Zion-Mount Carmel Highway Oversize Vehicle Travel Beginning June 7, 2026, oversized vehicles will be rerouted from the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Learn more.

Zion National Park | Andrew Burr

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Zion to the Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Road Trip

7 Days • 499 Miles

Zion to the Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Road Trip

Travel from Zion to the Grand Canyon's North Rim for an unforgettable week-long adventure.

Tucked into the southwest corner of Utah, Zion National Park is the centerpiece for a 6-day red-rock vacation that includes a little bit of everything that makes the state such a marvel to experience. Whether you’re flying into Salt Lake, Las Vegas, or nearby St. George, most visitors will enter the park through Springdale, a growing town that’s equipped to offer plenty of creature comforts in this otherwise wild region.

The Zion region exists at the intersection of many different ecosystems, each with their own treasures to uncover. From the red sands of the Mojave desert to the west, to the high alpine forests to the north, to the narrow slot canyons to the south, no matter where you turn, the classic red rock vacation you may have in mind will end up being more diverse than you’d ever expect.

Because of this region’s close proximity to I-15, you’re never too far away from a city or town full of knowledgeable locals happy to help you get the most out of your vacation. This itinerary is full of suggestions that aren’t quite on the radar of the average visitor, but nonetheless offer memorable moments that rival a scramble up Angel’s Landing. For certain experiences we recommend taking advantage of guides that can help you explore like a local and find views rarely found in brochures or Instagram feeds, as well as make as little an impact on the fragile ecosystem as possible. This is a region that rewards taking the path less traveled, sure to leave you feeling like that one overlook was made just for you.

Prepare for your trip with these how-to visit Zion tips.

Start: From Salt Lake City drive roughly five hours south west to Springdale
End: From Kanab head back to Salt Lake City or extend your trip by visiting the Bryce Canyon region
Hours of Driving: 21+ hours, including travel between the region and Salt Lake City

Day 1

Zion Canyon From A Different Point Of View

75 Miles

Though Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country, restricting car traffic within Zion Canyon has kept it a picturesque place to explore. From March through November and during the holidays in December, daily shuttles run through the Zion Canyon Drive, giving visitors front-door access to all the “must-see” spots. The park entrance and first shuttle stop are within walking distance from anywhere in Springdale, so leave your car where it is and stretch your legs before the main event. First-time visitors will inevitably want to check out the Emerald Pools or the vertigo-inducing Angels Landing trails. Still, we suggest you stay flexible and hop off the shuttle when others choose to stay on, or find a trail/experience that offers some solitude.

Where to Stay
Spend the night in Springdale before a second day of exploring Zion.

Tips for Prepared Travelers
Soil Sleuth: Protecting Utah's Living Landscapes

Day 2

Exploring the Perimeter of Zion

20 Miles

Day two explores the region surrounding Zion, referred to as Greater Zion. Explore mountain biking trails, ghost town or famous Utah State Parks.

Those already familiar with Utah know that Moab is a mecca for singletrack riding, but the area south of Zion National Park is also home to some seriously epic lines. Whether you’re bringing your own bike or renting from a local outfitter, there are trails suited to any experience level.

After your two-wheeled adventures, return to Springdale for your last night in the shadow of the canyon walls. Springdale sunsets are worth lingering on a patio with a cold drink in hand as the night climbs its way up the eastern face of the nearby cliffs.

Where to Stay
Make up for a day spent outside of the national park’s borders by reserving a camping spot within Zion, either at the Watchman or South campgrounds.

Tips for Prepared Travelers
Hiking Southern Utah with Younger Children: Tips for Family-Friendly Adventure

**Snow Canyon State Park** | Matt Morgan

Day 3

St. George and Snow Canyon State Park

73 Miles

It’s time to hit the road to nearby St. George, a city experiencing remarkable growth. Before you hit the town, you’ll detour to Snow Canyon State Park, a natural wonder that exists at the intersection of three different geologic zones — the Mojave desert, Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. Due to the confluence of forces shaping this land, you’ll marvel at the diverse landscape before you.

Rock climbers of all skill levels have learned to call these canyons home, with bolted routes scattered about, and cyclists that prefer tarmac to singletrack will find plenty to enjoy on the park’s scenic drive.

In St. George, summer visitors will have the opportunity to see a show at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre. This stage is nestled within a red rock canyon, offering concertgoers a once-in-a-lifetime open air show under the clear desert sky. (Read: Exploring the Arts in St. George)

Where to Stay
Spend the night in luxury digs at one of St. George’s resorts, or camping in the nearby Red Cliffs Recreation area.

**Dixie National Forest** | More Than Just Parks

Day 5

Brian Head to Dixie National Forest

100 Miles

Now for something completely unexpected: a lush, green high alpine forest in the middle of red rock country. Dixie National Forest never fails to surprise travelers driving through the Zion region. One moment you’re looking out at mesas and buttes straight out of classic westerns, then you turn a corner to find yourself in an entirely different world. Because this area doesn’t fit with the “classic” national park vacation many visitors have in mind, it doesn’t get the attention it deserves. That makes it a perfect place to explore for anyone who loves actually “getting away” during a vacation. The centerpiece of the day’s activities is Cedar Breaks National Monument, another hidden gem that is often overlooked. Geologically similar to Bryce Canyon National Park, this natural amphitheater is a few million years older and slightly more weathered than its national park doppelganger. That said, it still scratches that itch to sample Utah’s iconic hoodoo spires in a more laid-back, remote location — though at 10,000 feet above sea level, it can take time to acclimate.

Where to Stay
Camping under the crystal clear Milky Way in Cedar Breaks National Monument.

**Red Cliffs Desert Reserve** | Greater Zion Convention & Tourism Office

Day 4

Red Cliffs Recreation Area and Cedar City

76 Miles

After a relaxing night of culture, it’s time to get dirty! Depending on your thrill-seekingtolerance, a morning can be spent riding ATVs and OHVs across the red dunes of Sand Hollow State Park, or floating across Quail Creek Reservoir on rented stand-up paddle boards.

No matter your choice of morning activity, make time to explore the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve for the rest of the day. Choose between the red-rock rimmed Upland area and the fragile desert ecosystem of the Lowland zone. Visitors interested in ecotourism enjoy a guided tour of the Lowland area to learn about the sensitive species and microbiomes that hold this transition zone together. Kids love to explore the City Creek area or the red-rock playground at Pioneer Park) just north of St. George.

Where to Stay
Reserve a room in Cedar City for some well-deserved pampering (Read: 24 Hours in Cedar City).

Tips for Prepared Travelers
Things to know about Off-Road Vehicle Use

Day 6

Slot Canyon Adventures Near Kanab

75 Miles

Spend the final day of your journey heading south for the border — with Arizona, that is — in search of slot canyons to explore. These canyons on the Utah-Arizona border range in difficulty from strolls to technical multi-day expeditions. No matter your comfort level with the claustrophobic walls of Utah’s slot canyons, they are always more enjoyable with a local guide’s help. After enjoying breakfast in Kanab, join a tour operator to get the most out of the nearby slot canyons, such as the family-friendly Peekaboo Canyon or a multi-day trek through Buckskin Gulch, the longest navigated slot canyon in the state.

Tips for Prepared Travelers
Expert Tips for Your Next Canyoneering Adventure

Extend Your Stay
Once you’ve reemerged into the desert sun, you can return to St. George for your flight home, or call in sick for a few more days and extend your vacation nearby at Lake Powell.

**North Rim Grand Canyon** | John Fowler

Day 7

Drive from Kanab to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon

80 Miles

Head south from Kanab through the Kaibab National Forest to visit the cooler, less crowded North Rim. Take the North Kaibab Trail, which forms the upper half of the famous Rim-to-Rim Trail, and enjoy stunning views as you hike down to the Colorado River. For a shorter, but equally beautiful hike, the trail leading to Bright Angel Point is a less strenuous way to explore the North Rim. Other easy-to-intermediate options include Cape Final Trail and Rainbow Rim Trail.

Once you’ve explored, depart for Las Vegas (3.5 hours from North Rim) or return to St. George/SLC. Note that, unlike the South Rim, which is open year-round, the North Rim usually closes for the winter (mid-October or November to mid-May) due to heavy snow. If following this itinerary in the winter or early spring, you will have to drive the long way around to the South Rim.

South Rim alternative: If you still want to see the famous South Rim, it is a much longer drive from Kanab (about 3.5 to 4 hours, 225 miles) that takes you east through Page, AZ (home to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend) before heading south to the Grand Canyon Village. Many travelers turn this into a "Grand Circle" trip by visiting Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend on the way between Kanab and the Grand Canyon.

FAQs

Q: Can I drive my own car into Zion Canyon?

A: No, from March through November and during the December holidays, you must use the free park shuttle to access the main scenic drive. Private vehicles are allowed on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and in Kolob Canyons.

Q: Do I need a permit for the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel?
A: If you are driving an RV or a large vehicle, you must pay a 15 dollar permit fee for a ranger-controlled tunnel escort. Note that starting June 7, 2026, oversized vehicles will be prohibited from this highway entirely.

Q: Which hikes require a permit in Zion?
A: Angels Landing requires a permit 24/7, which is obtained via a lottery on Recreation.gov. The Subway also requires a permit for all hikers.

Q: When is the best time to hike the Narrows?
A: Late spring and summer are the most popular times, though the trail often closes in April and May due to high water levels from snowmelt. Always check the flash flood rating before entering.

Q: How far is the drive from Zion to the Grand Canyon?
A: The drive from Zion to the North Rim is approximately 2.5 hours. The drive from Zion to the South Rim is approximately 4.5 hours.

Shuttles, Fees & Parking

Q: Should I buy a National Parks Pass?
A: If you are a U.S. resident, it’s worth it to purchase the America the Beautiful pass for $80. Since Zion and the Grand Canyon each charge $35 for entry, the pass pays for itself if you visit a third park or monument, like Bryce Canyon or Cedar Breaks. The pass is now $250 for non-residents, so international visitors may want to only pay for a specific park entry.

Q: How many days do I need for both parks?
A: A comprehensive trip usually requires 6 to 8 days. This allows for 2 to 3 days in Zion and the surrounding areas, like Snow Canyon, and 2 days at the Grand Canyon, with travel time in between.

Q: Where should I stay if the parks are full?
A: For Zion, look for lodging in Hurricane or La Verkin. For the North Rim, Kanab is the closest major town with multiple options. For the Grand Canyon South Rim, look in Tusayan or Williams, AZ.

Q: Which Grand Canyon Rim should I visit?
A: The South Rim is open year-round and has the most iconic views and services. The North Rim is higher in elevation, cooler, and less crowded, but it is typically only open from mid-May to mid-October.

Q: Do I need a permit for the Grand Canyon?
A: You do not need a permit for day hiking or driving to viewpoints. You only need a permit if you plan to camp overnight below the canyon rim or at certain backcountry sites.

Where to Stay Near Zion