Desert Express

Breakfast at Pig & A Jelly Jar

Fuel up for the drive at this popular SLC brunch spot known for its Southern-inspired comfort food, creative chicken and waffles, and house-made jams.

Capitol Reef National Park Visitor Center

Start your exploration of Capitol Reef here. Chat with rangers about trail conditions, pick up a map, and get oriented with the park's main feature: the massive, 100-mile-long Waterpocket Fold.

Hickman Bridge Trail

A fantastic introductory hike in Capitol Reef. This moderate 1.8-mile round-trip trail leads you through a canyon to a spectacular 133-foot natural bridge.

Capitol Reef Resort

Stay just outside the park with stunning red rock views. For a unique experience, book one of their Conestoga wagons or teepees for a memorable night under the stars.

Scenic Byway 12

Drive one of America's most beautiful roads. This route travels through diverse, stunning landscapes, including the famous 'Hogsback' section with sheer drop-offs on both sides.

Kiva Koffeehouse

A must-stop spot built into the slickrock canyon wall along Scenic Byway 12. Enjoy coffee, pastries, or lunch while taking in panoramic views of the Escalante River canyon from their patio.

Bryce Canyon National Park - Sunset Point

Get your first jaw-dropping view of the Bryce Amphitheater, famous for its thousands of red rock spires called hoodoos. This is the starting point for the iconic Navajo Loop trail and offers prime photo opportunities.

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn

A classic and convenient basecamp just a mile from the Bryce Canyon National Park entrance. This historic inn offers comfortable rooms and a variety of on-site amenities.

Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail

Experience the hoodoos up close on this quintessential Bryce Canyon hike. This 2.9-mile combination loop descends into the canyon via switchbacks, passing landmarks like Thor's Hammer and Wall Street, before ascending gently through the Queen's Garden.

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Tunnel

Your entrance into Zion is an adventure in itself. This historic highway features dramatic switchbacks and the impressive 1.1-mile Zion Tunnel, with galleries cut into the rock offering glimpses of the canyon.

Zion Canyon Brew Pub

Located at the entrance to Zion, this brewpub is the perfect spot to relax after a day of travel and hiking. Enjoy a locally crafted beer on their patio with unbeatable views of The Watchman peak.

Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton

An upscale lodge set on the banks of the Virgin River, offering stunning canyon views and beautiful botanical gardens. It's a peaceful retreat just a short walk or shuttle ride from the park's pedestrian entrance.

Hike The Narrows (Bottom-Up)

Embark on one of the world's most famous hikes by wading up the Virgin River into a towering slot canyon. You can go as far as you feel comfortable, with the walls getting narrower and more dramatic the further you go. Gear rentals are available in Springdale.

Pa'rus Trail

For a more relaxed afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along this paved, 3.5-mile path that follows the Virgin River from the Visitor Center. It's a peaceful walk with great views of the lower canyon and is accessible to all.

Oscar's Cafe

A beloved Springdale institution famous for its massive portions of delicious Mexican-inspired food. Refuel after a long day of hiking with their legendary Pork Chili Verde Burrito.

Valley of Fire State Park

Discover a landscape of fiery red Aztec sandstone outcrops nestled in gray and tan limestone. Drive the scenic road to see landmarks like Elephant Rock and hike the short Fire Wave trail for an otherworldly photo op.

Photo by Kendall Hoopes

The Neon Museum

Transition from natural wonders to man-made ones at this iconic outdoor museum. The 'Boneyard' features a stunning collection of retired Las Vegas signs, telling the story of the city's history through its incredible neon art.

Lotus of Siam

Celebrate the end of your road trip at what many consider the best Thai restaurant in the United States. James Beard Award-winning Chef Saipin Chutima's menu of Northern Thai specialties is a culinary pilgrimage for food lovers.

Photo by Abhishek Navlakha