10-Night Utah 5 National Parks, Grand Staircase, Antelope Canyon & Colorado River Rafting Adventure

Day 1: Arrival & Introduction to Zion National Park

Morning: Arrive in Utah and settle into your accommodation near Zion National Park. Take time to acclimate and prepare for your adventure.

Afternoon: Explore the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and take a short hike to Emerald Pools for stunning views and waterfalls.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Springdale and watch the sunset over Zion’s towering red cliffs.

Day 2: Zion National Park Full Exploration

Morning: Hike the iconic Angels Landing trail or choose the less strenuous Riverside Walk to start your day.

Afternoon: Explore the Zion Narrows for a unique slot canyon riverwalk experience (weather permitting).

Evening: Relax with a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and enjoy stargazing.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Morning: Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park and visit the Visitor Center.

Afternoon: Hike among the famous hoodoos with routes such as the Queen’s Garden Trail and Navajo Loop Trail.

Evening: Catch sunset at Sunset Point for colorful canyon views.

Day 4: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument & Slot Canyons

Morning: Explore parts of the spectacular Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, including scenic drives and overlooks.

Afternoon: Discover a hidden gem—take a short hike to slot canyons such as Peek-a-Boo Gulch or Spooky Gulch.

Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in the nearby town of Kanab.

Day 5: Capitol Reef National Park

Morning: Depart for Capitol Reef National Park. Visit the Fruita Historic District and fruit orchards.

Afternoon: Hike along the Hickman Bridge Trail and explore the unique rock formations.

Evening: Relax at your lodging and enjoy star-filled skies near Capitol Reef.

Day 6: Arches National Park

Morning: Drive to Arches National Park. Start with short hikes to Delicate Arch viewpoint and Park Avenue.

Afternoon: Longer hikes to Landscape Arch and Double Arch to marvel at these natural wonders.

Evening: Head into nearby Moab for dinner and a relaxed evening.

Day 7: Canyonlands National Park

Morning: Venture to Canyonlands National Park – Island in the Sky District. Visit Mesa Arch at sunrise if possible.

Afternoon: Enjoy panoramic views from Grand View Point and hike to Upheaval Dome.

Evening: Return to Moab for a great local meal and rest.

Day 8: Antelope Canyon & Page, Arizona

Morning: Drive to Page, AZ for a guided tour of the stunning Antelope Canyon (Upper or Lower).

Afternoon: Visit Horseshoe Bend for a breathtaking Colorado River viewpoint.

Evening: Overnight in Page with a calm evening enjoying the small-town atmosphere.

Day 9: Colorado River Half-Day Motorized Raft Trip

Morning: Embark on a half-day motorized raft trip on the Colorado River, experiencing beautiful river canyons and desert landscapes.

Afternoon: Relax in Page or explore nearby Glen Canyon Dam and visitor center.

Evening: Prepare for departure or enjoy a final dinner reflecting on your journey.

Day 10: Return or Optional Relaxation Day

Morning: Depending on your departure plans, enjoy a leisurely morning in Page or nearby scenic spots.

Afternoon: Begin your journey home or spend extra time visiting any favorite sites missed earlier.

Evening: Final night rest before travel home or next destination.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Zion National Park: 2 days, full park access - Approx. 16 hours total, $35 entrance fee per vehicle
• Bryce Canyon National Park: 1 day, hiking and viewpoints - Approx. 6 hours, $35 entrance fee per vehicle
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: 1 day, hiking and driving - Approx. 6 hours, free
• Capitol Reef National Park: 1 day, hiking and historic sites - Approx. 6-7 hours, $25 entrance fee per vehicle
• Arches National Park: 1 full day, hiking and driving - Approx. 7-8 hours, $35 entrance fee per vehicle
• Canyonlands National Park: 1 day, hiking and viewpoints - Approx. 6-7 hours, $35 entrance fee per vehicle
• Antelope Canyon (Guided Tour): Approx. 2 hours tour, $60-$80 per person
• Horseshoe Bend: 1-2 hours, $10 parking fee
• Colorado River Motorized Raft Trip: Half-day (4-5 hours), $120-$150 per person

Total Estimated Cost: $460 - $510 per vehicle (park fees) + $180 - $230 per person (activities/tours)

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding extra days for deeper exploration of Grand Staircase-Escalante and side hikes in Canyonlands or Arches. For a shorter trip, prioritize Zion, Bryce, and Antelope Canyon combined with the Colorado River trip while skipping some parks or monuments to reduce driving time.