An epic journey through Utah’s wild beauty
This 11-day self-drive itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey through Utah’s spectacular national parks and iconic desert landscapes, beginning and ending in Salt Lake City. Along the way, discover dramatic canyons, sandstone arches, and star-filled skies, with driving distances, must-see highlights, and dining recommendations all included.
Nights: 2
Must-do's: Explore Temple Square, visit the Great Salt Lake, and see Olympic history at Utah Olympic Park..
Dining hotspots: Red Iguana (authentic Mexican), Valter’s Osteria (Italian fine dining).
Drive to next stop: → Moab 235 mi / 380 km ~4 hrs.
Nights: 2
Must-do's: Visit Arches National Park for Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch; explore Canyonlands’ Mesa Arch and Island in the Sky; and take in Dead Horse Point State Park’s sweeping views.
Dining hotspots: Moab Brewery, Desert Bistro.
Drive to next stop: → Capitol Reef National Park 145 mi / 235 km ~2.5 hrs.
Nights: 1
Must-do's: Drive the scenic Highway 12, hike Capitol Gorge, and take the Hickman Bridge Trail.
Dining hotspots: Café Diablo, The Rim Rock Restaurant
Drive to next stop: → Bryce Canyon National Park 120 mi / 190 km ~2.5 hrs
Nights: 1
Must-do's: See the otherworldly Bryce Amphitheatre, Sunrise and Sunset Points, and walk the Rim Trail for panoramic views.
Dining hotspots: Bryce Canyon Pines Restaurant, Stone Hearth Grille
Drive to next stop: → Zion National Park 85 mi / 135 km ~2 hrs
Nights: 2
Must-do's: Hike The Narrows, conquer Angels Landing, explore Emerald Pools, and visit Kolob Canyons for quieter trails.
Dining hotspots: Oscar’s Café, Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon
Drive to next stop: → Page / Lake Powell 118 mi / 190 km ~2 hrs 15 min
Nights: 1
Must-do's: Take a guided tour of Antelope Canyon, see Horseshoe Bend at sunset, and enjoy a scenic Lake Powell boat cruise.
Dining hotspots: Big John’s Texas BBQ, Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge
Drive to next stop: → Monument Valley 125 mi / 200 km ~2.5 hrs
Nights: 1
Must-do's: Explore Navajo Tribal Park on a scenic drive and capture sunset views over the sandstone buttes..
Dining hotspots: Goulding’s Stagecoach Dining Room.
Drive to next stop: → Salt Lake City (via Moab) 340 mi / 550 km ~6.5 hrs.
Nights: 1
Must-do's: Visit the Utah State Capitol, stroll through Red Butte Garden, or unwind before departure..
Dining hotspots: Current Fish & Oyster, Takashi (sushi).
Drive to next stop: → Departure.
From the city buzz of Salt Lake to the soaring arches, crimson canyons, and star-studded desert skies — this Utah road trip is a journey through some of the planet’s most jaw-dropping landscapes. Whether you’re hiking beneath sandstone giants or sipping something cold under the Milky Way, every mile promises another “wow” moment. So, pack your sense of adventure (and your camera), hit the open road, and let Utah show you just how wild, wonderful, and unforgettable America’s natural wonders can be.
Love the route? Let’s make it yours
Whether you want to follow this itinerary stop by stop, add a few detours, or build your own self-drive adventure from scratch, our travel experts are here to help you plan every unforgettable mile.