Growing up in the American Southwest (and basing out of here now) Ive traveled to Utah and Arizona dozens of times each. Both states are stunningly beautiful and unique in this world, and this road trip combines the best of both of them.

　　Ive taken this trip several times myself, in pieces or all together. Ive done it in the spring, summer, and in winter conditions, and all are gorgeous and worth doing. Heres your ultimate Arizona and Utah road trip:

　　Table of Contents

　　Toggle Day 1-3: Zion National ParkDay 4: Bryce Canyon National ParkDay 5-6: Capitol Reef National ParkDay 7: Goblin Valley State Park and Little Wild Horse CanyonDay 8-9: Moab, Arches, and Canyonlands National ParksDay 10: Dead Horse Point State Park and Goosenecks State ParkRead Next: 65 Amazing Things to Do in UtahDay 11: Valley of the Gods and Monument ValleyDay 12-13: Page, ArizonaDay 14: The Wave or White PocketDay 15-16: Grand Canyon National ParkDay 17-20: Havasu FallsDays 21-23: SedonaDay 23: PhoenixThings to Note Day 1-3: Zion National Park This trip begins with Zion, which is most easily accessible by flying into Las Vegas and renting a car, enjoying some of the beautiful areas on the way, like the Valley of Fire, and ends in Phoenix. Its possible to rent a car and do this as a point to point trip with a different drop off location. Its a packed trip, but its just all of the best of the best:

　　Zion National Park

　　Starting the adventure in Zion National Park is always a thrill. The orange cliffs, verdant valleys, and stunning canyons provide a perfect introduction to the region.

　　Must-Do Activities: Angels Landing: This challenging hike with its steep switchbacks and narrow ridges offers some of the most spectacular views in the park. Its a bit nerve-wracking but worth every step. If you cant secure a permit, the Obersvation Point is a great alternative. The Narrows: Walking through the Virgin River, with towering canyon walls on either side, is an experience like no other. I recommend starting early to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of the canyon. Emerald Pools Trail: A more leisurely hike that takes you past beautiful waterfalls and pools. It’s a great way to cool off in the desert heat. Here are the best things to do in Zion National Park.

　　Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

　　Bryce Canyon National Park Next, I head to Bryce Canyon National Park. The unique hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—make this park a geological wonderland. Its great in any season, but I particularly love it with snow. This was taken in March.

　　Must-Do Activities: Sunrise and Sunset Points: The views from these points are incredible, especially at dawn and dusk when the light plays off the red rock formations. Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail: This combined trail is my favorite hike in Bryce, allowing you to walk among the towering hoodoos and experience the parks otherworldly landscape up close. Day 5-6: Capitol Reef National Park

　　The Temples of the Sun and Moon Capitol Reef National Park Capitol Reef might be less famous than Zion and Bryce, but its rugged beauty and fewer crowds make it a must-visit.

　　Must-Do Activities: Scenic Drive: This drive offers stunning views of the park’s rock formations, cliffs, and canyons. Hickman Bridge Trail: A relatively easy hike that leads to a massive natural arch. The views along the trail are fantastic, with plenty of opportunities for photography. Temple of the Sun and Moon: Located in the remote Cathedral Valley, these towering monoliths are awe-inspiring. Its a bit of a drive, but the solitude and beauty are well worth the journey. Check road conditions with the visitor center before attempting as this is a dirt road. Day 7: Goblin Valley State Park and Little Wild Horse Canyon

　　Goblin Valley State Park Goblin Valley is one of Utah’s hidden gems. The park is filled with strange, mushroom-shaped rock formations that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie.

　　Must-Do Activities: Explore the Goblins: Walking among the goblin-like rock formations is a fun and unique experience. Its mostly flat and easy, and isnt too large of an area. Little Wild Horse Canyon

　　Just a short drive from Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Canyon is one of my favorite slot canyons.

　　Must-Do Activities: Hiking the Canyon: The narrow, winding passages and towering walls create a magical atmosphere. It’s an easy hike that provides an excellent introduction to the beauty of Utah’s slot canyons. Day 8-9: Moab, Arches, and Canyonlands National Parks Arches National Park

　　Moab is my favorite place to spend a few days in Utah. It serves as the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

　　Must-Do Activities: Delicate Arch: This iconic arch is a symbol of Utah, and the hike to see it up close is a must. The view at sunset is particularly spectacular. Windows Section: This area features several large arches that are easily accessible and great for photography. Read our full Arches National Park guide.

　　Canyonlands National Park

　　Mother nature made a perfect frame Mesa Arch in Utah Canyonlands is vast and divided into four districts. The Island in the Sky district is the most accessible from Moab.

　　Must-Do Activities: Mesa Arch: This short hike leads to a stunning arch perched on the edge of a cliff, with expansive views of the canyon below. Its very popular at sunrise for the photo op above. Grand View Point: The name says it all. This viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the park’s rugged landscape. Scenic Flight over Canyonlands: A scenic flight is such a unique way to see the parks from above. I recommend going during golden hour. Day 10: Dead Horse Point State Park and Goosenecks State Park Dead Horse Point State Park

　　I love Dead Horse Point. Its small, and its mostly overlooks without any railing, but if youre in a group of adults, it can be fun to hiking along the rocks and enjoy the sunset.

　　Must-Do Activities: Dead Horse Point Overlook: The overlook provides panoramic views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. The sunsets here are nothing short of magical and it was a highlight of my very first solo American Southwest road trip. Goosenecks State Park

　　A little further south, Goosenecks State Park showcases the impressive meanders of the San Juan River.

　　Must-Do Activities: Overlook: The view from the park’s overlook reveals the deep, winding canyons carved by the river over millions of years. It’s a stunning sight, especially in the late afternoon light.

　　Read Next: 65 Amazing Things to Do in UtahEverything we didnt list here.

　　Day 11: Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley Valley of the Gods

　　This lesser-known area is often compared to Monument Valley but with far fewer crowds. I stumbled upon it by accident and then visited quite on purpose every time after that. Ive camped overnight there, droned around a bit, and overall just love this area.

　　Must-Do Activities: Scenic Drive: The 17-mile dirt road through the Valley of the Gods takes you past towering buttes and mesas. It’s a beautiful and serene drive that’s perfect for photography. Monument Valley

　　Were crossing into Arizona now beginning with Monument Valley, with its iconic, towering sandstone formations and rich Navajo heritage.

　　Must-Do Activities: Guided Tour: To truly appreciate the valley, youll need to enter the park and join a guided tour with a Navajo guide. They offer insights into the land’s history and significance and give you a chance to see the valley. Forrest Gump Point: This famous viewpoint on US Highway 163 offers a classic view of the valley and is a great spot for photos. Day 12-13: Page, Arizona Antelope Canyon

　　Taken in the upper Antelope canyon in Arizona Heading into Arizona, Page is a great base for exploring the area’s stunning slot canyons.

　　Must-Do Activities: Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon: Both canyons are stunning, with their narrow, winding passages and the way light filters down into the slots. Guided tours are required, and each offers a unique experience. Check out my upper vs. lower Antelope comparison. Horseshoe Bend

　　Just a short drive from Page, Horseshoe Bend is a must-see.

　　Must-Do Activities: Horseshoe Bend Overlook: The view of the Colorado River as it makes a dramatic horseshoe-shaped turn is awe-inspiring. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Lake Powell Lake Powell is a vast reservoir with countless opportunities for water-based activities.

　　Must-Do Activities: Boat Tour: Taking a boat tour is a great way to explore the lake and its many hidden coves and canyons. The views from the water are spectacular. Day 14: The Wave or White Pocket

　　Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Securing a permit for The Wave can be challenging, so if you cant score one, take a guided tour of White Pocket. Its a great alternative to the wave and is so unique!

　　Must-Do Activities: Hiking to The Wave: The hike to The Wave is strenuous but incredibly rewarding. The swirling sandstone formations are like nothing else on Earth. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a good map or GPS. White Pocket: Check out the turtle shell patterns and orange waves of White Pocket. (4WD or guide required). Day 15-16: Grand Canyon National Park Grand Canyon National Park

　　No road trip through northern Arizona is complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon.

　　Must-Do Activities: South Rim: The South Rim is the most accessible part of the park and offers some of the best views. Walking along the Rim Trail and stopping at various viewpoints is a great way to see the canyon. Bright Angel Trail: For a more challenging hike, the Bright Angel Trail descends into the canyon, offering incredible views and a true sense of the canyon’s scale. Day 17-20: Havasu Falls

　　Havasu Falls Havasu Falls, located in the Havasupai Reservation, is a hidden paradise. Permits are a bit hard to score, but worth the effort. Read my Havasu Guide for more.

　　Must-Do Activities: Hiking to Havasu Falls: The 10-mile hike to the falls is challenging but rewarding. The vibrant blue-green water of the falls is a stunning contrast to the red rock canyon. Be sure to secure a permit well in advance, as they are required and can be hard to get. Camping: Spending a night or two camping near the falls allows you to fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of this magical place. Days 21-23: Sedona

　　Sedona Sedona’s red rock landscapes and spiritual vortexes keep bringing me back. The town itself is charming, with a mix of art galleries, shops, and high end boutique wellness resorts, but I love how accessible many of the hikes are. Theyre mostly flat and not too long, which makes it easier with young kids.

　　Must-Do Activities: Cathedral Rock: This hike offers some of the best views in Sedona. It’s a bit steep but the panoramic vistas from the top are worth the effort. Bell Rock: Another iconic Sedona hike, Bell Rock is believed to be a vortex site. The energy here feels unique and invigorating. Sedona Vortex Tour: Exploring the spiritual vortexes of Sedona with a guided tour can be an enlightening experience. Read my favorite Sedona things to do here.

　　Day 23: Phoenix Phoenix Ending the road trip in Phoenix provides a vibrant contrast to the natural landscapes explored so far. The city’s cultural scene, dining options, and outdoor activities make it a great final stop.

　　Must-Do Activities: Desert Botanical Garden: This garden showcases the unique plant life of the Sonoran Desert. It’s a peaceful place to wander and learn about desert flora. Camelback Mountain: Hiking Camelback Mountain is a popular activity in Phoenix. The views from the top are fantastic, and the trail is challenging but rewarding. Downtown Phoenix: Exploring the city’s museums, art galleries, and restaurants is a great way to wind down from the adventure. I recommend the Heard Museum for its focus on Native American cultures. Things to Note This road trip through southern Utah and northern Arizona covers some of the most spectacular and iconic landscapes in the American Southwest, but it means being busy every day and probably making some tough decisions about what to miss. Theres so much to see, it takes months to fully explore each state, but this road trip offers the best of the best of it.

　　This can be done as a camping trip or in lodges and hotels, or a mix. I love camping out of my 4WD pickup truck which gives me access to more remote camping, but this itinerary can be done with a 2WD vehicle, too. Also keep in mind weather and road conditions. This area can get summer monsoons and winter snow.

　　After more than a dozen trips through this region, I can confidently say that it never gets old, and there’s always something new to discover.