us grand circle tour

The Grand Circle is the ultimate US Southwest road trip

Sep 14, 2020 • 6 min read

White Pocket at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona © Getty Images

Driving the Grand Circle can take up to three weeks, but a spectacular eight-to-10 day portion centers around the Grand Canyon and features bold colors, fascinating geological shapes and textures and living history of our indigenous culture at every turn. Amidst views, hikes and grandeur, it includes stops in town for local art, cuisine and culture and where to sleep at night. Here’s how to hit the road for the best of the Southwest. 

The Grand Circle consists of five Southwestern states – Arizona , New Mexico , Colorado , Utah and Nevada – and has America’s largest concentration of national parks and monuments. It’s perfect for a majestic road trip of scenic byways, sheer cliffs, and purple, orange and indigo mesas. 

Parowan & Cedar City, Utah

Parowan is home to the first pioneer settlement in Utah, heritage museums, as well as famous landmarks such as the geometric petroglyphs at Parowan Gap. These ancient symbols were carved into cliff faces along the same path that local people have used for centuries. 

Take a 23 minute drive “downtown” to Cedar City, Utah, and relax after hiking with a wine tasting at IG Winery & Tasting Room , featuring world-class signature blends. Be sure to try one of the famous cinnamon rolls in Parowan Cafe , which are made fresh every morning and can sell out by lunch.  

Kanab, Utah  

Both Parowan and Kanab, Utah, are ideal basecamps for the Grand Circle’s natural wonders. 

One of them, Peekaboo Slot Canyon is a 10-minute drive from Kanab and needs an arranged tour. It is less crowded than the more well-known slot canyon at Upper Antelope (your next stop), but requires some rock scrambling, including about a 12ft hike to enter. The narrow, swirled arches are carved out of sandstone created by centuries of water rushing and are every shade of orange, depending on the sunlight.

Head to “downtown” Kanab for dinner at Rocking V , an eclectic art gallery/cafe for creative dishes. Sleep at Red Canyon cabin, which is set in a quiet area on the edge of town, but close enough to walk to the visitor center. 

If you can afford it, splurge on a flightseeing trip in the morning to get to your next destination for an incredible air tour of Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend and endless views of erosion-sculpted deep gorges weaving in and out of the shimmering blue lake.  

Upper Antelope Canyon: Page, AZ 

Page is located directly on Lake Powell. Just four miles out of town is the most photographed slot canyon in the world, Upper Antelope Canyon ( currently closed ). Reservations are required here with a licensed guide , and tours are limited. The soft polished red sandstone has swirls of red, white, tan and pink and the walls glow as the dust particles drift in the shafts of sunlight. It’s highly Instagrammable and simply stunning.  

Grab dinner at Lake Powell Resort and Marina’s waterfront spot, Driftwood for views, high-end burgers, and sustainable seafood. Book a lakefront room for lodging, a small Native American inspired room loaded with upscale amenities and chairs on the patio to enjoy the lake’s breathtaking sunset views. 

Grand Canyon, AZ

At last, your centerpiece. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and over a mile deep from the river to the rim in some spots – the largest canyon in the world. If you like, you can bicycle around the edge, or simply hike the many trails. 

Highlights on the Southern Rim include Desert View Point and Watchtower, Moran, Lipan and Grandview Point. As you gaze at the scenery, make sure to take a look around at the viewpoint buildings too, such as the 70ft tall Desert View Watchtower ( currently closed ), designed by architect Mary Colter . Arrive before 11am for cooler temperatures, less traffic and fewer lines.

Drive downtown to Grand Canyon Village and dine at the internationally recognized 117-year-old El Tovar located in the historic hotel. Many a president and celebrity has dined here. Sleep at Yavapai Lodge in the national park, which lets you walk or bus about a mile to the South Rim. 

Flagstaff, AZ

Drive 30 miles on historic Route 66 to get to the Wupatki National Monument , an old Indian cliff dwelling between the Painted Desert and Ponderosa highlands, outcropped on red rock across miles of prairie. 

Only a mile out of town is where dwarf planet Pluto was discovered, the 125-year-old Lowell Observatory ( open only to private groups ). This is the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Gaze at the sea of stars, moon and planets for night or day tours.

Just off Route 66,  grab dinner at Tourist Home All Day Cafe , a renovated 1926 house, for an upscale Hash Bowl and drive less than a mile to sleep at Hotel Monte Vista another 20’s era landmark replete with live music, all day happy hour, two swanky lounges, lots of ghost stories and a room as charming as the historic lobby.  

Sedona is a well-known crystal and art lover’s New Age healing paradise, but it’s also an outdoor haven surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest. Amidst red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests are numerous trailheads in the city to access Sedona’s stunning red rocks.

Drive seven miles south of uptown Sedona and start at Bell Rock for its bell-shaped striped earth-toned mesas. There is a vortex, said to be a zone of spiritual healing energy, near the breathtaking Chapel of the Holy Cross built by owner and rancher Marguerite Brunswig Staude which sits high atop the red rocks.

Sleep at Sky Ranch Lodge for the best views of the city and walk to Mesa Grill for southwestern inspired cuisine and stellar skyline views. Don’t leave without crystals and jewelry from the outdoor mall, Tlaquepaque.   

Driving into this small town you will see some of the most spectacular views in Arizona. Then, downtown is art gallery hopping, or a juicy ghost tour as Jerome was once the “wickedest town in the West” with brothels, opium dens and saloon gun fights replete with potential paranormal phenomenon.

Founded in 1876 and once a copper mining boom town of 15,000 it turned into virtual ghost town (population: 50 people) after the mines closed in 1953. Artists moved in and now the winding switchback streets are now filled with painters, writers, musicians and historians.

Eat at the Haunted Hamburger , for local draft beers, cocktails and supposedly hammer-yielding ghosts. Stay at the perhaps spirit-filled former hospital Jerome Grand Hotel with gorgeous views, gilded artwork, burgundy walls, fine dining and captivating views. Get up in the morning for your last stop. 

Prescott, AZ

This mile-high city lies in the middle of pinon pine-covered Prescott National Forest, and has more than 15 distinctive hiking and biking trails where you can stretch your legs. Definitely hike Thumb Butte which is only a three and a half mile drive from downtown, but can get crowded. Parts are steep, but there are panoramic views of the city and neighboring mountains.

For a waterfront oasis, you can fish and boat at Watson Lake , which is only a four miles from downtown. Head back downtown for art, performances and dining – we recommend Murphy’s Prescott for elegant but moderately priced seafood. Sleep at the historic Grand Highland Hotel as it sits on Whiskey Row, which is just as famous as the town. 

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This article was first published January 2020 and updated September 2020

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See 9 National Parks on This Picturesque Road Trip Through the American West — Including the Grand Canyon, Arches, and Zion

Plus, you'll drive through the Navajo Nation Reservation and visit the Four Corners.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Don Elm/Travel + Leisure

With so much to do and see in the world , there’s something wonderfully efficient about a road trip that takes you through five states and nine national parks in one go. The Grand Circle road trip, best visualized here , starts in Nevada and passes through Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona before returning where it started. The giant loop provides a great introduction to the Southwest as it takes travelers to nine national parks, a national monument, and a handful of towns worthy of a lengthy stopover .

For a route that seems to have it all, there is very little information on it. Some versions of the route pass only through Utah and Arizona — a truncated version that still includes six national parks. But if you have the time, we recommend the Grand Grand Circle road trip, which also passes through Colorado and New Mexico and includes a visit to Four Corners National Monument where four states meet.

According to our calculations, the full loop covers well over 1,500 miles and will take a full 15 days (if not more) to complete. The route starts and ends in Las Vegas , a major flight hub that is less than three hours from Zion National Park — the first stop on the road trip. (You can also fly in and out of Albuquerque. Though, for simplicity's sake, we built the trip around arrival and departure from Las Vegas.) Here we go!

Day 1 and 2: Las Vegas to Zion National Park

After picking up a car in Las Vegas and making the three-hour journey to Zion National Park in Utah, the fun begins. The first park on the Grand Circle is also Utah’s first national park, and it’s become iconic for its red sandstone cliff walls and narrow slot canyons. Spend a full day exploring Zion’s not-to-miss adventures like Zion Narrows , a watery gorge hike with 1,000-foot-tall walls, and the Emerald Pools , which have waterfalls and a hanging garden. 

Day 3 and 4: Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

It takes less than two hours to drive to Bryce Canyon National Park from Zion, so you should be able to get in a full day of exploration. Like Zion, Bryce Canyon has lots of stunning red rock, which is extra vibrant in photos taken at sunrise and sunset. But while Zion is known for its sky-high canyon walls, Bryce is famous for the crimson-colored hoodoos (spire-shaped rock formations) and the Bryce Amphitheater . Your best bet is to hike the Rim Trail, which provides views over the amphitheater.

After a full day at Bryce Canyon, make the two-hour drive to the next park on the Grand Circle: Capitol Reef National Park .

Day 5 and 6: Capitol Reef National Park and Moab

Brad McGinley Photography/Getty Images

You’ll want to spend at least one full day at Capitol Reef National Park, which is known for the bizarre rock formations that surround the long “wrinkle” in Utah’s south-central desert known as the Waterpocket Fold . Highlights inside this national park include the Chimney Rock pillar, the Hickman Bridge arch, and a series of white sandstone domes. To the north, you can walk among the towering monoliths of Cathedral Valley.

After exploring the park, make the two-hour drive to Moab — an adventure town with mountain biking, rafting, and Jeeping that’s easily worth a full day of exploration (if not more). You’ll pass the next two national parks on your drive in, but both are within 30 minutes of Moab and an easy backtrack once you’ve had a day back in “civilization.”

Day 7 and 8: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park

Suphanat Wongsanuphat/Getty Images

Arches National Park is less than 10 minutes from downtown Moab, so if you want to sleep in, this is the day to do it. Arches is small compared to most other Utah parks , but it packs a punch. Within the 120-square-mile park are over 2,000 towering sandstone arches, including the massive Delicate Arch and the unbelievably long and thin Landscape Arch.

From Arches, it’s just a 30-minute drive to Canyonlands National Park , which you passed on your way into Moab. Canyonlands has everything from Native rock paintings to the towering rock pinnacles found in the Needles area . For views over the desert, make your way to the Island in the Sky — a giant, flat-topped mesa with overlooks galore. 

Day 9 and 10: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Telluride 

Mark C Stevens/Getty Images

After a day in Canyonlands, hop back in your trusty vehicle and make the road trip’s longest segment yet — a three-hour drive out of Utah and into Colorado. Once you’ve crossed the state line, it’s around two hours to your next destination: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park . 

The red rock landscapes of Utah are long gone, replaced by dark Precambrian rock. But, like many of the parks in Utah, Black Canyon is built around a deep, steep-walled gorge. You can travel all the way down to the bottom of the gorge via the winding East Portal Road, or explore the South Rim Road and enjoy the 12 overlooks and mini hiking trails that wind off the route. (Pro-tip: don’t miss a stop at the striped Painted Wall cliff face !)

After a day in the Black Canyon, make the scenic, 1.5-hour drive to the mountain town of Telluride , which is wildly picturesque and offers plenty to do on your “down day” — including hikes to waterfalls and a free gondola up the mountain.

Day 11 and 12: Mesa Verde National Park and Four Corners National Monument

Jorge Villalba/Getty Images

The landscape goes from mountainous to high desert on the 1.5-hour drive between Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park . This Colorado park is particularly special because it protects several well-preserved ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, including the huge Cliff Palace. These homes, which are built into the rock, can be explored on foot, or you can drive the Mesa Top Loop Road past the park’s many archaeological sites and overlooks.

Not long after leaving Mesa Verde, you’ll pass through the Ute Mountain Reservation and then into the Navajo Nation Reservation. In the latter, you can swing through the Navajo Nation’s Four Corners National Monument , where you can stand at the point where all four states — Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona — meet. The Four Corners National Monument is less than an hour from Mesa Verde, but the next park on the list — Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona — is still another three hours away.

Day 13 and 14: Petrified Forest National Park and Grand Canyon National Park

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Petrified Forest National Park is the first stop in Arizona, the final and fifth state in the Grand Circle Road Trip. This lesser-known park doesn’t see anywhere near the number of visitors as your next stop, Grand Canyon National Park, so soak up the solitude and enjoy the quiet trails that pass through the park’s colorful, petrified forest. For a dose of local history, check out the petroglyphs of Newspaper Rock and the ruined village of Puerco Pueblo. 

After a day in Petrified Forest National Park, make the three-hour drive northwest to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park , the final stop on the Grand Circle. The immense, mile-deep Grand Canyon has many viewpoints, including Mather Point and the Yavapai Observation Station. If you need to stretch your legs, the Bright Angel Trail is a popular and easy-to-access hike. 

Day 15: Return to Las Vegas and Fly Home

The drive from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas takes around 4.5 hours, so make sure to budget plenty of time.

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National Parks Grand Circle Road Trip

The Grand Circle road trip is like wrapping the best of the Southwest’s national park system up in a bow. Ancient volcanic mountains, protruding plateaus and buttes, and deeply carved canyons reveal themselves in a rainbow of colors. Civilizations dating back thousands of years, followed by the Navajo, Apache, Spanish, Mormons, crystal readers, and adrenaline junkies have created a multicultural mix unique to this part of the world. The Colorado Plateau has the densest concentration of national parks in the US and this Grand Circle tour connects the best of them.

Drive away from the neon metropolis of Las Vegas and the cityscape will quickly give way to the country’s most precious natural monuments, including Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, and Grand Canyon national parks, and a slew of wonderful nature preserves and cultural destinations. This national park loop would woo any road tripper but it holds a special spot in our hearts because we completed the full circle (including the Utah Mighty 5) with my mom over the course of two road trips for her 77th and 78th birthdays.

To share some of our favorite destinations, take her glamping, and have some true firsts…like ice trekking slot canyons and sleeping on the rim of the Grand Canyon, were moments made more incredible with her on our travel team. This Grand Circle road trip guide includes all we’ve gleaned over the years of visiting these national treasures and how we connected the dots for an epic family road trip.

Table of Contents

Grand Circle Road Trip Map & Itinerary

What is the Grand Circle Road Trip

In its simplest definition, this iconic USA road trip travels between Utah and Arizona, hitting six national parks: Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, and Grand Canyon. Though it can be a bit confusing because if you subtract Arizona’s Grand Canyon, this collection of national parks is also called Utah’s “Big Five.” So forget catchy titles and exact waypoints, the beauty and intrigue of this Southwest road trip goes well beyond definition. This is the heart of a geological wonderland with so much to see and do! With slight detours, you can explore Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Monument Valley Tribal Park, Goose Necks State Park, and more natural reserves, charming towns, and unique attractions that make it worth expanding your “Grand Circle” road trip into an unforgettable journey.

When to Go & for How Long

T he classic Grand Circle tour is doable in 1 0- 12 days . Though the longer you have the better and if you can break it up into two trips…that’s double the fun! Each season offers unique opportunities and appeal. Spring brings the most greenery and pleasant hiking weather, while winter has the fewest crowds and a dusting of snow on the red rocks is pure magic. Summer is by far the hottest and most crowded so if that’s the only time you can go, think about saving the second half for another time of year.

Where to Start

The best place to start this national parks road trip is really based on what’s the most convenient for you. While many people think of this trip as the “Grand Circle Utah” because this state boasts most of the national parks, Utah doesn’t have any big airports along the route. So if you are flying and renting a vehicle, our suggestion would be to land in Las Vegas, where flights, hotels, and car/RV rentals tend to be the most affordable and abundant. Plus, the airport is a mere 2.5-hour drive to the nearest Grand Circle park (Zion) so you can hit the ground running on your first day. We’ve written this blog traveling clockwise from Las Vegas, that said, if you’re finding better deals out of Phoenix, simply do this itinerary in reverse. Just remember, no matter which direction you begin the Grand Circle tour, it will be an epic drive!  

ZION NATIONAL PARK

As you approach Zion National Park, the Navajo sandstone cliffs grow taller and closer; the rocks redder and the vegetation greener from the Virgin River that sculpted this geological cathedral. Zion will leave your mouth agape and lift your foot off the gas. Since no one can help but pull over at each stunning vista, and there are so many visitors in high season, a hop-on-hop-off shuttle is the mandatory mode of transport from March through November. This does help congestion and preserve the park’s natural beauty, so roll with it or consider coming off-season.  

What to Do: Zion National Park

– Angel’s Landing . If you aren’t afraid of heights and love an adrenaline kick, hike along the steep switchbacks and hang on to the chain railing for one of the most rewarding hikes in the park. – Narrows . This is another iconic Zion hike, wading your way up the Virgin River and its sheer canyon. Due to its incredible popularity, you’ll need to get a permit in advance. – Canyoneering Orderville Slot Canyon . Rappel down the waterfalls and swim through the emerald pools on a full-day excursion.

Where to Stay: Zion National Park

– Zion Lodge . The only in-park lodging with upscale and recently renovated cabins. – Watchman and South Campgrounds are the go-tos for tent and RV campers in the park. Reserve your spot early on Recreation.gov. – Glamping…choices, choices ! A slew of glamping camps ( our favorite way to stay ) has recently opened around Zion. Open Sky and Zion Wildflower look particularly fab. – Dispersed Camping . If you’re the type to wing it and travel on a budget, check out Campendium’s roundup of free & affordable camping spots near Zion

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Continuing your national park loop, the incredibly scenic Route 12 winds 80 miles from Zion to Bryce. In a short distance, the smooth monoliths change to craggy pinnacles, and the color palette is cranked up to fiery hues. The desert’s extreme heat and nightfall’s temperature drop start a near-daily process of freezing and thawing which sculpts the landscape into hoodoos or as some call them, “fairy chimneys” for the rocks’ whimsical drip-castle effect.  

What to Do: Bryce Canyon

– The Scenic Drive . From the visitor’s center, take the 18-mile route for a fantastic park overview. Note, it’s an in-and-out road so if you’re short on time, the first half offers the most impressive scenery. – Fairyland Loop . Hike this eight-mile trail with scenery well worth your efforts. – Night Hike with Bryce Astronomy Rangers . During full moons, (1-2 consecutive nights each month), when the mix of shadows and light cause the hoodoos to take on an otherworldly look, join the pros for these ~2 mile-long magical moonlit hikes.

Where to Stay: Bryce National Park

To be honest, we’d suggest not staying in Bryce and driving the extra hour to Escalante at the end of the day. At 7,664 feet in elevation it’s a little cold for the campgrounds (Mike and I tented in July, trust us), RV boondocking spots are super remote, and the lodging outside the park is pretty outdated. If you do want to stay at the park, Bryce Canyon Lodge is definitely the best way to go, and if you’re looking for more options in the area check out this roundup :

GRAND CIRCLE ROAD TRIP BONUS: ESCALANTE NATIONAL MONUMENT

Unlike the manicured national parks, the beauty of Escalante is that it remains wild. This million-plus acres of rugged terrain (low-lying desert to coniferous forest) made it one of the last places in the lower 48 to be mapped. Don’t expect many ranger stations, signage, or paved roads; it’s made for blazing your own trail and remembering the land as it once was. For the purposes of this national parks road trip, you’ll likely only make it to the north half but we’ve included our favorites from the south, as well.  

What To Do: Escalante National Monument

– Willis Creek Slot Canyon . For an easier hike with a high reward, try this 2.6-mile roundtrip trail near Cannonville. You’ll dip into a river valley and walk the shallow waters (or in winter, have an impromptu ice skating session as we did) until it narrows to a rippling red slot canyon, framing a sliver of blue sky. – Spooky & Peek-a-boo Slot Canyon . This three-mile loop trail in the Dry Fork area is a full-body rock scramble through a labyrinth of narrow and multi-level passageways—some only a foot wide. While that may sound intimidating, we did this hike with our friends at y Travel Blog and Crazy Family Adventure, including kids as young as seven, and they had the time of their lives. Check out y Travel’s great hiking overview . – Pariah Canyon . In the southerly section of Escalante, adjacent to the Vermillion Cliffs, this striped mountain range and canyon system had us hiking for days! Start at the old “Movie Set” built for Western films in the 1930s to bop around or go deeper with the 8.4-mile round-trip hike to Buckskin Gulch.  

Where to Stay: Escalante

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Pariah Movie Set : This is one of our favorite camping spots of all time. Epic views of the rainbow mountains, the camping basics (table, pit toilet, etc), and endless hiking opportunities. Escalante Yurts . We used this glamping camp in the town of Escalante as our base for both the national monument and Bryce Canyon. It’s so lovely we featured it in our book Comfortably Wild . Hole-in-the-Rock Road . Tons of free dispersed camping options exist along this road to Spooky Canyon. Just keep driving and pull off where it suits your group, our crew rounded up 4 RVs, no problem.

CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

The gorgeous Highway 12 section of the Grand Circle Tour continues from Escalante to Torrey…the gateway to Capitol Reef National Park. What’s different about Capitol Reef? A Waterpocket Fold. This defining geological feature is a wrinkle in the Earth’s crust that has left colorful cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges extending a hundred miles through the park.  

What to Do: Capitol Reef

– Capitol Gorge . Take this dramatic drive beyond the pavement, through an alley of sheer cliffs, with glimpses of the 1,400-foot-high Golden Throne formation, until you hit the trailhead. The two-mile trail is shaded most of the day for a nice walk, even in the hottest months. Pay close attention to the canyon walls, you’ll spot everything from pioneer signatures to Native American petroglyphs. – Catch a Ranger Talk . From a geologic and human history perspective, this is a particularly interesting park for a lecture. Check the ranger station to see what’s on. – Fruita . A green oasis in a sea of red rocks, people have lived in this valley for thousands of years. See the old Morman homesteader buildings, 2,000-tree orchard, and rock art from the Freemont culture.  

Where to Stay: Capitol Reef

– Capitol Reef Resort . This hotel and glamping camp is a great place to try covered wagons and tipis for a refined taste of the Wild West. – Fruita Campground . Adjacent to the river, orchards, historic village, and dramatic cliffs, this is a unique full-service campground in the middle of the park. Cabins also available. – Cathedral Valley . A great free camping option ; though with just six spots, don’t arrive on a Friday at 6 pm hoping for a spot.

GRAND CIRCLE ROAD TRIP BONUS: MOAB

Often dubbed the adventure capital of the Southwest, Moab (featured in Ultimate Journeys for Two ) is the gateway to Canyonlands and Arches national parks, plus Dead Horse Point State Park and countless adrenaline-pumping activities. The little city of Moab first boomed in the 1950s, when uranium was discovered in the hills. Those days are long gone, but the old mining roads are now legendary for 4×4 and biking trails along their grippy “slickrock” sandstone. Everyone from climbers to crystal readers flock to this stop, which means you’ll find more international cuisine, good brews, live music, and a whole lot of fun.

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

The forces of erosion are working a special kind of magic in this park, crafting over 2,000 natural stone arches and hundreds of towering pinnacles, mega rock fins, and precariously balanced rocks. As if this landscape wasn’t pretty enough, viewing them through the lens of a soaring sandstone frame makes the Grand Circle that much more photogenic. Drive the entirety of the park, with special stops at the Windows Section, Devil’s Garden, Balanced Rock, and at least one trailhead for a multi-mile hike.  

What to do in Arches & Moab

– Off-Road Hell’s Revenge . Hop in a 4×4 and traverse the sandstone domes and slickrock fins on this legendary 6.5-mile trail. Steep climbs and descents ride rodeo-style through Abyss Canyon and past striking vistas of the La Sal Mountains and Colorado River. Stop to check out the fossilized dinosaur footprints, and take lots of hard-core selfies. – Devil’s Garden . This section of Arches National Park contains the largest concentration of significant natural arches in the country and arguably the world. Begin your hike between two sandstone fins and reach the 306-foot-long Landscape Arch. Admire the desert views framed in Partition Arch, and countless other wonders on this 7.5-mile loop. – Scenic Flight . Grasp the magnitude of the valleys, peaks, and plateaus of both Arches & Canyonlands with an hour in the air. Flying low in a Cessna, look into the Maze, the Island in the Sky, the confluence of the Colorado and Green Rivers, and spot rock formations you’d never see from land. – Dead Horse State Park . A great place for mountain bikers of all levels, this park lets you cruise up the mesa, ride the rim, and flow down groomed trails for 14 miles (or less with bail-out options). Not a biker? Just go gawk at the formations at twilight; it’s the best sunset spot in town.  

Where to Stay: Moab & Arches

– Moab Under Canvas . Try these sophisticated safari-style tents and tepees at the scenic juncture of Arches and Canyonlands. – Moab Springs Ranch . My mom and I loved this place, perfectly located at the edge of town (read: views!) with buildings on the national historic register and brand new bungalows. – Devil’s Garden Campground . Some Grand Circle national park campgrounds are more akin to a forested parking lot. Not Devil’s Garden. Tucked 18 miles from the park entrance, enjoying a quiet corner of the park under the stars is worth an advanced reservation .

CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

The last national park in the series of Utah’s Mighty Five is the expansive Canyonlands. Unlike the other parks, Canyonlands has three distinct sections. With main entrances a couple of hours apart, it’s best to see the north section (Island in the Sky) from Moab, and on your way south, dive into the more remote Needles District, and skip the third section unless you want to get into some serious backcountry.  

What to do in Canyonlands

– Island in the Sky Scenic Drive + Hikes . The 34-mile out-and-back road up the mesa brings you 1,000 feet above the surrounding mountain and desert terrain with tons of excellent vista points and short hikes along the way. It takes an hour to get to Grand View Point but you’ll want to buffer in time for the half-mile hike to Mesa Arch or longer to hit up the 2.5-mile West Rim Trail. – Newspaper Rock . On the way to the Needles District Ranger Station, you’ll find one of Utah’s most famous petroglyphs. Over the course of 2,000 years, different Native American groups—starting with the Ancestral Puebloans to the Navajo—have left their mark, revealing different values and moments in time. – Needles’ Big Spring Canyon . Where the main park road ends, rocks poke out like thick spires, or “needles” as they say, hovering over the deep streambed. Hike the 2.6-mile trail along the upper canyon or just enjoy the panoramic views with a picnic. On the way back take the short trail to the Ancestral Puebloan granary tucked under the cliff.

For where to stay near Canyonlands, see Moab above.  

GRAND CIRCLE TOUR BONUS: BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT

The Utah Grand Circle road trip focuses on the national park system and all its natural beauty, but with a slight detour, you’ll experience a wealth of first nations culture for a well-rounded American journey. You’ve probably heard more about this national monument in the news than from travelers. This highly sacred region containing more than 100,000 Native American archaeological and cultural sites fell victim to Trump’s national monument cuts, despite its cultural value.

And we’ll admit, we didn’t know much about the region until we lived here for two months in the home of the park’s only ranger. In exchange for caring for their housesitting for this couple and not only did they leave us their house, car, and farmlet with 36 animals , they gave us their best tips to explore this little-known park. Ancestral Puebloan cave dwellings, granaries, petroglyphs, and artifacts are literally everywhere; the only caveat he gave was to leave no trace—words that are always true but hold even deeper meaning in sacred spaces at risk.  

What to Do: Bears Ears

– Butler Wash Ruins . Just off the main road and a short trail away, this village carved into the cliffs dates back to the 1200s. Good signage explains how the village was laid out and functioned. – House on Fire . This rock outcropping is a granary circa 1150 CE and when the light is right, the textured red rock looks like it’s going up in flames. While just a short 2.2-mile hike and unmanned area, be sure to pay the day-use fee at the collection box. – San Juan River Kayak Trip . We did a self-guided paddle (in our basic rec kayak) along the calm waters and red cliffs from the town of Bluff to Sand Island Petroglyphs and it was one of our favorite days during our two-month stay in the area. If you want to do a bigger guided trip, go all the way from Sand Island to Mexican Hat. – Moon House . This one requires a permit and 4WD to get here but it’s freakin awesome. These millennia-year-old cliff dwellings at the top of the mountain are spectacular and with a keen eye, you can spy even more hidden dwellings in the canyon. – Grist Mill Inn & Glow-in-the-dark Mini Golf . Grab a drink at the only bar in San Juan County. From the lobby, enter through the secret bookcase and it opens up to a speak-easy, serving top-notch cocktails like the Gun Smoke, a cinnamon-smoked peach pecan whiskey. Walk down the street to the ACE Hardware store, where their extra warehouse has been turned into a glow-in-the-dark, gold-mining-themed putt-putt course (it’s as bizarre and amazing as it sounds).  

VALLEY OF THE GODS TO GOOSENECKS STATE PARK

By adding Bears Ears to the Grand Circle road trip, you’ll see this park is right up there with the Utah Mighty Five and see so many more gorgeous places along the way. Heading south on Highway 261, take a short detour to Mule Point for views over Valley of the Gods all the way to Arizona. ( Pro Tip : Muley Point is epic for boondocking.) Continue down the famous Moki Dugway section for a 3-mile roller coaster of switchbacks. When you hit the flats, head to Goosenecks State Park for one of the most spectacular and little-known gems in the Southwest. This section of the San Juan River takes the sinuous shape of a gooseneck as it wraps around the canyon floor and exposes 300 million years of geology. Tip your hat to the town of Mexican Hat and keep on moving to Monument Valley.  

MONUMENT VALLEY

Following Highway 163, you’ll reach the rock skyline of Monument Valley and the heart of Navajo Nation. With sandstone pinnacles towering as high as 1,000 feet and with miles of mesas and buttes, you’ll have plenty to gawk at from the road but the way to truly explore the area is with a native guide to Monument Valley Tribal Park. This not only allows you to see much more of the park, but their local and ancestral knowledge will also vastly enrich your experience. FYI: Check the park’s website for possible closures.  

Where to Stay: Monument Valley

– Gouldings Lodge . An early 20th-century trading post and base for many a Western movie (including John Wayne’s Stagecoach ), Goulding’s has a wide range of options, from hotel rooms to RV sites to new tiny houses, set to a red rock backdrop. Monument Valley Tipi Village . When in the Navajo Nation, a hogan is the most authentic way to stay. The Navajo people’s traditional dwelling, an octagonal log cabin with an east-facing door to welcome the sun, is honored alongside the iconic Plains Indians tipis at this native-owned camp. Featured in the Living History chapter of Comfortably Wild .  

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Welcome to Arizona and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Grand Canyon needs no introduction, though it should be said that this profound gash in the Earth’s crust is 277 miles long and there are no bridges across, so you need to pick a side to explore. The South Rim is the most accessible and the most logical for this national parks road trip (we’re still dying to get to the North Rim but it’s so darn remote and closed half the year!). Unlike many of the other parks that are built for scenic drives, the Grand Canyon can only really be seen well on foot (or river raft, but that’s for another trip!).

The park also has a free hop-on-hop-off bus to help you skip ahead or get a break from the heat. While you shouldn’t hike to the bottom without good fitness and a sound plan to stay there overnight, it’s worth hiking down a wee bit to see the layers up close. Just remember this ranger rule of thumb: However long it takes you to hike to your destination, plan on twice the time to hike out.  

What to Do: Grand Canyon

– Wake up for Sunrise at Mather Point . While sunset is obviously gorgeous at the Grand Canyon, it’s the busiest time of day. Set your alarm, brew that coffee, and get out there before dawn to enjoy it without the throngs. – Hike South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point . This six-mile out-and-back trail is the best way to see the canyon walls up close without going all the way to the bottom. If three miles straight up sounds like too much, turning around at Ooh-Aah Point or Cedar Ridge will still give you a lovely winding trail and views to the Colorado River. – Have a meal at El Tovar . This grand historic lodge is the first one to be built (est 1905) in national park system. And while it’s tough to get a room and it’s a bit spendy, you should at least enjoy a meal in their grand dining room with painted ceilings and carved beams. – Get Your Kicks on Route 66 . The Grand Canyon Gateway town of Williams is one of our favorite stops along the iconic Route 66. Enjoy the retro vibes along their main street’s mid-century diners, bar, and gas stations. Extend your national parks road trip with the Arizona section of our Route 66 guide .  

Where to Stay: Grand Canyon

– Bright Angel Lodge : While El Tovar would be a fabulous place to stay, Bright Angel is also right at the edge of the canyon for a better price and its own charm as a registered historic national landmark. Spring for a cabin on the rim, sunrise from your room will blow your mind. (Just look at the photo from our room, above). – Wander Camp : This glamping outfitter actually has pop-up camps outside a number of the national parks on this list (Bryce, Zion, Arches, and the Grand Canyon), they are usually about 20-minutes from the park but offer far more serenity than the heart of the parks. – Forest Road 302 . Just south of the park entrance, this is the closest option for free camping AND there’s cell service!

More Grand Circle Lodging Resources

Everyone dreams of staying inside the national parks, which means they fill up fast. Book ahead or consider staying in the more laidback public lands or incredible glamping camps in the surrounding areas, they often provide more serenity, less advanced planning, and more unique experiences than the crowded campgrounds. Recreation.gov : The place to book all national park campgrounds on-site. Campendium.com . Great site for both formal and free campsites, with photos and reviews. HipCamp.com . Unique sites on private land near the national parks and along this Grand Circle route. Ultimate Public Campgrounds Project . “UC Pubic CG” is our go-to camping app! It maps out over 44,000 sites on public lands, (15,000+ of which are free). CampgroundViews.com . Can’t decide which spot will be better than the next? This site lets you look at photos and videos from over 16,049 campgrounds. Comfortably Wild . Our guide to the best glamping destinations in North America features 13 camps across the Southwest and 150 more across the continent. It’s the ultimate resource for unique outdoor accommodations and your purchase helps support our blog. Mix it Up! Stay at a historic hotel, go glamping, and sleep under the stars; changing up your lodging style will keep things interesting and make you appreciate nature in new ways.  

Making the Most of Your Grand Circle Road Trip

– Get the National Parks Pass . At around $30 per park, entrance fees add up fast. Get the annual pass for $80; it grants you (and a car’s worth of people) entry into all these parks and 100s more. – Always go to the visitor center for their maps, museums, and events and talk to the rangers to help you select the best activities for that day and your group. Ask them to mark up your map with their favorite vista points and hikes. – Time Your Week Right . Try to visit these popular national parks on weekdays and lesser-known regions on the weekends to minimize the crowds. – Get to trailheads early . Parking lots tend to fill up by 10 am and the heat comes on fast in the Southwest. Download AllTrails to scope out hikes, read recent reviews, and download offline maps. – Road Reads . Get copies of National Geographic’s Secrets to the National Parks & Scenic Highways & Byways books to find the hidden gems and cool stops along your route. And for extra Southwest tips, check out the Road Trip chapter of Ultimate Journeys or Two . – Rock Shop Hop . This is an incredible area for geology, paleontology, and quirky people passionate about it all. Stop at the rock shops, meet the diehard rockhounds and bring home a treasure from the store (not the ground. #LNT) – Do at least one big adventure . Rappel down waterfalls, take a slickrock 4×4 ride, soar over the golden buttes in a Cessna, and see some of the world’s most incredible landscapes with the wind in your hair. After all, this trip is what bucket lists are made off.

More Photos From Our National Park Loop

Grand circle reading companions.

We love this region of the Southwest so much, we featured it in both of our books! A special twist on the Grand Circle Road Trip and the Moab region each gets their own section of our National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two . And when it comes to finding more awesome accommodations in the Grand Circle states of Utah and Arizona, plus more of the Southwest, you’ve gotta check out Comfortably Wild: The Best Glamping Destinations in North America . Pick up a copy on Amazon or get it through HoneyTrek (below) and we’ll personally autograph a copy for you!

Signed Copy of Ultimate Journeys for Two

Signed Copy of Comfortably Wild: The Glamping Book

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24 Comments

I truly think this is one of the best road trips in the world! We’re so lucky to be able to visit so many stunning places and national parks all within a drive of each other. Canyonlands was my favorite, but Zion and Angel’s Landing was a close second!

We did much of the Grand Circle route on our trip to Utah and Arizona although we missed a few of the spots you visited. I agree with breaking the trip into two or more trips. In most places we had only a day or two and crammed those days full. Next time we would move slower. We sure would want to visit Escalante National Monument and Bears Ears National Monument on our next trip. We were happy we did an off road jeep and a speedboat adventure on this trip. A great way to add an exciting memory into the mix.

Glad you agree on breaking it up…the opportunities for adventure are truly infinite! love that you stepped it up with a 4×4 jeep and a speedboat–what fun! Hope you get to go back and do the national monuments!

The other day I was watching a video by an Indian YouTuber who has been doing the same circuit in his motorhome–it’s legendary! The views are indeed stunning, you did a beautiful job with the photography too.

it’s certainly one of the most iconic USA road trips. Sometimes we debate writing about such popular trips but we’ve found so many uncommon and awesome detours that we decided to finally put it together as one comprehensive post–hope you can give this trip a go someday!

Wow this looks such an amazing road trip covering the best National Parks.. I have of late been reading so much about the National Parks in US and it raises my desire to be there. Although I have been to National parks in other countries the reddish look of the Mountains is just fascinating. Great post for planning our trip. The wild beauty of Escalante is intriguing and love the looks of the Monument there. Capitol Reef Resort looks a lovely place to stay.

This is such an epic road trip. All the national parks are stunning and I wish I could travel to them now. 1000 miles road trip through these canyons and mountains would be mindblowing. I did have Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks and Monument Valley on my list. I am adding the rest of them too and I will definitely consider doing the Grand circle sometime in my life.

all these parks are incredible, and the national monuments are no exception. the lack of people alone makes them worth the addition.

“1,000-mile journey with hundreds of miles worth of awesome detours”??? I’m already hooked, but I know this means taking a sabbatical! Escalante National monument is a gem. I would spend so much time here photographing everything. The tipi glamping at Capital Reef would be definitely where I spend the night. Gouldings Lodge looks so picturesque. No wonder it was the shooting location of many movies.

while you could certainly have plenty to do if you made the southwest your sabbatical spot (love that idea ; ) it is totally do-able in a two-week trip…whatever amount of time you can give the grand circle, you def should!

I’ve been to a few of these, but it will be wonderful to do them in one road trip. I always like a bonus stop during a road trip, like the Bears Ears and Escalante NM. I would like to hike the Willis Creek Slot Canyon in Escalante. It looks pretty cool! Hope to finish the grand circle soon although doing it in part.

This area has infinite adventures and certainly leaves a huge impression to do it in a sequence. Bears Ears and Escalante are so underrated–people just blow by them on their way to the national parks and they don’t know what they’re missing.

What a great road trip and useful tips! These places never stop to amaze me. I’ve been to them all several times, and I still want to come back. The last time I visited them during an 8-month trip in an RV. Unfortunately, our journey was interrupted by the pandemic. From the described places I love the most, Zion, Grand Canyon, and Escalante. I add to my bucket list Night Hike with Bryce Astronomy Rangers. It seems to be a fabulous adventure. I also like the glamping accommodation you suggest. I would love to stay in such a fabulous glamping camp one day. And I haven’t been to Bears Ears yet, so I add it to my next road trip itinerary!

how cool you did an 8-month road trip, this area is the country’s best and brightest. Sorry to hear the pandemic set back your trip, you should definitely add glamping next time you go. We find it totally refreshes our RV journeys to have a couple of nights out of the rig and these camps are so dreamy!

So glad I found your website! I’ve been convincing my hubby we need to do a giant road trip (starting from Vegas) and hitting all the major parks in Utah/Arizona. We’ve been to Zion (and Grand Canyon North – which isn’t officially on this route), but all the other locations are on our bucket list. We’re hoping as life gets back to normal the national parks will be a little less busy before we head out. Thanks for the awesome info!

So glad you found us too : ) This is such an incredible road trip and even better when you get off the beaten track. We’re actually missing Grand Canyon North…it’s always been snowed in when we were in the area! How was it?

We haven’t been to the South Rim yet so it’s hard to compare, but the North was great! We went on a short hike and checked out the visitor center. If you’re coming from Zion (like we were), you get to go through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Unique experience getting up to the tunnel if you’re wary of heights like I am. 😉

I love your blog guys. just wanted to say that.

Thanks SO much vernon. Means a lot!

I have visited all these places too and did a similar journey to you.

Love these national parks. Some of the BEST!

Both of You are really good adventurers. I appreciate your detailed information, Mike and Anne!

thank you! We live for adventure and are thrilled share the info to get more people exploring this wonderful world!

Good stuff. I think you were a little harsh on Bryce Canyon lodging, though. Yes, Ruby’s Inn & it’s nearby hotels are a little dated, but their rustic charm is part of the fun! Plus Ruby’s Inn’s included hot country breakfast is one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve ever had. I suppose if you’re someone from Florida or Texas or Arizona who isn’t good with cool weather then you best not stay in Bryce/Ruby’s, but personally as a lifelong Utahn (SLC) with dozens of trips to this area under my belt, Bryce Canyon area is my *preferred* camping/lodging location in the summer because everywhere else is HOT HOT HOT (highs 100°+) during the day. Red Canyon campground or Tropic, UT, both within 20-30mins of Bryce, are also scenic locations for lodging and less crowded than the park itself or Ruby’s where you’ll need to reserve many months in advance.

Speaking of bonus sights, DO NOT look past the incredible wonders of highway 12 (between Bryce & Capitol Reef NPs) just because they are not in a National Park! While Bryce & CRNP are the most popular sights along UT12, this highway is one of the most scenic roads in the US, and much less crowded than the NPs so don’t be so awestruck by the NPs that you overlook this beauty. You will be well rewarded to take some extra time at any one of these sights along or near Hwy 12: the afforementioned Red Canyon, lower calf Creek falls (6mi non strenuous hike), Zebra slot & Devil’s playground & Coyote gulch in GSENM (Coyote gulch is a 14mi hike, so only for the adventurous, but WELL worth the effort), head of the rocks overlook, escalante natural bridge hike, the Hogsback, hell’s backbone. The route takes you from desert to Alpine landscapes, as it ascends the eastern slope of Boulder mountain on the Aquarius plateau, giving you some of the best scenic views of both alone forests and desert sandstone mesas anywhere. Hwy 12 ends in Torrey, Ut & CRNP. A part of the charm are the quaint little towns along the way: Bryce Canyon Town, Tropic, Escalante, Boulder, & Torrey. I hear that these towns have some of the best burger joints in the state. You’ll also pass by 3 State Parks: Kodachrome Basin, Anasazi, & Petrified Forest SPs. Don’t overlook the gem that is hwy 12!!!

Rich, we totally appreciate your thoughtful comments and travel suggestions. We’re in total agreement, people are way to national park focused and need to soak in the beauty in between. Highway 12 is absolutely stunning with tons of opportunity for adventure. And that’s great to hear you enjoyed the Bryce Canyon lodging and breakfast! And we’ll have to start training for Coyote Gulch, sounds epic!

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Jaw-dropping Grand Circle road trip

• Post last modified: March 21, 2024

Hit the asphalt for the bucket list Grand Circle road trip, taking you to dramatic canyons and unearthly rock formations. It’s a loaded journey that combines the best sights in Arizona and Utah’s mighty national parks. Are you ready for a jaw-dropping drive through the American Southwest?

Disclosure: All listings are independently selected. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more ›

Grand Circle route

• Start: Las Vegas
• Grand Canyon
• Antelope & Horseshoe
• Monument Valley
• Canyonlands & Arches
• Capitol Reef
• Bryce Canyon
• Finish: Las Vegas

Head southeast from Las Vegas towards the one-and-only Grand Canyon, breaking off the drive with a stop at the Hoover Dam. After visiting Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, venture into Utah via the bordering Monument Valley.

While you can take your Grand Circle road trip in either direction, this itinerary runs counterclockwise. It begins with the longest drive (Las Vegas to Grand Canyon), saving the shorter legs and the red national parks in Utah for the end.

• Total distance:  1,177 mi / 1,894 km
• Total driving time:  20.5 h

1. Las Vegas, NV

Yes, the Grand Circle road trip is mostly about the unique nature of the American Southwest. But if you’re down for it, the flashing Las Vegas is always ready to entertain.

Las Vegas Boulevard South is a melting pot of extravagance. Also known as the Strip, it’s a stark contrast to the rest of the Grand Circle itinerary.

On the Strip, one casino after another towers up. Caesars Palace, the Venetian and Bellagio are just a few of the many institutions where activity flows day and night.

If you feel lucky, there’s no better spot.

But you don’t have to gamble to have fun on the Strip in Las Vegas. A prime example is Bellagio’s popular musical fountain show, which caters to roadtrippers of all ages.

Extra stop: The Hoover Dam , an awe-inspiring National Historic Landmark, is located on the way from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim. It’s just too good of an opportunity to miss.

Route info: There are two Grand Canyon rims: North Rim and South Rim. This itinerary takes you to the South Rim. It’s the most renowned Grand Canyon rim, and it’s open year round.

2. Grand Canyon, AZ

Driving distance:  279 mi / 449 km Driving time:  4.5 h

Grand Canyon is so long, wide and deep that it’s hard to grasp. Luckily, this Golden Circle road trip takes you right to the start of the Grand Canyon adventure, where you can see the magic for yourself.

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the USA . It’s an Arizona wonder talked about around the entire globe.

Such celebrated views must be hard to access, right?

Actually, the opposite is true at Grand Canyon South Rim. You can drive your car more or less to the very edge of the over one mile (1,847 m) deep canyon — wow.

The Rim Trail beautifully stretches out along the canyon’s edge. By the easily accessible trail, there are more spectacular overlooks than you can count.

3. Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend, AZ

Driving distance:  132 mi / 212 km Driving time:  2.5 h

The town of Page, Arizona, is spoiled with natural beauty. At its eastern end, you find Antelope Canyon ; across the city, Horseshoe Bend awaits.

Capture the otherworldly Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon, boasting wavy canyon walls, is on every photographer’s bucket list. Split into two distinctive parts, both Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon offer surreal shapes.

If you take the Grand Circle road trip during the year’s warmer months, you in Upper Antelope Canyon also have the chance to see the so-called light beams. These natural sunlight shows occur at midday between late March and mid-October.

Just pay attention to that you need a guide to venture down into Antelope Canyon. In particular during peak season, from June to August, Antelope Canyon tours book up long in advance.

Fall in love at Horseshoe Bend

It’s just over 5 miles (8 km) from Horseshoe Bend to the beginning of Grand Canyon National Park. Because of the proximity, Horseshoe Bend is often referred to as Grand Canyon East.

But the truth is that Horseshoe Bend offers something unique even for the mighty Grand Canyon.

At the Horseshoe Bend viewpoint, you can enjoy unrivaled views of the Colorado River, the tireless creator of the Grand Canyon. Especially if you visit early or late in the day, it’s one of the most romantic spots on the Grand Circle itinerary.

4. Monument Valley, AZ/UT

Driving distance:  121 mi / 195 km Driving time:  2 h

Monument Valley, on the Arizona-Utah border, may be the coolest road trip destination of them all. It’s a valley in the middle of nowhere where the landscape feels like a different planet.

If you know your movie history, this is nothing new. Monument Valley is where Forrest Gump, in the namesake movie, finally stopped his cross-country running.

The exact spot, the Forrest Gump Point, is as epic as easy to tick off.

For much more scenery, the nearby Monument Valley Tribal Park brims with huge stone structures. As you drive by, it’s certainly a must to enter.

Extra stop: Want to include even more sights on your Grand Circle road trip? If so, on the way from Monument Valley, make a detour to Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park, home to stunning cliff dwellings. However, it adds 151 miles (243 km) and about 3 hours to the itinerary.

5. Canyonlands & Arches, UT

Driving distance:  148 mi / 238 km Driving time:  2.5 h

The Grand Circle road trip welcomes you to Utah. A hub for adventurers, Moab is the gateway town to both Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park.

Discover Canyonlands

Canyonlands National Park, southwest of Moab, is the first of Utah’s five mighty national parks on the itinerary. It protects three distinct areas: Island in the Sky, The Needles and The Maze.

Island in the Sky is the park district closest to Moab. Here, jaw-dropping pullouts — showcasing the surrounding desert landscape — and the front-cover Mesa Arch await.

Further south, The Needles stands out for its many rock spires, or needles. It’s a hiking paradise.

The final district, The Maze, requires a warning. It’s a remote four-wheel drive area, which demands both a lot of time and careful planning.

Balance through Arches

North of Moab, a collection of more than 2,000 natural arches has given name to Arches National Park.

Its most famous photographed arch is the Delicate Arch. You can see it from a roadside viewpoint, or for more intimate views, a 3-mile (4.8 km) round-trip hike takes you all the way there.

Beyond the arches, there are many other peculiar rock formations in Arches National Park. Towers, pinnacles and balanced rocks are other park features to enjoy.

The fascinating Balanced Rock continues to defy gravity. One day, its balancing boulder will come down. However, let’s hope it will keep its balance for many years to come.

6. Capitol Reef, UT

Driving distance:  146 mi / 235 km Driving time:  2.5 h

Capitol Reef is a national park for travelers who appreciate the road less traveled. Say hi to the least visited of all the national parks on the itinerary.

Sure, you won’t find the most dramatic canyons or rock formations in Capitol Reef National Park. Yet, it may just be the best stop on the itinerary for history buffs.

Fruita Historic District, Capitol Reef’s heart, is a small national treasure.

From the late 1800s into the 1960s, pioneers planted and harvested fruit trees in the fertile valley. Over the years, to put food on their tables and money in their pockets, families planted loads of trees.

Still to this day, orchards of apples, pears, peaches, apricots and more thrive in Fruita. If you take the Grand Circle road trip during harvest season, be sure to include picking fruit in Fruita on the itinerary.

But the orchards are not the only traces of the historic community. Preserved structures, such as the Gifford Homestead and one-room schoolhouse, tell more stories about past life in Fruita.

7. Bryce Canyon, UT

Driving distance:  118 mi / 190 km Driving time:  2.5 h

Bryce Canyon National Park, home to the world’s largest concentration of rock hoodoos, makes jaws drop daily. It’s a must to include this peculiar gem on your Grand Circle itinerary.

But what are hoodoos? Think sandstone pillars typically topped by higher density, less easily eroded rock. These formations, also known as tent rocks and fairy chimneys, come in thousands in Bryce Canyon.

In particular, the Bryce Amphitheater, the park’s main stage, is dotted with them. Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point and Sunrise Point are some of the best viewpoints easily reached by car.

For more adventure, Bryce’s famous overlooks also function as trailheads. When descending into the depths of the park, you get up close to the tall but friendly Bryce Canyon locals.

8. Zion, UT

Driving distance:  73 mi / 117 km Driving time:  1.5 h

Zion National Park is last but certainly not least on your Grand Circle itinerary. Discover some of America’s most awe-inspiring hikes, lined by red sandstone cliffs and evergreen plants.

Angels Landing is the most storied of them all. This 5-mile (8 km) adventure features thrilling climbs with huge drops. Its demanding elevation change of 1,488 feet (453 m) is as hair-raising as unique.

Keep in mind that, due to its popularity, an Angels Landing permit is required.

Other strenuous, eye-popping hikes in Zion are the Narrows and Observation Point. The latter has an elevation change of 2,148 feet (655 m) but without the tight climbs of Angels Landing.

A less pulsating option, and family favorite, is the round trip 2.2-mile (3.5 km) Riverside Walk. It follows the Virgin River until the canyon gets so narrow that only the river can fit.

Extra stop: Valley of Fire State Park makes your jaw drop one more time. The Nevada state park, between Zion and Vegas, is full of fascinating rock formations.

9. Las Vegas, NV

Driving distance:  160 mi / 257 km Driving time:  2.5 h

The final 160 miles (257 km) complete your ultimate Grand Circle road trip loop. As you arrive in Las Vegas with new memories that last for a lifetime, the road trip adventure is over for this time.

Where to stay along the Grand Circle route

There’s no shortage of exceptional places to stay along the Grand Circle route. We think these two options stand out a little extra, though.

A gateway to Arches and Canyonlands, Red Cliffs Lodge makes eyes pop. Be wowed by the rippling Colorado River, towering rock faces and dusty horse corral (it’s no surprise that Hollywood has taken advantage of the setting).

When visiting Zion, treat yourself to a stay at Cable Mountain Lodge . Picture luxury surrounded by red cliffs, with the national park accessible right across the soothing Virgin River.

Best time to do the Grand Circle road trip

Driving the Grand Circle road trip appeals around the year. However, your timing will heavily influence your experience.

Take off in spring or fall to enjoy moderate temperatures, perfect for tackling tough trails, and uncrowded national parks.

Summer is the year’s busiest period for the itinerary’s national parks. Anticipate hot temperatures (bring plentiful water) and highly trafficked trails.

Go during winter to find a much quieter landscape. Freezing temperatures are likely, especially at high altitudes, but snow-dusted rock formations make up for it.

Grand Circle road trip FAQ

This ultimate Grand Circle road trip is 1,177 miles (1,894 km) long, taking 20.5 hours excluding the time you need for the stops along the way.

The main stops on the Grand Circle drive are Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley, Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. Additional destinations include the Hoover Dam, Mesa Verde and Valley of Fire.

The six national parks on the Grand Circle road trip itinerary are Grand Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion. If you go for the additional Colorado stretch, between Monument Valley and Canyonlands, you add Mesa Verde National Park as a seventh national park.

Some spots on the itinerary, such as Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, can quickly be explored. Others, including Grand Canyon and Zion, require more time to be fully appreciated. For a relaxing experience, with casual driving, hiking and stargazing, we recommend allowing two weeks or more.

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• Your USA national parks guide

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How to Plan the Perfect Grand Circle Tour

Explore cherished national parks on a road trip to remember.

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Commemorate the National Park Service's centennial by hitting picturesque trails and admiring storied sites and dramatic rock formations at iconic national parks across Utah and Arizona.

Today marks the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service , and to celebrate the occasion – and inspire the next generation of visitors to visit America's prized parks and historic sites – the parks will be offering free admission through Sunday. So, now is the perfect time to pile the family into the car, and head to Utah to embark on a Grand Circle Tour of top national parks. Popularized in the 1920s, when the Union Pacific Railroad created the route with the then newly developed National Park Service to encourage visitors to get outside and admire the plateaus and peaks of southern Utah and northern Arizona, this iconic route is not to be missed. If you're ready to embark on an epic road trip , packed with striking scenery, storied sites and plenty of time in great outdoors, here's how to plan a memorable tour of four inspiring national parks.

[See: 15 Must-Visit National Park Attractions ].

Zion National Park

Utah's first national park – established in 1919 – Zion sprawls across the southwestern Utah desert. There are many regions within Zion National Park, but the park is best known for its dramatic red rock cliffs. Visitors can stroll along the Riverside Walk hiking trail and wade into the water to cool off or, for a thrill, climb to top of Angels Landing for striking 360-degree views of the valley below. Not up for hiking? Take a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel or the less-visited Kolob Canyons section of the park. Keep in mind cars are not allowed in the main Zion Canyon during the busy spring and summer months, when visitors must ride the free shuttle system to get to the hiking trailheads. However, visitors can drive their own cars through the Zion Canyon as the crowds diminish, from November to March.

[See: 7 Affordable Ways to Experience America's National Parks ].

Cedar Breaks National Monument

A hidden gem in the mountains above Cedar City, Utah, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a fantastic way to get away from the crowds of Zion and Bryce Canyon. Cedar Breaks' prominent feature is a majestic 2,000-foot-deep amphitheater of reddish-orange rock carved with intricate fissures, and hoodoos (skinny spires). Situated at 10,000 feet elevation, Cedar Breaks offers much cooler visiting conditions than Zion National Park's desert heat. Plus, nights are punctuated by dazzling stars speckling clear skies. Be sure to stick around after sunset when park rangers offer lessons about our solar system via telescope. And don't forget to take notice of the trees along Cedar Breaks' rim – the bristlecone pines are some of the oldest living organisms in the world. Along the Spectra Point/Ramparts Overlook Trail, you'll pass the oldest such bristlecone pine tree in the park, which dates back more than 1,500 years.

Bryce Canyon National Park

An otherworldly expanse of hoodoos and arches make up the geology of Bryce Canyon National Park. Easy access to Sunrise Point, Sunset Point and Inspiration Point allow visitors to watch the shadows creep over the land at sunrise or sunset. Hiking is a must in Bryce, and you need to get below the rim to experience the wonder and awe among the hoodoos. There are many paths leading into the network of formations, and one of the most popular and scenic combines the Navajo and Queen's Garden trails for one of the most spectacular 3-mile hikes in the world. After passing the entrance sign to Bryce Canyon National Park, before you reach the entrance toll booth, make sure to take the road to the left, which leads to the Fairyland Canyon section of Bryce. You'll find spectacular views of the orange-tinged spires without the crowds (or the park fee if you're planning a trip after Aug. 28).

[See: 12 State Parks That Should Be on Your Bucket List .]

North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

Over 1,800 million years of geologic history stand before you at the strata of the Grand Canyon . The North Rim is less accessible than the South Rim and 1,000 feet higher in elevation but worth visiting. You can take your pick from hiking to Bright Angel Point for a spectacular view of the Grand Canyon, or sit in an Adirondack-style chair on the back porch of the Grand Canyon Lodge and partake in one of the ranger-led programs. Mule rides into the canyon date back to the 1920s and range from an hour to a half day. Prices start at $45 per person for a one-hour ride to $90 for a half-day trip. For a meal to remember, dine in the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge's main dining room, which affords unparalleled park views. Just remember to make reservations ahead of time online as spots tend to fill up quickly.

While the Union Pacific Railway may not lead Grand Circle Tour trips anymore, an RV makes for a great family-friendly option, even while tooling down the highway. For more information about how to plan an RV road trip on your own, visit GoRVing.com to learn how to get started, where to go, what to bring and more.

Tags: National Parks , National Park Service , Travel , Vacations

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Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

This post may contain a few affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through them I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Want to see the amazing National Parks of Arizona and Utah, and a few extras in two weeks? This road trip itinerary takes you through The Grand Circle, which is a region in the southwest United States including Utah’s big 5 National Parks of Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion, plus the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and Valley of Fire state park in Nevada!

2 Week Grand Circle Itinerary Summary:

• Day 1: Las Vegas to Williams AZ
• Days 2 & 3: Grand Canyon South Rim
• Day 4: Monument Valley
• Days 5 & 6: Four Corners and Mesa Verde
• Days 7 & 8: Arches & Canyonlands
• Day 9: Capitol Reef
• Day 10: Bryce Canyon
• Days 11 & 12: Zion
• Day 13: Valley of Fire
• Day 14: Las Vegas, travel home

If you don’t have two weeks, this itinerary can be modified easily to ten days by taking out the days to Monument Valley, Mesa Verde, and Valley of Fire. You could also drive straight from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon in one day if you want.

10 Day Grand Circle Itinerary:

• Day 1: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim
• Day 2: Grand Canyon South Rim
• Days 3 & 4: Arches & Canyonlands
• Day 5: Capitol Reef
• Days 7: Bryce Canyon
• Day 8 & 9: Zion
• Day 10: Las Vegas, travel home

Now time to come along for an adventure tour of the amazing southwestern United States! 🙂

Las Vegas to Williams AZ

Las Vegas is a great starting point for a trip of the Grand Circle because it’s easy to get flights to and rent a car , which is what we did.

Staying in Boulder City instead of Las Vegas was a quieter overnight option , and waking up in the morning and seeing beautiful Lake Mead was so nice! You can get breakfast or stock up on groceries in town, and see some sights before hitting the road.

Sites to check out in Boulder City include:

• Hemenway Park – a pretty little local park, nice place for a picnic and to see big horn sheep!
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area – You do need to buy a pass to get into Lake Mead if you want to visit, but since you’ll be visiting many National Parks on this trip, I highly recommend picking up the National Park’s Annual pass here if you don’t already have one! There shouldn’t be much of a line to get it like there can be at the Grand Canyon.
• Hoover Dam – (we took a walk on the Hoover Dam bridge for free , getting a beautiful view of the dam, instead of taking the tour which would have taken much longer)

The drive from the Hoover Dam to Williams was easy highway driving totally approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. We made a lunch stop in Kingman, and when we finally got to our destination for the night we had a fun time walking around and exploring a little of the town of Williams on Route 66 !

You can read more details of the full drive to the Grand Canyon here .

Grand Canyon South Rim

Days Two and Three.

The drive from Williams to the south rim of the Grand Canyon is only an hour long. After that, you’ve got the rest of the day and all of the next to explore one of the wonders of the natural world! The Grand Canyon is breath taking!

We had almost 2 full days at the south rim. I would have preferred a third, but if you’re not into hiking then 2 days should be enough. You’ll be able to see all the viewpoints and stops, museums, gift shops, etc. with 2 days for sure. Even one full day is good for an overview if that’s all the time you have.

Things to check out at the south rim include:

• Mather Point – Make this your first stop! It’s right next to the main visitor’s center(which should probably be your second stop 😉
• Desert View Watchtower
• Take the shuttle bus out to Hermit’s Rest and other viewpoints
• Tusayan Ruins Museum and historic site
• Go on a day hike down Bright Angel Trail
• Take an easy walk along the South rim where there are art galleries, restaurants, and views galore!

Monument Valley

The drive to Monument Valley from the Grand Canyon was an easy 3 hours through dry desert landscapes. Monument Valley is located on Navajo lands, and is not an actual National Park. But it’s an impressive sight nonetheless, with towering “monuments” of red desert sandstone jutting out through the arid, flat lands.

The Navajo here have their own visitor’s center, museum, and even guided tours on jeep or horseback, or you can take your own car and drive the gravel road through the monuments. They do charge a fee to get into the main area.

I would say one day here is good enough for a visit. There’s enough things to do filling up a whole day , with time to sit and relax a little. Also if you’re up for camping-or glamping, I highly recommend it! We had one of the most beautiful nights of our trip sitting under the stars at a camp fire, playing music, and then watching the sun rise over the monuments the next morning!

Four Corners & Mesa Verde National Park

Days Five and Six.

Being in this part of the country, and with the Four Corners Monument so close by, I knew we had to stop and visit it. It’s really out in the middle of nowhere, so if standing in four states all at once thrills you, go there!

Getting there from Monument Valley was about an hour and a half, and you only need an hour or two max to visit. You get your photo taken at the four corners, and there’s a lot of Native American vendors to shop at around the perimeter.

Continuing on to Cortez, Colorado , the town just outside of Mesa Verde, took another hour drive. All said, with driving times and the stop at the Four Corners, took up half a day.

We split our time at Mesa Verde National Park from the afternoon on the first day, and morning on the second. We were able to see all the sites on Chapin Mesa , one of the two major sections of the park, and also take a tour of Balcony House.

Going on a tour of one of the cliff dwellings is a must at Mesa Verde!

There was still Wetherill mesa, and other cliff dwelling houses we could have toured, but we just didn’t have the time. I would recommend 2 full days for Mesa Verde. But one day was fine if you just want to get an overview of the place like we did.

After our tour of Balcony house the morning of day six, we continued on and drove on towards Moab for the rest of our day.

Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

Days Seven and Eight.

Both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are right outside of the town of Moab, Utah. Moab is THE place you want to stay at when visiting these parks. It’s full of adventure seekers and there are even state parks around like Dead Horse Point adjacent to Canyonlands that you may want to check out if you have more time.

We gave ourselves 2 full days here, one for each park.

At Arches, we saw almost all the major sites , and hiked to the iconic landmark of Delicate Arch , as well as Landscape Arch .

The section of Canyonlands we visited was Isle in the Sky district (the park is made up of 3, with this one being the main part and most popular). We had so much fun at this park! It’s not as crowded or famous as Arches, but it’s absolutely beautiful, don’t miss it!

We drove and stopped at all the viewpoints, hiked the short trail to Mesa Arch , and then went to Grand View point to see the sunset.

So one day at each park was enough for a good taste of what these beautiful places are like.

Capitol Reef National Park

One of the lesser known National Parks, Capitol Reef was quite stunning, and I have to wonder why it’s so overlooked! It’s smaller than the others, and with one main road makes it easy to see the sites in one day.

Getting there from Moab was a 2.5 hour drive, not too long, so driving didn’t take up much of the day, and we had the rest of it to see the park.

With one day spent at Capitol Reef , we were able to view the petroglyphs and historic sites, have a picnic lunch near the river and apple orchards, stop in the gift shop and buy some delicious mini pies! You must get some of those deserts! Drive all the way down Capitol Gorge dirt road, and then even hike the Tanks Trail. It was a fun filled day!

We spent the night at an Airbnb in the town of Torrey which is the closest town outside of the park. There are of course some hotels there as well.

Bryce Canyon National Park

If I had another day on this trip, I would dedicate it to Bryce. Hands down. But, that’s because I like to go on hikes, to really explore places as much as I can. If you’re not into hiking, one day at Bryce is enough to see all the views and go on a short hike.

Driving to Bryce From Torrey was incredibly beautiful! We took the famous Utah Scenic route 12 , and I can’t recommend it enough!

We had an incredible day visiting Bryce Canyon , getting to all the scenic viewpoints along the drive, and hiking half of the Fairyland loop trail. It was so beautiful, and I don’t regret it, but this is where I do wish I did some more research beforehand (or simply had more time). If I knew better I think I would have chosen the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trails. Simply because from the pictures I saw throughout the years afterwards, I SO want to go back and do that trail!

In a way though, it’s nice having reasons to go back to all of these places 🙂

Zion National Park

Days Eleven & Twelve.

Day eleven was taken up driving to Zion from Bryce , which was another beautiful scenic drive, especially on getting to Zion because you drive through part of the park, and there are tunnels and views galore!

We were staying overnight in the town of Hurricane, which was farther away from the park than what I would have liked, but only 30 mins so not too bad. Word of advice, book early if you want to stay in the towns close by !

The next day we got up, but not as early as I would have liked. Another word of advice: get to Zion early if you want a parking space x.x We spent about another half hour or more driving around looking for one. Finally we found a spot near the campground parking lot, and we walked a part of the Pa’rus trail, and got on the park shuttle to see the rest.

There’s many things to see and hikes to do at Zion . With one full day we did that small hike on the Pa’rus, visited every shuttle stop, hiked the lower and upper Emerald Pools Trail, and continued on to the Kayenta trail, hiked up to see the Weeping Wall, and also did the 1 mile River walk to the start of the Narrows.

We didn’t have time for any of the major hikes like Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, or Observation Point, but we got a great overview of the park! Of course if one of those hikes is important to you, you can simply spend the day doing that instead.

But for us…another time hopefully! 🙂

Valley of Fire State Park

I had no idea this place existed before planning this trip. When making plans, I look for places inbetween the major stops, to give ourselves a break driving and find other things of interest.

Valley of Fire is a gem , and just outside of Las Vegas!

We had such a fun day there, just as much fun as any of the National Parks!

We drove from Zion to Valley of Fire on our last day, and spent the whole day in the park. Doing as we usually do; stopping at the visitor’s center(you do have to pay a fee to get in), getting a map, driving the roads and stopping at all the landmarks if possible. As well as hike a few small trails.

You can easily fill up your whole day here with plenty of stuff to see. Just be sure to pack a lunch with you and plenty of water! There are no food stands in the park.

We dropped off our rental car, which we conveniently got right at the Las Vegas Airport , and flew home.

Ok, so you may have to count an extra day or two for travel in this itinerary. For our trip it was 13 days with 2 days travel, but that also depends on the flights you get, and how long it takes you to get to Las Vegas. If you’re from the East coast and you catch an early flight, you can definitely do the drive from Las Vegas to Williams on day one.

All said and done, this was a great trip, and I’d do it again any time! I hope these details can help you out planning your own trip 🙂

Let me know in the comments below if you have any alternate Grand Circle Trip itineraries, or special places along the way that are worth checking out!

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15 thoughts on “grand circle road trip itinerary”.

Thank you for sharing. I’m planning a similar itinerary but renting an RV. Do you think it is doable in february? I’m worried about snowing driving conditions. Thank you in advance for any comment on that subject.

Hi, I’d definitely be wary if you go in February. There can be a lot of snow and road closures around the Grand Canyon and elsewhere. The park itself could close. If you have decent weather with little snow fall though it could be very beautiful, and no crowds! So only plan then if you have flexibility to cancel or go elsewhere.

Hi, your site has been very helpful in planning our future trip. I was wondering if you could provide any feedback/suggestion on the below draft itinerary. Thanks

Day 1 (Tues.): Fly into Las Vegas, drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

Day 2 &3 (Wed. & Thurs.): Explore GCNP: (3 nights – Bright Angel Lodge)

Day 4 (Fri.): Drive to Lake Powell/Antelope Canyon (2 nights – Home2 Suites) • Antelope Canyon Boat Tour

Day 5 (Sat.): Lake Powell/Antelope Canyon • AM – Upper Antelope Canyon Tour — PM – Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Day 6 (Sun.): Drive to Arches NP (2 nights – Moab Springs Ranch or Red Cliff) • Drive the park, Devil’s Garden Trail

Day 7 (Mon.) • Ranger guide hike: Fiery Furnace, Off-Road Hell’s Revenge Tour

Day 8 (Tues.): Drive to Capitol Reef National Park (1 night- Broken Spur Inn?) • Drive Capitol Gorge

Day 9 &10 (Wed. & Thurs.): Drive to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (2 nights -Escalante Yurts) • Hike the Lower Calf Creek Falls, Devil’s Garden, Willis Creek Slot Canyon, Escalante Natural Bridge, Hell’s Back Bone & Peekaboo Tour

Day 11 (Fri.): Drive to Bryce NP (1 night – Bryce Lodge) • shuttle to Inspiration Point, walk Rim Trail to Bryce Point/Mossy Cave Trail

Day 12 (Sat): Drive to Zion NP (2 nights – Zion Lodge) • Explore Park

Day 13 (Sun.): Zion: Narrows Bottom Up/Emerald Pool Hike:

Day 14 (Mon.): Drive to Las Vegas – return rental car (1 night)

Day 15 (Tues.): Fly back to MD

Hi, glad you could find it useful! Your itinerary looks great! It does a few things differently than I did but there’s nothing wrong with that. Going to Lake Powell/Antelope canyon is a great alternative to Mesa Verde, and I did consider going there instead on our trip, but will have to wait for next time! The only things I’d consider maybe differently is if you’d rather go to Canyonlands instead of having 2 days in Arches(Canyonlands is equally as beautiful), and also at Bryce you might want to do a short hike down into the canyon to see what it’s like https://cameraandacanvas.com/bryce-canyon-one-day/ But if you’re only looking at doing easy hikes it is best to stay above. I hope you have a good trip!

Thanks so much…just what I was looking for! Hope to do something similar in 2024.

Is there a way to contact anyone about these trips. Can’t find email or phone number.

Hi, these are just trip itineraries I went on personally and wrote about to help others. I don’t take personal phone calls or offer more advise than small questions, like others have asked here in the comments.

Hi. Love the itinerary. We are planning for a road trip but would like to include Page, AZ for Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe bend. What would you advise. We will be travelling with 2 kids ages 11 &7. Thank you!

Those would also be great places to visit! It really depends on how much time you have for your trip. If you have an extra 1 or 2 days or more you could definitely include Page/Antelope in this itinerary before you drive onto Monument Valley. Or you can substitute the trip to Page instead of Mesa Verde. Antelope Canyon also requires reservations so check their website when you’re planning.

I love the idea of this tour of Parks, We have a 29 foot travel trailer, would we be able to find spots to overnight at these parks or close to them? Not sure how that works, not knowing if there are RV parks in the area. Thanks for your suggestions. Laurie

Hi, yes I’m certain you could find spots in or near the parks with a trailer as many people bring their RV’s. You’ll have to be careful on certain roads however, such as on the way from Bryce to Zion, you’ll want to follow a certain road which I mention in my article here: https://cameraandacanvas.com/driving-bryce-canyon-to-zion-national-park/ Before you make your trip just look up campground around each national park you want to visit to find good spots for RV’s, they will be there!

This itinerary is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you for sharing! Could you recommend any places to stay along the way? And what time of year did you make this trip?

Hi, I’m so glad it could help you! I made the trip at the beginning of October, the weather was beautiful then and it wasn’t too crowded! As for places to stay, as you scroll through this article, I do make recommendations on the different locations to stay at(and in more detail in the links about each place).

Such great information, thanks for sharing. It looks like you had a great time! It sounds like I need a month to explore over there because I love to hike too!

Yes a month would be a great amount of time! The 2 weeks that we had was enough to get a good feel for each place, but if you really want to explore and do more hikes and see other parts of the park, you’d at least need a month 🙂

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The Grand Circle: What It Is; Where It Is; and Why You Should Visit It

The Grand Circle encompasses 10 National Parks that are all near each other and are all vastly beautiful.

By: Jared Beeler + Save to a List

The Grand Circle is located in the Four Corners region of the US and covers most of Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and a small bit of Nevada. All of this region is gorgeous and worth a visit, but the many National Parks that are in this region are some of the most visited and some of the most photogenic. The National Parks that are in this area are Black Canyon of The Gunnison , Mesa Verde , Petrified Forest , Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , Arches , Canyonlands , and Great Basin . Each of these National Parks is very unique even though some of them are less than 100 miles apart.

• Mesa Verde National Park - This National Park is home to some of the best preserved cliff dwellings of the Pueblo people from more than 1400 years ago. The park offers many guided tours to visit these cliff dwellings as well as other hikes that are not guided. If you do not want to hike, there is also a great scenic drive that takes you through the National Park. Along the scenic drive, there are many pull-offs and small hikes to old native dwellings. The National Park runs one campground with many amenities and one fairly priced lodge as well as a restaurant. This park is also home to many species of large animals such as elk, black bears, mountain lions, and many species of birds. 

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Grand Circle Itinerary

Day 1 - Las Vegas to Zion National Park, 165 miles

Day 2 - zion national park to bryce canyon, 120 miles, day 3 - bryce canyon to torrey, 130 miles.

Day 4 - Torrey to Green River, 145 miles

Day 5 - green river to moab, 80 miles, day 6 - moab to blanding, 160 miles.

Day 7 - Blanding to Kayenta, 120 miles

Day 8 - kayenta to page, 120 miles, day 9 - page to tusayan (grand canyon), 145 miles.

Day 10 - Grand Canyon, 50 miles

Day 11 - tusayan to las vegas, 265 miles.

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Complete Guide to Planning a Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

Have you ever dreamed of taking an epic southwestern road trip full of adventure? Looking to explore expansive desert landscapes, stunning rock formations, and boundless hiking trails? Then a grand circle road trip covering Southwestern, Utah, and Arizona could satisfy your appetite for adventure. Are you looking to complete the Utah 5 national parks or maybe you want to see a few monuments as well? Maximizing your time in the national parks takes a bit of planning. Maybe requiring an extended stay? The Utah 5 National Park includes- Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park , Capitol Reef, Bryce and Zion National Park .

The Grand Circle is a popular road trip route that takes you through some of the most iconic national parks and attractions in Utah and Arizona. Here is a suggested itinerary for a Grand Circle trip around the Utah 5 and Arizona: This itinerary covers some of the most iconic destinations in the Southwest, but you can customize it based on your interests and schedule. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions, and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Table of Contents

Embarking on the Grand Circle Road Trip: Discovering Iconic National Park and Monument Sites of the Southwest

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• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
• Zion National Park
• Red Rock Canyon
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
• Capitol Reef
• Canyonlands National Park
• Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
• Glen Canyon Dam
• Grand Canyon
• Hoover Dam Lookout

Note: This itinerary can be customized based on personal preferences, availability of accommodation, and seasonal park closures. It’s also important to note that the distances between parks can be quite significant, so be prepared for long drives.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 1

Day 1: Las Vegas to Zion National Park

• Drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park (approximately 3 hours)
• Spend the day exploring the park, hiking the trails, and taking in the stunning scenery
• Stay overnight in or near the park

If you are flying and renting a vehicle, you could start and end in Las Vegas, or Salt Lake City, Utah or Phoenix, Arizona; which are major flight destinations. Either way will get you started. If you get an early flight, you can start with a side trip to Red Rocks Canyon on your way to Zion National Park.

Discovering Hidden Gems: A Side Trip to Rocks Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon is a conservation area located in the Mojave Desert, about 15 miles west of Las Vegas, Nevada. The conservation area spans over 195,819 acres and includes a diverse range of natural features, such as towering red sandstone cliffs, canyons, and desert landscapes.

NOTE: *Timed Reservations are required for vehicle entry to the Scenic Loop between 8am-5pm from October 1 through May 31 * Timed Reservations are available online, along with daily entry passes, and visitors with an annual or lifetime pass. Make your reservation here:  Red Rock Reservations for Timed Entry

Journey to Red Rock Canyon: Your Guide to Getting There and Exploring Nature’s Wonderland

Rock Canyon is located 15 miles west of the Las Vegas-Carrion Airport on

• State Route 159. Take I-15 north.
• At exit 42A merge onto US-95 north
• Take exit 81A toward Summerlin Parkway
• Take exit 26 for Charleston Boulevard/State Route 159

What Things Can I Do at Red Rocks National Conservation Area: Southwest Itinerary?

Hiking trails are the best way to explore the natural wonders. If you are looking for an easy hike, try the Lost Creek Trail . This is a is fairly flat and will take you to a lovely grotto with a waterfall. The best time is early morning or sunset because there’s less traffic and it’s temperatures are cooler.

Visitors to Red Rock Canyon can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, and educational programs that showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural history. The conservation area also serves as an important outdoor recreation area for locals and tourists alike, providing opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife viewing.

The visitor center should be your first stop. I always stop for maps and look for important park updates at the information desk. Rangers usually share a wealth of information on trails, wildlife sightings, and other interesting tidbits. We only had a short time, so we drove the scenic one-way loop drive.

From Neon Lights to Natural Wonders: Driving from Las Vegas to Zion National Park – A Scenic Adventure

For a more scenic drive that takes you through some of the stunning landscapes of southern Utah, consider taking Utah State Route 14 east from Interstate 15. This road winds through the mountains and canyons of Dixie National Forest and past the striking red rock formations of Cedar Breaks National Monument. From there, connect with US Route 89 south and then Utah State Route 9 west into Zion National Park. This route takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Road trips are as much about the journey as the destinations. Take time to enjoy the drive, discover hidden gems along the way, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring the Majesty of the Southwest: A Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary in Zion National Park

In Zion National Park there is an abundance of activities for all skill levels in this park. I would seriously consider dedicating a minimum of two days to explore and truly appreciate all Zion offers. For us, Zion National Park was our priority bucket list destination of all the mighty Utah 5 parks.

Zion National Park is home to many popular hiking trails, including The Narrows , Angels Landing , and Observation Point. The Narrows is a slot canyon hike that involves walking through water, while Angels Landing is a steep, narrow trail with a 1,500-foot drop-off. Observation Point offers a stunning view of Zion Canyon from above (accessed via East Mesa Trail ).

NOTE: Starting on April 1, 2022, everyone who hikes to Angels Landing will need to have a permit. Lottery requests via recreation.gov

Zion National Park Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay and Experience Nature’s Splendor

You can stay at the Zion Lodge in the park or find a hotel in nearby Springdale. If you prefer camping, the park has two campgrounds: Watchman Campground and South Point Campground. Reservations need to be made well before your trip at recreation.gov . Springdale has great lodging for both summer and winter.

What Things Can I Do in Zion National Park: Unveiling Nature’s Masterpiece

On your first day in the park, I would attempt the memorable Narrows hike at the end of the Temple at Shinawava (Riverwalk Trail). My advice would be to get an early start. This is the advantage of staying in the park. You can go as far as you like depends on your hiking stamina and, of course, time. Most visitors will tackle the Angels Landing trail. I prefer the Narrows. Consider other hikes that are not as crowded.

• Canyon Overlook Trail – easy 1-mile RT near the Mt Carmel Tunnel. A little intimidating if you have a fear of heights. This is a great hike to watch the sunrise.
• Shelf Canyon Trail – easy 0.7-mile out & back trail. It requires just a bit of scrambling around boulders to reach the slot canyon. Take your time and enjoy it.

If hiking is not your cup of tea, take time to check out the Visitor Centers . There are three. Each has unique exhibits that detail the history, culture, and geological information on the park. The Natural History Museum has interesting displays and best of all, it is free! Take part in a Ranger-led talk or drive to the Zion-Mt. Carmel Scenic Highway, stopping at Checkerboard Mesa. Zion will have a lasting impression no matter what you do. The sheer red rock cliffs, jagged peaks and the low virgin river valley are incredible.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 2

• Drive from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park (approximately 2.5 hours)
• Spend the day exploring the park, hiking the trails, and marveling at the unique rock formations

Driving From Zion to Bryce: A Scenic Journey through Southwest Mozaic

• Take Route 9 east from Zion National Park, passing through the charming town of Springdale and the stunning red rock scenery of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.
• Continue on Route 9 through the breathtaking scenery of the Zion Canyon and the Checkerboard Mesa formation
• Take the Route 89 north to Bryce Canyon National Park
• Along the way, you can stop at the Red Canyon Visitor Center and take a short hike to see the unique rock formations, arches, and hoodoos

The valley parallels the East Fork of the Virgin River. Many small historical towns dot the valley floor. Mormons pioneers established farms and ranches settled this area of the Colorado Plateau. Near Hatch, the journey of the Sevier River begins. The river meanders through the long valley, cattle roam large pastures. I knew this river for 3 kinds of trout that are periodically restocked by the local fish hatchery. If you are interested in fishing, this is the perfect river to fly-fish.

Red Canyon: A Scenic Oasis in Dixie National Forest – A Must-Stop on Your Southwest Road Trip

Approximately 7 miles from Panguitch, Utah on Highway 89, turn east onto Highway 12. Before reaching Bryce Canyon, UT-12 passes through two red rock tunnels in Red Canyon, which is part of the Dixie National Forest. Bryce often overshadows this area. Most people drive right past it with oohs and ahhs, but don’t bother to stop. The area is known for its vibrant red rock formations and unique geological features, including hoodoos and spires. It is definitely worth taking a mountain bike ride or taking a hike. These remarkable red sandstone pinnacles and formations differ greatly from what you see in Zion or Bryce. The visitor center can provide trail information.

Red Canyon is part of the Dixie National Forest , which covers over 2 million acres in southern Utah. The forest offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. It is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, black bears, and mountain lions.

What Things Can I Do Red Rock Canyon?

• Red Canyon Tunnel Trail – easy, 0.8 miles out and back trail. A set of switchbacks leads to decent views of the tunnels. Excellent location for pictures. Benches are along the trail if you need a rest. You could easily spend a day just hiking at Red Canyon.
• ATV Trails – there are multiple trails for ATVs in the park. Rentals are available in Tropic or Hatch.
• Mountain Bike Ride – start at the Red Canyon visitor center to Inspiration Point on a wide, paved path.
• Horseback Riding -take a ride to Thunder Mountain at Ruby’s Inn in Tropic. Travel the trails of the infamous Butch Cassidy.

Bryce Canyon National Park: A Journey into the Otherworldly Beauty of Hoodoos and Vast Vistas

Located off UT-12, Bryce Canyon National Park is a quick 13 miles from Red Canyon. The park covers an area of over 35,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and black bears. The parks is known for its unique geological formations known as hoodoos. Bryce is unforgettable amongst the Utah 5. The hoodoos, which are tall, thin spires of rock, were formed over millions of years of erosion and weathering. The park offers a range of hiking trails that provide access to the hoodoos and other geological features, such as arches and natural bridges. The most popular trail is the Rim Trail, which offers stunning views of the park’s amphitheater and hoodoos.

Where to Stay in Bryce Canyon during your Southwest Trip

Ideally, it is nice to stay in the park. We stayed at the Bryce Canyon Lodge , close to amenities and the amphitheater hiking trails. Bryce Canyon has two campgrounds. At the entrance to the park, there are many lodges, secluded Stone Canyon Inn and Canyon Country Lodge in Escalante., to mention a few.

NOTE: Hikers should also be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring plenty of water , snacks , and appropriate clothing and footwear . A quality  trekking stick  would be advisable for any of the trails. As with all hikes in national parks, visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment and wildlife.

What Things Can I Add to my Itinerary in Bryce National Park?

The Navajo Loop Trail is considered one of the parks must-do hikes and is popular with visitors of all ages and abilities. The trail is approximately 1.3 miles long and is deemed a moderate to strenuous hike due to its steep inclines and switchbacks. It stirs the imagination especially on Wall Street, where you are hemmed in by reddish-orange slick rock walls. The Queen’s Garden Trail is a slightly longer trail that offers a different perspective of the park’s hoodoos and can be combined with the Navajo Loop Trail for a longer hike. Watch the sunrise or sunset.

• The visitor center is within a pinyon, juniper, and ponderosa forest plateau. Look through the exhibits and interactive displays.
• Horseback Riding – if you don’t want to hike-ride trail horses into the amphitheater to see the hoodoos.
• Drive the scenic parkway -stop at the overlooks. Vast, rugged views of the amphitheater, each with a fresh perspective.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 3

• Drive from Bryce Canyon to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (approximately 1.5 hours)
• Spend the day exploring the park, hiking the trails, and checking out the unique geological formations
• Stay overnight in or near the Cannonville, Utah.

From Bryce Canyon to Escalante: A Scenic Drive through Enchanting Landscapes and Ancient Treasures

Ut-12 east towards Capitol Reef, stop in Cannonville at the Escalante National Monument Visitor Center. Escalante is 20-minutes from Bryce. Take a break and check out the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center. If you are traveling by RV, the parking lot has a water fill-up station. If you need a permit to hike Coyote Canyon, you can pick one up here.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: Deciphering the Secrets of Time and Wilderness in the Southwest

The monument covers over 1.9 million acres and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is named for its unique geological formations, which resemble a giant staircase leading from the Grand Canyon in Arizona to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The monument is also home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including high deserts, riparian zones, and deep canyons.

Visitors to the monument can explore a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, camping, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. The monument is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and a variety of birds and reptiles.

Some of the most popular destinations within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument include the Escalante River, the Hole in the Rock Road, and the Grand Staircase region. The monument is also known for its world-class fossil resources, with many paleontological discoveries having been made within its boundaries.

Note: Be sure to check road conditions at the visitor center before embarking on a hike. There are many great opportunities to explore this region.

Hiking in this Remote Wilderness: The Trail to Lower Calf Creek Trail

We only wanted to get a feel for the park as we were pressed for time. The Lower Calf Creek Trail is a a prominent hike. The trailhead is located off just off the All-American Road Scenic Byway Utah State Route 12. It is a 6-mile out and back sandy trail that follows Calf Creek. The trail winds through a beautiful desert landscape with towering sandstone cliffs and colorful rock formations. Along the way, hikers can see a variety of desert flora and fauna, including juniper trees, cactus, and bighorn sheep. Look for the petroglyph art on the walls at stop #9 of the trail map. The waterfall is gorgeous! The water is freezing, however, on a hot day it is refreshing.

It’s important to note that many of these accommodations fill up quickly during peak travel season, so it’s a good idea to book in advance to secure your spot. Additionally, some of these options may have limited availability during the winter months, so be sure to check ahead if you’re planning to travel during this time.

Finding Your Oasis in the Wilderness: Top Places to Stay Near Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Cannonville is a small town near Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. While there aren’t many accommodation options directly in Cannonville, there are several places to stay nearby. Here are a few options:

• Grand Staircase Inn: This newly renovated hotel is in Cannonville and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, as well as a complimentary breakfast. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a convenient and affordable place to stay.
• Bryce Pioneer Village : This rustic motel is in Tropic, about 10 miles from Cannonville. It offers comfortable rooms and cabins, as well as a restaurant serving up tasty meals. It’s a great option for travelers looking to explore both Bryce Canyon National Park and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
• Stone Canyon Inn: This beautiful inn is in Tropic, about 12 miles from Cannonville. It offers luxurious accommodations in a stunning natural setting, with views of the surrounding red rock formations. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a more upscale and secluded experience.
• Escalante Cabins & RV Park : This collection of cabins and RV sites is located in Escalante, about 20 miles from Cannonville. It offers comfortable and affordable accommodations, as well as a convenient location for exploring Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

What Must-See Attractions Are in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument?

• Devil’s Garden (not to be confused with Arches NP) is an easy 1-mile loop trail to see Metate Arch. Good for all skill levels.
• Hike a Slot Canyon- Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulch can be combined in a 3.5-mile loop trail. If you have time, this is a pleasant hike.
• If you are really adventurous, try canyoneering . Guides are available in Boulder/Escalante.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 4

• Drive from Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park (approximately 2.5 hours)
• Spend the day exploring the park, hiking the trails, and checking out the historic orchards and other landmarks

Journey from the Wild to the Mesmerizing: Driving from Grand Staircase-Escalante to Capitol Reef National Park

By car, the most direct route is to take Utah State Route 12 east from Escalante towards Torrey. This drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including the red rock canyons of the Escalante River and the towering peaks of the Boulder Mountain range. To reach Capitol Reef, National Park continues on UT-12 E to Torrey. The All American Highway (U-12) ends in the junction of UT-24 in Torrey. In Torrey, turn right onto UT-24 E. Capitol Reef National Park is 9-miles from Torrey.

Capitol Reef National Park: Uncovering the Ancient Beauty While Visiting This Gem

We made good travel time, so we made a quick stop at the Gooseneck Overlook to get incredible views of the park. This Utah 5 national park is totally underrated. It is definitely one to keep on your southwestern itinerary. Capitol Reef is renowned for its unique geological features, such as the Waterpocket Fold , the Hickman bridge , and Cassidy Arch. Our first stop is always the Visitor Center, where knowledgeable rangers always provide up-to-date trail information and printable orientation maps.

In addition to its stunning natural features, Capitol Reef also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Visitors to the park can explore historic homesteads, orchards, and other remnants of early settlements in the area.

Gateway to Capitol Reef: Top Accommodations and Places to Stay Near the National Park

These are just a few options for places to stay near Capitol Reef National Park. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel season in the summer months, as accommodations can fill up quickly. We preferred the Red River Ranch in Torrey. For us it was worth spending a little extra for the proximity to the park. The restaurant food was outstanding!

Other accommodations to choose from include:

• Capitol Reef Resort: This resort is located just outside the park entrance and offers a variety of accommodations, including cabins, teepees, and RV sites.
• Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse: This hotel is located in Torrey, Utah, just a few miles from the park entrance. It offers a variety of room types, as well as an on-site steakhouse and indoor pool.
• Red Sands Hotel: This hotel is located in nearby Torrey and offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a swimming pool and hot tub.
• Rim Rock Inn: This hotel is located in nearby Fruita, Utah, within the park boundaries. It offers cozy rooms and cabins, as well as an on-site restaurant.
• Wonderland RV Park & Campground: This campground is located in Torrey and offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts.

Crafting Your Ultimate Southwest Itinerary: The Best Things to Do at Capitol Reef National Park

The hike to Hike Hickman Bridge is about 1.8 miles round trip and is considered moderate in difficulty. The trailhead is located off Utah State Route 24, and the trail winds through a scenic desert landscape with views of the surrounding cliffs and canyons. Along the way, hikers will pass through a narrow canyon and climb some steep switchbacks before reaching the bridge itself.

• Explore Historic Fruita – The district is home to a collection of well-preserved historic buildings, including a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, a general store, and several orchards. This desert oasis with an amazing story to tell. In season, enjoy fruit or pie from the orchard.
• Petroglyphs – accessible via a short boardwalk we saw petroglyphs and other ancient rock art left behind by the Fremont culture, who inhabited the area over a thousand years ago.
• Chimney Rock Loop Trail – located off Utah State Route 24 it is a moderate 3.3-mile loop to a massive sandstone monolith. Along the way, we saw a variety of desert flora and fauna, including juniper trees, cactus, and lizards.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 5

• Drive from Capitol Reef to Moab (2.5 hours)
• Stop at Goblin Valley State Park for a short hike (1-2 miles)
• Check in to hotel/campsite in Moab
• Explore Arches National Park
• Hike to Delicate Arch (3 miles round trip)
• Visit other landmarks such as Balanced Rock, Landscape Arch, and Park Avenue
• Return to Moab for the night

From Capitol Reef to Moab: A Scenic Drive through Utah’s Breathtaking Landscapes!

• The most direct route is to take Utah State Route 24 west from Capitol Reef towards Hanksville. From Hanksville, take Utah State Route 95 north towards Interstate 70. Take I-70 east until you reach US Route 191, which will take you south into Moab. This route takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Moab Accommodation Guide: Finding Your Perfect Stay Amidst Utah’s Adventure Hub!

There are a variety of lodging options in Moab, including hotels, motels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. Visitors can also find a range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, serving a variety of cuisines. We always stay at Red Cliffs Lodge, nestled beside the Colorado River, away from busy Moab. There are plenty of accommodation options in Moab, ranging from budget-friendly motels to high-end resorts. Here are a few suggestions based on different budgets and preferences:

• Budget-Friendly: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Moab offers many affordable motels and inns such as Motel 6 Moab, Big Horn Lodge, and Bowen Motel. These accommodations are clean, comfortable, and conveniently near downtown Moab.
• Mid-Range: Moab also has many mid-range hotels and resorts, such as Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn, Moab Springs Ranch , and SpringHill Suites Moab. These hotels offer more amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and free breakfast.
• Luxury: If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, Moab offers several high-end resorts, such as Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa , Sunflower Hill Luxury Inn , and Aarchway Inn . These resorts offer breathtaking views, fine dining, and spa services.
• Camping: For those who prefer camping, Moab offers several campgrounds such as Arches National Park Campground, Canyonlands National Park Campground, Under Canvas® Moab and Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground. These campgrounds offer a range of options from primitive tent camping to RV sites with hookups.

Moab: The Outdoor Mecca – Embrace Adventure and Nature in Utah’s Desert Playground

Moab is also home to a variety of other outdoor attractions, including the Colorado River, which offers opportunities for rafting and kayaking, and the Moab Rim, a popular destination for rock climbing.

The 34-mile round-trip scenic drive features magical views of the mesas, fins, and the Colorado River canyon. The overlooks suspended 1100 feet above the canyon deliver outstanding views of the Colorado River. Even if you have limited time, I recommend doing this drive through the Islands in the Sky area.

Moab Unleashed: Exploring the Thrilling Adventures and Wonders of Utah’s Desert

Moab, Utah, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its beautiful natural surroundings and numerous outdoor activities. Here are some of the top things you can do in Moab:

• Hiking : Moab offers many hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Popular hikes include the Delicate Arch Trail in Arches National Park, the Corona Arch Trail, and the Hidden Valley Trail.
• Biking : Moab is also a popular destination for mountain biking. The area offers several trails for all skill levels, including the Slickrock Bike Trail, the Whole Enchilada Trail, and the Moab Brand Trails.
• Rafting : The Colorado River runs through Moab, and rafting on this river is a popular activity. You can take a half-day or full-day rafting trip through scenic canyons and rapids.
• Jeep tours : Moab offers guided jeep tours through the backcountry, which is a great way to explore the rugged terrain and see natural wonders such as arches and canyons.
• Rock climbing: Moab has many rock climbing areas, including Indian Creek, Wall Street, and Fisher Towers. You can hire a guide to take you to these areas and provide instruction.
• Sightseeing: Moab is home to two national parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. You can spend several days exploring these parks, taking in the stunning natural beauty.
• Scenic drives : Moab offers several scenic drives, including the La Sal Mountain Loop Road , the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway , and the Dead Horse Point State Park Scenic Drive.

Arches National Park: A Journey into the Geological Story of Majestic Stone

It’s known for its stunning natural rock formations, including over 2,000 arches, towering spires, balanced rocks, and other geological wonders. The park covers an area of 76,679 acres and attracts over 1.6 million visitors every year.

We ended up doing a whirlwind tour of Arches taking less than one day. Entering the park early in the morning is the best option to complete the scenic drive. The highlight of any visit to Arches national park is the 3-mile Delicate Arch Trail. I must say that our fast-paced itinerary left me wanting more. This Utah 5 park will be on our list for a return trip with more time dedicated to hiking the trails.

Note: Timed entry tickets  are required in addition to your  park pass OR entrance fee .  You may enter the park before 7 am or after 4 pm without a timed entry ticket. The park will release tickets first-come, first-served on  Recreation.gov  three (3) months in advance in monthly blocks

Arches National Park Must-Dos: Embrace the Magic of Utah’s Iconic Stone Arches

Here are some of the top things to see and do in Arches National Park:

• Delicate Arch: The most famous and iconic arch in the park, Delicate Arch, is a must-see attraction. You can view the arch from a distance or hike to it for a closer look.
• Park Avenue: This scenic drive is a beautiful way to see some of the most stunning rock formations in the park, including Courthouse Towers and the Three Gossips.
• Balanced Rock: This massive rock formation balances precariously on a narrow base and is a favorite photo spot for visitors.
• Fiery Furnace: This labyrinth of narrow canyons and towering fins is a popular spot for adventurous hikers. Have an extra day? Consider a guided tour. Make a reservation via recreation.gov .
• Windows Section: This area features several arches and rock formations, including the famous Double Arch.
• Landscape Arch: This long and narrow arch is one of the longest in the world and a popular hiking destination.
• Devils Garden: This area features several trails that lead to stunning rock formations, including Landscape Arch and the massive fins of the Dark Angel.
• Stargazing: Arches National Park is a great place for stargazing, with clear skies and minimal light pollution.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 6

• Visit Canyonlands National Park, which is located adjacent to Arches National Park
• Spend the day exploring the park, hiking the trails, and checking out the stunning vistas and canyons
• Stay overnight another day in Moab near the park.

To drive from Moab to Canyonlands National Park, you have a few options depending on which entrance of the park you plan to visit. Here are the two main entrances and the driving routes to get there:

Short But Sweet: Driving Moab to Canyonlands National Park

• Needles District: From Moab, take US Route 191 south for about 40 miles until you reach Utah State Route 211. Turn left onto State Route 211 and follow the signs to Canyonlands National Park. The entrance to the Needles District is about 35 miles from US 191 and the drive takes approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• Island in the Sky District: From Moab, take US Route 191 south for about 10 miles until you reach Utah State Route 313. Turn left onto State Route 313 and follow the signs to Canyonlands National Park. The entrance to the Island in the Sky District is about 22 miles from Moab and the drive takes approximately 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

It’s important to note that the park entrances may have different hours and fees, so it’s recommended to check the National Park Service website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information. Also, be aware that some roads in the park may be unpaved or have high clearance requirements, so check the park map and road conditions before driving.

Canyonlands National Park: Discover the Vast Beauty and Timeless Grandeur of Utah’s Canyons

Compared to the other Utah 5, this park is enormous!! They divide the park into three districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze. A 40-minute drive from Moab is the Island in the Sky. It is in the northern portion of Canyonlands National Park. We made the hike to Mesa Arch early in the morning. It is easily one of the most photographed; particularly at sunrise when the sun lights up the arch while also giving an expansive view of the canyon below. It is almost like looking through a window. Worth getting up early and making the trek.

Canyonlands National Park: A Kaleidoscope of Adventures – Exploring the Many Wonders and Activities

Canyonlands National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty that offers a variety of activities and sights for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do at Canyonlands:

• Scenic Drives: Canyonlands has several scenic drives that offer breathtaking views of the park’s unique landscape. The Island in the SkyDrive and the Needles Drive are two popular routes that take visitors to some of the most iconic viewpoints in the park.
• Hiking: Canyonlands have over 100 miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty and length. Some of the most famous trails include the Mesa Arch Trail, the Grand View Point Trail, and the Syncline Loop Trail.
• Backpacking and Camping: Canyonlands has several backcountry campsites and permits are required for overnight stays. The park also has several developed campgrounds for visitors who prefer car camping.
• Mountain Biking: The park has several trails that are open to mountain bikes, including the White Rim Trail, which is a 100-mile loop that offers stunning views of the park.
• River Rafting: The Colorado and Green River run through Canyonlands, and visitors can experience the park from a different perspective by taking a guided river rafting trip.

These are just a few of the many things to do at Canyonlands National Park. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something that you’ll love at this beautiful park.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 7

• Drive from Canyonlands National Park to Monument Valley (approximately 2.5 hours)
• Take a guided tour of the iconic rock formations and landscapes, and learn about the Navajo culture and history
• Stay overnight in or near Monument Valley

From Canyonlands to Monument Valley: A Scenic Journey through Desert Landscapes and Iconic Movie Backdrops

This drive takes about 2.5-3 hours without stops, but you’ll want to allow plenty of time to take in the scenery and visit the attractions along the way, When leaving Moab, be sure to stop at Wilson’s Arch. It is hard to miss located beside highway US-191. We scrambled up the arch to take a few pictures before moving on to Monument Valley.

Natural Bridges an Ideal Stop Along the Way

• Start in Moab, Utah, and take US-191 South for about 44 miles.
• Turn left onto UT-211 East and continue for approximately 40 miles until you reach Natural Bridges National Monument.
• Take the loop road through Natural Bridges National Monument to see the three natural bridges that are the park’s main attractions.
• After leaving Natural Bridges National Monument , continue on UT-261 South for about 34 miles until you reach Mexican Hat.
• Stop at the San Juan River overlook to see the spectacular view of the river as it winds through the canyons.
• From Mexican Hat, take US-163 South for approximately 25 miles until you reach Monument Valley.

Interesting Fact: The name “Dead Horse Point” has an interesting history. According to a local legend, the point was used as a natural corral by cowboys in the late 1800s. Wild mustangs were herded onto the narrow neck of land, and some horses were left stranded on the point, unable to escape. Unfortunately, they died of thirst or exposure, giving rise to the name “Dead Horse Point.”

A Spiritual Journey into Monument Valley Tribal Park

I love the movie history linked to the Monument Valley Tribal Park . So they filmed many early Hollywood westerns, capturing the natural beauty of the valley. John Wayne and John Ford made these buttes and mesas famous. If you watch the first movie ever filmed here, “The Searchers” the Mittens are visible in many of the scenes. However, this landscape has a spiritual connection as well. Vehicles on the self-guided loop are limited to the valley drive. However, a Navajo guide will take travelers further into the backcountry. If you make use of Navajo Spirit Tours, they will share the legends for each formation. At the Big Hogan, you get a surreal moment listening to your guide play a traditional song on the flute. The acoustic in this natural amphitheater was magical!

NOTE: Remember that Arizona does NOT observe daylight savings, but the Navajo Reservation does.

Where to Stay in Monument Valley

On our grand circle tour, we wanted to stay directly in Monument Valley Tribal Park. I think it is worth the higher price to stay at The View Hotel . Sitting on your balcony as the sunrise illuminates the Mittens is the quintessential symbol of the American Southwest. I believe you get what you pay for when you stay here. Additionally, you can find choice accommodations at the hotel at Goulding’s Resort or the campground for RV campers. Trekkers will still have proximity to the park. 

What Things Can I Do at Monument Valley?

We opted to use Navajo Spirit Tours for the scenic 17-mile loop to see the mesa, buttes and John Ford Point made famous by the movies.

• Once you arrive at Monument Valley, explore the park’s famous rock formations, which have been featured in countless movies and TV shows.
• Photograph the famous Mittens at sunset. The light illuminating them is perfect from your balcony at The View Hotel.
• Take a guided tour of the park to learn more about the Navajo culture and history.
• Watch the sunset over the park’s iconic buttes and spires.
• Overnight either in Monument Valley or Page, Arizona

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 8

• Drive from Monument Valley to Page, Arizona (approximately 4 hours)
• Visit the Glen Canyon Dam and take a tour of the power plant
• Explore the Antelope Canyon, which is known for its stunning rock formations and colors
• Visit the Horseshoe Bend, a breathtaking natural formation of the Colorado River
• Explore Lake Powell, which offers many outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking
• Stay overnight in or near Page

Driving Monument Valley to Page, Arizona (Glen Canyon Recreation Area)

This drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours without stops.

• Start in Monument Valley and head south on US-163 for about 25 miles. Photograph the highway from the famous Forrest Gump Point .
• Turn right onto US-160 West and continue for approximately 50 miles until you reach Kayenta.
• In Kayenta, you can visit the Navajo Code Talkers Exhibit , which honors the contributions of Navajo soldiers during World War II.
• From Kayenta, continue on US-160 West for another 20 miles until you reach the junction with US-89 North.
• Turn left onto US-89 North and continue for approximately 73 miles until you reach Page, Arizona.
• Along the way, you can stop at the Navajo National Monument , which features well-preserved cliff dwellings and ancient artifacts.
• Once you arrive in Page, you can visit Lake Powell, which offers a variety of water sports and outdoor activities.

More Southwest Splendor: Exploring Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell

The city of Page is a jumping-off point for boating on Lake Powell which is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Lake Powell is a huge reservoir that provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. On our visit, we hired a guide to get out on the lake and do some bass fishing . In the early morning, the shimmering heat of the day already reflects off the surface of the water. The lake is flat calm as we make as we leave the marina. The scenery is breathtaking. On our trip, we caught quite a few smallmouth bass and stripers. At the end of the day, our guide took us up Antelope Canyon. The walls rising upwards above you are memorizing. If you love to fish, this lake produces quality bass.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves outdoor adventure and natural beauty. With so much to see and do, you could easily spend several days exploring the area.

Home Away from Home: Where to Stay in Page, Arizona

Page, Arizona is a popular destination for visitors to Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and other nearby attractions. Here are some of the most popular places to stay in Page:

• Lake Powell Resort: This resort is located on the shores of Lake Powell and offers a variety of rooms and suites, some with lake views. It has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and is located near the Wahweap Marina.
• Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell: This hotel is located in downtown Page and offers a variety of rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
• Best Western Plus at Lake Powell: This hotel is located in downtown Page and offers a variety of rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and hot tub. We loved our stay here.
• Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell: This hotel is located in downtown Page and offers a variety of rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and fitness center.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Page – Lake Powell: This hotel is located in downtown Page and offers a variety of rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and fitness center.

Discovering an Adventurer’s Paradise the Glen Canyon Recreational Area

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a vast protected area in northern Arizona and southern Utah that spans over 1.2 million acres of land and water. The area is known for its stunning red rock canyons, mesas, and cliffs, as well as the beautiful blue waters of Lake Powell. Here are some highlights of the recreation area:

• Hiking – There are many hiking trails in the recreation area, ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes that offer stunning views of the canyons and mesas.
• River rafting – The Colorado River runs through Glen Canyon and offers a variety of rafting trips, from short half-day excursions to multi-day adventures.
• Scenic drives – The scenic drives along Route 89 and Route 98 offer spectacular views of the red rock canyons and mesas.

Unleashing the Thrill: Exploring Glen Canyon’s Possibilities

• Famous Horseshoe Bend – a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River that offers stunning views of the canyon. Arriving for sunset or sunrise. The Colorado River carved this incredible landscape over eons.
• You can also take a guided tour of Antelope Canyon , a slot canyon known for its unique rock formations and stunning colors. These tours are conducted by a Navajo Guide. The light on these slot canyon walls is a photographer’s dream.
• Visit the Glen Canyon Dam – The Glen Canyon Dam is a massive concrete structure that controls the flow of the Colorado River and creates Lake Powell. Take a tour of the Glen Canyon Dam for only a $10 fee. We had a great Navajo guide!

Iconic Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is an “entrenched meander” located 5 miles downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam . They recently improved 1.5-mile trail building a new platform, the juts out over the canyon. We went before the improvements. You could sit on the edge of the canyon and look down at the river. Pretty scary. The city of Page now collects a $10 vehicle fee for the parking. It is worth stopping just to take photographs of this iconic bend in the river.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 9

• Spend the day exploring the park, hiking the trails, and taking in the awe-inspiring views.
• Stay overnight in or near the Grand Canyon National Park .

Taking the Road Less Traveled: Driving to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Page, Arizona

• From Page, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon Village is a 2-3 hours journey if you don’t do any stops. However, there are plenty of viewpoints. Each is a unique perspective and worth getting out of the car to see.
• The most direct route is to take US-89 south to Flagstaff, and then take AZ-64 north to the South Rim.

No matter how you choose to travel from Page to the Grand Canyon South Rim, be sure to take your time and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. There are many beautiful sights to see in northern Arizona, so consider making stops at places like Cameron Trading Post or Wupatki National Monument if you have time. We stopped at the Cameron Trading Post for a restroom break, perusing their extensive gift shop, and eating the best Navajo Tacos ever!

Not Your Ordinary Canyon: Visiting Grand Canyon National Park -South Rim

If you have a bucket list, this is one park that should be at the top; it will not disappoint. We could consider the Grand Canyon one of the seven wonders of the world. It is a great place to get incredible pictures as you hike through some beautifully colored rock formations. Numerous wildflowers bloom in the spring on many of the trails.

The Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim is a breathtaking destination that offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Take a drive along Desert View Drive or Hermit Road to enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. Coming from Page and stopping at the Desert Watchtower, you get your first glimpse of the canyon. I must say that nothing comes close to standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon . You get a true understanding of the canyon’s sheer size.

Grand Canyon’s South Rim Retreat: Where to Stay for a Memorable Experience

There are several lodging options available at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Here are some of the most popular places to stay:

• Bright Angel Lodge : This historic lodge is located on the rim of the canyon and offers a variety of rooms and cabins. It has a restaurant, gift shop, and is located near the Bright Angel Trailhead. We rented a cabin here our first trip. Loved the expansive canyon views early in the morning, and listening the bugling elk.
• El Tovar Hotel: This elegant hotel was built in 1905 and is located on the rim of the canyon. It offers a variety of rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a lounge with stunning views of the canyon.
• Kachina Lodge : This lodge is located on the rim of the canyon and offers a variety of rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, gift shop, and is located near the Bright Angel Trailhead.
• Thunderbird Lodge: This lodge is located on the rim of the canyon and offers a variety of rooms and suites. It has a restaurant, gift shop, and is located near the Bright Angel Trailhead.
• Yavapai Lodge: This lodge is located about a mile from the rim of the canyon and offers a variety of rooms and cabins. It has a restaurant, gift shop, and is located near the Market Plaza.

South Rim Wonders: Exploring the Grand Canyon’s Abundance of Activities

• Hiking – The South Rim offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy paved paths to challenging backcountry trails. Some popular trails include the Bright Angel Trail to Phantom Ranch , South Kaibab Trail, and Rim Trail.
• Mule Rides – Take a mule ride down into the Grand Canyon for a unique and unforgettable experience. Several different guided tours are available, ranging from one hour to multi-day trips. If you opt for the mule ride, you definitely need to make your reservations far in advance.
• Ranger Programs – Attend a ranger-led program to learn more about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
• Grand Canyon Village – Explore the historic Grand Canyon Village, which offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and lodging options.
• Sunrise and Sunset Views – Witness the stunning colors of the Grand Canyon during sunrise or sunset. Be sure to arrive early and secure a good viewing spot.
• Museums and Visitor Centers – Visit the various museums and visitor centers located throughout the park to learn more about the history and natural wonders of the Grand Canyon.

Note: Hiking in the canyon be sure to bring plenty of water , wear comfortable shoes , and follow all park regulations and safety guidelines.

Southwest Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary-Day 10

• In the morning before leaving the canyon, spend a leisurely morning walking the canyon rim or the train station depot to see the elk and mule deer.  
• Take a memorable train ride to Williams, AZ on the Grand Canyon Railroad
• Stop at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to learn the history, culture, and geology of the canyon.
• Hike phenomenal Havasu Falls -this is still on my bucket list.

Destination the City of Lights: Driving from Grand Canyon National Park to Las Vegas Nevada

The most direct route is to take AZ-64 east to US-89 and then head south to Flagstaff. From Flagstaff, take I-40 west to Kingman, and then head north on US-93 to Las Vegas. The drive takes about 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops. To add Hoover Dam to your itinerary take exit 48, take ramp right for US-93 toward Las Vegas.

• There are many interesting sights to see, such as the Hoover Dam, Route 66, and the historic town of Kingman.
• Arrive in Las Vegas in the evening

We spent our last night in Las Vegas on our return trip. Staying at the Best Western McCarran Inn, nearest to McCarran airport and the car return. You can cruise the Las Vegas strip or take in a show.

An Engineering Marvel: Make the Detour to Experience Hoover Dam

As you near the end of your grand circle tour, why not plan a quick stop at the Hoover Dam . The Hoover Dam is located about 120 miles from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Hoover Dam is a good place to take a walk over the Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a few pictures or take a tour of the visitor’s center and inside of the dam.

Power, Beauty, and Engineering: Experiencing the Wonders of Hoover Dam

These are just a few of the many things to do at the Hoover Dam. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or outdoor adventure, the Hoover Dam is a must-see destination in the Southwest.

• Hoover Dam Tour – Take a tour of the Hoover Dam, which offers a close-up look at the dam’s history, construction, and operation. There are several tour options available, including a power plant tour and a dam tour, which take you inside the dam and give you a chance to see the massive turbines and generators.
• Walk the Hoover Dam Bridge – Take a walk on the Hoover Dam Bridge, which spans the Colorado River and offers stunning views of the dam and the surrounding landscape. The bridge is also known as the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
• Lake Mead Recreation Area – Visit the Lake Mead Recreation Area, which is located just downstream from the Hoover Dam. The area offers many outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.
• Visitor Center – Check out the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, which features exhibits and displays on the history and construction of the dam. The center also offers tours and educational programs.

Grand Circle Adventure: Essential Resources for Planning Your Epic Journey

• If you plan to visit multiple parks, one way to support our National Parks is to purchase an annual park pass. The America the Beautiful  pass gains your entrance into all the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands. The pass costs $80 for one year.
• Reservations for excursions and lodging need to be made well before your trip. I usually book 6-months ahead for accommodations.
• Download all your apps before reaching the parks. No cell service or Wi-Fi available in most areas. Bring paper maps with you. I always laminate our maps before our trips. They last forever!
• If a park shuttle is available in the park, try to use it. This will save you circling parking areas looking for open space.
• The landscapes you’ll encounter in the Southwest are truly awe-inspiring. Don’t forget to bring a good camera , and capture the moments that resonate with you, so you can relive the experience later and share it with others.
• Bring LOTS of water . Most places will not have water and if they do, it will be more expensive to buy. I know what it is like to hike without it. It can be a serious issue if you get dehydrated.
• You will need a daypack to carry your binoculars , and sunscreen .
• Do not attempt to feed or pet animals. Always maintain a safe viewing distance.

Final Thoughts on Your Ultimate Guide to a Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a Southwest Grand Circle road trip itinerary can be an incredibly rewarding experience, as it allows you to explore some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the United States

For us the Grand Circle Trip around the Utah 5 and Arizona was one big adventure. My hope is this itinerary will give you some insight into planning your own trip. Once-in-a-lifetime moments await to be made. Proper planning, a sense of adventure, and an open mind will ensure that you make the most of this incredible journey through one of America’s most captivating regions. Happy travels!

Have you visited any of the Utah 5 parks? What about the Arizona side? Please share your experience in the comments below.

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Grand Circle travel begins and ends in Utah! Visitors have a unique chance to experience all five Utah national parks, in addition to the Grand Canyon, Mesa Verde, Monument Valley and Lake Powell (Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. During a one-week trip you have time for a short stop in each location, but we recommend taking your time so you have plenty of opportunity to enjoy and learn about each unique destination.

The American Southwest is famous for incredible scenery, red rock pinnacles and formations, brilliant sunsets, and deep canyons. It is uncommon land, for an uncommon experience, and it's all within a stone's throw of Utah. Few states can boast of so much!

Maintained highways run between these destinations and access is possible year-round. Some of this country is remote and rugged, with many miles between gas stations, so plan your trip carefully.

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Grand Circle – Western National Parks

• Destination: United States RV Tours
• Duration: 31 days

Surround yourself with beauty and history

as you hit the highlights each park has to offer. Towering red-rock spires, river-carved canyons, sandstone cliffs, hoodoos, cascading waterfalls, and desert wildflowers await your discovery. Grab your cameras and a seat for a picturesque view to the rim of the Grand Canyon in a First-Class Observation Dome Train Car. Enjoy a scenic boat ride to the Rainbow Bridge on Lake Powell. A Navajo guide takes us out to witness extraordinary rock formations rising from the valley floor. Share stories and dessert around a campfire. Drift down the Colorado River at night, as dancing lights illuminate the canyon walls. Visit beautiful Sedona, with its energy vortexes, and stroll through Jerome and imagine life as it was over 100 years ago.

Tour Highlights

– Zion National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park – Capitol Reef National Park – Arches National Park – Canyonlands National Park – Mesa Verde National Park – Grand Canyon Rims

– Professional Adventure Caravans Staff – 30 Nights RV Camping – Tickets, Admissions and Gratuities for Shows, Events, and Activities Listed – 9 Meals Provided and 30 Events – 2 Days of Motorcoach Transportation – Local Step-On Guide for Area Tours – AVC Apparel, Name Badges & Tour Pins

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– Comfortable Walking Shoes Recommended – Total Miles 1,240 – Longest Travel Day 195 Miles – Frequent Caravan Miles Earned Upon Completion of Tour $65

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Utah's Grand Circle - 5 National Parks

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Utah's Grand Circle

& the mighty five national parks, may 14-24, 2024.

Click here to view a brochure with a complete day by day itinerary

Tour includes:

• Deluxe Roundtrip Motorcoach Transportation

• On-board Friendly Host

• 10 Nights Hotel Accommodations

• Luggage Handling

• 16 Meals

• Gratuities For Included Meals

• Professional Tour Director

• Entrance Fees to National Parks and Monuments as Mentioned in Itinerary:

- Golden Spike Tower and Visitors Center

- Dead Horse Point State Park

- Arches National Park

- Capitol Reef National Park

- Scenic Highway 12

- Anasazi State Park

- Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument

- Bryce Canyon National Park

- Zion National Park

- Kaibab Plateau

- Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

- Lake Powell National Recreation Area

- Monument Valley

- Canyon de Chelly National Monument

• Free Time in Kanab

• Jacob Lake Lodge

• Scenic Cruise on Lake Powell

• Goulding’s Lodge

• Hubble Trading Post

• Acoma Pueblo Sky City

• Free Time in Santa Fe

• Travel Route 66 - Stop in Tucumcari

• Cadillac Ranch

• National Route 66 Museum

• First Americans Museum

• Pops Museum

• Coleman Theater

Tour Pricing:

$4025 per person Double

$4950 per person Single

Non-members add $25

Deposit & Final Payment:

A $300 deposit per person is required within one week of reservation. Must be paid in full by March 1, 2024. No refunds will be issued after March 1, 2024.

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We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden illness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience we offer a Travel Protection plan provided by the United States Fire Insurance Company and administered by Trip Mate, Inc.; in UT and CA, DBA Trip Mate Insurance. To review full plan details online, go to www.tripmate.com/wpTPD040 for domestic tours valued up to $4,000 per person or to www.tripmate.com/wpTPG040 for all international tours or domestic tours valued over $4,000 per person.

tuesday, may 14, 2024 Grand Island Join us this morning from the available departure location of your choice, meet your friendly on-board host, and begin your westward journey. Pass through western Iowa into Nebraska with rest and refresh breaks along the way, as needed, as well as a stop for lunch, on your own. This evening, arrive in Grand Island for an overnight stay and enjoy dinner, on your own, at a nearby restaurant.

wednesday, may 15, 2024 Denver / Silverthorne This morning, after breakfast at the hotel, continue your travel west to North Platte for touring of the Golden Spike Tower and Visitors Center. The tower rises eight stories above Union Pacific’s 2,850-acre Bailey Yard for wonderful views of the world’s largest train yard. After a stop for lunch, on your own, near Ogallala, bid farewell to Nebraska as you cross the Colorado border. Stop in Denver to meet our tour director, and then continue west into the Rocky Mountains to Silverthorne, a beautiful mountain community on the Blue River, nestled high in the breathtaking Rockies. Your evening is free to explore and enjoy dinner, on your own.

Thursday, may 16, 2024 Arches/Moab After enjoying breakfast, we depart and descend from the mighty Rockies today and enter into the red-rock country of the Colorado Plateau. Cross the border to Utah’s Canyon Country and take a scenic drive to Dead Horse Point State Park for a picnic lunch and one of the most spectacular scenes in the southwest. You will see the expanse of Canyonlands National Park stretching to the south and the mighty Colorado River 2,000 feet below. Then, you are off to nearby Arches National Park for sightseeing. The 18,000 square-foot visitors’ center will introduce you to the unique geologic forces that created the highest concentration of natural arches in the world with over 2,000 named arches within its 73,000-acre boundary. Visit all the park highlights including Park Avenue, Balance Rock, The Windows and Delicate Arch View Point. In the late afternoon, join the group for a unique experience as you take a Jet Boat Ride on the mighty Colorado River through spectacular red rock canyons. As the sun dips in the west, the canyon colors come to life while you learn about the river’s ecosystem, geology and history. After a thrilling ride, enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner served on the banks of the Colorado River.

Friday, may 17, 2024 Capitol Reef/ Bryce Canyon After breakfast this morning, depart Moab and travel west through the San Rafael Swell. Then arrive at Capitol Reef National Park for sightseeing of ancient petroglyphs, beautiful rock formations, deep canyons and pioneer history followed by a wonderful picnic lunch under towering cottonwood trees. Next, enjoy a drive on one of America’s most spectacular roads. Scenic Highway 12 has been designated as an “All American Road,” the crown jewel of the Scenic Byways system. Drive up and over Boulder Mountain reaching altitudes over 9,000 feet with incredible views of Capitol Reef, the Circle Cliffs and the Henry Mountains. Stop in the town of Boulder for touring of Anasazi State Park with its ancient Indian ruins. Then travel through Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument, with vast expanses of cream and rose colored Navajo sandstone. There are dramatic cliffs, high mesas, beautiful streams and deep canyons in multi-hued colors across the 1.9 million acre monument. In the later afternoon, arrive at Bryce Canyon National Park for sightseeing. The hues and intricate shapes of Bryce Canyon carry even the most mature adult away into a fairyland fantasy. The Paiute Indians used a word to describe Bryce that translates into, “red rocks standing like men in a bowl-shaped canyon.” Mormon settler Ebenezer Bryce, for whom the canyon was named, described it as “a hell of a place to lose a cow.” Check into your hotel located just outside the park with the evening free for dinner on your own.

Saturday, may 18, 2024 Zion/Kanab Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning, then return to Bryce Canyon National Park for a morning view. Then, take a short drive to see Utah’s oldest and most famous national park, Zion National Park. An early Mormon settler described the park’s massive formations as “temples built by hands, not of man.” The Paiutes believed mischievous spirits live among the 2,000-foot high towers and would not enter the canyon alone or remain there after dark. There will be time for lunch, on your own, and to explore Zion Canyon, a brilliant green canyon set against the backdrop of sheer red cliffs, with an occasional lacy waterfall fanning out from the rocks. The shuttle system will allow everyone to explore at their own pace. In the later afternoon, depart Zion for a short drive to the small town of Kanab, also known as “Little Hollywood” due to the many movies and television shows filmed in the area. Your evening is free to explore and enjoy dinner on your own.

Sunday, may 19. 2024 Grand Canyon/ Lake Powell After breakfast, depart Kanab and travel across the Arizona Strip before climbing the beautiful Kaibab Plateau. Reaching elevations over 8,000 feet, the Kaibab was a favorite of Teddy Roosevelt and is home to a rich variety of wildlife including elk, deer, turkey and the unique white-tailed Kaibab Squirrel. Then, enter Grand Canyon National Park North Rim, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for sightseeing. This 1.2 million-acre national park hosts a vast variety of wildlife and scenic wonders. You will learn about the geology and history of the canyon while taking in its breathtaking beauty. The North Rim receives one tenth the number of visitors compared with the more developed South Rim and thus provides a much quieter and more natural Grand Canyon experience. You will also have time to enjoy lunch, on your own, with a view at Grand Canyon Lodge. In the afternoon, return north and stop along the way at Jacob Lake Lodge, an old-fashioned family run lodge started in 1923, for a rest stop and a presentation on Navajo Arts & Crafts. In the later afternoon, arrive at Lake Powell National Recreation Area and enjoy a Scenic Cruise on Lake Powell. A combination of emerald waters, towering red rock cliffs and blue skies create a unique and breathtaking scene. Then, check into your lakeside hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening free, on your own.

Monday, may 20, 2024 Monument Valley / Canyon de Chelly After enjoying your breakfast at the hotel this morning, depart for Monument Valley, a sacred place to the Navajo. Today, you’ll be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the “Dineh” people. Arrive at the historic Goulding’s Lodge to meet our Navajo Guide and board a 4-wheel drive vehicle for a scenic tour of Monument Valley, a location for scores of famous Western films, television programs and commercials. As you travel through the valley and visit famous locations such as John Ford Point, Artist Point, and The Totem Pole, you’ll also learn more of the Navajo traditions and way of life. After an amazing tour, enjoy an included lunch at Goulding’s Lodge where you can try a Navajo Taco or traditional Navajo stew. This afternoon, continue across Navajo Country on your way to the small town of Chinle for a rim tour of Canyon De Chelly National Monument. Enjoy unobstructed views of a curving red rock canyon and magnificent giant monoliths, stoppn for photographs and viewing ruins. Your hotel is just outside the park and dinner will be on your own at the hotel this evening.

Tuesday, may 21, 2024 Acoma/ Santa Fe Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning then depart Chinle and take a journey south with a stop at historic Hubble Trading Post in Ganado. Leave the Navajo Nation behind and enter the “Land of Echantment,” New Mexico, as you travel to Acoma Pueblo Sky City. There will be time for an included lunch at the culture center and to expore the Haaku Museum. Then, meet your local guide for a tour of the acient pueblo. Acoma Pueblo is built atop a sheer-walled, 367-foot sandstone bluff in a valley studded with sacred, towering monoliths. Since 1150 A.D., Acoma Pueblo has earned the reputation as the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America. The mesa-top settlement is known worldwide for its unique art and rich culture. This afernoon, travel across new Mexico passing through Albuquerque on your way to the fist stae capitol in the United States, “The Royal City of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis,” better known as Sante Fe. Founded in 1609, the city offers many historic, cultural and scenic delights. Enjoy the rest of the day, free to wander through the many fun shops, art galleries and restaurants surrounding the historic plaza.

Wednesday, may 22, 2024 Santa Fe/ Oklahoma City Depart Santa Fe after breakfast this morning as you begin your journey home. Retrace the path of Old Route 66 as you head east with a stop at Tucumcari, home to many of the iconic Route 66 sights such as the Blue Swallow Motel, Tee Pee Curios, and a shining monument to the Old Road. Departing Tucumcari, we continue on the iconic road with a picture stop at the famous Cadillac Ranch. Stop in Amarillo to explore the Historic Route 66 district and have lunch on your own. In the afternoon, continue east on Route 66 with a stop in Elk City for touring of the National Route 66 Museum. This evening, arrive in Oklahoma City and check into your hotel. Explore the Bricktown area and enjoy a dinner on your own.

Thursday, may 23, 2024 Oklahoma City/ Springfield After enjoying breakfast this morning, say goodbye to your tour director as you depart Oklahoma City and head to the new First Americans Museum. Here you’ll learn about the cultural diversity, history, and contributions of 39 distinctive First American Nations in Oklahoma in an innovative museum and culture center. After a wonderful visit to the First Americans Museum, we continue our journey home with picture stops at the Blue Whale of Catoosa and Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park, home of “The World’s Largest Concrete Totem Pole.” In Miami, Oklahoma, enjoy a guided tour of the Coleman Theatre. This iconic theatre is a piece of Oklahoma history. From the day it opened in 1929, this legendary theater has been entertaining audiences with impressive theatrical productions and structural beauty.

Friday, may 24, 2024 Springfield/Home After enjoying one last breakfast this morning with your fellow travelers, today we travel back to Iowa with rest and refresh breaks along the way, as needed, as well as a stop for lunch. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride home as you relive what an incredible journey you’ve had through the Canyonlands of the Southwest!

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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Trailways Travel

3211 Division St.

Burlington, IA 52601

http://www.trailwaystravel.com

[email protected]

319-753-2864 ext. 162

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GRAND CIRCLE NATIONAL PARKS TOUR

Grand Circle National Parks Tour 

All GC tours begin and end in Las Vegas, NV. These are true small group tours with no more than 12 guests per vehicle. Not just a smaller number of people on a bus.

We will be running multiple vehicles on some dates to accommodate the most people possible.  They will operate as separate tours.

If you are looking for several seats on a sold out tour contact us we may be able to help. Private tours and luxury tours are available upon request.

Pricing for 2024 $4949.00 pp double occupancy $6274.00 pp single occupancy $4507.00 pp triple occupancy $4286.00 pp quadruple occupancy

2024 schedule (2024 includes lodging on the final night in las vegas for a total of 11 nights.).

All Dates include the day of arrival and departure.

April 30-May 11 SOLD OUT May 14-25 6 Seats Left May 28-June 8 4 Seats Left June 18-29 6 Seats Left July 16-27 Aug 6-17 Sept 10-21 4 Seats Left Set 24-Oct 5   2 Seats Left Oct 8-19 5 Seats Left Oct 15-26

Deposit and Cancellation Information *Scheduled tours not meeting the minimum of 6 people may be canceled by the operator up to 45 days to tour departure.

What’s Included -Professional and Expert Guides -Guided Hiking Throughout Your Tour -Maximum of 12 Guests Per Guide and Vehicle -All National and State Park Entry Fees -Two Dinners, 1 Lunch, 11 Breakfasts and Associated Tips* -11 Nights of Lodging (3-Star or Better Lodging) -All activities including; Train in Colorado, Tour of Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley, and Moab Hummer Tour -Ground Transportation Starting and Ending in Las Vegas -Guided Hiking throughout the Tour -Snacks and Water Provided on the Vehicle -Airport Transfers

What’s Not Included -Alcohol, room service, or items of a personal nature. -Any meals not listed -Airfare -Activities not included above. -Gratuity for your tour guide or the activity guides.

Physical Requirements GC

• Guests need to be able to walk on uneven terrain for a minimum of 2 miles at a time with a daily average of 3 miles with some days being as much as 6 miles throughout the day.   Elevation gains range between 50 ft (15 m) and 300 ft (90 m) over the course of the hikes.
• Must be able to exit and re-board the van at each viewpoint multiple times daily.   A step or step stool will be available at each location. In addition to the van, we will be boarding a raft, train, and other vehicles throughout the tour.   Steps will be provided for each vehicle.
• Elevations on the tour will range between 1,500 ft (460 m) and 10,000 ft (3,050 m) with sleeping accommodations as high as 7,000 ft (2130 m).

Call 888-404-8687  To Book!

Please feel free to call or email us if you have any questions.

**On dates falling between Dec 1 and May 15 days 2 and 3 may be adjusted as the North Rim is closed between Dec 1 and May 15 of each year.  On tours that travel during this time, Day 2 will travel to Page AZ for all of our activities in the Page area (Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, etc.).  Day 3 we will travel south to visit the South Rim of the Grand Canyon,  and return to Page for lodging. Day 4 we will be back on schedule traveling to Monument Valley.  The Durango Train also runs a shorter route during the early months of the year.  For more information on these changes please contact our office.

Our most popular tour since 1998,  the tour provides an excellent opportunity to experience up close and personal seven National Parks (Zion, Bryce, Capital Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Mesa Verde, and the Grand Canyon), plus Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon. The tour involves driving through 1,900 miles of beautiful mountains, deserts, and mountain valleys, and includes two of America’s most scenic highways.

This eleven-night, ten-day tour includes 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. The tour is loaded with activities that complement the beautiful national parks we visit. Key activities include Four-hour Narrow-Gauge Railroad ride from Durango to Silverton, Colorado;  Navajo-led Monument Valley back-country tour; Navajo-led Antelope Canyon tour; and a float trip down a 10-mile section of the Colorado River.  Our tour includes many more activities than most tours visiting Southern Utah.

Our groups are small with no more than 12 passengers.   We use comfortable modified raised roof vans designed to fit 15 passengers, plus luggage.  Unlike other companies, we do not fill the vans to capacity as we want you to have a comfortable, uncrowded traveling experience.

We begin and end the tour in Las Vegas and visit the states of Utah, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. We pass through three Native American reservations as well. Our guides are the best in the area. They usually are natives of Southern Utah and have a lifetime of stories and insights to draw upon.  There is no substitute for experience. They provide a comprehensive overview of the history, geology, plant life, and culture of the West.

We look forward to touring with you,

The SUST staff, experienced tour specialists

Arrival Day: Las Vegas, and  St George. (This is the day before the tour start date.)

After you arrive in Las Vegas and collect your luggage, you will connect with a shuttle which will then transport you to St George, UT for your overnight stay.  Get settled in, enjoy the beauty of the city of St George.  There are several restaurants in the nearby area including an excellent one located at the hotel.

After breakfast, we depart St George for Zion National Park.  Zion is one of nature’s greatest wonders. Gigantic red and white rock monoliths tower around you like a skyscraper city of stone, concealing pockets of abundant flora and fauna. See the Great White Throne, Angel’s Landing, the Court of the Patriarchs, and the Narrows where the Virgin River has carved out a narrow canyon with 2,000-foot cliffs on each side.

After checking into our hotel in nearby Springdale, there is a welcome and get-acquainted dinner for all to attend.

Day Two: Grand Canyon*

This drive is truly amazing. The North Rim is a thousand feet higher than the more popular South Rim, is less crowded and, for many of us, more beautiful.

Words cannot describe, and pictures cannot capture the impressive spectacle of this majestic site. The Grand Canyon has always been known as one of the seven wonders of the world, and we can’t agree more. We visit the most spectacular sites, pausing to get out, walk along the rim and enjoy the beauty of the place. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed at one of the sites overlooking the Canyon.

Afterward, we visit the North Rim Lodge. One of our favorite things to do is to sit back on one of the rocking chairs in the Lodge’s indoor and outdoor sun porches and take in the grandeur of all that surrounds us. A gift shop is located nearby for those who want to purchase souvenirs. From there, we continue to Page, Arizona, for dinner and lodging.

Day Three: Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Page, Arizona*

We will then make a visit to the Grand Staircase Escalante Paleontology Visitor Center where we will see some of the amazing research and finds in the surrounding area, before returning to town for Lunch.

That afternoon, we are taken to nearby Antelope Canyon for a guided tour by local Navajos. Indeed, this is one of the most beautiful slot canyons in all of America and a morning experience that our guests will be discussing for a very long time.

If time permits, we also take a tour of the Glen Canyon Dam, the dam on the Colorado River that created Lake Powell, the second- largest reservoir in the United States.

Dinner and lodging are in Page, Arizona.

Day Four: Horseshoe Bend and Monument Valley

The local guides will show us many of the more famous landmarks, as well as where John Ford and John Wayne made many of their well-known movies like “Stagecoach” and “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon.” They also take us into the seldom-visited backcountry for a look at some fantastic rock formations.

We continue to Bluff, Utah, for dinner and lodging.

Day Five: Four Corners and Mesa Verde National Park

As we head into Colorado, we pass through the Ute Indian Reservation and soon find ourselves in Mesa Verde National Park the world famous Anasazi “Cliff Dwellings”. For those who are physically able, we tour Cliff Palace (Availability Dependent). This is one of the largest and best ruins in the park. We take a driving tour and see several of the best-preserved ruins.

We also stop at the museum, which has a wonderful array of ancient crafts, pottery, etc. of the Anasazi. Later that afternoon, we make our way to Durango, Colorado. After checking into our hotel, you are free to enjoy the many restaurants and shops located nearby.

Day Six: Colorado Rockies and the Durango and Silverton Railroad

After breakfast, we take the morning Durango and Silverton Railroad to Silverton, Colorado. Built-in 1895 to carry gold and passengers, this old-time steam engine and railroad experience offers a fun and scenic view of the San Juan Mountains, the Animas River, and is a tremendously enjoyable experience.

After lunch, we continue our adventure by driving over one of the most beautiful mountain highways in America, the “Million Dollar Highway”. You will love the stunning views that are offered and become very aware of the scary drop-offs located near the road. This highway is always in the top ten roads to see in the USA. Some call this part of Colorado “little Switzerland” as there are a number of 14,000-foot mountains in the area that offer some of the best mountain scenery in all of Colorado.

We stop in Ouray, a quaint old mining town, for ice cream. We then begin our drive to Moab, Utah, and check into our hotel in the late afternoon. The hotel is next to restaurants. Dinner is on your own.

Day Seven: Moab, Arches National Park, and Dead Horse Point

That evening we will take a 4×4 Hummer tour into the red-rock formations surrounding the town of Moab.  This thrilling ride will give you the opportunity to enjoy sunset at one of the most beautiful locations in the Moab area.

After we descend the hill tops we will return to town for dinner and lodging.

After we have finished in Capitol Reef we will travel a short 5 miles to the town of Torrey UT,  for Dinner and lodging.

Overnight in Bryce.

Day Ten: Bryce Canyon and Return To Las Vegas

For those who want to get up early and see the sunrise at Bryce, you are in for a real treat. The early morning sun lights up the pink cliffs and hoodoos and offers a stunning visual experience.

We will then return to our hotel to have breakfast and pack our things for the final leg of our trip to Las Vegas.

We will take the scenic Cedar Mountain route, which offers a great view of Zion National Park from a distance, as well as several high alpine meadows. We will take a brief lunch stop in St. George, Utah. From there we travel the last few miles to Las Vegas, generally arriving around 5:00 pm.

Overnight Las Vegas.

Day Eleven: Departure Las Vegas

Departure from Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport.  A shuttle is available from the hotel throughout the day.

*On dates falling between Dec 1 and May 15 day 2 and 3 may be adjusted as the North Rim is closed between Dec 1 and May 15 of each year.  On tours that travel during this time, Day 2 will travel to Page AZ for all of our activities in the Page area (Antelope Canyon, Float Trip, etc.).  Day 3 we will travel south to Visit the South Rim of the Grand Canyon overnight in Tusayan and then be back on schedule traveling to Monument Valley on Day 4.

In the spring (prior to May 5, the train ride on Day 6  will travel to Cascade Canyon instead of Silverton due to track closures for the winter season

Backpacking Utah’s Mighty 5

Top 10 things to do in capitol reef, best places to see in canyonlands, the five best day hikes in bryce & zion, utah’s mighty 5 national parks: which should you visit.

• The Mighty 5 Tour (Utah’s National Parks)
• The Ultimate American Experience Tour
• Alaska: The Last Frontier Tour
• Yosemite, Sequoia, California Coast, Death Valley Tour
• Gallery Page

Southern Utah Scenic Tours: A Division of Warner Adventure Tours

PO Box 911772 St George, UT 84790

+1 (435) 656-1504 +1 (888) 404-8687

Grand Circle Travel

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• Great for : 60+, culturally curious
• Type of travel : relaxed pace, coach travel
• Group size : Large groups, 47 max
• Airfare included!
• Group Tours
• Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
• River Cruises
• North America
• Central America & Caribbean
• South America
• Australia & Pacific

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Grand circle travel reviews & ratings, value and service outstanding.

I've traveled with this company 4 times and find the value and service outstanding. If you are on a slim budget try the " last minute" opportunities. We got an inc...

each one has been wonderful

Have taken 12 trips overseas with this company and each one has been wonderful.

Excellent service

Excellent service on ship, considerate of their clients, wonderful discovery trips.

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Grand Circle Travel always has great specials and last minute specials if you can go on short notice. You can request a roommate if you travel solo to save on the s...

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We had a great tour guide in Ivan, was very knowledgable, friendly and very considerate of peoples concerns. The coastal area's of Dubrovink and Kotor were wonderful...

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Editoral Review of Grand Circle Travel

The "older sibling" of Grand Circle Cruise Line, Grand Circle Travel specializes in land tours for Americans of baby boomer age and above (fifty-plus, but leaning toward the plus).

What Makes Grand Circle Travel Stand Out?

• Unique local experiences
• Expert english-speaking guides
• International airfare included
• Relaxed tour pace
• Community feel

Grand Circle Travel was started by the founder of AARP, and as such know their demographic extremely well. Over the years they have established a solid reputation for tours and river cruises that offer good value to destinations around the world.

They also foster a community of dedicated travelers, encouraging you to share your memories, images, and stories with them and the friends you meet along the way.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Grand Circle Travel?

• Budget minded
• Culturally curious
• Grandparents & grandchildren (ages 13 and up are welcome to join)
• Social travelers

If you like the idea of joining a tight knit travel community, with frequent cost cutting options, then Grand Circle could be for you.

This is definitely a travel experience well suited to older American travelers in the 60+ range, seeking a degree of comfort, in their travel experience, within a mid to high budget range. 

Younger couples or families will probably feel out of place among the crowd on a Grand Circle tour. The activities, lectures, and easy pace are all designed for older travelers. If relaxing on the cruise with a book in hand for hours on end, gliding by quiet European shores is your idea of a grand old time then Grand Circle is for you!

If you’d rather have a bit more action, or are after a "see a lot, do a lot" city and country hopping pace, this style of travel is probably not going to hit the right note for you.

Trips are mostly all-inclusive, focusing on comfortable accommodations, informative and easy paced guided walking tours, cultural encounters, learning experiences, and special events that they call their Discovery Series. Itineraries are designed to give you more time in each stop, allowing for a more balanced combination of included activities and independent time.

Solo travelers make up nearly a third of Grand Circle's customers, and they're made to feel more than welcome on group tours, including some price breaks on single supplements.

Itineraries are designed for American travelers, with an aim towards immersive experiences such as visiting local homes, interesting walking tours, in-depth cultural interactions and culinary experiences.

Top Destinations

Grand Circle travels all over the world, with a strong focus in Europe, Aisa and Southeast Asia. They also have limited departures in Africa, South America, the Middle East, South Pacific, North America, Central America, and even Antarctica.

Grand Circle Travel Style

The Grand Circle Travel Style is comfortable, standard river cruises and motorcoaches. On motorcoach tours with Grand Circle you will make frequent stops to stretch your legs, and some longer stops for sightseeing. Groups are between 24-47 people, so expect some company! Because Grand Circle attracts a similar age range, you’re sure to meet new friends with like interests in no time.

Hotels are comfortable and centrally located. Don’t expect extreme luxury or especially unique accommodations however.

You will probably do a fair amount of walking throughout the tour - Grand Circle suggests that travelers be relatively physically fit. Most trips with Grand Circle are, unfortunately, not wheelchair accessible.

Their itineraries are designed with individuals in mind. While there are several included activities, you have many options for personalization through optional extensions and plenty of free time in each destination. 

Why Choose a Tour with Grand Circle Travel?

• Leisurely pace
• Flexibility
• Unique cultural interactions
• Large groups of like minded travelers
• Budget friendly
• Airfare included

For the flexibility and comfort aspects, combined with unique experiences at every turn. You might find yourself sharing dinner at the home of a local family or visiting local schools. Plenty of free time is included in the itineraries, and there is a lot of choice among optional tours.

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Solo friendly.

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About the company.

Grand Circle Travel offers distinctive international vacations for older Americans. Established in 1958 by Ethel Andrus, educator and founder of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), we view world travel as a powerful lever for lifelong learning. We make it accessible through trips that deliver unmatched discoveries, leisurely pacing, more travel choices, and comprehensive value.

Our values are the foundation upon which our company is built. They are what our beliefs and actions are derived from. Our values shape our decisions, give direction to our growth, and allow us to measure our progress.

Teamwork: We believe in groups of people who work together to create excellent results, solve difficult problems, support each other personally and professionally, and recognize their success. In a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment each member of the team is critical for success. Empowered teams are committed to taking the necessary actions to ensure that the team will reach its goals. Every member must be fully accountable for the team’s and one’s own personal results.

Thriving in Change: In these times of rapid change, global competition, and high volatility in the travel industry, we must be prepared to change course and move forward. Being well organized may sometimes be less important than moving quickly. The goal is for each of us to maximize our effectiveness, and ultimately our success, in an unpredictable and ever-changing environment.

Quality: Our decisions must be made and actions taken in accordance with high standards of quality and service. Quality can be subjective, and in our business quality often involves a compromise between speed and perfection. When the level of quality required is in question, we will operate to the high standards expected by our customers. Excellence in our quality will continually enhance our repeat business and ultimately our financial performance.

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Want a tailor-made trip instead, your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

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