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Utah’s Mighty 5 refers to the five iconic national parks located in the state of Utah in the United States. From the towering red cliffs of Zion National Park to the array of hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, colorful cliffs in Capitol Reef National Park, rugged regions in Canyonlands, and sandstone arches in Arches National Park, we will uncover some facts about these regions that will help you plan the best trip through scenic southern Utah.
Photo credit: Trevor Gerzen/Unplash
Unique Landscape: Known for its towering red cliffs, deep canyons, and lush vegetation, Zion National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The park is home to the famous Zion Canyon, offering breathtaking views and a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Angels Landing and The Narrows.
Distances: Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park: Approximately 72 miles (116 kilometers) or a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
How Long Should You Spend There: To fully embrace Zion National Park, plan to spend at least 2 to 3 days. This will allow you to explore the main highlights, hike some of the popular trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows, and take in the stunning scenery.
How to Get There:
By Car: Zion is located in Springdale, Utah, and can be reached by car via Interstate 15. The park has its own shuttle system to navigate within the park.
By Air: The closest major airports are McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada (approximately 160 miles or 258 kilometers), and Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah (approximately 300 miles or 483 kilometers). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Zion National Park.
Photo credit: Alain Bonnardeaux/Unsplash
Unique Landscape: Bryce Canyon is renowned for its otherworldly landscape of hoodoos, tall spire-like rock formations. These colourful and intricate formations create a mesmerizing sight, especially during sunrise and sunset. The park offers numerous viewpoints and hiking trails, such as the scenic Rim Trail and the challenging Queen's Garden Trail.
Distances: Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park: Approximately 121 miles (195 kilometers) or a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
How Long Should You Spend There: Bryce Canyon National Park: A visit to Bryce Canyon can be done in 1 to 2 days. This will provide ample time to enjoy the scenic viewpoints, hike the trails down into the amphitheater, and witness the magical sunrise or sunset over the hoodoos.
By Car: Bryce Canyon is accessible by car via State Route 12 or US Route 89. The park has its own scenic drive and parking areas.
By Air: The closest major airports are McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada (approximately 270 miles or 435 kilometers), and Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah (approximately 270 miles or 435 kilometers). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Bryce Canyon National Park.
Photo credit: Tracy Zhang/Unsplash
Unique Landscape: Capitol Reef showcases a unique geological history with its colourful cliffs, domes, canyons, and natural bridges. The park also features ancient petroglyphs, historic orchards, and the scenic Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth's crust. Visitors can explore the park through scenic drives, hiking trails, and even fruit-picking in the historic orchards.
Distances: Capitol Reef National Park to Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky district): Approximately 135 miles (217 kilometers) or a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
How Long Should You Spend There: You can explore the highlights of Capitol Reef in 1 to 2 days. Take a scenic drive through the park, hike some of the trails, and visit the historic sites and orchards within the park.
By Car: Capitol Reef is located near Torrey, Utah, and can be reached by car via State Route 24. The park has its own scenic drive and parking areas.
By Air: The closest major airports are Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah (approximately 210 miles or 338 kilometers), and Grand Junction Regional Airport in Grand Junction, Colorado (approximately 190 miles or 306 kilometers). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Capitol Reef National Park.
Photo credit: Domink Schroder/Unsplash
Unique Landscape: Canyonlands is a vast and rugged park characterized by its deep canyons, towering mesas, and dramatic river valleys. It is divided into four districts, each offering a distinct experience. The Island in the Sky district provides stunning panoramic views, the Needles district offers outstanding hiking opportunities, the Maze district is a remote wilderness area for adventurous explorers, and the riverside district allows for thrilling river trips.
Distances: Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky district) to Arches National Park: Approximately 115 miles (185 kilometers) or a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
How Long Should You Spend There: Canyonlands is a vast park with multiple districts. For the Island in the Sky district, plan for at least 1 to 2 days to enjoy the panoramic views, hike the trails, and experience the unique landscapes. If you wish to explore additional districts like the Needles or the Maze, consider allocating more time accordingly.
By Car: Canyonlands has three districts, and the Island in the Sky district is the most accessible. It can be reached by car via US Route 191. The park has its own scenic drive and parking areas.
By Air: The closest major airports are Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah (approximately 240 miles or 386 kilometers), and Grand Junction Regional Airport in Grand Junction, Colorado (approximately 130 miles or 209 kilometers). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Canyonlands National Park.
Photo credit: NOAA/Unsplash
Unique Landscape: Arches is famous for its natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. The park boasts over 2,000 natural arches, as well as balanced rocks, fins, and other unique rock formations. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, short hikes, and longer trails that take them through the stunning desert landscape.
How Long Should You Spend There: You can explore the main attractions and enjoy the beauty of Arches in 1 to 2 days. Visit the famous arches, hike the trails, and take in the mesmerizing rock formations.
By Car: Arches is located near Moab, Utah, and can be reached by car via US Route 191. The park has its own scenic drive and parking areas.
By Air: The closest major airports are Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah (approximately 230 miles or 370 kilometers), and Grand Junction Regional Airport in Grand Junction, Colorado (approximately 110 miles or 177 kilometers). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Arches National Park.
Each of the Mighty 5 national parks in Utah offers visitors a chance to witness the state's extraordinary natural beauty, unique geology, and outdoor adventures. They are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike, providing unforgettable experiences and incredible vistas.
Banner Image Credit: Tim Mossholder/Unsplash
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