The best time of year in my opinion to take a roadtrip throughout the southwest in Utah and Arizona is April. The desert mornings are cold and the afternoons are HOT. I feel like any earlier in the year morning hikes would be too cold and any later day hikes would be too hot. Enjoy our very PTO friendly itinerary which can be done easily in one week or stretched out over 10 days.
Day 1 in Zion National Park and Springdale, UT
We flew into Las Vegas and rented a car. It’s about a 2hr 45min drive to get to Zion NP from Las Vegas. I suggest you get a hotel in Springdale because its convenient and close to the park. Springdale is also home to so many shops and restaurants it’s hard to choose where to eat. Everywhere in Springdale is surrounded by the orange and red Zion cliffs. It’s really quite a remarkable sight.
Angels Landing
Angels Landing is one of Zion National Park’s most famous hikes, and for good reason. This 5.4-mile round-trip trail takes you up to a dramatic rock spire with insane views of the canyon below. The hike is challenging, with a series of steep switchbacks known as “Walter’s Wiggles” followed by a narrow ridge where you’ll need to hold onto chains for support. The final stretch is intense, with drop-offs on either side, but the top is worth it. The landing has 360-degree views.
While it’s not an easy hike, the summit is incredible. Angels Landing is a bucket-list hike. Remember that this hike requires a permit you must reserve in advance.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail offers fantastic views with a short 0.9-mile round-trip hike. The trail begins on the east side of the Mount Carmel Tunnel with a small parking lot. Plan to park along the road because this is a popular hike. This overlook is easy, with a few flights of initial stairs followed by gradual elevation to the top. The hike will take roughly 25 minutes round trip but plan time to take photos at the top.
From the overlook vantage point, you’ll see iconic features such as the steep red rock canyon walls, the snaking Mount Carmel Highway, and distant rock formations like the Altar of Sacrifice. The colors of the canyon are particularly striking at sunrise or sunset. It’s quintessential Zion and should not be missed.
Springdale
Springdale, Utah, is a small, scenic town located right at the entrance to Zion National Park. It’s the perfect place to stay for anyone visiting the park, offering easy access to trails, stunning views, and a laid-back vibe. The town has a mix of local shops, restaurants, and cozy accommodations, making it a great spot to relax after a day of hiking.
Drive Along Mount Carmel Highway
Day 2-3 Kanab, UT
The Wave
The Wave is one of those places that feels like it’s from another world. Located on the border of Utah and Arizona, in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, this spot is famous for its smooth, swirling sandstone formations that look like, well, a giant wave frozen in time. The hike to get there is challenging—it’s about 6 miles round-trip over rough, desert terrain, and permits are required to visit, so it’s not a place you can just pop by. But if you’re up for the adventure, it’s absolutely worth it. The vibrant colors and the feeling of being surrounded by such a unique landscape make it a bucket-list destination for photographers and outdoor lovers alike.
Other photo spots in North Coyote Buttes
Moqui Sand Caves
These small caves are carved into the soft sandstone cliffs and filled with “moqui marbles”—smooth, round stones that have been there for thousands of years. It’s a fascinating place to explore, and while the trail to reach them isn’t too long, it’s a bit steep, so be prepared for a bit of a climb. What makes the Moqui Sand Caves so special is their remote feel and the mystery surrounding them. Whether you’re interested in the history or just enjoy exploring cool natural formations, this place won’t disappoint.
Belly of the Dragon
Belly of the Dragon is a quick little stop. Located just off Highway 9 near Orderville, Utah, this is a narrow rock tunnel that looks just like the belly of a dragon—curved and dark, with smooth, eroded rock walls. The walk through the tunnel only takes a few minutes, and it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but it’s a neat little spot to stretch your legs and grab some photos. It’s a great stop on your way to Zion or other nearby parks, offering a unique detour with minimal effort.
Toadstool Hoodoos
For a low-key but memorable hike, head over to the Toadstool Hoodoos near Big Water, Utah. These quirky rock formations, shaped like mushrooms or toadstools, rise from the desert floor, and their unusual shapes make them a fun sight to see. The hike to the hoodoos is short—just 1.5 miles round-trip—and it’s an easy walk with amazing views of the surrounding landscape. As you approach the hoodoos, you’ll get some great photo ops, especially with the light shining on the rocks at sunrise or sunset. It’s a perfect spot for a little desert adventure without the crowds.
Days 4-5 Page, AZ
White Pocket
Located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, White Pocket is one of the most unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Southwest. Known for its surreal, swirling sandstone formations, this area is like stepping into another world. Unlike its more famous neighbor, The Wave, White Pocket doesn’t require permits, but it is extreemly challenging to get to even with a 4×4 vehicle. I would highly recomend booking a guide who can take you. We used Paria Outpost and they were great!
Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed spots in the world for a reason. This slot canyon is famous for its narrow passageways, curved walls, and the way light filters through to create stunning beams and vibrant colors on the sandstone. The hike through the canyon is a bit more physical than its upper counterpart, with ladders and uneven terrain, but it’s well worth the effort. It’s best to visit with a guide, as the canyon is located on Navajo land, and a guided tour will help you get the most out of the experience, including tips for capturing the perfect photo.
Horseshoe Bend
Just a short drive from Page, Horseshoe Bend is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the Southwest. This stunning meander of the Colorado River forms a perfect horseshoe shape as it cuts through the canyon walls. The view from the lookout point is jaw-dropping, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the rock formations and river are at their most vibrant. The hike to the viewpoint is easy—just a 1.5-mile round-trip walk—and it’s a great spot for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the beauty of the area.
Day 6 Grand Canyon, AZ
Navajo Point offers a quieter, less crowded spot with stunning views of the canyon and the Colorado River. It’s a peaceful place to take in the scenery without the crowds.
Grandview Point provides panoramic views of the canyon, perfect for photos. If you’re up for a little adventure, there’s a trail nearby that leads down into the canyon, but the viewpoint itself is worth the stop.
The Rim Trail stretches over 13 miles along the South Rim, offering beautiful, easy-to-access views of the canyon. It’s mostly paved and perfect for a leisurely walk to take in different perspectives of the canyon.
For a spectacular sunset, head to Mather Point. This popular spot gives you a perfect view of the canyon as the sun sets, with the colors of the rock formations shifting in the golden light.
Day 7 Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas isn’t just about the casinos—there’s plenty to do outside the gaming halls as well. Start with a relaxing pool day at a resort, where you can unwind in style. Many of the city’s top hotels offer luxurious pool areas with cabanas, bars, and stunning views, making it the perfect way to beat the heat and take a break from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re at the Bellagio, the Venetian, or any other resort, a day by the pool is a must-do experience for both relaxation and people-watching.
For a bit of adventure, take a short trip out of the city to visit the Seven Magic Mountains, a colorful art installation located just outside Las Vegas. The towering, vibrant stacks of rocks make for an unforgettable photo opportunity. Then, head back into the heart of the city and check out the Neon Museum, where you can explore the iconic signs that once lit up the Strip. Finally, cap off your day with a classic walk down the Strip. The Las Vegas Boulevard is a spectacle in itself, with neon lights, themed hotels, street performers, and endless entertainment. It’s a great way to experience the city’s energy and see all the iconic sights along the way.
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