7-Day Adventure Road Trip to Zion National Park from Chicago in July 2023

1. Day 1: Denver, Colorado
   10 hours (1,000 miles) from Chicago

   In the morning, take a stroll through the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver. In the afternoon, visit the Colorado State Capitol and take a guided tour. In the evening, catch a show at the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

2. Day 2: Moab, Utah
   5 hours (350 miles) from Denver

   Start the morning with an exhilarating sunrise hot air balloon ride over Moab. In the afternoon, hike to the awe-inspiring Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing float down the Colorado River.

3. Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
   3 hours (230 miles) from Moab

   Witness a stunning sunrise at Bryce Canyon National Park. In the afternoon, visit the Queen's Garden Trail and Navajo Loop Trail. In the evening, stargaze at one of the darkest skies in the country.

4. Day 4-5: Zion National Park, Utah
   2 hours (85 miles) from Bryce Canyon National Park

   Morning: Start your day with a hike to Angels Landing, one of the most thrilling hikes in the country. Afternoon: Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Virgin River. In the evening, watch the sunset over the incredible Zion Canyon. Spend the next day exploring more trails, such as The Narrows and Emerald Pools.

5. Day 6: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
   4 hours (250 miles) from Zion National Park

   Experience a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon. In the afternoon, hike along the South Rim Trail and watch the sunset over the canyon. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the historic El Tovar Hotel.

6. Day 7: Albuquerque, New Mexico
   6 hours (420 miles) from Grand Canyon National Park

   Visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in the morning, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world. In the afternoon, explore the charming Old Town district and shop for souvenirs. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife and cuisine of Albuquerque.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to Lake Powell to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Southwest. If you have time, take a detour to Page, Arizona to visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. To maximize your fun, rent a 4x4 vehicle and explore some of the backcountry roads in Moab and Zion.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Red Rocks Amphitheatre (2 hours, $60)
• Arches National Park (4 hours, $30)
• Bryce Canyon National Park (3 hours, $35)
• Zion National Park (2 days, $35)
• Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (2 hours, $300)
• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (3 hours, $25)
• Total Estimated Costs: $525

Check hotel and flight prices here.