and late summer is monsoon season, a dangerous time for hiking in slot canyons.

Fall and spring are ideal for a Grand Circle road trip, with temperate conditions for hiking. To avoid the crowds, aim for March , April, October, and November and skip school holiday times like Spring Break and Memorial Day, and Labor Day weekends.

Winter can be a great time to visit for lower prices on hotels, but some roads and trails may be icy or closed. These are 10 of the best national parks in January !

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Towers of the Virgin, Zion Canyon

Zion narrows, double arch, arches national park.

  • Bryce Canyon National Park

Horseshoe Bend

Grand canyon viewpoint, grand circle experience.

Spend 12 magical days exploring cascading petrified sand dunes, vibrant pine forests, and sunset-red deserts in 7 national parks of the Southwest. Join a small group of no more than 14 guests and a private guide on this 12-day luxury adventure. The Grand Circle of the Southwest National Parks with its hiking, scenic viewpoints, local eateries, hidden gems, and other fantastic experiences await you!

Tour Highlights:

  • Zion National Park
  • Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim
  • Vermillion Cliffs National Monument
  • Lake Powell & Glen Canyon Dam
  • Float trip down the Colorado River
  • Antelope Canyon (slot canyon tour)
  • Tour of Monument Valley
  • Four Corners Monument
  • Mesa Verde National Park
  • Train trip on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
  • Million Dollar Highway over Red Mountain Pass
  • Arches National Park
  • Canyonlands National Park
  • Goblin Valley State Park
  • Capitol Reef National Park
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument
  • Scenic Highway 12, All-American Road

Inclusions:

  • Services of a Southwest Adventure Tours tour director – a professional tour guide
  • Comfortable transportation in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van
  • 11 nights hotel accommodations at 3-star hotels
  • 11 breakfasts
  • Navajo Canyon Cruise
  • Durango Silverton Railroad Experience
  • Monument Valley Tour
  • Antelope Canyon tour
  • 700 Years Tour
  • Park Entrance Fees
  • Applicable Taxes and Fees

Daily Breakdown:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas
  • Day 2: Zion National Park
  • Day 3: Grand Canyon North Rim, Vermillion Cliffs, Lake Powell
  • Day 4: Colorado River float trip, Antelope Canyon
  • Day 5: Monument Valley, Four Corners
  • Day 6: Mesa Verde National Park, Durango
  • Day 7: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad trip, Million Dollar Hwy, Ouray
  • Day 8: Arches National Park, Moab
  • Day 9: Canyonlands National Park, Goblin Valley State Park
  • Day 10: Capital Reef National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument, Hwy 12
  • Day 11: Bryce Canyon National Park, return to Las Vegas

Visual Itinerary Video:

Coming soon

Guest Video

Interested in learning more about the Grand Circle Experience? Watch this video that was created by one of our guests that led a tour.

Arrive anytime today at McCarran (now Harry Reid) International Airport and transfer to your lodging for the night. The hotel does offer a hotel shuttle, you can call for pick-up once you land in Las Vegas. Enjoy your evening in Las Vegas, NV.

You will receive a call from your guide today, if you haven’t heard from them by 4 pm, please call.

Courtyard Marriott Las Vegas/Henderson​

Your journey begins this morning as you meet your guide to depart for Zion National Park . Here, you will explore sites like the Great White Throne, Emerald Pools, Scouts Lookout , the Court of the Patriarchs , and the Narrows . Enjoy a welcome dinner with your group this evening.

Hotel DeNovo , Springdale, UT (B,L, D)

Your morning starts with breakfast and a drive up the Zion switchbacks to see a wild world of swirling sandstone, then out through the east entrance. You pass through Kanab, Utah , marveling at yet more fantastic rock formations along the way. Up you go up to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and visit viewpoints around the North Rim Lodge including Bright Angel Point and other areas. After lunch you will continue your journey to Page, Arizona by crossing the Navajo Bridge spanning the Colorado River , passing by the enormous Vermilion Cliffs , so named for their brilliantly crimson striations of sedimentary rock. There will also be a stop at the Navajo Bridge and Colorado River. Our lodging for the next two nights is on the shores of Lake Powell .

Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell​, Page, AZ (B, L)

There's no better way to see the best of what the Colorado River and Lake Powell has to offer, while learning about its history and geology than stepping aboard a guided boat tour of Navajo Canyon . Avoid the land-tour crowds, bask in the Navajo Sandstone’s orange glow, and experience wonders only the water provides as you glide deeper and deeper into the world’s most famous and beautiful slot canyons.  The highlight is the beautiful Navajo Tapestry-laden walls of Navajo Canyon and learning about the Navajo People who have inhabited this land for centuries.    Once finished on water, experience the undulating sandstone-sculpted walls of Antelope Canyon . The lighting and beautiful flow of the walls make this an experience to remember. This will be the highlight of the afternoon! Enjoy the evening at the Red Heritage Experience in Page, Arizona. Red Heritage is a Native American Dinner Theater in Page, Arizona showcasing local dancers talented in colorful powwow dancing, flute playing, and live drum music. You will have an evening of culturally inspired food and an unforgettable show!

Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell​, Page, AZ (B,D)

Today you will head to Kayenta, Arizona , for a brief stop before entering Monument Valley in an open-air truck. Admire the gigantic formations up close or towering along the horizon. You'll also visit filming spots for classic Western movies and lesser-frequented outcroppings in the backcountry. After lunch, you will have some time to explore the historic Gouldings Lodge before continuing to Bluff, UT. Stops will be made at Sand Island Petroglyph Panel and Historic Fort Bluff to learn about the early settlers of the region before enjoying your evening in this quaint town.

Desert Rose Inn , Bluff, UT (B, L)

Start your day with breakfast before traveling to Four-Corners Monument where you will stop to shop and snap a shot at the famous spot where the borders of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah all meet.

Travel into Colorado to Mesa Verde National Park . Here, you'll explore and experience the dramatic ruins of ancient Pueblo cliff houses, built into shallow caves and under rock overhangs. You will also stop at viewpoints and a museum along the mesa top before heading to the San Juan Mountains for Durango. This frontier town offers plenty of restaurants and shopping — just the place to enjoy your free evening.

Holiday Inn & Suites , Durango, CO (B, L)

Score a true frontier experience with a steam engine train ride on the Durango and Silverton Railroad , an impressive track built in 1881 that snakes along the canyons of the Animas River Valley . It'll be lunchtime when you arrive in Silverton, and the Shady Lady, Bent Elbow, and Natalie's--all former bordello and current restaurants--will be happy to accommodate you. Then, trek the twisting turns of the Million Dollar Highway , stopping in Ouray for some shopping before the final leg to Moab. (If traveling from March 1 to May 1, the train ride will be only up to Cascade Canyon.)

Lodging – Hyatt Place, Moab, UT (B)

Spend the day exploring Arches National Park and its 2,000 natural sandstone arches, up to 50 of which you'll experience firsthand as you hike to the Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Devil's Garden, and Courthouse Towers . Returning to the hotel, you'll have the afternoon free before an early dinner at a local restaurant, giving you plenty of time to head over to Dead Horse Point for a beautiful sunset overlooking the Colorado River.

Lodging – Hyatt Place, Moab, UT (B, L, D)

Today, you're treated to another scenic drive into Canyonlands National Park to see and experience the majestic Mesa Arch in the morning. This is the best time to photograph this formation. You will then enjoy the San Rafael Swell on the way to Capitol Reef National Park , where you'll hike up to Hickman Bridge , enjoy the Grand Wash , and look for Geodes and other activities within this fantastic park. Dinner and an enjoyable evening will be experienced at one of the local hotels in this area.

Lodging – Broken Spur Inn, Torrey, UT (B, L)

After a morning exploring Capitol Reef National Park, you will journey down Highway 12 , known as the All-American Road for its iconic vistas, and also the deep canyons that have been carved through the landscape before arriving at Bryce Canyon National Park , a Utah treasure filled with unearthly archways and rose-colored hoodoos. You'll spend the evening hiking the stunning canyon, relaxing, and dining on your own in Bryce Canyon.

Lodging – Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel, Bryce Canyon, UT (B, L)

Your last day in the Southwest's fantastic landscape starts with a stellar sendoff of early morning sun lighting up pink cliffs during an unforgettable sunrise in Bryce Canyon . After hiking and exploring more of the canyon, you'll head back to Las Vegas, stopping for a few final views of Zion National Park from the Kolob Canyons and lunch at a local joint in Cedar City, Utah . After lunch begin your return drive to Las Vegas through the historic town of St George, UT .  Hotel drop off by 6:00 pm PST.  Thank you for traveling with us!

Lodging – DoubleTree Las Vegas , Las Vegas, NV (B, L)

Transfer to the Las Vegas Airport by hotel shuttle on your own for your departure flight home.

Tour Details:

Not included.

  • Items of a personal nature, such as alcohol, room service, etc.)
  • Any meals not listed
  • Optional activities
  • Gratuities for the tour director driver, local guides, and outfitters

Arrival / Departure Information

  • Arrival Location: McCarran (now Harry Reid) International Airport (LAS)
  • Arrival Time: Any time on Day 1
  • Departure Location: McCarran (now Harry Reid) International Airport (LAS)
  • Departure Time: Any time on Day 12

Physical Requirements

Clients should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for an average of 1 to 3 miles at a time. Elevation gain and loss averages between 50 to 300 ft throughout the areas visited during this tour. Touring and overnight locations are above 6000 to 8000 ft above sea level

Southwest Adventure Tours is an authorized permittee of the following parks:

  • Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

2024 Pricing:

  • $4,899.00 Per Person Double Occupancy
  • $5,499.00 Per person Single Occupancy
  • $4,599.00 Per person Triple Occupancy
  • $4,399.00 Per person Quad Occupancy

2025 Pricing:

  • $5,399.00 Per Person Double Occupancy
  • $5,899.00 Per person Single Occupancy
  • $4,899.00 Per person Triple Occupancy
  • $4,599.00 Per person Quad Occupancy

2024 Departure Dates:

2025 departure dates:, similar tours:, mighty 5 utah from las vegas, mighty 5 utah from salt lake city, arizona adventure, from the blog, zion entrance project, meet our guide haydee schabelski, meet our guide kim palmer, meet our guide wayne parker.

the grand circle tour

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the grand circle tour

Grand Circle – Western National Parks

  • Destination: United States RV Tours
  • Duration: 31 days

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Surround yourself with beauty and history

as you hit the highlights each park has to offer. Towering red-rock spires, river-carved canyons, sandstone cliffs, hoodoos, cascading waterfalls, and desert wildflowers await your discovery. Grab your cameras and a seat for a picturesque view to the rim of the Grand Canyon in a First-Class Observation Dome Train Car. Enjoy a scenic boat ride to the Rainbow Bridge on Lake Powell. A Navajo guide takes us out to witness extraordinary rock formations rising from the valley floor. Share stories and dessert around a campfire. Drift down the Colorado River at night, as dancing lights illuminate the canyon walls. Visit beautiful Sedona, with its energy vortexes, and stroll through Jerome and imagine life as it was over 100 years ago.

Tour Highlights

– Zion National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park – Capitol Reef National Park – Arches National Park – Canyonlands National Park – Mesa Verde National Park – Grand Canyon Rims

– Professional Adventure Caravans Staff – 30 Nights RV Camping – Tickets, Admissions and Gratuities for Shows, Events, and Activities Listed – 9 Meals Provided and 30 Events – 2 Days of Motorcoach Transportation – Local Step-On Guide for Area Tours – AVC Apparel, Name Badges & Tour Pins

Additional Tour Details

– Comfortable Walking Shoes Recommended – Total Miles 1,240 – Longest Travel Day 195 Miles – Frequent Caravan Miles Earned Upon Completion of Tour $65

Travel insurance may cover your travel investment should the unexpected illness of you, a traveling companion or family member force you to cancel your vacation. To learn more about or purchase Travel insurance click on the image below.

the grand circle tour

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the grand circle tour

Camera and a Canvas

Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

This post may contain a few affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through them I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Want to see the amazing National Parks of Arizona and Utah, and a few extras in two weeks? This road trip itinerary takes you through The Grand Circle, which is a region in the southwest United States including Utah’s big 5 National Parks of Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion, plus the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and Valley of Fire state park in Nevada!

Grand Circle Road Trip Map

2 Week Grand Circle Itinerary Summary:

  • Day 1: Las Vegas to Williams AZ
  • Days 2 & 3: Grand Canyon South Rim
  • Day 4: Monument Valley
  • Days 5 & 6: Four Corners and Mesa Verde
  • Days 7 & 8: Arches & Canyonlands
  • Day 9: Capitol Reef
  • Day 10: Bryce Canyon
  • Days 11 & 12: Zion
  • Day 13: Valley of Fire
  • Day 14: Las Vegas, travel home

If you don’t have two weeks, this itinerary can be modified easily to ten days by taking out the days to Monument Valley, Mesa Verde, and Valley of Fire. You could also drive straight from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon in one day if you want.

10 Day Grand Circle Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim
  • Day 2: Grand Canyon South Rim
  • Days 3 & 4: Arches & Canyonlands
  • Day 5: Capitol Reef
  • Days 7: Bryce Canyon
  • Day 8 & 9: Zion
  • Day 10: Las Vegas, travel home

Now time to come along for an adventure tour of the amazing southwestern United States! 🙂

peacock wash in Arizona

Las Vegas to Williams AZ

Las Vegas is a great starting point for a trip of the Grand Circle because it’s easy to get flights to and rent a car , which is what we did.

Staying in Boulder City instead of Las Vegas was a quieter overnight option , and waking up in the morning and seeing beautiful Lake Mead was so nice! You can get breakfast or stock up on groceries in town, and see some sights before hitting the road.

Sites to check out in Boulder City include:

  • Hemenway Park – a pretty little local park, nice place for a picnic and to see big horn sheep!
  • Lake Mead National Recreation Area – You do need to buy a pass to get into Lake Mead if you want to visit, but since you’ll be visiting many National Parks on this trip, I highly recommend picking up the National Park’s Annual pass here if you don’t already have one! There shouldn’t be much of a line to get it like there can be at the Grand Canyon.
  • Hoover Dam – (we took a walk on the Hoover Dam bridge for free , getting a beautiful view of the dam, instead of taking the tour which would have taken much longer)

The drive from the Hoover Dam to Williams was easy highway driving totally approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. We made a lunch stop in Kingman, and when we finally got to our destination for the night we had a fun time walking around and exploring a little of the town of Williams on Route 66 !

You can read more details of the full drive to the Grand Canyon here .

A view of Mather Point at the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon South Rim

Days Two and Three.

The drive from Williams to the south rim of the Grand Canyon is only an hour long. After that, you’ve got the rest of the day and all of the next to explore one of the wonders of the natural world! The Grand Canyon is breath taking!

We had almost 2 full days at the south rim. I would have preferred a third, but if you’re not into hiking then 2 days should be enough. You’ll be able to see all the viewpoints and stops, museums, gift shops, etc. with 2 days for sure. Even one full day is good for an overview if that’s all the time you have.

Things to check out at the south rim include:

  • Mather Point – Make this your first stop! It’s right next to the main visitor’s center(which should probably be your second stop 😉
  • Desert View Watchtower
  • Take the shuttle bus out to Hermit’s Rest and other viewpoints
  • Tusayan Ruins Museum and historic site
  • Go on a day hike down Bright Angel Trail
  • Take an easy walk along the South rim where there are art galleries, restaurants, and views galore!

Monument Valley

Monument Valley

The drive to Monument Valley from the Grand Canyon was an easy 3 hours through dry desert landscapes. Monument Valley is located on Navajo lands, and is not an actual National Park. But it’s an impressive sight nonetheless, with towering “monuments” of red desert sandstone jutting out through the arid, flat lands.

The Navajo here have their own visitor’s center, museum, and even guided tours on jeep or horseback, or you can take your own car and drive the gravel road through the monuments. They do charge a fee to get into the main area.

I would say one day here is good enough for a visit. There’s enough things to do filling up a whole day , with time to sit and relax a little. Also if you’re up for camping-or glamping, I highly recommend it! We had one of the most beautiful nights of our trip sitting under the stars at a camp fire, playing music, and then watching the sun rise over the monuments the next morning!

Four Corners Monument

Four Corners & Mesa Verde National Park

Days Five and Six.

Being in this part of the country, and with the Four Corners Monument so close by, I knew we had to stop and visit it. It’s really out in the middle of nowhere, so if standing in four states all at once thrills you, go there!

Getting there from Monument Valley was about an hour and a half, and you only need an hour or two max to visit. You get your photo taken at the four corners, and there’s a lot of Native American vendors to shop at around the perimeter.

Continuing on to Cortez, Colorado , the town just outside of Mesa Verde, took another hour drive. All said, with driving times and the stop at the Four Corners, took up half a day.

balcony house at Mesa Verde

We split our time at Mesa Verde National Park from the afternoon on the first day, and morning on the second. We were able to see all the sites on Chapin Mesa , one of the two major sections of the park, and also take a tour of Balcony House.

Going on a tour of one of the cliff dwellings is a must at Mesa Verde!

There was still Wetherill mesa, and other cliff dwelling houses we could have toured, but we just didn’t have the time. I would recommend 2 full days for Mesa Verde. But one day was fine if you just want to get an overview of the place like we did.

After our tour of Balcony house the morning of day six, we continued on and drove on towards Moab for the rest of our day.

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

Days Seven and Eight.

Both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are right outside of the town of Moab, Utah. Moab is THE place you want to stay at when visiting these parks. It’s full of adventure seekers and there are even state parks around like Dead Horse Point adjacent to Canyonlands that you may want to check out if you have more time.

We gave ourselves 2 full days here, one for each park.

At Arches, we saw almost all the major sites , and hiked to the iconic landmark of Delicate Arch , as well as Landscape Arch .

Canyonlands National Park views

The section of Canyonlands we visited was Isle in the Sky district (the park is made up of 3, with this one being the main part and most popular). We had so much fun at this park! It’s not as crowded or famous as Arches, but it’s absolutely beautiful, don’t miss it!

We drove and stopped at all the viewpoints, hiked the short trail to Mesa Arch , and then went to Grand View point to see the sunset.

So one day at each park was enough for a good taste of what these beautiful places are like.

Capitol reef national park

Capitol Reef National Park

One of the lesser known National Parks, Capitol Reef was quite stunning, and I have to wonder why it’s so overlooked! It’s smaller than the others, and with one main road makes it easy to see the sites in one day.

Getting there from Moab was a 2.5 hour drive, not too long, so driving didn’t take up much of the day, and we had the rest of it to see the park.

With one day spent at Capitol Reef , we were able to view the petroglyphs and historic sites, have a picnic lunch near the river and apple orchards, stop in the gift shop and buy some delicious mini pies! You must get some of those deserts! Drive all the way down Capitol Gorge dirt road, and then even hike the Tanks Trail. It was a fun filled day!

We spent the night at an Airbnb in the town of Torrey which is the closest town outside of the park. There are of course some hotels there as well.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

If I had another day on this trip, I would dedicate it to Bryce. Hands down. But, that’s because I like to go on hikes, to really explore places as much as I can. If you’re not into hiking, one day at Bryce is enough to see all the views and go on a short hike.

Driving to Bryce From Torrey was incredibly beautiful! We took the famous Utah Scenic route 12 , and I can’t recommend it enough!

We had an incredible day visiting Bryce Canyon , getting to all the scenic viewpoints along the drive, and hiking half of the Fairyland loop trail. It was so beautiful, and I don’t regret it, but this is where I do wish I did some more research beforehand (or simply had more time). If I knew better I think I would have chosen the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trails. Simply because from the pictures I saw throughout the years afterwards, I SO want to go back and do that trail!

In a way though, it’s nice having reasons to go back to all of these places 🙂

Zion National Park Kayenta Trail

Zion National Park

Days Eleven & Twelve.

Day eleven was taken up driving to Zion from Bryce , which was another beautiful scenic drive, especially on getting to Zion because you drive through part of the park, and there are tunnels and views galore!

We were staying overnight in the town of Hurricane, which was farther away from the park than what I would have liked, but only 30 mins so not too bad. Word of advice, book early if you want to stay in the towns close by !

The next day we got up, but not as early as I would have liked. Another word of advice: get to Zion early if you want a parking space x.x We spent about another half hour or more driving around looking for one. Finally we found a spot near the campground parking lot, and we walked a part of the Pa’rus trail, and got on the park shuttle to see the rest.

There’s many things to see and hikes to do at Zion . With one full day we did that small hike on the Pa’rus, visited every shuttle stop, hiked the lower and upper Emerald Pools Trail, and continued on to the Kayenta trail, hiked up to see the Weeping Wall, and also did the 1 mile River walk to the start of the Narrows.

We didn’t have time for any of the major hikes like Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, or Observation Point, but we got a great overview of the park! Of course if one of those hikes is important to you, you can simply spend the day doing that instead.

But for us…another time hopefully! 🙂

valley of fire beehives

Valley of Fire State Park

I had no idea this place existed before planning this trip. When making plans, I look for places inbetween the major stops, to give ourselves a break driving and find other things of interest.

Valley of Fire is a gem , and just outside of Las Vegas!

We had such a fun day there, just as much fun as any of the National Parks!

We drove from Zion to Valley of Fire on our last day, and spent the whole day in the park. Doing as we usually do; stopping at the visitor’s center(you do have to pay a fee to get in), getting a map, driving the roads and stopping at all the landmarks if possible. As well as hike a few small trails.

You can easily fill up your whole day here with plenty of stuff to see. Just be sure to pack a lunch with you and plenty of water! There are no food stands in the park.

Las Vegas sunset

We dropped off our rental car, which we conveniently got right at the Las Vegas Airport , and flew home.

Ok, so you may have to count an extra day or two for travel in this itinerary. For our trip it was 13 days with 2 days travel, but that also depends on the flights you get, and how long it takes you to get to Las Vegas. If you’re from the East coast and you catch an early flight, you can definitely do the drive from Las Vegas to Williams on day one.

All said and done, this was a great trip, and I’d do it again any time! I hope these details can help you out planning your own trip 🙂

Let me know in the comments below if you have any alternate Grand Circle Trip itineraries, or special places along the way that are worth checking out!

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15 thoughts on “grand circle road trip itinerary”.

Thank you for sharing. I’m planning a similar itinerary but renting an RV. Do you think it is doable in february? I’m worried about snowing driving conditions. Thank you in advance for any comment on that subject.

Hi, I’d definitely be wary if you go in February. There can be a lot of snow and road closures around the Grand Canyon and elsewhere. The park itself could close. If you have decent weather with little snow fall though it could be very beautiful, and no crowds! So only plan then if you have flexibility to cancel or go elsewhere.

Hi, your site has been very helpful in planning our future trip. I was wondering if you could provide any feedback/suggestion on the below draft itinerary. Thanks

Day 1 (Tues.): Fly into Las Vegas, drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

Day 2 &3 (Wed. & Thurs.): Explore GCNP: (3 nights – Bright Angel Lodge)

Day 4 (Fri.): Drive to Lake Powell/Antelope Canyon (2 nights – Home2 Suites) • Antelope Canyon Boat Tour

Day 5 (Sat.): Lake Powell/Antelope Canyon • AM – Upper Antelope Canyon Tour — PM – Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Day 6 (Sun.): Drive to Arches NP (2 nights – Moab Springs Ranch or Red Cliff) • Drive the park, Devil’s Garden Trail

Day 7 (Mon.) • Ranger guide hike: Fiery Furnace, Off-Road Hell’s Revenge Tour

Day 8 (Tues.): Drive to Capitol Reef National Park (1 night- Broken Spur Inn?) • Drive Capitol Gorge

Day 9 &10 (Wed. & Thurs.): Drive to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (2 nights -Escalante Yurts) • Hike the Lower Calf Creek Falls, Devil’s Garden, Willis Creek Slot Canyon, Escalante Natural Bridge, Hell’s Back Bone & Peekaboo Tour

Day 11 (Fri.): Drive to Bryce NP (1 night – Bryce Lodge) • shuttle to Inspiration Point, walk Rim Trail to Bryce Point/Mossy Cave Trail

Day 12 (Sat): Drive to Zion NP (2 nights – Zion Lodge) • Explore Park

Day 13 (Sun.): Zion: Narrows Bottom Up/Emerald Pool Hike:

Day 14 (Mon.): Drive to Las Vegas – return rental car (1 night)

Day 15 (Tues.): Fly back to MD

Hi, glad you could find it useful! Your itinerary looks great! It does a few things differently than I did but there’s nothing wrong with that. Going to Lake Powell/Antelope canyon is a great alternative to Mesa Verde, and I did consider going there instead on our trip, but will have to wait for next time! The only things I’d consider maybe differently is if you’d rather go to Canyonlands instead of having 2 days in Arches(Canyonlands is equally as beautiful), and also at Bryce you might want to do a short hike down into the canyon to see what it’s like https://cameraandacanvas.com/bryce-canyon-one-day/ But if you’re only looking at doing easy hikes it is best to stay above. I hope you have a good trip!

Thanks so much…just what I was looking for! Hope to do something similar in 2024.

Is there a way to contact anyone about these trips. Can’t find email or phone number.

Hi, these are just trip itineraries I went on personally and wrote about to help others. I don’t take personal phone calls or offer more advise than small questions, like others have asked here in the comments.

Hi. Love the itinerary. We are planning for a road trip but would like to include Page, AZ for Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe bend. What would you advise. We will be travelling with 2 kids ages 11 &7. Thank you!

Those would also be great places to visit! It really depends on how much time you have for your trip. If you have an extra 1 or 2 days or more you could definitely include Page/Antelope in this itinerary before you drive onto Monument Valley. Or you can substitute the trip to Page instead of Mesa Verde. Antelope Canyon also requires reservations so check their website when you’re planning.

I love the idea of this tour of Parks, We have a 29 foot travel trailer, would we be able to find spots to overnight at these parks or close to them? Not sure how that works, not knowing if there are RV parks in the area. Thanks for your suggestions. Laurie

Hi, yes I’m certain you could find spots in or near the parks with a trailer as many people bring their RV’s. You’ll have to be careful on certain roads however, such as on the way from Bryce to Zion, you’ll want to follow a certain road which I mention in my article here: https://cameraandacanvas.com/driving-bryce-canyon-to-zion-national-park/ Before you make your trip just look up campground around each national park you want to visit to find good spots for RV’s, they will be there!

This itinerary is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you for sharing! Could you recommend any places to stay along the way? And what time of year did you make this trip?

Hi, I’m so glad it could help you! I made the trip at the beginning of October, the weather was beautiful then and it wasn’t too crowded! As for places to stay, as you scroll through this article, I do make recommendations on the different locations to stay at(and in more detail in the links about each place).

Such great information, thanks for sharing. It looks like you had a great time! It sounds like I need a month to explore over there because I love to hike too!

Yes a month would be a great amount of time! The 2 weeks that we had was enough to get a good feel for each place, but if you really want to explore and do more hikes and see other parts of the park, you’d at least need a month 🙂

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Where's Janice

The Perfect 7-Day Grand Circle Road Trip (USA)

The Grand Circle road trip (USA) has always been a dream of mine. With spectacular road trip scenery and cool rocks that tell the story of the land’s history, this 1 week Grand Circle road trip itinerary is the best way to explore several national parks from Las Vegas .

My family was visiting from abroad and had only 7 days to explore the region around Las Vegas. The full Grand Circle road trip typically takes about 2 weeks, which we weren’t able to commit to at the time. We would rather create our own version of a smaller Grand Circle loop than to rush through it, and we found this version of our Grand Circle road trip itinerary to be perfect for 1 week.

This itinerary involves minimal driving yet connects as many attractions as possible so that you can spend more time inside the parks. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to go hiking and even go camping for one night in Grand Canyon National Park.

Are Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , Antelope Canyon , and the famous Horseshoe Bend on your bucket list? if you only have 1 week (7 days) here’s how to maximize time to experience national parks in Southwest Utah, the famous Grand Canyon in Arizona, and even enjoy Las Vegas in Nevada.

About this 1 week Grand Circle Road Trip itinerary

There are many versions of the Grand Circle road trip, depending on where you’re starting from. In our case, since we’re starting from Las Vegas, our version of the Grand Circle road trip is almost like a 7-day National Park tour from Las Vegas.

What are the Grand Circle National Parks?

  • Zion National Park
  • Bryce Canyon National Park
  • Grand Canyon National Park
  • Capitol Reef National Park
  • Canyonlands National Park
  • Arches National Park
  • Mesa Verde National Park
  • Petrified Forest National Park

Other popular attractions:

Antelope Canyon

Horseshoe bend.

  • Lake Powell
  • Monument Valley

Some variations of the Grand Circle road trip can take up to 2 weeks to cover up to 8 National Parks. The ones bolded are the closest to each other as well as to Las Vegas, so we’re focusing on those for our 1 week Grand Circle road trip itinerary.

1 week Grand Circle Road Trip itinerary map

Here’s an overview of the places we will be visiting. It can also be considered a Grand Canyon road trip because it’s mostly focused on the national parks and attractions nearby. It covers a total of just over 800 miles for the loop.

the grand circle tour

Best time to do the Grand Circle Road Trip

The best time for a Grand Circle Road Trip is just outside summer – from March to May , or September to November. This is when the weather is mild, which we experienced when we visited in May.

At night, the temperatures were just above freezing, but it felt alright when we were out camping. During the day, it was sunny and we felt warm but not weighted down by the heat while hiking.

For example, you can check the monthly temperature ranges at different parts of the Grand Canyon here . If you’re there closer to winter time, you may even get to see some snow!

What type of vehicle to drive the Grand Circle road trip

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This is one the most popular road trips in the US because of the spectacular views and scenic drive. I am so thankful for the opportunity to do this with my family during spring. We rented an SUV for this trip, which was perfect for 4 of us.

Another cool thing to do would be renting an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy , a peer-to-peer camper rental community. That way, you can try out van life without committing to buying one, and it will already be built up for you. Check out the options near your location or Las Vegas and book in advance for the best prices and options !

the grand circle tour

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Las Vegas can be reached via a flight or drive. If you only have 7 days, I recommend resting from the jet lag, and choose to fly in to Vegas rather than drive. On this first night, have a good dinner and rest up before the hiking and exploration begins. Hit up any of the restaurants in Vegas, such as the Gordon Ramsay Burger place, or Sekushi Japanese Restaurant , etc. If you arrive early enough, consider having a sumptuous buffet, since many of them open till 9pm.

In terms of budgeting, I suggest going for a cheaper hotel at the start, and splurge at the end of the Grand Circle road trip loop. We stayed at Excalibur Hotel , a 3.5-star hotel in the heart of the Strip. Check latest prices on Booking.com or Agoda .

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Day 2: Zion National Park

The first hikes in our Grand Circle road trip will start today. Zion National Park is a short 2.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. You could easily do a day trip to Zion National Park if you want to do 1 short hike during the day. If you have time, I suggest making a 1-hour detour to drive through the Valley of Fire State Park , a route that promises breathtaking scenery and towering rock formations.

Lower Emerald Pools trail (2 hours) is perfect for a family, as it is easy enough but also exposes you to the spectacular landscape of Zion every way you turn. Other popular trails are the Angel’s Landing, and hiking the Narrows , which are more time consuming and spending more than 1 day in Zion might be a better idea for those who are up for the challenge.

If you’re looking for hotels near Zion National Park , here are some cool places to consider:

  • Best for Luxury Glamping: Zion Glamping Adventures
  • Best for Convenient Location : Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites

We opted to stay in Glendale, Utah for 2 nights, as it is conveniently situated between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park . This way, it can be our base before and after we explore Bryce Canyon. It’s also more affordable compared to staying near the National Parks’ entrances.

Check out this tiny home – Apple Hollow Cabins !

the grand circle tour

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is a slightly smaller park, but there are many lookout points (sunrise point, sunset point, etc.) that are worth stopping by on the way to hiking trails. Hoodoos are the highlight of this park, pillar-like structures that have been brought about by various forms of erosion. Truly a geography lesson.

The most popular and doable trail is the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trail (2-3 hours), where you descend down into the canyon, allowing you to get up close and personal with the Hoodoos, and view them from a different perspective. The landscape is almost unearthly, but very interesting to explore.

the grand circle tour

Day 4: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend

The Antelope Canyons are split into the upper and lower section, with the upper being more expensive and crowded because of the light rays and the opportunities to photograph sand falling into the canyon. The lower section has fewer people (still crowded) and is generally cheaper, and the canyon itself descends deeper (more stairs).

In my opinion I think both would be great, and if you are not too picky, it would not make a huge difference as you will have a great time in either.

Do note that you will need to join a tour to enter the Antelope Canyons , you do not have access to them on your own. I booked my tour for $50 USD per pax with Ken’s Tours for 1-1.5 hours. One advantage of having a tour is that the guide might show you good photo spots and help you take pictures.

Book your Antelope Canyon tour for the best experience

You can also browse more Antelope Canyon tour options on platforms like GetYourGuide , such as:

  • Lower Antelope Canyon tour
  • Upper Antelope Canyon tour

Alternatively, consider this variation of the Grand Circle tour from Las Vegas : Antelope Canyon + Horeshoe Bend day trip from Las Vegas

Also consider the time of day you choose for the tour, as you want to have optimal sunlight shining into the canyon. Most sources say that mid-day is the best. If it is too late in the day, the canyon could look dark in pictures.

the grand circle tour

Overall a very fun place to explore and take pictures in, but the crowd makes it difficult to take good photos and you might feel rushed.

In between our mid-day tour to Antelope Canyons and sunset viewing at Horseshoe Bend , we bought frozen yoghurt in the nearby supermarket to cool off. Then, we headed to the Glen Canyon Dam nearby where The Chains hike starts. We chose to stay near the parking lot, exploring rock formations and taking pictures. It was unexpectedly fun, and you can even see people fishing and going really close to the water.

the grand circle tour

Last but not least, a beautiful sunset to end the day. Aim to arrive at the observation area about 1 hour before sunset so that you can enjoy golden hour. You can also watch the colours of the sky change if you stay a while after the sun sets.

On hindsight, I should have brought some picnic mats/towels to put on the rocks for a more comfortable sunset experience.

You can stay somewhere between Tuba City and Moenkopi in Arizona , such as Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites (check on booking.com for latest prices). This will be on the way to Grand Canyon.

Do note that in Arizona there is time difference in the Navajo Nation regions, which includes Tuba City. The rest of Arizona follows Pacific Time.

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Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park

This is probably where you will find the ‘Grand’ in the Grand Circle road trip. Our family camped 1 night in Grand Canyon National Park ( Mather campground ), giving us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the park. After all, it is one of the wonders of the world, a geographical landform visible from space. We rented camping equipment from Airbnb and collected them in Cameron, AZ on our way to Grand Canyon.

Going hiking or camping soon? Check out some of my tips and gear recommendations:

Cold weather camping gear | Camping starter kit | Affordable hiking backpacks | Weekend camping trip planning + packing list | First-timer tent camping tips | Hiking boots for women | Rooftop tents for car camping

Best lookout points in Grand Canyon National Park

There are many lookout points in the park , and here are the ones I visited and recommend. You can also find a summary of these places, including sunrise and sunset spots color-coded in this map below.

1) Along east entrance, with views of the Colorado River:

  • Desert View
  • Lipan Point

2) Near the village and Mather campground

  • Mather Point/Amphitheatre (sunrise views, closest to campsite and has seating area)
  • Rim trail views

3) West of the village along Hermit Road (accessible only by shuttle bus from Mar-Nov)

  • Hopi Point (sunset views, toilets available)
  • Would have also gone to Mohave Point for sunset if we had more time

Most people also recommend hiking the South Kaibab trail (near the east side of the park). However, we chose another trail called the Bright Angel Trail , and hiked down to the Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse. The round trip hike takes 2-4 hours with 1,120 ft (340 m) elevation gain. This trail would be closest to Hermit Road where we will be going for sunset.

Where to go for sunset?

  • Hopi Point (red route)
  • Yavapai Point (drive, walk or orange route)
  • Lipan Point (drive)
  • Pima Point (red route)

the grand circle tour

Day 6: Grand Canyon, Las Vegas

As mentioned earlier, Mather Point is one of the best places to watch the sunrise (shown in the picture above). We also happened to meet 2 other Singaporeans and they were smart enough to bring coffee and breakfast along.

Where to go for sunrise?

  • Yavapai Point (Walk, drive or orange route)
  • Navajo Point (Drive)
  • Mather Point (5 minute walk)

Sunrise tips: arrive at the lookout point about 30-45 min before sunrise to watch the light slowly creep in. The photo shows the sun after it has risen. We woke up at 4:45am and waited till about 6am before leaving. Sunrise time was about 5:30am.

Cook some ramen and drink some coffee before starting the day. Head out to explore the Rim Trail to see more viewpoints of the Grand Canyon before driving to Las Vegas.

We passed through several towns and dropped by Williams to return the camping equipment. There was some decent coffee at Brewed Awakenings Coffee.

To end the day, we pigged out at a buffet place. It was perfect after many days of hiking. You could choose to watch a live show after dinner too, or simply walk around exploring the many hotels/the Strip.

the grand circle tour

Day 7: Leave from Las Vegas

On our last night in Vegas, we and booked a room in Bellagio Hotel to reward ourselves.

If you can wake up early, spend some time in the hotel pool area to soak in the sun. Spend this last day shopping at the outlet stores too. We shopped at the South outlet stores since it was nearest to McCarran airport and the car return area.

The time of the year to go to these places could play a role in several decisions. For example, camping at freezing temperatures and deciding which trail to hike as some might be closed due to snow. However, many of these places look spectacular with snow sprinkled on them, and not everyone gets to enjoy such view. I would love to visit Capitol Reef National Park and Monument Valley if we had more time.

With that, the perfect Grand Circle road trip has concluded. I hope that this has helped you in planning and getting inspired to hike a little. You can also check out these tips on how to take great photos of yourself hiking . Now let’s get packing !

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What to bring hiking during your Grand Circle road trip

To make the most of your adventure, it’s essential to come prepared. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need.

Hiking essentials and comfort items

  • Hiking boots or shoes : Comfortable and supportive footwear is a must so you’ll have the best experience. Waterproof boots can be useful for muddy trails.
  • Hiking day pack : It should have enough space to store snacks, water, and any extra clothing. Here are some affordable hiking backpacks below $100 to consider.
  • Water : Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water reservoirs with up to 3-litre capacity are useful for longer hikes. In general, bring at least 0.5 litres for every hour of hiking.
  • Map and navigation : Having a map adds an extra layer of security. Offline Google Maps also helps.
  • Snacks : Pack energy-boosting snacks to keep you fueled throughout the hike. These could be energy bars, nuts, or some sweets.
  • Sunscreen and cap : Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the open sections of the trail.
  • Layered clothing : For example, bring a fleece sweater and wear a sweat-wicking base layer. Rain jackets can also act as a windbreaker.
  • Phone tripod: If you’re hiking alone, having a phone tripod is great for filming shots of yourself.
  • Trekking poles: Provide extra stability on uneven terrain and downhill sections.

Shop hiking gear

Gregory Jade 28L Backpack

Travel Resources - Hiking Backpack

A reliable hiking day pack for carrying essentials – even comes with a rain cover.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

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Lightweight and warm, perfect for staying cozy in chilly weather.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

Travel Resources - Rain Jacket

Keep dry and comfortable with a reliable waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather.

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles

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Lightweight hiking poles that support you both uphill and downhill.

Columbia Benton Springs Full Zip Fleece

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Insulating mid layer fleece that repels water and keeps you warm.

Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boots

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Budget-friendly waterproof hiking boots for casual hikers.

Read more: 10 Reasons You Should Use Notion for Travel Planning with Friends DIY Finland Road-Trip: Lapland in Autumn For Best Northern Lights

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Grand Circle road trip

Janice, a California-based travel writer from Singapore, discovered her love for hiking and camping during her studies in Los Angeles. Through her blog, she now shares detailed itineraries for adventures in California, Asia, and beyond. She also talks about gear recommendations and tips for beginners, hoping to inspire them to explore the great outdoors with confidence.

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Grand Circle travel begins and ends in Utah! Visitors have a unique chance to experience all five Utah national parks, in addition to the Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, Monument Valley and Lake Powell (Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. During a one-week trip you have time for a short stop in each location, but we recommend taking your time so you have plenty of opportunity to enjoy and learn about each unique destination.

The American Southwest is famous for incredible scenery, red rock pinnacles and formations, brilliant sunsets, and deep canyons. It is uncommon land, for an uncommon experience, and it's all within a stone's throw of Utah. Few states can boast of so much!

Maintained highways run between these destinations and access is possible year-round. Some of this country is remote and rugged, with many miles between gas stations, so plan your trip carefully.

Want to check out the Grand Circle Tour for yourself?

Find the 11 day, 10 night Itinerary here.

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Red River Ranch

The grand circle tour, posted in: outdoor adventures , travel on september 9, 2021., best. road trip. ever..

The best, and most scenic, road trip in Utah is called the Grand Circle Tour. It takes you (the road-tripper) on a tour of all five national parks in the state — Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon. And if you feel like it, you can include some out-of-state stuff. Like the Grand Canyon. You will see an amazing amount of scenery on this trip. So rev up the Harley, or load up the mini-van, and come see what we’re talking about!

One of the perks of driving the Grand Circle is that the route is, well, a circle. Which means you can start at any of these locations (probably the one closest to your home or arrival airport) see the others, and come back to your starting place. You can also customize your trip, and add or omit a location or two.

Dramatic view of cliffs in Zion

Photo by George Pagan via unsplash.com

Zion National Park

Zion is the crown jewel in the Utah national parks system. It’s such a beautiful place, and such a microcosm of Utah’s fantastic geology, that we recommend that you spend as much time as you can exploring the park. (Although you will have to leave sometime to finish doing your road trip.) Consider staying in the Zion Lodge in the park. Here’s some thoughts on what to see while you’re there.

Activity Recommendations:

  • Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, complete with one-mile tunnel.
  • Get dirty in the Narrows. These are some of the best slot canyons in the world.
  • Tour the Zion History Museum and The Zion Canyon Visitor’s Center.
  • Hike Angel’s Landing at sunset. You’ll never forget the spectacular view.
  • Hike to Upper Emerald Pool. It’s a very special place.

Looing down on the hoodoos in Bryce

Photo by Luca Bravo via unsplash.com

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon has a very different feeling compared to Zion. It’s not as sprawling, nor as varied in its scenery, but we have no doubt you will appreciate it. The main attraction is the amphitheater, which is famous for its unique rock formations. These strange hoodoos have drawn visitors here since the early 1900s.

  • Check out Mossy Cave. The trail to the cave takes you through the best parts of the park. And not too many people head down that way.
  • Hike along the rim of the Amphitheater. The hoodoos appear to change shape when viewed at different angles.
  • Walk among the hoodoos at sunset. The experience can be incredible.
  • Explore one of the many trails in the upper highland forests. There are arches and bridges out there, take the time to find them.

A deer feeding in the orchards of Capitol Reef

Photo by Luis Müller via unsplash.com

Capitol Reef National Park

Zion might be the crown jewel, but Capitol Reef is the hidden gem of Utah’s parks. And, it’s our favorite national park in the whole state. (But then again, we might be biased, we live there.) Check out the little tree-lined town of Torrey, Utah. Capitol Reef has elements from all the other national parks in the state, and since it is one of the least visited parks, you have a better chance to see it all.

  • Stop by the Gifford House. The history is interesting, and the specialty foods are delicious.
  • If you show up at the right season, you can pick your own fruit from the orchards.
  • Drive the Scenic Road to Capitol Gorge trailhead. Then hike Capitol Gorge.
  • Hike one of the trails near the visitor’s center. Try the Rim Overlook, The Castle or Cassidy Arch.
  • Time permitting, go south, into the Waterpocket Fold for some canyon exploration. The Burr Trail is also down there.

Mesa arch in Canyonlands

Photo by Dann Petty via unsplash.com

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

The twin parks of Utah should be see together. They’re right across the street from each other, after all. Arches attracts more tourists, and it has some pretty iconic scenery – you’ve definitely seen Delicate Arch somewhere before. But Canyonlands is larger and has more diversity of scenery. Taken together, they offer a rich landscape of Utah’s wild desert country.

  • There are over 2,000 natural arches in Arches National Park. See as many as you can. Don’t miss the Delicate Arch. We also recommend Double Arch.
  • Check out some of the sandstone formations in Arches, like The Tower of Babel and The Organ.
  • Go Jeeping or ATV riding in the deserts around Moab.
  • Canyonlands is the perfect outdoor playground. If you can, shoot the rapids in Cataract Canyon on a guided tour.
  • Canyonlands also has some intense slot canyons. Think thin.

But Wait, There’s More…

This concludes our thoughts on the five Utah national parks; however, you will also be driving through lots of other beautiful places. Here are some tips about these in-between spots. Just in case you want them.

Road runs toward the monoliths of Monument Valley

Photo by Halie West via unsplash.com

Escalante-Grand Staircase National Monument

This monument contains some of Utah’s finest scenic routes. During sections along Highway 12, the world seems to drop off each side of the winding road. It’s really fun, especially for the kids. Be sure to stop at some of the scenic overlooks to look back at what you just driven through.

  • Hike to Upper Calf Creek Falls. But you know you’ll have to jump in the pool.

Natural Bridges National Monument

This is a is a fun little detour on the way to the Grand Canyon (if you add the Grand Canyon to your list, and after all why not?) Natural Bridges National Monument protects three of the world’s best and longest natural bridges. It also boasts extensive American Indian archeological treasures.

  • Look at the historical artifacts inside the Visitor’s Center.
  • Drive to each of the overlooks for the natural bridges. You can also see American Indian dwelling sites.
  • Hike to one of bridges. Trail guides are available at the Visitor Center.

Monument Valley National Tribal Area

This iconic valley has some amazing monoliths, but we especially like driving Highway 261 to the town of Mexican Hat. You will get to go through The Valley of the Gods and a terrific winding road that makes a 1200-foot descent into the desert below.

  • Visit some of the local Navajo Tradesmen in Monument Valley. They are true artists.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Better known simply as Lake Powell, Glen Canyon is a water wonderland. If you can work this into your route you will have a blast. Splash around in the 186 miles of open water.

  • Rent a houseboat and watch the Earth spin under the stars at night.
  • Hike to Rainbow Bridge. It is the tallest arch in the world and worth the effort to see.
  • Play around on personal watercraft. These are the best way to get into the remote water-filled canyons.

The Grand Canyon at sunset

Photo by Tim Hart via unsplash.com

Grand Canyon National Park

You’ve come all this way, you gotta stop to see the Grand Canyon. It’s one of America’s favorite national parks, after all. So if you haven’t been before, now’s the time. We prefer the North rim, but the South rim is more frequented. Lots of people have lots to say about the Grand Canyon, so we’ll only mention a couple of activities.

  • Hike or take a burro ride to the canyon bottom.
  • More rafting anyone? Take a trip on the Colorado River.
  • Watch the sunset paint the cliffs. This is one of the most beautiful moments you will ever see.

That’s the Lodge at Red River Ranch’s thoughts about the Grand Circle Tour. We hope you get the chance to visit some, or all, of these awesome places.

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  17. The Grand Circle Tour

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