The 12 Best Hikes in Utah’s National Parks
- Angels Landing and West Rim Trail, Zion National Park.
- Navajo-Queens Garden and Peek-a-Boo Loops, Bryce Canyon National Park.
- Delicate Arch at Sunset, Arches National Park.
- The Subway, Zion National Park.
- Devils Garden, Arches National Park.
- Chesler Park, Canyonlands National Park.
Contents
What is the most scenic national park in Utah?
15 Top-Rated National and State Parks in Utah
- Zion National Park. Zion National Park | Photo Copyright: Lana Law.
- Arches National Park.
- Canyonlands National Park.
- Bryce Canyon National Park.
- Dead Horse Point State Park.
- Capitol Reef National Park.
- Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
- Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Which is better Bryce Canyon or Arches National Park?
In winter, you will deal with more snow in the Bryce Canyon area but that opens you up to many winter activities that you will not find in Arches.While Arches is very similar to Bryce Canyon in outdoor activities, Arches will be a better destination for most mountain bikers and four wheel-drive enthusiasts.
Where should we hike in Utah?
Popular Utah Hiking Destinations
- Capitol Reef National Park.
- Salt Lake.
- Zion National Park.
- Arches National Park.
- St George.
- Bryce Canyon National Park.
- Moab.
- Canyonlands National Park.
Which is better for hiking Bryce or Zion?
Both of these Parks offer great outdoor activities for all ages. For canyoneering and rappelling, Zion beats Bryce. You’ll find world-class hiking in either Park, but in Zion you can find yourself hiking through streams or on sandstone ledges, like Angels Landing – one of the scariest hikes in the world!
What is better Zion or Moab?
I would go to Moab. Even though Zions is higher on my list for best parks, Moab gives you a lot more options for activities besides hiking. Zions canyon is fairly small and the major hiking is limited for short time visitors to three or four good hikes and about the same number of smaller hikes.
Which Utah park is the best?
Arches National Park might be the best known of Utah’s parks producing rock arches, but Natural Bridges National Monument should not be cast aside. The size of these arches were larger than most I experienced in Arches NP, and the visitor experience was greater because it wasn’t crowded like Arches.
How far apart are Zion and Arches National Park?
The drive from Zion National Park to Arches National Park is 351 miles (564 km).
Where should I stay in Utah national parks?
The best hotels in Utah for a national parks trip
- Zion National Park Lodge. Photo: Zion Lodge.
- Yurt rental at East Zion Resort.
- One-bedroom cottages near Bryce Canyon.
- Large home for groups and families one mile to Bryce Canyon.
- Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel.
- Dark Sky House.
- Capitol Reef Resort.
- The Gonzo Inn.
What is the best time to visit Utah National Parks?
Moderate crowds and temperatures in April–May and September–October make these months the best time to visit Utah and its national parks. Spring boasts active wildlife and blooming flowers. Pleasant fall wraps Utah in colorful foliage along the scenic drives.
What is the hardest hike in Utah?
Utah’s Toughest Trail Runs
- Mt. Raymond. Distance: 7.8-mile out-and-back.
- Mt. Nebo North. Distance: 8.7-mile out-and-back.
- Fish Lake Loop. Distance: 9.4-mile loop. Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet.
- Frary Peak. Distance: 6.3-mile out-and-back. Elevation Gain: 2,030 feet.
- Squaw Peak. Distance: 7.1-mile out-and-back.
How do I prepare for hiking in Utah?
What to Pack for Utah National Park Vacations
- Sturdy Water Shoes for Hiking Rivers and Rafting.
- Blacklight Flashlight to See Scorpions.
- A Sun Hat, Sunglasses and Sunscreen.
- Rain Jacket.
- Sturdy Hiking Boots.
- A Large Water Jug.
- A Couple of Water Bottles or a Hydration System.
- Warm and Cold Clothing Layers.
What city is Zion National Park in?
Springdale
Zion National Park is located on State Route 9 in Springdale, Utah.
Which is better Grand Canyon or Zion National Park?
Zion is just as beautiful, more accessible and less crowded much of the year than the Grand Canyon, where the rim walking paths and the main trails into the canyon can be packed with people during peak travel seasons. You won’t need your car much, either.
Is Zion or Bryce more popular?
With 2.6 million visitors in 2019, Bryce Canyon is America’s 12th most popular park. Crowds are common at most scenic overlooks and a number of trails, especially in summer, but the atmosphere is quieter than at Zion.
Is Bryce Canyon as busy as Zion?
Bryce Canyon National Park: Great alternative.Just an hour or so from Zion is another great National Park. The good news is that it is not nearly so crowded as Zion. More good news — it is probably 15 degrees cooler.
What is the Big 5 in Utah?
Utah’s Mighty Five: The “Big 5” Amazing National Parks of the State. Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands: these are Utah’s five national parks, known for their natural beauty and landscapes that see thousands of visitors each year.
How many days do you need in Moab?
We recommend at least 2 full days/ 3 nights for the Moab area. One day for Arches National Park and half a day to a day for Canyonlands National Park, plus the Dead Horse Point State Park. In addition, you can also take a short rafting tour, as we did. 3 days/4 nights would make your visit more relaxing.
How many days should you spend at Arches National Park?
You may be asking yourself how much time do you need at Arches National Park. One full day of exploring the park could be enough time to get a feel for it and complete some short hikes, but we recommend two days.
What are the top five national parks in Utah?
The Mighty 5
- Arches National Park. Moab, UT.
- Bryce Canyon National Park. Bryce, UT.
- Canyonlands National Park. Moab, UT.
- Capitol Reef National Park. Torrey, UT.
- Zion National Park. Springdale, UT.
What national parks are closest to Park City Utah?
13 Magnificent National Parks Near Salt Lake City
- 13 National Parks Near Salt Lake City.
- 1 | Arches National Park, Utah.
- 2 | Capitol Reef National Park, Utah.
- 3 | Great Basin National Park, Nevada.
- 4 | Canyonlands National Park, Utah.
- 5 | Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah.