If you're dreaming of a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American Southwest, a road trip from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park should be at the top of your list. This scenic drive showcases the dramatic desert beauty and geological wonders of Arizona and Utah. Along the way, you'll pass iconic landmarks, surreal slot canyons, and rugged red rock formations that offer some of the best outdoor experiences in the country. Whether you're traveling from the South Rim, North Rim, or West Rim of the Grand Canyon, there’s an unforgettable route waiting for you. Planning the perfect road trip from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park involves more than just navigation, it's about making memories with every stop.
Best Route Summary: Grand Canyon to Zion National Park Road Trip
Choosing the best route from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park depends largely on where you start your journey. The South Rim is the most popular departure point due to its accessibility and facilities, while the North Rim is closer to Zion but only open seasonally. The West Rim, home to the famous Skywalk, is typically accessed from Las Vegas and requires a different strategy. Each route offers its own unique views and attractions, making your decision part of the adventure itself. Let’s break down each main route from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park so you can choose the one that suits your style best.
Grand Canyon South Rim to Zion
The most common road trip begins at the Grand Canyon South Rim, heading north via US-89 and UT-9, offering a seamless blend of natural wonders and smooth highway cruising. This route spans approximately 250 miles and takes about 5 hours of drive time, not including scenic detours that are almost too tempting to pass up. You’ll drive through the vast landscapes of Glen Canyon, pass the Colorado River near Page, and continue through Kanab, a charming gateway town brimming with local dining, history, and trail access.
The route is paved, well-maintained, and accessible year-round, making it the most reliable and scenic choice for those traveling from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park. If your schedule allows, consider planning a picnic stop at Lake Powell or a quick walk through the Toadstool Hoodoos to deepen your connection with the land as you move from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park.
Grand Canyon North Rim to Zion
If you prefer solitude and cooler temperatures, consider departing from the Grand Canyon North Rim, a less-traveled and more intimate alternative to the bustling South Rim. The drive is shorter, about 120 miles, but it's packed with scenic charm, offering a route through dense alpine forests, wildflower meadows, and dramatic cliffs. You'll travel along AZ-67 and UT-9, a tranquil drive that provides multiple photo opportunities and occasional wildlife sightings like deer and bighorn sheep.
Since the North Rim is only open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October, it’s important to align your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park trip with favorable weather and road conditions. This route brings you directly to Zion’s quieter East Entrance, making it perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful start to their Grand Canyon to Zion National Park journey.
Grand Canyon West Rim to Zion
The West Rim is popular for those coming from Las Vegas and looking to experience the Skywalk and other tourist-oriented activities, offering a more commercial and modern introduction to the Grand Canyon. Traveling from here to Zion requires a bit more planning, as you'll connect through segments of I-15, AZ-389, and UT-59. Although this 280-mile journey takes approximately 5.5 hours, the route takes you past desert landscapes, Joshua trees, and the vibrant city of St. George, which offers excellent dining and lodging options. This path provides a broader view of the Southwest's diversity, blending arid desert with rolling plateaus and small-town charm. While it’s not the most direct route from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park, it is perfect for those seeking a road trip with varied scenery, flexibility for stops, and opportunities to explore lesser-known gems along the way.
Road Trip Map: Grand Canyon To Zion
A visual map is an essential tool for organizing your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park adventure. Don’t forget to pin your stops like Horseshoe Bend, Kanab, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Having a map tailored for your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park road trip means less stress and more exploration.
Best Stops from Grand Canyon To Zion
While the route itself is beautiful, the journey from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park is also packed with incredible places to stop. These attractions vary from quick scenic pullovers to half-day hiking destinations. Incorporating these stops into your road trip itinerary enhances your adventure and connects you more deeply to the desert landscape. Below are the best stops you shouldn't miss when driving from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park.
Hike To Horseshoe Bend Viewpoint
One of the most iconic stops on the way from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park is Horseshoe Bend, located just outside Page, Arizona. The short hike to the overlook is about 1.5 miles round trip and rewards you with a jaw-dropping view of a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. This stop is best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh sunlight. Although it's often crowded, the viewpoint is well worth it for any road trip photographer. Horseshoe Bend is an easy addition to any Grand Canyon to Zion National Park itinerary.
Antelope Canyon
Just minutes from Horseshoe Bend is Antelope Canyon, a narrow slot canyon famous for its wave-like formations and beams of light. This natural wonder is a must-see on the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park route, but you’ll need to book a guided tour in advance. There are two main sections, Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon, each with its own character and photo opportunities. Prepare for some light climbing and narrow passages, but the reward is a surreal experience. Including Antelope Canyon in your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park journey adds an unforgettable visual experience.
Optional Detour: Monument Valley
If you have an extra day, consider adding a detour to Monument Valley, a sacred and cinematic destination with towering sandstone buttes. While it adds about 3-4 hours to your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park route, the views are iconic and the cultural significance is profound. Guided tours with Navajo guides offer insight into the valley's history and spiritual heritage. This stop is particularly appealing for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the Southwest's rich storytelling landscape. Though off the direct path, Monument Valley enhances your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park adventure.
Toadstool Hoodoos
About 30 minutes west of Page, the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail leads you to a Martian landscape of bizarre rock formations. The hike is short and relatively easy, making it a great break during your drive from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park. The hoodoos are photogenic and less crowded than other major attractions. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the unique geology of the area. If you’re looking to stretch your legs and explore something different, Toadstool Hoodoos is a worthy pit stop on your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park trip.
The Wave
For the intrepid adventurer, The Wave in the Coyote Buttes North area is an incredible stop along the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park corridor. Known for its surreal, undulating rock formations, it’s one of the most exclusive hikes in the Southwest due to a strict permit lottery. If you’re lucky enough to win a permit, this destination becomes the highlight of your road trip. The hike is strenuous and requires navigation skills, but the views are like nothing else on earth. Including The Wave adds a rare and magical element to your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park itinerary.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Located near Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a colorful and active stop that breaks up the drive from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park. This state park features bright pink sand dunes created by wind and erosion, offering opportunities for hiking, photography, and sandboarding. It's family-friendly and less crowded, making it a great midday stop. You can also camp overnight if your itinerary allows. This unique landscape adds a splash of color to your Grand Canyon to Zion National Park journey.
Recommended Itineraries from Grand Canyon to Zion National Park
To help plan your trip, we’ve put together two suggested itineraries that take full advantage of the scenic route and stops from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park. These itineraries balance travel time with exploration and allow flexibility based on your interests. Whether you want a relaxed pace or a fast-paced adventure, you’ll find a plan that works for your road trip style. The following itineraries include the best experiences from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park and are structured to minimize backtracking.
9 Day Grand Canyon to Zion Itinerary
This 9-day itinerary is designed to provide a rich and immersive experience for travelers driving from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park, blending iconic sights with hidden gems along the way.
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Day 1: Arrive at the Grand Canyon South Rim and explore major viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point. Consider a sunset walk along the Rim Trail.
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Day 2: Catch sunrise at Desert View Watchtower, then depart for Page, AZ. Stop at Navajo Bridge and enjoy scenic overlooks of Marble Canyon.
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Day 3: Spend the morning hiking to Horseshoe Bend. In the afternoon, join a guided tour of either Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon.
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Day 4: Choose a detour to Monument Valley with a Navajo-led tour or take a relaxing day kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Powell.
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Day 5: Drive toward Kanab and stretch your legs with a hike to the Toadstool Hoodoos. Enjoy dinner at a local bistro in downtown Kanab.
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Day 6: Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park for sandboarding or photography. Spend a restful evening enjoying Kanab's small-town charm.
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Day 7: Enter Zion via the East Entrance and hike Canyon Overlook Trail. Take time to stop at Checkerboard Mesa and other photo-worthy vistas.
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Day 8: Dedicate the day to exploring Zion Canyon. Hike Angels Landing (permit required), Emerald Pools, or the Narrows depending on water levels.
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Day 9: If you have time, explore East Zion trails like Observation Point via East Mesa. Begin your return journey or extend your stay in Springdale.
This route maximizes both convenience and discovery, offering a balance of famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path adventures on your journey from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park.
5 Day Grand Canyon to Zion Itinerary
This 5-day itinerary offers a condensed yet rewarding road trip from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park, ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the region's most iconic landmarks.
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Day 1: Start your adventure at the Grand Canyon South Rim. Spend the day exploring top viewpoints like Desert View and Yavapai Point. Walk a stretch of the Rim Trail or join a ranger-led talk. In the evening, enjoy a meal in Tusayan and rest overnight nearby.
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Day 2: Head north toward Page, Arizona. Stop for photos at Navajo Bridge and consider a visit to the Glen Canyon Dam overlook. In the afternoon, hike to the famous Horseshoe Bend for panoramic views of the Colorado River.
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Day 3: Book a morning guided tour of Antelope Canyon to witness its breathtaking slot formations and beams of light. If time allows, take a short hike to the Toadstool Hoodoos before continuing your journey. Overnight again in Page or onward to Kanab.
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Day 4: Travel through scenic southern Utah, passing through Kanab, a great spot for lunch or a quick stroll through town. Arrive in Zion National Park via the East Entrance, with time to explore Checkerboard Mesa or hike Canyon Overlook Trail.
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Day 5: Dedicate a full day to hiking in Zion National Park. Popular options include Angels Landing (permit required), The Narrows, or Emerald Pools. Wrap up your trip with dinner in Springdale and an overnight stay.
Though brief, this efficient itinerary highlights the best natural and cultural stops from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park, giving you a taste of everything the Southwest has to offer.
Conclusion
A road trip from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park is a soul-stirring journey through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Southwest. With well-maintained highways, rich cultural sites, and natural wonders at every turn, the route is as rewarding as the destinations themselves. From towering cliffs and slot canyons to pink sand dunes and sacred lands, this adventure brings you face-to-face with nature’s artistry. Whether you have a few days or over a week, planning your route with intention makes all the difference. Start your engine, the open road from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park awaits.