THE BIG 5 NATIONAL PARKS

TAKE A WEEKEND TRIP TO SOUTHERN UTAH

The red rock that covers the southern region of Utah is nothing short of magical. It’s no wonder that so much of the land has been protected and preserved for the enjoyment of future generations. Affectionately referred to as the “Big 5”, Southern Utah is home to Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks.

If you are looking for a more secluded desert adventure, check out the less-trafficked state parks such as Cedar Breaks, Sand Hollow, Quail Creek, Natural Bridges, Snow Canyon, and Escalante Petrified Forest.

There are three main cities in Southern Utah, each with their own charm and character. Cedar City is home to Southern Utah University and the well-known Shakespeare Festival. Head to Cedar City if you want to explore more remote hiking, mountain biking, and climbing opportunities. If you’re looking for a lively and artistic town to come back to after a day of dirt-biking and ATV adventures, pay a visit to Moab, located in the south-eastern part of Utah. Or enjoy the beauty of the red rocks at a slower pace and vacation in St. George. The largest destination in Southern Utah, St. George and it’s surrounding suburbs feature multiple resorts, delicious restaurants, gateways to multiple outdoor adventures, and world class golf courses.

Gorgeous scenic drives and hikes await you at Canyonlands, carved out over time by the Colorado and Green rivers. Enjoy the Mesa Arch hike, which isn’t too physically demanding and offers incredible views. If you’re a seasoned hiker, take advantage of the Aztec Butte Trail - 2 miles, Gooseberry Canyon Trail - 5.4 miles, and Syncline Loop - 8.3 miles. These hikes lack shade to protect you from the strong rays of the sun, so please lather yourself in sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and bring along plenty of water to avoid sun exhaustion.

ARCHES

A visit to Arches National Park near Moab in southeastern Utah will make you feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet. Take a scenic drive and revel in the stunning red rock arches from a distance, or take a hiking trail to get a close-up view. Delicate Arch, a Utah icon, is a short, relatively easy hike with prime photo opportunities. Other recommended hikes are Devils Garden, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. If you’re feeling brave, apply for a permit to explore the Fiery Furnace!

CAPITOL REEF

A hidden gem, Capitol Reef is home to the historic ghost town of Fruita where you can visit the oneroom school house and enjoy a freshly baked pie with fruit from the still-active orchard. We recommend the family-friendly Sunset Point Trail, a 0.3-mile hike with little elevation. Get up close to the red rock formations at the Hickman Bridge Trail and feel the smooth molded rock as you’re exploring. Prepare for lots of stunningly beautiful photo ops with the vibrant desert greenery, bright blue sky, and deep orange rock.

Bryce Canyon, famous for its collection of giant natural amphitheaters, has endlessly mesmerizing views no matter how you explore it. Experience this national park while biking, riding an ATV, horseback riding, or lace up your hiking boots and trek along the Bryce Canyon Fairyland Loop - a beautiful day hike that takes approximately five hours to complete, rewarding hikers with stunning scenery along the way.

ZION

With too many hiking trails to list here, Zion National Park offers everything from easy kidfriendly adventures to thrilling climbs up steep cliff walls. Looking for a challenge? Apply for a permit to hike the famous Angel’s Landing Trail, perhaps the most famous in the park. Beware of this one if you have a fear of heights, as you’ll be hiking along a rim with steep drop-offs on both sides for a portion of the trail. Want something more relaxing? Try the Emerald Pools Trail, a short hike along a small stream with beautiful waterfalls and natural pools.

Here are a few helpful Instagram accounts to follow when planning your trip.

Plan Your Visit to Southern Utah

WWW.VISITSOUTHERNUTAH.COM

@VISITSAINTGEORGE @VISITCEDARCITY @VISITMOAB

PLEASE REMEMBER TO KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED WHEN VISITING THESE PARKS. THE DRY DESERT HEAT IS DECEIVING, STAY SAFE AND KEEP YOUR WATER ACCESSIBLE THROUGHOUT YOUR DAILY ADVENTURES.