Thinking about a trip to Utah’s national parks? You’re in for a treat. Our itinerary took us through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, and Zion. It was a trip filled with quiet moments, stunning views, and amazing hikes. Whether you’re looking to escape into nature or just curious about what these parks have to offer, join us as we reflect on a memorable journey through Utah’s natural beauty. Our cost breakdown is at the bottom!
Day 1: Land in Vegas
Fly from Chicago to Las Vegas, pick up rental car
We stayed at The Luxor Hotel for $40.56!
Day 2: Drive to Zion
3 hours, 35 minutes, 185 miles
We stayed at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
We stopped at Walmart to stock up on sustenance for the next few days, including campfire meals, hiking lunches and snacks.
Day 3: Hike The Narrows in Zion National Park
Drive from Ponderosa Ranch Resort to Zion Outfitters
44 minutes/19 miles to pick up packs for the hike
Drive from Zion Outfitters to Zion National Park, 4 minutes/.3 miles
Day 4: More Hikes in Zion National Park
We did not win the lottery for Angel’s Landing. (You cannot sneak up there, they do indeed have a park ranger who stands guard. We tried!)
We ended up doing other non-lottery hikes in Zion like:
- Scout Lookout
- Emerald Pools
- Walter’s Wiggles
Day 5: Bryce Canyon
Drive from Zion Campground to U-yurt Adventure Rental, 1 hour/63 miles
What we brought:
- Sleeping bags, sheets, blankets, pillows
- Light: headlamp, flashlights
- Personal toiletries
- Print out of directions and lock code
What they provided:
- Bunk beds with foam mattress
- Camp Chef 2-burner cooking stove with propane
- Pots, pans, plates, bowls, mugs, utensils
- Cooler to stash your food and drinks
- Toilet/Toilet Paper
- Empty 5 gallon water jugs
- Wood burning stove inside the yurt with firewood
- Outdoor fire pit
Day 6: Horseback riding & Hiking in Bryce Canyon
Day 7: Arches/Canyonlands
Arches:
Total Cost Breakdown
Car Rental- $1013.85
Las Vegas Hotel- $40.56
Zion Campground- $102.74
Rent Narrows Gear- $138.30
Angel’s Landing Lottery Ticket- $6
Bryce Canyon Yurt Village- $155.63
Horseback Riding at Bryce Canyon- $312
Stay at Arches/Canyonlands- $141.50
Parking in Vegas- $39
Groceries at Walmart- $251.72
Gas: $36.15, $28.79, $46.61
National Park Pass- $35
Zion Parking Pass- $30
Beer for campsite (lol) – $32
This was split between 4 people and does not include what we each paid for our flights.
Cheers!