The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to the Southwest National Parks
Road-tripping through the American Southwest (Nevada, Utah, and Arizona) is a great way to see the stunning national and state parks in the region. If you're planning a similar trip, here are some tips to help you make the most of your adventure.
Before the Trip:
Camper Van vs. Hotel: Choosing between a camper van and a hotel is a personal decision, but it's important to consider the weather, security, and availability of campsites. If you're traveling during the hot summer months, a hotel may provide more relief from the heat. Additionally, if you're traveling with expensive gear, a hotel may be a more secure option. Finally, campsites can book up months in advance, so make sure you have a plan in place.
Airport: If you're starting and ending your trip in Las Vegas, flying into and out of the same airport can save you money on rental cars. However, if you have other places you want to visit, consider flying into a different city and planning your itinerary accordingly.
National Parks Pass: If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing a National Parks Pass. For $80, you can get entry to all parks for yourself, up to three others, and your vehicle. It's a great deal if you plan to visit more than a couple of parks.
Reserving Gear: Some national parks, such as Zion, require specialized gear to access certain areas. Make sure you reserve gear in advance to ensure availability. Zion Outfitters is a great option for renting gear and reserving shuttles.
Plan Ahead: It's essential to plan your route and make reservations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This includes booking accommodations, rental cars, and any necessary gear, like camping equipment or adventure activities like guided hikes or bike rentals.
Pack Appropriately: When packing for your road trip, be sure to consider the weather conditions and terrain of each location you plan to visit. In addition to comfortable clothing and hiking shoes, it's important to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen to protect against the desert sun. For longer hikes, bring a backpack with first-aid supplies, a headlamp, and extra layers.
[BONUS] Avoiding the Zion Shuttle: During peak season, Zion National Park can get overcrowded and require shuttle tickets to access certain areas. Staying at the Zion Lodge can help you avoid the shuttle entirely and get an early start on popular hikes.
During the Trip:
Start Early: To avoid crowds, start your hikes early in the morning. Some parks have a "one in, one out" policy that can lead to long wait times if you arrive at midday. Plus, hiking in the early morning can be a great way to beat the heat and enjoy stunning sunrise views.
Offline Google Maps: With limited cell service in the parks, make sure you download offline Google Maps of the areas you'll be visiting. This can help you navigate trails and find your way around the parks.
Stay Safe: Safety should be a top priority on any road trip, especially in remote areas like national and state parks. Always follow park rules and regulations, stay on marked trails, and avoid dangerous areas like steep cliffs and rushing water. It's also a good idea to let someone know your itinerary and expected return time, especially if you plan to venture off on your own.
Leave No Trace: When visiting National and State parks, it's crucial to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. This includes packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife and natural features. By following these guidelines, you can help preserve the natural beauty of these stunning destinations for generations to come.
The Parks:
Valley of Fire State Park: Located just about an hour northeast of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire is a stunning park known for its vibrant red rock formations, petroglyphs, and hiking trails. It's a great place to stop and stretch your legs if you're driving from Las Vegas to Zion National Park, and many visitors choose to spend a full day exploring the park. Some popular hikes in Valley of Fire include the Fire Wave Trail, the White Domes Trail, and the Rainbow Vista Trail.
Zion National Park: Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, and for good reason. The park is home to some of the most iconic hikes and landscapes in the country, including the Narrows, Angels Landing, and the Zion Canyon scenic drive. In addition to hiking and scenic drives, visitors to Zion can also go canyoneering, rock climbing, or horseback riding.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Bryce Canyon is a unique park known for its hoodoos, or tall spires of rock that have been eroded over time. The park is home to several popular hiking trails, including the Navajo Loop Trail and the Queen's Garden Trail. For those who are short on time, the park also offers a scenic drive that provides stunning views of the hoodoos from multiple viewpoints.
Capitol Reef National Park: Capitol Reef is a lesser-known park that is located in south-central Utah. The park is known for its stunning geological formations, including the Waterpocket Fold, which is a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the earth's crust. Visitors to Capitol Reef can hike, bike, or drive through the park, and there are also several historic buildings and orchards to explore.
Canyonlands National Park: Canyonlands is a massive park located in southeastern Utah near Moab. The park is divided into three districts, each with its own unique landscapes and hiking trails. The Island in the Sky district is the most popular, as it offers stunning views of the canyons from several viewpoints. Visitors to Canyonlands can also go backpacking, rafting, or mountain biking.
Arches National Park: Arches is another popular park located in eastern Utah. The park is known for its unique sandstone arches, which were formed over millions of years of erosion. The park offers several popular hikes, including the Delicate Arch Trail and the Devils Garden Trail. Visitors can also drive through the park and stop at several viewpoints to see the arches from different angles.
Monument Valley: Monument Valley is a Navajo Tribal Park located on the border of Utah and Arizona. The park is known for its stunning red rock formations and iconic landscapes that have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. Visitors to Monument Valley can take guided tours through the park, which may include jeep tours or horseback rides.
Sedona: Sedona is a popular destination in northern Arizona known for its red rock formations and New Age vibe. The town is surrounded by several parks and national forests, including Red Rock State Park and Coconino National Forest. Visitors to Sedona can hike, bike, or drive through the area to see the stunning landscapes, or they can explore the town's art galleries, restaurants, and shops.
Grand Canyon National Park: Last but certainly not least, the Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States. The park is home to one of the world's most stunning natural wonders, and visitors can explore the area through hiking, rafting, or scenic drives. The South Rim of the park is the most popular, as it offers stunning views of the canyon from several viewpoints and hiking trails. For an unforgettable experience, book a helicopter tour!
Other Tips:
Go in the shoulder season: The shoulder season for this region is in the spring and fall, outside of peak summer travel. By traveling during the shoulder season, you'll have fewer crowds, better weather, and lower prices on accommodation and activities.
Stay in Kanab, Utah: Kanab is a small town located in the middle of all the national parks on this itinerary. While it's not as well-known as some of the other destinations on this trip, it's an excellent place to use as a base. Staying in Kanab will allow you to easily access Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, and even Monument Valley. Plus, it has its own charming Main Street with great restaurants and shops.
Get a National Park Passport: A National Park Passport is a fun way to keep track of all the national parks you've visited. You can purchase a passport at any national park visitor center or online. Then, at each park you visit, you can get a stamp to add to your passport.
Take a night sky photography tour: The desert Southwest has some of the best stargazing in the country. If you're into photography or just want to experience the incredible night sky, consider taking a night sky photography tour. Some parks have their own tours, or you can book one with a local tour operator.
Itinerary & Photo Guide:
There are so many incredible places in the Southwest to see; I compiled a list of my itinerary (including photos and what hikes they were taken on) for you!
Overall, road-tripping through Nevada, Utah, and Arizona is a great way to see some of the most stunning national and state parks in the United States. With a little planning, you can make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories.
FAQ:
What are some parks that would be a good add-on?
Several other parks would make for great add-ons to a road trip starting and ending in Las Vegas and traveling through Valley of Fire, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, Monument Valley, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon. Here are a few suggestions:
Great Basin National Park: Located in eastern Nevada, Great Basin is a hidden gem with stunning alpine lakes, ancient bristlecone pine forests, and some of the darkest skies in the country for stargazing.
Mesa Verde National Park: Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde is known for its well-preserved cliff dwellings and ancient Native American history.
Petrified Forest National Park: Located in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest is home to colorful badlands, petrified wood, and ancient puebloan ruins.
Joshua Tree National Park: Located in southeastern California, Joshua Tree is a unique desert park with towering rock formations, colorful wildflowers, and, of course, the iconic Joshua trees.
Death Valley National Park: Located just a few hours from Las Vegas, Death Valley is a vast and extreme desert landscape with salt flats, sand dunes, canyons, and unique geologic formations.
Are there any lodging options available near the southwest national parks?
Yes, there are a variety of lodging options available near the southwest national parks. Accommodations range from camping and RV sites to luxury cabins, resorts, and hotels. There are also a variety of other options such as vacation homes, B&Bs, and hostels. In addition, many of the national parks have their own lodging options available. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious stay, there is sure to be something to accommodate your needs.
How can I get to the southwest national parks by public transportation?
Although driving gives you the most flexibility, reaching the American southwest national parks by public transportation can be a great way to explore the area. Depending on where you are coming from and which park you are visiting, there are a few different options.
If you are visiting the Grand Canyon, you can take Amtrak's Southwest Chief train line to Flagstaff, Arizona. From there, you can take the Grand Canyon Railway to the Grand Canyon. Additionally, there are several shuttle services available from Flagstaff to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
For other parks such as Zion National Park and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, you can take the Greyhound bus line to St. George, Utah. From there, you can hop on a shuttle that will take you to the park.
Finally, for other parks in the area such as Death Valley National Park, you can take the Amtrak train to Las Vegas, then take a shuttle to your destination.
No matter which park you are visiting, public transportation can help you get there safely and conveniently.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the southwest national parks?
If you are planning a visit to one of the national parks in the American Southwest, you can expect to encounter a wide variety of wildlife. Bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and white-tailed deer are often seen grazing in the open areas. Coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and mountain lions are also common, but they may be harder to spot. You may also see birds like hawks and eagles as they soar above the landscape. And, of course, don't forget to look out for smaller critters like rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks!
What is the best time of year to visit the southwest national parks?
The best time of year to visit the national parks in the southwest of the United States depends on your preferences and which parks you plan to visit. Generally, spring and fall are best for avoiding overly-hot temperatures and large crowds. In some areas, like the Grand Canyon and surrounding area, spring and fall offer the clearest skies and best views. If you plan on visiting the higher-elevation parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon, plan your trip for early summer when the wildflowers are in full bloom.
Are there any guided tours available at the southwest national parks?
Yes, there are plenty of guided tours available at the southwest national parks. Depending on which park you would like to visit, there are a wide range of activities and tours on offer that can be tailored to your specific needs. Many national parks offer guided tours that are both educational and entertaining, enabling you to learn more about the park and its history while enjoying the scenery. If you’re looking for an exciting outdoor experience, there are also many outdoor adventure companies that can provide you with a unique and memorable experience.
