Utah, Arizona, California, Nevada, Colorado

United States Travel Guide

The American Southwest delivered some of our most breathtaking experiences with its incredible national parks, dramatic desert landscapes, and endless outdoor adventures. From the towering red rocks of Zion to the otherworldly formations of Arches and the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, the USA's national parks exceeded all expectations.

Top Highlights in United States

Hiking the iconic Angels Landing trail in Zion National Park

Exploring the incredible rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands

Witnessing sunrise at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Discovering the unique hoodoos of Bryce Canyon

Road tripping through Monument Valley's iconic landscapes

Stargazing in some of the world's darkest skies

Essential Travel Tips for United States

America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) pays for itself with 3+ parks

Book accommodations well in advance - parks fill up quickly

Carry plenty of water - desert hiking is serious business

Check weather and trail conditions before hiking

Gas up whenever possible - stations can be far apart

Respect Leave No Trace principles in all national parks

Suggested United States Itineraries

Utah's Big Five National Parks

6 Days

Day 1: Zion National Park

Morning: Fly into Las Vegas, drive to Springdale
Afternoon: Riverside Walk and Emerald Pools trails
Evening: Sunset at Canyon Junction Bridge

Day 2: Angels Landing Challenge

Early morning: Angels Landing hike (permit required)
Afternoon: Recovery and Weeping Rock trail
Evening: Zion Canyon Visitor Center and planning

Day 3: Bryce Canyon Hoodoos

Morning: Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park
Afternoon: Sunrise Point and Navajo Loop Trail
Evening: Sunset Point for incredible hoodoo views

Day 4: Capitol Reef Discovery

Morning: Drive to Capitol Reef National Park
Afternoon: Petroglyphs Trail and Visitor Center
Evening: Scenic Drive and pioneer history

Day 5: Arches National Park

Morning: Drive to Moab, check into accommodation
Afternoon: Delicate Arch hike (Utah's most famous landmark)
Evening: Fiery Furnace guided tour (book ahead)

Day 6: Canyonlands Adventure

Morning: Canyonlands National Park - Mesa Arch sunrise
Afternoon: Grand View Point and White Rim Overlook
Evening: Moab town dinner and recovery

Southwest Road Trip Epic

3 Days

Day 1: Grand Canyon South Rim

Morning: Fly into Phoenix, drive to Grand Canyon
Afternoon: Desert View Drive and Watchtower
Evening: Sunset at Hopi Point - absolutely spectacular

Day 2: Monument Valley

Morning: Drive to Monument Valley
Afternoon: Valley Drive scenic loop
Evening: Sunset from John Ford's Point

Day 3: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Morning: Upper Antelope Canyon photography tour
Afternoon: Horseshoe Bend overlook hike
Evening: Lake Powell sunset views