5 Day Arizona & Utah Road Trip Itinerary: A Scenic Adventure

If you want dramatic landscapes, thrilling hikes, and stunning views, this 5 day Arizona & Utah itinerary is perfect! It covers Zion, Bryce Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon—some of the Southwest’s most breathtaking spots. Plus, I’ll share some hidden gems along the way!

Day 1: Scenic Drive to Zion, Quail Creek Stop & Fort Zion

Our first day was all about taking in the changing landscapes as we drove from Las Vegas to Brian Head. The journey transitioned from the neon-lit cityscape to vast desert plains, towering red cliffs, and alpine forests. It set the stage for an epic road trip through the Southwest.

Stop 1: Quail Creek State Park – A Serene Desert Oasis

On our way to Zion, we made a stop at Quail Creek State Park, a hidden gem just off the highway. This scenic reservoir is surrounded by red rock formations and rolling desert hills. It was the perfect place to take a break from the drive. The deep blue water contrasted beautifully with the red and orange sandstone cliffs, making it an amazing spot for photos.

Though we didn’t have time for swimming or kayaking, Quail Creek is known for its calm waters, sandy beaches, and excellent fishing. It was a peaceful spot to stretch our legs, soak in the serene desert views, and enjoy a moment of quiet. Then, we headed deeper into Utah’s rugged landscapes.

Stop 2: Fort Zion – A Quirky Wild West Attraction

Continuing our drive, we stopped at Fort Zion in Virgin, Utah, a fun and quirky Wild West-themed roadside attraction. This spot feels like stepping into an old Western movie. It features rustic wooden buildings, a saloon-style storefront, and a charming gift shop selling handcrafted souvenirs and Native American jewelry.

One of the highlights was the mini petting zoo. We got to see donkeys, goats, llamas, and other friendly animals. It was a perfect little detour before continuing on.

Arriving in Brian Head

After soaking in the desert scenery and old Western vibes, we continued toward Brian Head, where we checked into our cozy Airbnb in the mountains. The cool, crisp air and scenic surroundings made for a relaxing night before the adventure-packed days ahead.

Day 2: Zion National Park – Epic Hikes & Jaw-Dropping Views

Zion National Park is a true hiker’s paradise, with towering sandstone cliffs, breathtaking viewpoints, and trails that cater to every adventure level. We explored some of Zion’s most stunning trails, each offering a unique glimpse into the park’s beauty.

💡 Pro Tip: Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks while hiking! Zion’s trails can be long and physically demanding, and with limited food options inside the park, having energy bars, trail mix, or fruit can be a lifesaver. A hydration pack or reusable water bottle is also a must, especially in the warmer months.

Riverside Walk – The Gateway to The Narrows

This scenic, easy 2.2-mile (round-trip) hike follows the Virgin River. It leads to the entrance of The Narrows, one of Zion’s most famous slot canyon hikes. With towering canyon walls on either side and the sound of flowing water, the trail felt like a peaceful nature escape. It’s a great option for those who want to experience the beauty of The Narrows without hiking through the water.

Canyon Overlook Trail – A Short Hike with a Big Payoff

For an epic view with minimal effort, Canyon Overlook Trail is a must! This 1-mile round-trip hike takes you through slickrock paths and shaded alcoves. It even has a small cave-like section before opening up to one of Zion’s most spectacular viewpoints. From the overlook, we soaked in the jaw-dropping views of Pine Creek Canyon and the famous Zion switchbacks below. It’s the perfect hike for sunrise or sunset!

Timber Creek Overlook Trail – A Hidden Gem in Kolob Canyons

Located in the less-visited Kolob Canyons section of Zion, this short 1.1-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the Kolob Canyons cliffs. On a clear day, you can even catch distant glimpses of the Grand Canyon. With fewer crowds, it was a peaceful way to enjoy Zion’s beauty without the hustle of the main canyon trails.

Thinking About Hiking Angels Landing or The Narrows? Here’s What to Know!

If you’re up for an extra challenge or have a few extra days, here are two of Zion’s most iconic hikes. However, we didn’t attempt these on this trip:

Angels Landing – Not for the Faint of Heart!

One of the most thrilling (and nerve-wracking) hikes in the U.S., Angels Landing is a 5.4-mile round-trip trek that climbs over 1,500 feet in elevation. The final section features a narrow ridge with sheer drop-offs on both sides, secured by a chain railing. It’s an unforgettable experience but not recommended for those with a fear of heights!

Permit Required: Since 2022, all hikers attempting Angels Landing beyond Scout Lookout must have a permit, which is obtained through a seasonal or day-before lottery. You can apply for the permit at recreation.gov.

The Narrows – Hiking Through a River Canyon

The Narrows is one of Zion’s most unique hikes, taking you directly through the Virgin River as it winds between towering 1,000-foot canyon walls. Depending on water levels, hikers wade or even swim through sections of the river. You can hike as far as Big Springs (10 miles round trip) without a permit or obtain a permit to do the Top-Down Route from Chamberlain’s Ranch.

What You Need:

• Water shoes & neoprene socks (the riverbed is rocky!)
• A hiking stick for stability
• Check weather conditions—flash floods are a real danger!

Zion National Park Permits & Entry Details

🎟 Entrance Fees:

• Private Vehicle: $35 (valid for 7 days)
• Motorcycle: $30
• Per Person (walk-in, bicycle, shuttle): $20
• America the Beautiful Pass: Covers entry for $80/year (valid for all U.S. national parks)

🚐 Zion Shuttle System:
From March to late November, Zion operates a mandatory shuttle system in Zion Canyon. Private vehicles aren’t allowed past the visitor center during this time. The shuttle runs frequently, stopping at all major trailheads.

⚠️ Permit Requirements:

• Angels Landing: Permit required beyond Scout Lookout
• The Narrows (Top-Down Route): Permit required
• Backpacking & Canyoneering: Permit required

Day 3: Yant Flats & Bryce Canyon – A Day of Hidden Gems & Hoodoos

This day was all about surreal landscapes and unforgettable views. We started the morning with one of Utah’s best-kept secrets—Yant Flats (Candy Cliffs)—and ended the day watching a magical sunset over Bryce Canyon’s iconic hoodoos.

Yant Flats (Candy Cliffs) – A Secret Wonder of the Southwest

Since we couldn’t get a permit for The Wave, we set our sights on Yant Flats, and honestly? It turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip!

Also known as the Candy Cliffs, Yant Flats is a hidden gem with vibrant swirling rock formations in shades of red, orange, pink, and white. The entire landscape looks like a giant marbled painting, with smooth, undulating sandstone hills stretching toward the horizon. And the best part? There were barely any people there!

How to Get to Yant Flats

📍 Location: Near Leeds, Utah (~1-hour drive from Zion National Park)
🚗 Access:

• Take FR031 (Oak Grove Road) from Leeds, Utah. It’s an unpaved but manageable road, though a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
• Drive for about 9 miles until you reach the Yant Flat Trailhead.
• From the trailhead, it’s an easy 3-mile round-trip hike through juniper forests before reaching the breathtaking Candy Cliffs.

Why Yant Flats is a Must-Visit
– Incredible rock formations similar to The Wave—but no permit required!
– Super peaceful—we went early in the morning and had the place almost entirely to ourselves.
– Great for exploration—you can freely wander over the smooth, colorful rock waves.
– Perfect for photography—the swirling patterns and soft morning light made for some amazing shots.

If you love off-the-beaten-path adventures, Yant Flats is an absolute must. After soaking in the scenery and taking a ton of photos, we made our way toward Bryce Canyon National Park for the next adventure of the day.

Bryce Canyon National Park – Hoodoos & a Breathtaking Sunset

After a scenic drive, we arrived at Bryce Canyon National Park, a place unlike anything else on Earth. The park is famous for its hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock that create a stunning, almost otherworldly landscape.

The best way to experience Bryce? Catch the sunset at Sunset Point—the way the golden light illuminates the red, pink, and orange hoodoos is nothing short of magical.

Must-See Spots in Bryce Canyon

Sunset Point & Sunrise Point

If you only have time for one view, Sunset Point is the winner. It offers panoramic views of Bryce Amphitheater, with hoodoos glowing in shades of pink and orange at golden hour. Sunrise Point is also a fantastic spot for early risers.

Navajo Loop Trail

One of the most iconic hikes in Bryce! This 1.3-mile loop takes you past the famous Wall Street section, where hoodoos tower above in narrow passageways. It’s a short but steep trail, and absolutely worth it!

Bryce Point

One of the highest viewpoints in the park, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the entire amphitheater. A must-visit for photography lovers.

Queens Garden Trail

A moderate 1.8-mile round-trip hike where the hoodoos look like fairytale castles and spires. If you want a less steep trail than Navajo Loop, this is a fantastic alternative.

Scenic Drive to Inspiration Point & Rainbow Point

If hiking isn’t your thing, then take the scenic drive to some of Bryce’s best viewpoints. For instance, Inspiration Point gives you jaw-dropping panoramic views. Meanwhile, Rainbow Point, the highest elevation in Bryce, offers a spectacular overlook of the entire park.

Wrapping Up the Day
– Yant Flats was a dreamlike hidden gem, and we loved having the colorful sandstone waves all to ourselves.
– Bryce Canyon completely lived up to the hype—the hoodoos looked unreal, especially at sunset!
– The mix of off-the-beaten-path adventure and iconic national park beauty made this day unforgettable.

After a full day of hiking and exploring, we ended the night with a delicious meal at Arriba Mexican Grill in Bryce, Utah—a great spot for vegetarian-friendly Mexican food. Their flavorful dishes and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect place to refuel after an epic adventure!

With our stomachs full and our hearts happy, we hit the road for Page, Arizona, where we stayed overnight. This set us up perfectly for the next day’s adventures at Horseshoe Bend and Wire Pass Trail.

Day 4: Page, Horseshoe Bend, Wire Pass Trail & Exploring the Surrounding Wonders

After staying overnight in Page, Arizona, we began our day with an unforgettable sunrise visit to Horseshoe Bend. The first rays of light illuminated the massive rock formation, casting a golden glow over the Colorado River, which curves around the bend in a perfect, horseshoe-like shape. The view was absolutely breathtaking, and watching the sun rise over this natural wonder was a moment we’ll never forget.

Since we didn’t get a permit for Antelope Canyon, we decided to take the road less traveled and explore Wire Pass Trail, a beautiful slot canyon that’s a hidden gem. Unlike the crowded Antelope Canyon, Wire Pass offers a more peaceful experience. The twisting sandstone walls and cool, narrow corridors create an exciting adventure, making it a great alternative. The light filtering through the canyon’s narrow passages creates a magical play of shadows and colors. With its tight squeezes and towering walls, Wire Pass offers a serene, intimate experience. In fact, it’s far quieter and more peaceful than Antelope Canyon. It was an unforgettable adventure, filled with awe-inspiring beauty.

Nearby Attractions and Extra Activities in Page

After exploring the canyons, we decided to check out more of Page’s stunning natural beauty:

• Lake Powell & Glen Canyon Dam – A short drive from Horseshoe Bend and Wire Pass Trail, Lake Powell is a beautiful reservoir perfect for scenic boat tours or even a relaxing lakeside picnic. We stopped by the Glen Canyon Dam, where you can take in the sheer power of this engineering marvel and learn about its history. If you’re into water activities, the lake is a perfect spot for kayaking or paddleboarding.

• Rim View Trail – For a short and easy hike, the Rim View Trail is the perfect option, offering sweeping views of Lake Powell and the surrounding desert landscapes. The trail is relatively flat and gives you a great perspective of the dramatic scenery nearby.

After all the exploring we were ready for a hearty meal. For a vegetarian-friendly restaurant in Page, we highly recommend El Tapatio. The restaurant offers delicious vegetarian Mexican dishes like bean burritos and cheese enchiladas—perfect for refueling after a day of adventure.

Day 5: Grand Canyon & Camping in Flagstaff

Final Thoughts

This Arizona & Utah itinerary had everything—thrilling hikes, peaceful lakes, vibrant rock formations, and starry desert nights. If you’re planning a Southwest road trip, I can’t recommend this route enough! Let me know if you have any questions or need more travel tips.