How to plan a roadtrip to the great parks of the West?
The Mighty Five,Utah‘s five iconic national parks, embody the rugged beauty of the American West. Every year, they attract millions of visitors in search of breathtaking vistas and memorable adventures. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip, from itineraries to photo spots, accommodation and activities to suit everyone. Discover the secrets of the Mighty Five and prepare yourself for an unforgettable immersion in the heart of Utah’s landscapes.
Discover the Mighty Five: National parks and their unique landscapes
National parks not to be missed
Zion National Park: majestic cliffs and iconic trails
Zion is renowned for its imposing red cliffs and spectacular hikes such as Angel’s Landing, a vertiginous trail offering panoramic views. Water lovers won’t want to miss The Narrows, where walking in a river surrounded by narrow gorges is an unforgettable experience.
Bryce Canyon: a natural amphitheatre of hoodoos
Bryce Canyon is distinguished by its unique rock formations known as hoodoos. Viewpoints such as Sunrise Point or Inspiration Point offer breathtaking panoramas, especially at dawn or dusk.
Arches and Canyonlands: Utah’s geological wonders
Arches is home to over 2,000 natural arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. A few miles away, Canyonlands beckons with its endless canyons and Mesa Arch, a must-see spot at sunrise.
Landscapes and emblematic stops
Natural spots to explore
Each park has its own unique treasures. At Capitol Reef, the Waterpocket Fold is a fascinating geological formation, while the Fruita Historic District immerses visitors in the region’s history. Bryce Canyon is famous for its strangely shaped hoodoos, such as Thor’s Hammer.
The best scenic routes
Routes like Scenic Byway 12 between Bryce and Capitol Reef offer breathtaking views of mountains and deserts. Take time to stop at lookouts and admire the scenery.
Where to sleep: Accommodation and strategic cities
Must-see stopover towns
Springdale: at the gateway to Zion
Springdale is the ideal base for exploring Zion. It offers a wide range of accommodations, from comfortable lodges to luxury hotels, and restaurants to suit all tastes. Its strategic location facilitates access to the park with convenient shuttle buses.
Moab: at the crossroads of two parks
Moab is vibrant and welcoming, perfect for discovering Arches and Canyonlands. Accommodation options include well-equipped campsites, family-friendly hotels and solo-friendly hostels.
Lodging in the parks: immersion guaranteed
Lodges for a unique experience
Several parks, such as Zion and Bryce, offer lodges with a direct view of the natural landscape. Booking these accommodations in advance is essential to guarantee a stay in the heart of nature.
Camping: sleeping under the stars
Camping is a popular option for adventurers. Developed sites are available in every park, offering essential amenities and proximity to hiking trails. Bryce Canyon is particularly popular for its exceptional night skies.
Recommended itinerary: Explore the Mighty Five in 7 days
| Day | Park | Main activities | Suggested accommodation |
| 1 | Zion | Angel’s Landing, The Narrows | Springdale |
| 2 | Bryce Canyon | Sunrise Point, Fairyland Loop | Tropic |
| 3 | Capitol Reef | Fruita Overlook, Hickman Bridge | Torrey |
| 4-5 | Arches | Delicate Arch, Devils Garden | Moab |
| 6-7 | Canyonlands | Island in the Sky, Mesa Arch | Moab |
This itinerary maximizes the time spent in each park while ensuring comfortable travel between sites.
Instagrammable photo spots
Perfect landscapes for your shots
Mesa Arch: spectacular sunrise
In Canyonlands, Mesa Arch is a favorite with photographers. Morning light illuminates the arch, creating a magical scene well worth the detour.
Delicate Arch: a Utah icon
This gem of Arches National Park attracts visitors in search of memorable photos. A 3-mile hike will take you to this iconic spot, especially beautiful at sunset.
Bryce Amphitheater: an open-air natural wonder
The Bryce Amphitheater offers breathtaking panoramas. The changing colors of the hoodoos at dawn or dusk are ideal for Instagrammable photos.
Activities according to your type of trip
For couples: romantic moments
Sunset hikes and picnics
Trails like Sunset Point in Bryce Canyon offer an idyllic setting for couples. Plan a picnic overlooking the hoodoos for a moment of togetherness.
Stargazing
Bryce Canyon is famous for its starry skies. Attending a night of astronomical observation together creates unforgettable memories.
Family-friendly adventures
Educational activities: Junior Ranger Program
All parks offer children’s programs that combine learning and fun. Little adventurers can earn badges after completing missions.
Easy, accessible hikes
Trails like the Riverside Walk in Zion or the Sand Dune Arch Trail in Arches are perfect for families, offering magnificent views without too much physical effort.
A trip through the Mighty Five is an incomparable experience, combining adventure, discovery and relaxation. Whether you’re a couple or a family, these national parks will provide memories to last a lifetime. Plan your itinerary, book your accommodation and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Utah.