After landing at Jackson Hole Airport, pick up your rental car and head west toward Driggs via Teton Pass—roughly an hour without stops. The route is beautiful but steep and winding, so use it only if conditions are clear; check Wyoming 511 before leaving, especially after dark or if rain is in the forecast. Fuel up in Jackson if needed, since options become limited once you cross the pass, and allow extra time for wildlife, construction, or slow traffic. In Driggs, check into your Airbnb and unload before dinner; downtown parking is generally easy and free.
Have dinner at Teton Thai, a relaxed local favorite in Driggs. Expect about $15–30 per person, with curry, noodle dishes, and stir-fries that make an easy first-night meal after travel. Hours can vary seasonally, so check the restaurant’s same-day schedule and arrive before the dinner rush if possible; if you are arriving late, call ahead rather than assuming the kitchen is still serving.
Finish with a gentle stroll through downtown Driggs, taking 30–45 minutes to stretch your legs around the compact center and its galleries, small shops, and public art. Keep tonight unhurried—the next morning starts early for Grand Teton National Park—and pick up breakfast, water, and snacks at a local market if your Airbnb does not already have supplies. Lodging is spread through town and nearby rural roads, so note the route back before it gets fully dark.
Leave Driggs around 6:00 AM via ID-33 and US-191; allow roughly 1½–2 hours to reach the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive area, plus time for the Idaho–Wyoming border and possible wildlife slowdowns. Park early near String Lake, where the water is often beautifully still beneath the Tetons. Spend about 1½ hours walking the shoreline and taking the short connecting paths toward Jenny Lake; parking fills quickly after breakfast, and September mornings can be near freezing, so bring a warm layer. A Grand Teton entrance pass is generally $35 per private vehicle for seven days unless you have an annual or America the Beautiful pass.
From the Jenny Lake trailhead, take the shuttle boat across if it is operating—typically available seasonally during daytime hours, with a round-trip fare often around $20–30—or walk the lakeshore instead, which adds several miles. The trail to Hidden Falls is a popular, moderately uphill hike of about 1.3 miles round trip from the west boat dock. Continue to Inspiration Point if conditions and energy allow; the extra climb is worthwhile for the broad view over Jenny Lake. Allow 2½–3 hours altogether, carry water, and expect the trail to be rocky and busy near midday.
Drive north toward Signal Mountain Summit Road, about 35–45 minutes from Jenny Lake depending on stops. The narrow, winding road climbs to overlooks above Jackson Lake and the Teton Range; allow about 1½ hours, and note that larger vehicles and trailers are not permitted. Continue to Jackson Lake Lodge in Moran for a late-afternoon meal or drink in the Mural Room, whose enormous windows frame the mountains. Budget approximately $25–50 per person, and check the lodge’s September dining hours before relying on it for dinner, as seasonal services can close earlier than expected.
Finish at Oxbow Bend, a short drive back south on US-191, arriving roughly 30–45 minutes before sunset. This is one of the best places in the park for reflections, bald eagles, moose, and sometimes elk, so bring binoculars and keep a safe distance from wildlife. After sunset, return to Driggs—about 1½ hours in clear conditions—or consider staying on the Wyoming side if you are tired; avoid rushing the drive back, as deer and other animals are particularly active at dusk.
Leave Driggs around 5:30–6:00 AM for Yellowstone National Park, allowing about three hours to reach the West Thumb Geyser Basin area. Take US-191 through Moran and enter via the South Entrance; carry breakfast, water, and fuel, since services are limited and wildlife or road work can slow the drive. Check current conditions with the National Park Service before leaving—September mornings can be cold, and some park roads or facilities may have seasonal restrictions.
Start at West Thumb Geyser Basin, set along the shore of Yellowstone Lake, where the short boardwalk loop takes about an hour. The contrast between the blue pools, steaming vents, and broad lake views is especially striking in the cool morning air. Stay strictly on the boardwalk, as the ground is thin and dangerously hot beyond the marked path. Parking is free but limited; arrive early and bring a warm layer, even if the afternoon forecast looks mild.
Continue to the Old Faithful area, roughly 30 minutes away, and check the posted prediction for the next eruption—times are approximate and can shift. Allow about 1½ hours to watch the geyser and walk part of the Upper Geyser Basin, where you can see many smaller eruptions and colorful pools without committing to a long hike. For lunch, the Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria is the easiest option, with sandwiches, soups, and hot drinks available seasonally; expect roughly $15–25 per person. Then drive about 15 minutes to Midway Geyser Basin for the Grand Prismatic Spring boardwalk. The lower trail is usually a straightforward 1–1½-hour visit, and the colors are often strongest once the midday sun burns off some of the steam. Check whether the nearby Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook trailhead is open, since parking and access can change with road work or seasonal operations.
Return to Old Faithful for dinner in the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, one of the park’s classic lodge experiences. Reservations are strongly recommended through the park’s dining reservation system, and dinner generally runs about $30–60 per person before drinks and tip. Plan extra time for the return drive to your accommodation: roads are dark, wildlife is active at dusk, and cell service is unreliable. Keep the fuel tank above half whenever possible, and do not count on a late-night restaurant or gas station inside the park.
Start early from your Yellowstone lodging and make Norris Geyser Basin your first stop, ideally arriving around 8:00 AM. The Porcelain Basin and Steamboat Geyser area take about two hours on boardwalks, with little shade and frequent steam, so bring water, layers, and sturdy shoes. The basin is included with the park entrance fee; roads and facilities can change quickly in September, so check the National Park Service alerts before leaving. From Norris, allow about 1¼ hours for the drive north to Mammoth Hot Springs, with possible wildlife delays.
Spend roughly 1½ hours walking the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, using the accessible lower-ter terrace boardwalks and upper terrace drive as conditions allow. This is also a good place to stretch your legs and use restrooms before the longer afternoon drive. For a quick lunch, stop at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel Dining Room or the Mammoth General Store; expect about $15–30 per person, and keep in mind that September hours can be limited. Fuel at Mammoth if needed—services become more spread out as you head south toward the canyon.
Drive about 1¾ hours from Mammoth to Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, following the Grand Loop Road through changing forest and meadow scenery. Begin at Brink of Upper Falls, where the short, steep path ends at a dramatic view of the Yellowstone River plunging into the gorge; then continue to Artist Point for the classic view of Lower Falls and the canyon’s yellow, pink, and orange walls. Allow about 2½ hours for both viewpoints, with extra time for parking and the short walks. Stay on marked trails and keep well back from cliff edges—there are no guardrails in some places.
Have an easy early dinner at Canyon Lodge Eatery in Canyon Village, usually a practical cafeteria-style option after a full day; budget approximately $15–35 per person. September hours can change, so check the current schedule or arrive before 7:00 PM. Afterward, drive slowly through Hayden Valley toward Yellowstone Lake for sunset, allowing about 1½ hours. Pull into designated turnouts rather than stopping in the roadway, and expect bison or other wildlife to create sudden delays. Bring binoculars, keep at least 25 yards from bison, and allow extra time to return to your lodging after dark—the valley roads are unlit and wildlife is especially active around dusk.
Leave your Yellowstone National Park lodging around 6:00 AM for the long drive to Kanab, allowing 10–11 hours before stops. Take US-20 toward Idaho Falls, then I-15 south and US-89 into Utah. This is a genuine transfer day, so pack breakfast, lunch, plenty of water, and snacks; fuel whenever the tank reaches half-full, especially before the more remote stretches of US-89. Check Wyoming 511, Idaho 511, and Utah 511 before departure for construction, wildlife-related delays, or weather. Expect to arrive in Kanab in the evening, with the time-zone change working in your favor as you enter Utah.
If the route and your departure point allow, make a brief final mountain-view stop at Snake River Overlook near Jackson—about 20 minutes is enough for photographs and a stretch. It is worth doing only if it does not add substantial time to an already long drive; otherwise, prioritize steady progress toward Idaho Falls. The overlook has a small parking area, but no food, fuel, or services, so use the restroom and top up the car beforehand.
After checking into your Kanab Airbnb, keep the first evening easy. Stop at Kanab Coffee Company for coffee, tea, or a light snack—roughly $5–15 per person—though hours can vary seasonally, so check the same-day schedule before arriving. Then have dinner at Rocking V Cafe, a relaxed local favorite in downtown Kanab; budget about $20–40 per person and consider reserving or calling ahead, since late arrivals can run into a wait. After dinner, take a short walk along Main Street if you still have energy, then turn in early: the next morning’s drive to Bryce Canyon National Park is best started around 6:00 AM.
Leave Kanab around 6:00 AM so you can reach Bryce Point shortly after opening, when the amphitheater is still quiet and the early light brings out the orange and pink layers of the hoodoos. The drive via US-89 and UT-12 takes about 1½ hours; fill up and bring breakfast, as services near the park are limited. The national park entrance fee is generally about $35 per private vehicle, unless you have an America the Beautiful pass. After roughly 45 minutes at Bryce Point, drive to the Bryce Amphitheater area and park near the trailheads—arriving early is especially useful because lots fill quickly and the park shuttle may be operating seasonally.
Spend late morning on the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail, allowing 2½–3 hours with photo stops. The route descends sharply into the amphitheater before climbing back out, so carry plenty of water and wear shoes with good traction; the climb feels harder at this elevation, around 8,000 feet. Check trail conditions before starting, since the Navajo Loop can occasionally have weather-related closures. Pack lunch or pick something up in Bryce Canyon City, rather than relying on a quick meal inside the park.
After the hike, take the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive south for about two hours, stopping at Rainbow Point and a few of the overlooks along the 18-mile road. The far end is usually calmer than the amphitheater and gives you a broader sense of the plateau’s forests and distant desert views. Return to Bryce Canyon City for an early dinner at Valhalla Pizzeria & Coffee, a relaxed spot for pizza, salads, coffee, and drinks; budget roughly $15–30 per person. Hours can change seasonally, so check the same day, and expect a short wait during the dinner rush.
Finish at Bryce Canyon Sunset Point, reached by a short walk from the nearby parking and shuttle area. Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to claim a place along the rim and watch the hoodoos shift from gold to deep red and purple. Temperatures drop quickly after dark—even in September—so keep a fleece or light jacket in the car. Once the sky fades, drive back carefully to Kanab or your Bryce Canyon City lodging; wildlife and deer are common along UT-12 after sunset.
Leave Bryce Canyon City around 5:30–6:00 AM for Springdale, allowing about 2½ hours via UT-12, US-89, and UT-9. Park in town rather than trying to drive into Zion Canyon; Springdale’s free town shuttle connects with the park entrance, where the Zion Canyon shuttle is required during the busy season. Start with the Canyon Overlook Trail along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway before the day warms up. The roughly 1-mile round trip takes about an hour, with a short but rocky climb to a superb view over the canyon; arrive early because parking near the trailhead is very limited.
Return toward the canyon and take the shuttle to Temple of Sinawava, the final stop. Follow the Narrows Riverside Walk for 1½–2 hours beside the Virgin River. This paved route is mostly level and shaded in places, making it a good way to experience the Narrows without committing to the strenuous river hike. Wear shoes with good traction and carry water; flash-flood conditions can close the trail, so check the park’s alerts before setting out. The shuttle ride from the visitor center to Temple of Sinawava takes about 40 minutes each way, so leave a generous afternoon buffer.
After a break and an early packed lunch, take the shuttle to The Grotto for the Angels Landing trail. The climb to Scout Lookout is strenuous—about 4 miles round trip with roughly 1,000 feet of elevation gain—and the famous Walter’s Wiggles switchbacks are the toughest sustained section. Allow around four hours, particularly in September heat. A permit is required in advance for the chains section beyond Scout Lookout; without one, stop at Scout Lookout and enjoy the dramatic views rather than attempting to continue. Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, start no later than early afternoon, and turn around if storms or fading light become concerns.
Ride the shuttle back to Springdale and walk to Oscar’s Cafe for a relaxed post-hike dinner, usually $20–40 per person. The menu is hearty—burgers, burritos, salads, and other satisfying choices after a long trail day—and the outdoor seating is especially pleasant if the evening is mild. Expect a wait at peak dinner time; nearby Bit & Spur is a good backup if Oscar’s is full. Before bed, check the next day’s route, refill water, and confirm current park shuttle and road conditions.
After breakfast in Springdale, drive to Kanab via UT-9 and US-89—about 1½ hours, with wide-open desert scenery as you leave Zion country behind. Park downtown and begin at Kanab Heritage House, a small preserved pioneer home that usually takes about an hour to explore. Check its seasonal hours before leaving; admission is generally modest, often around $5–10. The compact downtown area is easy to cover on foot, but keep the car nearby for the next stop.
Head about 20 minutes west to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park for roughly two hours among vivid vermilion dunes. There is no need to attempt a major hike—walk the firm lower slopes, enjoy the shifting patterns, and bring water, sunglasses, and closed shoes because the sand can be hot even in September. The day’s best quieter experience comes afterward at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Angel Canyon, about 25 minutes from the dunes. Allow two hours for the visitor center or a scheduled tour; reservations are wise, and tour availability can vary. The sanctuary is spread out, so follow check-in instructions rather than wandering onto animal-care areas.
Return to central Kanab and spend about 30 minutes at Rock Shop, browsing regional fossils, minerals, polished stones, and Utah-themed gifts. It is a relaxed stop rather than a destination requiring much time, and the exact hours can be seasonal. Finish at Wild Thyme Cafe, a polished local restaurant known for Southwestern and international flavors; dinner typically runs about $25–50 per person before drinks and tip. Reservations are useful on busy evenings, though arriving slightly before the dinner rush is often easiest. Afterward, keep the evening low-key—tomorrow’s Page outing begins early, and Arizona is one hour behind Utah in September.
Plan to arrive early for your reserved Lower Antelope Canyon tour—operators require check-in before the walking portion, and late arrivals are generally treated as no-shows. Keep in mind that Page is one hour behind Kanab in September, so confirm the tour time in Arizona time rather than relying on your phone’s trip schedule. The guided visit takes about two hours and involves uneven ground, stairs, and narrow passages; wear shoes with good grip and bring water, but leave large bags and tripods behind. Tour prices commonly run about $60–100 per person, depending on the operator and date.
After the canyon, drive into Page for lunch at Big John’s Texas BBQ, a relaxed local favorite with generous plates of brisket, ribs, and classic sides; allow about an hour and expect roughly $15–30 per person. Then walk or drive to Horseshoe Bend, where the paved trail from the parking area takes about 15–20 minutes each way. Give yourself around 1½ hours for the overlook, photographs, and the return walk. There is an entrance fee of roughly $10 per vehicle, and the rim has no guardrail—keep well back from the edge, particularly if traveling with children.
Continue a short drive to Wahweap Overlook for broad views across Lake Powell and the surrounding red-rock desert. Late afternoon is the best light, and 45 minutes is enough unless you want to linger for sunset. Finish at Lake Powell Resort beside Wahweap Marina. If you have reserved a boat excursion, arrive early for check-in; otherwise, have dinner overlooking the marina, typically $25–60 per person, and enjoy the cooler air after the heat of the canyon. Check tour availability, marina hours, and restaurant service times in advance, since September schedules can change and boat excursions often sell out.
Leave Page around 7:00 AM after breakfast, allowing roughly three hours to reach Grand Canyon Village via US-89 and US-64. Fill the tank before departing; services are sparse along the approach, and Arizona is one hour behind Utah in September, so double-check your timing. Enter through the Grand Canyon East Entrance and follow Desert View Drive, keeping your park pass handy. The road is scenic, but wildlife, construction, and photo stops can easily stretch the drive.
Your first substantial stop is Desert View Watchtower, where an hour gives you time to climb the historic tower and take in the broadest first view of the Colorado River and canyon layers. Continue west along Desert View Drive to Grandview Point, about 30 minutes away. The overlook is close to the parking area, but walk a little along the rim for a less crowded perspective. Bring water and sun protection—the September heat can still be intense, and there is limited shade.
Continue to Mather Point near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, allowing about 45 minutes for the classic South Rim panorama. Parking can be busy in the afternoon; if the main lot is full, follow signs for nearby visitor-center lots and walk rather than circling repeatedly. From here, check in at your Grand Canyon Village lodging and take a break—the rim is only a short walk or shuttle ride from many village accommodations, but the shuttle does not serve the approach from Page.
For dinner, keep your reservation at El Tovar Dining Room, ideally around sunset or shortly afterward. This landmark El Tovar Hotel restaurant is an atmospheric choice with canyon views and Southwestern-leaning dishes; expect roughly $30–70 per person before drinks and gratuity. Reservations are strongly recommended through the park’s lodging and dining operator, and smart-casual clothing is comfortable. After dinner, step outside onto the lodge terrace for a quiet look at the darkening rim before turning in.
Start before sunrise from Grand Canyon Village and walk to the Bright Angel Trailhead near Hermit Road. In September, aim to begin around 5:30–6:00 AM, when temperatures are kinder and the upper trail is quieter. Hike only as far as you can comfortably return—3-Mile Rest makes a demanding turnaround, while 1½-Mile Rest is a more sensible choice for many visitors. There is no reliable water or shade on much of the route, so carry at least 2–3 liters per person, salty snacks, a hat, and trekking poles if you use them. The climb back is the real test; do not judge the hike by how easy the descent feels. Allow roughly 3–5 hours, and check current trail and water conditions with the National Park Service before setting out.
After returning, take the short walk or drive to Maswik Food Court, where several counter-service options make lunch straightforward—expect about $15–30 per person. It is a useful recovery stop rather than a leisurely restaurant meal, so refill water and rest your legs before continuing. Then wander through Hopi House, one of the rim’s historic buildings, designed in an early 20th-century style and filled with Native American jewelry, pottery, textiles, and artwork. Allow about 45 minutes; purchases support working artists, but prices vary widely, so this is also a good place simply to appreciate the craftsmanship.
Spend the late afternoon at the Yavapai Geology Museum, reached by the free South Rim shuttle or a short drive from the village area. The exhibits explain how the canyon’s rock layers formed, and the broad windows offer an excellent, less exposed viewpoint when you are ready for a quieter hour. Museum hours can change seasonally, so verify the closing time that morning. Finish at Yavapai Tavern in Market Plaza for a relaxed dinner and drinks—roughly $15–35 per person. It is a convenient final stop after the hike, with a casual atmosphere and no need to dress up; reserve energy for the walk back to your lodging, since the day’s heat and elevation can catch up with you in the evening.
Start before sunrise at the South Kaibab Trailhead, reached by the park’s early-morning shuttle from Grand Canyon Village; private cars are not allowed at the trailhead. Aim to be walking by about 5:30–6:00 AM. Hike to Ooh Aah Point for a shorter outing, or continue to Cedar Ridge if conditions and your energy are good—allow roughly three to four hours round trip. The trail is steep, exposed, and has no water, so carry at least 2–3 liters per person, plus breakfast and layers. Remember that hiking back up takes considerably longer than going down; turn around while you still feel strong.
After returning to the rim, have a relaxed breakfast and use the seasonal Hermit Road shuttle—or rent bicycles if you prefer—to explore the quieter western viewpoints. Set aside about three hours rather than trying to see every stop. The road is closed to most private vehicles during the shuttle season, and service can be crowded around midday, so wait for a less-full bus when possible. Bring water and a snack; facilities are limited once you leave the village.
Make Mohave Point your main stop along Hermit Road, allowing about 30 minutes for the broad panorama and a little wandering along the rim. This is one of the better places to appreciate how dramatically the canyon opens toward the Colorado River, and it generally feels less hectic than the central overlooks. Return by shuttle in time to avoid a long wait late in the day, especially if you are hoping to dine at the lodge.
Back in the Grand Canyon Village Historic District, spend about an hour around the Grand Canyon Railway Depot and the historic park buildings. The depot is particularly atmospheric in the late light, and the compact district is easy to explore on foot. Finish with dinner at Bright Angel Restaurant inside Bright Angel Lodge; expect roughly $20–45 per person, and check the current evening hours or join the waitlist early, as seating can fill quickly. After dinner, take one last short walk along the rim rather than adding another hike—tomorrow’s drive to Mesa is long, so an early night will make the departure much easier.
Leave Grand Canyon Village around 7:00 AM for Mesa, allowing 4½–5 hours of driving before stops. Take US-180 to Flagstaff, then I-40 east briefly before turning south on I-17 toward the Phoenix area. Fill the tank before leaving the South Rim; once you descend from the plateau, the landscape changes quickly from pine forest to open desert, and September heat can be intense. Keep water in the car and confirm your flight’s terminal and check-in deadline before committing to any shopping stop.
Use Flagstaff for a practical 45–60-minute pause: refuel, stretch your legs, and pick up coffee or a quick meal near Historic Downtown Flagstaff. Tourist Home All Day Cafe is a good choice if you want a proper breakfast or brunch, while Diablo Burger works well for a fast lunch when open. Parking downtown is generally metered or paid, so for a short stop it may be easier to use a fuel station just south of the center and continue without detouring. Expect roughly 2½–3 hours from Flagstaff to the airport corridor, depending on traffic around Phoenix and Chandler.
If your flight schedule leaves a comfortable buffer, stop at Phoenix Premium Outlets in Chandler, directly along the I-10 corridor toward Mesa Gateway Airport. Allow about 1–1½ hours for browsing; the open-air center has outlet stores, shaded areas, and quick food options, but it can feel very hot in September, so keep the car cool and avoid leaving luggage visible. Skip this stop if your flight is within four hours of arrival at the airport—traffic and rental-car return can easily consume the extra time.
Continue to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and return the rental car with at least two hours before departure, or more if you are checking bags. Allow time for the vehicle inspection, walking or shuttle transfer to the terminal, and security screening. Before handing over the car, photograph the fuel gauge, mileage, and vehicle condition, and check that no luggage or charging cables remain inside. If you have extra time after the return, the airport is compact enough that you can settle in comfortably rather than rushing to the gate.