7-Day Nature Adventure from San Diego to Zion

  • Day 1: Sedona
    7 hours 30 minutes (454 miles) from San Diego

    Sedona is a vibrant city surrounded by towering red rock formations, including Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Take a scenic hike through the Red Rock State Park or explore the iconic Chapel of the Holy Cross, which is built into the side of a butte.

  • Day 2: Antelope Canyon
    3 hours 30 minutes (223 miles) from Sedona

    Antelope Canyon is a breathtakingly beautiful slot canyon located on Navajo land. Marvel at the stunning pink, orange and red hues of the rocks as the sun shines through the crevices. Make sure to book a guided tour to explore the canyon.

  • Day 3: Horseshoe Bend
    15 minutes (6 miles) from Antelope Canyon

    Horseshoe Bend offers stunning views of the Colorado River as it winds around a giant horseshoe-shaped bend in the rocks. Take a hike to the edge of the canyon and enjoy the incredible panoramic views.

  • Day 4: Grand Canyon National Park
    2 hours 30 minutes (150 miles) from Horseshoe Bend

    The Grand Canyon is one of the world's most famous natural wonders, with its awe-inspiring vistas and unique layered rock formations. Take a hike along the Rim Trail, visit the historic Watchtower, or watch the sunset at Yaki Point.

  • Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park
    4 hours 30 minutes (280 miles) from Grand Canyon National Park

    Bryce Canyon is a unique place with bizarre rock formations known as hoodoos. Hike the Navajo Loop Trail or Queens Garden Trail to explore the area, or simply take in the views from Bryce Point or Inspiration Point.

  • Day 6: Zion National Park
    2 hours (85 miles) from Bryce Canyon National Park

    Zion is an oasis in the middle of the desert, with its canyon walls soaring thousands of feet into the sky. Explore the park by hiking the Narrows, taking a drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, or taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the Virgin River.

  • Day 7: Zion National Park
    Spend the day exploring Zion National Park

    Take a second day to fully appreciate the beauty of Zion. Hike Angel's Landing or the Emerald Pools trail, or simply relax and enjoy the views from the Zion Lodge.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Sedona Red Rock State Park (2-3 hours, $10)
  • Antelope Canyon Tour (1-2 hours, $60)
  • Horseshoe Bend Hike (1-2 hours, free)
  • Grand Canyon Entrance Fee (1 day, $35 per car, $20 per person)
  • Bryce Canyon Entrance Fee (1 day, $35 per car, $20 per person)
  • Zion National Park Entrance Fee (1 day, $35 per car, $20 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $240

Transportation

You will need a car for this trip. The total distance for this itinerary is approximately 1,442 miles and will take around 24 hours of driving time. Gas prices range from $2.50 to $4.50 per gallon and the estimated price for gas is around $250.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a few extra days to explore more of the national parks in Utah such as Arches, Capitol Reef or Canyonlands. If you have less time, we recommend skipping Sedona and heading straight to Antelope Canyon.

Airports

The closest airport to Zion National Park is St. George Regional Airport (SGU) which is located approximately 49 miles away. However, most people opt to fly into Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) and drive approximately 160 miles to Zion National Park.

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