The Perfect Southwest National Parks Road Trip
The National Parks in the Southwest of the U.S. are the perfect setting for a road trip. Deserts, amazing rock formations, cacti, and rainbows of geological colors characterize an otherworldly terrain that makes an incredible backdrop for your ride.
01Â Zion National Park
Zion National Park feels almost like a sanctuary, with its beautiful combination of red cliffs, waterfalls, and meandering rivers to explore as you venture out into the landscape. The trails here range between accessible and challenging, so make sure to pick one that suits your experience and fitness level.
02Â Canyonlands National Park
Just two-and-a-half hours from Capitol Reef, you'll find the Canyonlands - an enormous national park divided into three parts: Maze, The Needles, and Island in the Sky. National Geographic's Guide to National Parks suggests you focus on the more car-friendly terrain of Island in the Sky if you're on a limited schedule. Exploring the Maze and the Needles requires more time - at least a full day.
03Â Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is a two-hour drive from Zion. Characterized by strange shapes and rock formations, this is a place that spurs the imagination. An abundance of Native American tales about this area further adds to the mystical and magical vibe. The experience of hiking to Bryce Amphitheater, the park's most famous point, is well worth the effort. You'll need a full day on foot to experience this park.
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04Â Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Utah. The classic Utah red rock is ever-present and showcased in magnificent canyons and other intriguing structures. Drive the Utah 2, a beautiful road winding through the park, and you'll come across countless striking photo opportunities. There are plenty of trails for trekking, but this park also offers an exceptional experience if you prefer to stay on the road.
05Â Great Basin National Park
Great Basin stands out from the rest of the Southwest terrain. Instead of the typical red rock and desert foliage, you'll find mountains, caves, and lakes surrounded by lush tall trees. A tour through the caves is a memorable experience. You can also follow the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive for an overview of the entire area.
06Â Arches National Park
Arches National Park acquired its name from ancient sandstone arches that are among the most unique attractions in this area. You can hike through the desert landscape to Delicate Arch or stay on the road and still experience the striking scenery. The arches are fragile, so be sure to understand and follow the rules to protect the park.
07Â Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The name Black Canyon comes from the volcanic rock that gives the walls of this formation their darker shades. Molded through centuries by the flow of the Gunnison River, this canyon has turned into one of nature's masterpieces. The easiest way to explore the park is by going to the South Rim. Here, the trails are beginner-friendly, and you have a good chance of spotting wildlife.
08Â Mesa Verde National Park
This park has an interesting history, as an ancient culture once inhabited it. Many archeological sites are scattered through the park, allowing visitors to experience unusual artifacts like cliff dwellings (yes, you'll recognize them from the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade). These old settlements are still engraved in the rock and have remained remarkably intact through time.
09Â Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park another of nature's wondrous phenomena that you don't want to miss. The park also has a lot more to offer than the world-renowned petrified logs. This area is approximately three and a half hours from the Grand Canyon, and it is widely considered an excellent park for families. Explore the fossils, badlands, buttes, and mesas, and learn about ancient petroglyphs. If you crave some quiet time, the Painted Desert is perfect for contemplation and walking meditation.
10Â Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park one of the most well-known and visited sites in America. You can choose to follow the crowds and head to South Rim, where you'll find a visitors center and great outlook spots. Or, venture to the North Rim and be rewarded with more solitude and an overall different experience. This is excellent advice for visitors who've already been to the South Rim and want to see something new.
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