Omaha → Zion National Park & Redwest Music Festival (Oct 6‑13)

Day 1: Oct 6 – Omaha to Grand Junction, CO

Morning: Depart Omaha early and head west on I‑80, crossing into Colorado. Enjoy the rolling plains and stop for coffee in Kearney.

Afternoon: Continue to Grand Junction, taking a scenic detour through the Colorado River Valley. Arrive at the Grand Junction KOA and set up your camper.

Evening: Relax at the campsite, explore the nearby Colorado Riverfront Trail, and enjoy a campfire dinner under the stars.

Day 2: Oct 7 – Grand Junction to Zion National Park

Morning: Pack up and drive through the stunning red rock landscapes of the Grand Staircase‑Escalante region.

Afternoon: Cross into Utah, stopping at the historic town of Hurricane for lunch before entering Zion National Park. Pay the park entrance fee and drive to the Watchman Campground to set up.

Evening: Take a gentle stroll on the Pa'rus Trail to stretch your legs, then enjoy a sunset view of the towering cliffs from the campground.

Day 3: Oct 8 – Zion National Park Exploration

Morning: Hike the iconic Angels Landing (permit required). The exhilarating ascent offers panoramic vistas of the canyon.

Afternoon: Descend to the Emerald Pools trail for a cooler, shaded walk among waterfalls and lush foliage.

Evening: Return to the campground, soak in the hot shower facilities, and dine on fresh groceries while listening to the distant sounds of nature.

Day 4: Oct 9 – The Narrows & Travel to Salt Lake City

Morning: Embark on the Bottom Up The Narrows, wading through the Virgin River surrounded by towering walls.

Afternoon: After the hike, pack up and begin the drive north to Salt Lake City (≈4.5 hrs). Stop at the striking Kolob Canyons viewpoint for photos.

Evening: Arrive at the Salt Lake City KOA, set up your camper, and explore the nearby Temple Square illuminated at night.

Day 5: Oct 10 – Redwest Music Festival – Day 1

Morning: Sleep in, then enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the campground before heading to the Redwest Music Festival grounds.

Afternoon: Catch opening acts on the Main Stage, explore food vendors, and browse the local art market.

Evening: Experience the headline performance, then unwind back at the campground under a starlit sky.

Day 6: Oct 11 – Redwest Music Festival – Day 2

Morning: Grab a coffee from a festival pop‑up and stroll through the Craft Beer Garden.

Afternoon: Attend mid‑day workshops and enjoy a set by your favorite indie band on the Lake Stage.

Evening: Stay for the sunset DJ set, then return to your camper for a relaxed night.

Day 7: Oct 12 – Redwest Music Festival – Day 3 & Great Salt Lake

Morning: Take it easy with a brunch at the festival’s Farm‑to‑Table Café before the final performances.

Afternoon: After the last set, drive 30 minutes to the Great Salt Lake and walk the shoreline at Antelope Island State Park.

Evening: Return to the campsite, pack up your gear, and enjoy a farewell dinner around the fire.

Day 8: Oct 13 – Return to Omaha

Morning: Load the camper and begin the north‑bound journey, stopping for breakfast in Ogden.

Afternoon: Continue on I‑80, taking a quick photo break at the historic Fort Bridger in Wyoming.

Evening: Arrive back in Omaha, unload the camper, and reflect on a week of music, mountains, and memorable road‑trip moments.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Fuel (≈2000 mi round‑trip) – 80 gal @ $3.50/gal – $280
• Campsite fees (7 nights) – $35/night – $245
• Zion National Park entrance – $35 per vehicle – $35
• Angels Landing permit – $6 per person (2) – $12
• The Narrows gear rental – $30 per person (2) – $60
• Redwest Music Festival tickets – $150 per person (2) – $300
• Meals (8 days, $30/day per person) – $240
• Great Salt Lake parking – free
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,172

Tips

If you’d like more time in nature, add an extra day at Zion to explore the Kolob Terrace Road or take a guided canyoneering adventure. To shorten the trip, you could skip the Great Salt Lake stop and head straight back to Omaha after the festival, saving a few hours of driving. Either way, keep your camper stocked with snacks and water, and book the Angels Landing permits early as they fill quickly.