Utah
Utah's national parks collectively form a spectacular showcase of the state's diverse and mesmerizing landscapes. Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs and winding Virgin River, captivates visitors with its natural grandeur. Bryce Canyon National Park presents a surreal panorama of hoodoos, intricate rock formations, and expansive vistas. Arches National Park is a haven for natural arches and rock formations, boasting over 2,000 unique structures. Canyonlands National Park, carved by the Colorado River, offers deep canyons and mesas, providing a rugged and awe-inspiring backdrop. Lastly, Capitol Reef National Park showcases the Waterpocket Fold, a geological marvel, amidst cliffs and canyons, completing Utah's quintet of breathtaking national treasures. Each park offers a distinct and unforgettable experience for those seeking the beauty of the American Southwest.
Enjoy what makes the Western United States one of the best outdoor destinations on the planet. Visit the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon, marvel at the ancient Hoodoo's in Bryce, visit the earthly temple of Zion, and bask in the glow of Moab's red rocks. This trip is designed to take in 3 of Utah's best National Parks, highlighting the natural beauty of the area as well as the adventure. Starting in Zion, fly high over the canyons, zoom along the canyon rims and hike into the canyon itself. Head north to Bryce, making sure to stop at Antelope Canyon, one of the most picturesque slot canyons in the entire world. Spend several days in Moab exploring all that this landmark destination has to offer. Leave no stone unturned as we try to get off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime.
Springdale | 3 nights at Springdale Curio OR Hummingbird Villa
Tropic | 1 Night Stone Canyon Inn
Moab | 5 Nights at Sunflower Inn
September is one of the best shoulder months to visit the national parks in Utah. Daily high temperatures decrease by 10°F, from 78°F to 65°F, rarely falling below 55°F or exceeding 90°F. Daily low temperatures decrease by 5°F, from 59°F to 50°F, rarely falling below 50°F or exceeding 58°F.
Pick up your rental and make the drive to Springdale (approximately 3 hours).
Arrive into town, kick up your feet and take some time to relax. The town of Springdale is the gateway to the Grand Canyon, allowing you close quarters to explore to your heart's content. Enjoy your first meal in town and some drinks after your drive.
Balcony One in Virgin, UT, is a local American restaurant with a Mediterranean twist. Their large menu consists of tasty dishes that are made fresh when you order. From a cocktail bar full of drinks to live entertainment, we’re certain you’ll have a good time.
Why we love it for you: The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the only 3-diamond hotel in the region and one of the few area hotels with an indoor heated swimming pool and hot tub. It is just one mile from the south entrance to Grand Canyon National Park, with scenic South Rim of the Canyon just a short car ride away.
Cliffrose Springdale
Grand View Villa
- King size bed
- Oversized Balcony
Depart your hotel. In the morning, start your adventure soaring above Zion National Park, getting a fantastic view only a helicopter can offer. Drive into the park and get acquainted with the edge at Mather Point before heading out on a Pink Jeep tour in the late afternoon.
Embark on an exhilarating helicopter tour over Zion National Park and witness the breathtaking grandeur of this iconic natural wonder. As you soar above the rugged canyons and towering sandstone cliffs, you'll be treated to unparalleled panoramic views of the park's mesmerizing landscapes, including the striking red rock formations and the meandering Virgin River below. This awe-inspiring aerial adventure promises an immersive experience of Zion's true beauty.
Time at leisure. You can return to your hotel to relax or take the Grand Canyon shuttle to tour more of the canyon.
Take the road less traveled and see the places that most visitors see only in photographs, including stunning panoramas and breathtaking overlooks that have remained unchanged for a million years. See thousand year old Native American rock art, maybe an authentic ghost town that became a Hollywood favorite, or wildlife that doesn’t behave like it lives in a zoo.
This is one of the best dinner spots in the area with an outdoor terrace and views. Menu choices are handcrafted cuisines and homemade sauces using fresh, locally sourced produce, hormone-free meats, and sustainably harvested fish.
Cliffrose Springdale
Grand View Villa
- Full kitchen
Enjoy coffee and breakfast in the morning before heading into the park for a full-day tour of the beautiful canyons, tunnels and rocks that engulf Zion.
There is a reason that Zion National Park and the surrounding area is Utah’s top tourist destination. From the red and white monolithic cliffs towering overhead, to the incredible slot canyons carved over eons, this place speaks to the adventurer in all of us.
Time at leisure to explore Springdale and Rockville. Enjoy a glass of wine at your hotel in the early evening.
Dinner at The Bit and Spur. The Bit and Spur began as a roadside bar in the 1970s. The bar was a place to shoot a game of pool, see occasional live music, and huddle around the wood-burning stove in the winter.
Cliffrose Springdale
Grand View Villa
- King Size Bed
From Zion, head over to Bryce Canyon.
- Approximately 2 hours.
Drive Time: Approximately 2 hrs 30 min
Recommended Departure Time: Morning
Address: Bryce Canyon National Park, The Lodge at Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764
This is a simple buffet-style lunch with the rustic elegance of the Lodge. Alternatively, stop by the general store for pizza slices, salad, and sandwiches for a quick bite.
A truly stunning National Park, Bryce Canyon is easily seen in a day and absolutely cannot be missed. Get on horseback and descend into the mighty canyon, famous for its impressive geological marvels.
NOTE: Big brim hats must be tied on, baseball caps are acceptable, sneakers are acceptable, long pants recommended, 1 camera or binoculars. No bags, backpacks or purses, open toe shoes, canteens or water bottles.
Guided ATV rides are a fun and exciting way to explore areas in the lesser known parts of the region. These guided tours will get your adrenaline pumping, but will also provide you with views of a pristine alpine landscape, the Bryce Canyon Rim and fresh clean air. See some of the most incredible scenset that is seen by very few!
Enjoy dinner at the Stone Canyon Inn.
Why we love it for you: This is a lovely property in Tropic, Utah, with a restaurant and wonderful vistas from a spacious deck. The views of Bryce Canyon National Park are breathtaking. When you’re lodging at this Bryce Canyon Hotel, you will love exploring the surrounding area and relaxing each night while enjoying incredible views.
Stone Canyon Inn
1 Cottage
- Breakfast & dinner included
Today is a big driving day, but a trip out west is not complete without a leisurely day behind the wheel. With nothing to do but get to the destination, be sure to make several pit stops along the way. With some excellent viewpoints, and quite possibly the best pies out west, a lunch break in Capital Reef National Park is recommended.
This is in Utah's south-central desert, and it surrounds a long wrinkle in the earth known as the Waterpocket Fold, with layers of golden sandstone, canyons and striking rock formations. Among the park's sights that you want to see are the Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and Capitol Reef, known for its white sandstone domes.
Get your own pie at Fruita in Capital Reef National Park.
Once you get into Moab - we recommend dinner at The Spoke on Center. At this classic American restaurant, the food is fresh and completely made from scratch!
- Dinner included.
Why we love it for you: The Sunflower Hill Inn is an historic cedar-sided home located just 3 blocks from the center of town. The property includes a relaxing pool and spa area, vast gardens, outdoor dining patios, and a secure bike storage and wash area. Your innkeepers are available as needed throughout your stay and are committed to providing unsurpassed service and maximum comfort.
Sunflower Hill Inn
1 Room
- Breakfast Included
Start your morning by taking to the skies on a sunrise hot air balloon ride and end your day watching the sun set on the spectacular Arches National Park.
Head out early in the morning to get ready for your sunrise ballooning adventure. When you get to see Moab in the greater perspective from the air you get to see everything all at once. Adding that with the sunrise glow on all of the Moab Canyons, Cliffs and Desert Landmarks is something that you cannot beat.
Return to Moab, grab some lunch and relax before heading back out into the landscape for sunset.
Arches National Park offers us a landscape replete with ancient, sculpted arches and monuments, canyons and cliffs, towers and alcoves. Experience its stunning beauty late in the day as the setting sun bathes this landscape with rich, reds, pinks, and golds. On this private tour, you and your group will explore the massive spaces and tiny details that compose this fantastic place.
Sunflower Hill Inn
1 Room
- Breakfast Included
Enjoy a full-day tour of Canyonlands National Park where you will drive, hike and walk through some of the most famous landmarks of this region.
Experience the expansive views and massive landscapes of Canyonlands National Park, a timeless and seemingly endless array of canyons and buttes. On this private tour, you and your group will enjoy a full-day itinerary featuring your preferred combination of stunning canyon overlooks connected by a wondrous paved driving route and punctuated by light walking or moderate hiking.
- A picnic lunch will be provided along the way.
This bistro is the perfect way to end your journey through Canyonlands, with its delicious appetizers and fresh salads.
- Dinner included.
Sunflower Hill Inn
1 Room
- Breakfast Included
Get ready for a day in Jeep-enthusiast heaven as you explore the rugged landscape from behind the wheel.
Experience the ultimate adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Moab, Utah, with our exclusive You-Drive Jeep tour. Get behind the wheel of a fully customized Jeep and embark on an exhilarating journey through the rugged terrains and iconic trails that have made Moab a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.
Time at leisure. Option to further explore the surrounding landscapes at your own free will in the evening or take some time to relax before heading to dinner.
Sunflower Hill Inn
1 Room
- Breakfast Included
Evening - Night: Spend the morning enjoying one of the more unique adventure activities in Moab. A thrilling day rappelling 75 to 100 feet down the beautiful red canyon walls will have you feeling like a true rock climbing master, with a nice and easy hike enjoying the views.
- Includes: 2 rappels & 1 hike out.
Time at leisure to explore the town and relax at your hotel.
Admire the golden light and ever-changing colors on the canyon walls along the Arches National Park boundary. End your day on a natural high of “river magic.” An overall milder experience than the AM Raft Trip, this section provides calmer floats punctuated by occasional splash; the well-known Whites Rapid will cool you on a hot summer afternoon.
Enjoy a picnic dinner at Delicate Arch. You'll hike for about 45 minutes to the arch.
- Dinner & blanket included.
Sunflower Hill Inn
1 Room
- Breakfast Included
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Safe travels and we hope you enjoyed your trip with Scenset.
