Utah’s “Mighty 5” are among the most iconic and diverse national parks in the United States. From narrow slot canyons to towering red rock arches, each park offers its own unique landscape and adventure. In this Utah Mighty 5 National Parks travel guide, you’ll find essential tips, top attractions, and the perfect route to experience all five parks in one unforgettable road trip in 2025.
What Are Utah’s Mighty 5?
- Zion National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Arches National Park
- Canyonlands National Park
Combined, these parks showcase Utah’s dramatic desert beauty, unique geology, and limitless hiking, camping, and photography opportunities.
Ideal Route: West to East
The most common road trip route begins in Zion (near Las Vegas) and ends at Arches/Canyonlands (near Moab). A 7–10 day itinerary gives you enough time to enjoy each park without rushing.
1. Zion National Park
- Must-see: Angel’s Landing (permit required), The Narrows hike, Emerald Pools
- Stay: Springdale (hotels), Watchman Campground (in-park)
- Tip: Use the shuttle system during peak season (March–November)
2. Bryce Canyon National Park
- Must-see: Bryce Amphitheater, Sunrise Point, Navajo Loop Trail
- Stay: Bryce Canyon City or North Campground
- Tip: Visit at sunrise for golden light on hoodoos
3. Capitol Reef National Park
- Must-see: Scenic Drive, Hickman Bridge Trail, Cassidy Arch
- Stay: Fruita Campground or Torrey, UT
- Tip: Try fresh pie at the Gifford Homestead during summer months
4. Arches National Park
- Must-see: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Double Arch
- Stay: Moab (great hotels, RV parks, and campgrounds)
- Tip: Timed-entry reservation required from April–October
5. Canyonlands National Park
- Must-see: Mesa Arch, Island in the Sky, Grand View Point
- Stay: Also based in Moab
- Tip: Visit early or late for stunning canyon light and fewer crowds
When to Go
- Best months: April–May and September–October (mild temps, fewer crowds)
- Summer (June–August): Very hot, but early mornings and shaded hikes are still possible
- Winter: Beautiful and quiet, but some roads and trails may be closed
Essential Packing Tips
- Hydration: Carry 3+ liters of water per person, per day
- Sun protection: Bring hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses — shade is limited
- Hiking boots: Trails vary from sand to rock to water crossings
- Navigation: Cell signal is limited — download offline maps or bring a paper version
Travel Tips for 2025
- Reserve early: Campsites, hotels, and permits book months in advance
- Timed entry: Required for Arches National Park during peak months
- Avoid mid-day: Start hikes early to beat heat and crowds
- Fuel up: Gas stations are sparse between parks — plan accordingly
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks is an adventure of a lifetime. From Zion’s steep canyons to Bryce’s surreal hoodoos and Arches’ gravity-defying formations, each park adds a new dimension to your road trip.
In 2025, make time to slow down, take in the views, and experience the raw beauty of Utah’s red rock country — one park at a time.
