National Parks

Welcome to southwest Utah's national parks and monuments. Mother Nature has jammed packed so much scenic beauty and incredible adventure into our relatively small area we make other destinations jealous.

Within 200 miles, southern Utah offers three national parks, three national scenic monuments and one national recreation area. The parks are then linked by equally stunning scenic byways that guarantee your senses won't get bored traveling point to point. Whether you choose to visit just one or two, or to take a "Grand Circle" swing through them all, your trip is certain to be unforgettable!

Each one of southern Utah's national parks is uniquely different and full of surprises. Bryce Canyon is like being in a fairyland. Hike, snowshoe or go on a trail ride through weathered limestone spires that are out of this world. Zion National Park is southern Utah's crown jewel. Featuring towering cliffs, narrow canyons, hanging gardens and hiking trails that are real cliff hangers. Kolob Canyons is Zion's little secret. Find peace and solitude, exceptional backcountry hiking and the world's largest freestanding arch. Grand Canyon North is rustic and considerably less crowded than the south rim with some of the most photographic views ever seen.

The real hidden gems of southern Utah are the national scenic monuments and recreation areas. Equally stunning as their park counterparts but far less crowded. Cedar Breaks-Lush wildflower meadows and outstanding autumn color USA Today rated the area as one of their top five places to see fall colors. Grand Staircase A true adventure that's rugged and isolated. Slot canyons, ancient Anasazi ruins, and incredible vistas. Lake Powell/ Rainbow Bridge-The second largest reservoir in the United States with more shoreline than the Pacific coast, the world largest natural bridge, and the Glen Canyon Dam.

In and around the national parks there are plenty of places to get a bite to eat, nicely appointed accommodations and several guides and outfitters too make sure you make the most of your trip.

For convenience sake, you may want to choose a central location, like Cedar City, Parowan or Brian Head to be your national park hub. These unique tourist towns are centrally located to all the parks and you only need to unpack once.