Zion National Park To Horseshoe Bend: A Road Trip Adventure

Welcome to our road trip adventure from Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend! If you’ve read our previous article (Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary), you’ll know this is the last leg of our journey. While Utah’s other national parks have wowed us with their natural wonders, this final stretch is just as awe-inspiring and deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the practical aspects of this road trip, sharing tips on planning, routes, and must-see attractions. So, if you’re looking to soak in the stunning landscapes of southern Utah and northern Arizona, join us as we break down the details of this unforgettable adventure.

In this helpful guide on road-tripping from Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend we’ll discuss:

• Different pit stop options
• Best things to do at each pit stop
• Where to stay
• What to pack
• The best time to visit

Some National Parks require a permit to enter. Please check with the NPS website or phone app for current information.

Map of Zion National Park To Horseshoe Bend Road Trip

How to get to Utah’s National Parks & Pit Stops

For these road trip instances, I’m going to assume you are already near Zion National Park.

If you are not already nearby, you can fly to Las Vegas or Salt Lake City and then rent a car. If you plan on flying, keep an eye on the prices of flights and rental cars at both places. One city may be cheaper than the other. Depending on where you are coming flying can drastically cut down the time you’ll spend in a vehicle. Of course, if you fly, you’ll need to rent a car to complete the road trip.

Best Time to Road Trip From Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend

When it comes to planning your road trip from Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend, timing can make all the difference. The ideal times to hit the road are during the spring and fall seasons. In the spring, you’ll be greeted by a stunning landscape of wildflowers in full bloom, and the weather is generally quite pleasant – not too hot, not too cold. Fall is another great option, offering comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds to contend with.

Now, let’s talk about summer. While it might seem like a prime time for a road trip, it can get scorching hot in this part of the country, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. On the flip side, winter can bring chilly weather and even some road closures due to adverse conditions, so it’s not the best choice either. So, when you’re planning your adventure, aim for spring or fall to strike the perfect balance of pleasant weather and scenic beauty.

Zion to Horseshoe Bend Road Trip Itineraries

When we drove from Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend it was part of a larger road trip and we were limited on time. Because of our time constraint, we drove directly from Zion to Horseshoe Bend and followed it with a tour of lower Antelope Canyon. This is the perfect 2-day plan if you are limited on time. But, there is so much to see along the way that I’m going to share a few options with you in the event that you have more time than we did.

How Much Time Do You Need For Zion & Horseshoe Bend Road Trip?

Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend takes about 2.5 hours if you drive straight through. They are really close to each other, but there is a lot of stuff to see around both places. I’d say that at minimum you should have 2 days.

2 Day Zion National Park to Horshoebend Road Trip

*This road trip starts at Zion National Park.

• Day 1 – Zion National Park, then drive 2.5 hrs. to Paige, Arizona (stayed at Wingate by Wyndham)
• Day 2 – Horseshoe Bend & Lower Antelope Canyon, then head home

Stay in Springdale the night before you plan on visiting Zion. This will allow you to get an early start exploring the park. Zion will take up most of the day. When you have seen everything you wanted to see, drive 2.5 hours to Page, Arizona to see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.

Zion National Park (Day 1)

Because Zion is one of the busiest National Parks, you’ll need to get there as early as possible. This will ensure that you can find parking and get to the busiest trails before they become crowded.

Best Things To Do In Zion National Park

• Hike Scouts Lookout or go all the way to Angel’s Landing
  (Scouts Lookout is basically a viewpoint on your way to Angel’s Landing)
  *To hike Angel’s Landing you need a permit.
  ~4.4 miles out & back
  ~1604 elevation gain
  Hard Trail
• Hike the Narrows or the Riverside Trail
  If you choose not to hike the Narrows, the Riverside Trail is a boardwalk along the river. At the end of the trail, you can see the beautiful entrance to the slot canyon which is also the starting point of the Narrows.
• Hike Emerald Pools Trail
  3.0-mile loop
  620 ft. elevation gain
  Moderate difficulty
  ~1 hr. and 30 min. hiking time

Here is the order in which we explore Zion National Park.
Scouts Lookout -> Emerald Pools -> Weeping Rock -> Riverside Trail

Some other popular things to see in Zion National Park are: The scenic drive, Angels Landing hike, Canyon Overlook Trail, the first mile or so of the Narrows.

If you plan on hiking the Narrows and doing everything else, I recommend adding an extra day to Zion.

If you want to hike the Narrows but can’t for some reason, I highly suggest you look into Kanarra Falls. It’s not the same but it’s very similar and less crowded. If you choose to add this to your itinerary, I’d add an additional day.

If you plan on hiking to Angel’s Landing, you’ll need to plan the rest of your activities around your permitted time.

Things to do near Zion: Kanarra Falls
Zion Shuttle & Parking: Tips for Zion National Park Shuttle & Parking
Pack: What To Pack For Zion

Best Places To Stay (Zion National Park)

Zion National Park has 3 campgrounds (Watchman Campground, South Campground & Lava Point Campground). They also have a lodge (Zion Lodge). The city of Springdale offers a plethora of other accommodations nearby.

When we finished exploring Zion we drove about 2 hrs. to Page, Arizona. We stayed at Wingate by Wyndham.

Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon (Day 2)

We knew that Horseshoe Bend could get busy so we planned to see it before Antelope Canyon. When we booked our tour tickets to Antelope Canyon we made sure to book them for later in the day to accommodate seeing Horseshoe Bend first.

Here is the order in which we explored Page, Arizona:
Horseshoe Bend -> Antelope Canyon -> Home

4 Day Zion National Park To Horseshoe Bend Road Trip

If you have extra time, here is a longer road trip itinerary. Feel free to make it your own by adding and subtracting points of interest.

Zion National Park (Day 1)

See above for what to see and how to plan your day at Zion National Park.

*Remember that if you want to hike the Narrows you should add an extra day to your road trip.

Stay in Springdale, UT.

Kanarra Falls, The Belly Of The Dragon, Sand Caves (Day 2)

Day 2 is about an 8-hour day. You’ll want to get up early to hit the road.

Kanarra Falls
*To hike Kanarra Falls you’ll need a permit
Kanarra Falls will take about 2 hours and then you’ll drive 1 hr 37 min. to your next stop Belly of the Dragon.

Kanarra Falls is a beautiful hiking destination in Utah known for its stunning slot canyon, vibrant red rock formations, and serene waterfalls. The hike includes wading through water and is accessible to hikers of various skill levels. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a refreshing and picturesque adventure.

Belly of the Dragon
This hike will take about 1 hour and then you’ll drive 12 minutes to Sand Caves.

The Belly of the Dragon is a unique sandstone cave located in Utah, known for its distinctive, surreal appearance. The best part is that once you are inside, the cave resembles a “belly of a dragon”.

Sand Caves
You’ll spend about an hour hiking Sand Caves. From here you’ll drive to your accommodations in Kanab, Utah.

The Sand Caves in Utah provide a family-friendly adventure and are only a short walk to the caves. Part of the hike requires a brief wall climb, which is manageable for kids with some assistance. Shoes with good traction are key to the wall climb. These caves are a great spot to take in the views, especially around sunset.

There is a parking lot at the Moqui Cave Museum that you can park in.

Accommodations in Kanab, UT

Kanab has plenty of accommodations of all types and price ranges. Here are a couple that I recommend.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites
The Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Kanab, Utah, is a family-friendly hotel that offers a comfortable and convenient stay. They have spacious suites available, making it ideal for families in need of extra room. You can enjoy a refreshing swim in the hotel’s pool or relax in the hot tub. Additionally, they provide a complimentary breakfast, ensuring a hearty start to your day. With a range of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great choice for families exploring the stunning natural wonders of the area.
Canyons Botique Hotel
Canyons Boutique Hotel in Kanab, Utah, stands out as a unique lodging option. Besides its distinctive character, the hotel offers a pool for relaxation and a restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy delicious meals conveniently on-site. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a touch of individuality and comfort during their stay in Kanab.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes Campground
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes Campground near Kanab, Utah, provides a unique camping experience within the striking coral-colored sand dunes. It’s a family-friendly destination that provides an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for sandboarding, ATV riding, and stargazing in a picturesque desert setting.

Nautilus To Antelope Canyon (Day 3)

Day 2 is about a 6 hr. day. You’ll start your day by driving an hour to Nautilus.

Nautilus
Here you’ll spend about 20 minutes hiking the Nautilus Trail. Then you’ll drive 12 minutes to Toadstool Hoodoos.

The Nautilus is a unique geological formation located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. It’s often referred to as the “Nautilus” due to its spiral-like appearance, resembling the shell of a nautilus mollusk. This remarkable formation is the result of erosion in the sandstone layers over millions of years.

Flash floods can occur. Make sure that you check the forecast before taking in this unique formation.

Toadstool Hoodoos Trail
This hike will take about 1 hour and then you’ll drive 31 minutes to Glen Canyon Dam Overlook in Lake Powell.

The Toadstool Hoodoos Trail is a short and scenic hiking trail located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. It features unique rock formations called hoodoos, which are whimsically shaped sandstone pillars created by erosion. The trail is approximately 1.8 miles out and back and offers relatively easy terrain, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. It’s a perfect place for photography and offers a glimpse into the fascinating geology of the region. It’s beautiful to visit any time of year.

Glen Canyon Dam Overlook/Lake Powell
Getting to the Dam Overlook only takes about 7 minutes. From here you’ll drive 13 minutes to Horseshoe Bend.
*If you’d like to enjoy Lake Powell by boat or helicopter tour, make sure that you add more time to your road trip. Most of the boat tours will take most of the day.
**Glen Canyon National Recreation Area requires a fee to enter

The Glen Canyon Dam Overlook provides breathtaking views of the Glen Canyon Dam and the vast Lake Powell. Located near Page, Arizona, this viewpoint offers a beautiful view of the massive concrete arch dam, which forms Lake Powell. It’s a popular option for travelers exploring the region and provides excellent photo opportunities of the dam and the striking desert landscape that surrounds it.

Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend will take about 40 min. to 1 hr. give or take depending on how long you want to spend there. After Horseshoe Bend, you’ll drive another 13 minutes to Lower Antelope Canyon.
*Glen Canyon National Recreation Area requires a fee to enter

Horseshoe Bend is an iconic and breathtaking natural wonder near Page, Arizona. It’s a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River, known for its stunning red rock canyon walls and emerald-green waters below. This picturesque spot is easily accessible via a short hike and is a must-visit destination for its unparalleled beauty and photographic opportunities. Horseshoe Bend is known to attract a lot of people.

Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon tours are 1 hour long. You’ll need to buy tickets in advance. Once you have finished your tour you can head to your accommodations for the day.

The last stop – Antelope Canyon is a highly popular tourist attraction near Page, Arizona. This slot canyon is known for its narrow, winding passageways and famous light beams. It’s divided into two sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Guided tours are the primary way to explore these captivating sandstone formations, offering a surreal and photogenic experience for visitors. This is a good place to capture awesome pictures. Your tour guide will help you set your camera to capture the best photos.

Accommodations in Page, Arizona

Page, Arizona has plenty of accommodations of all types and price ranges. Here are a couple that I recommend.

Best Western View of Lake Powell
This family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and is known for its stunning views of Lake Powell. It has amenities like an outdoor pool and is conveniently located for exploring nearby attractions, including Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend.
Lake Powell Resort
Lake Powell Resorts is a picturesque lakeside resort in Page, Arizona, offering you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Lake Powell. You can access the water easily from the resort’s facilities, with boat slips and rental services available. The resort offers boat tours to explore the lake’s intricate canyons, hidden coves, and iconic landmarks such as Rainbow Bridge National Monument. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
Under Canvas Lake Powell
Under Canvas Lake Powell is a unique and upscale glamping experience near Page, Arizona. It offers luxurious safari-style tents with modern amenities nestled in a picturesque desert landscape. You can enjoy comfortable accommodations while being close to the natural wonders of the area, including Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort in the heart of the Southwest’s stunning red rock country.

Head Home (Day 4)

Day 4 head home.

To make your road trip even longer, you may want to consider adding Bryce Canyon National Park & Grand Canyon National Park to your trip. It will make for an epic road trip!

Tips For Planning This Road Trip

• America the Beautiful National Parks Pass
  Since you will be visiting Zion National Park, I recommend buying an America the Beautiful Pass. This will allow you to visit any national park throughout the year for free. The American the Beautiful Pass costs $80.
• How to avoid crowds
  -Visit mid-week or during off-peak seasons.
  -Start your day early. The earlier the better.
  -Do the most popular attractions first and as early as possible.
• Book accommodations in advance
  Campsites and lodging fill quickly. If you’d like to have options on where to stay, I’d recommend booking 6 months to a year in advance.
• Always check Alltrails and NPS websites right before your road trip
  Alltrails – Read recent comments about trails or hiking conditions.
  NPS – Check for recent alerts or changes made to a National Park
• Pack layers
  Mornings and nights can get chilly while the daytime is hot. This means that if you start your hikes early, you’ll most likely be chilly. However, when the sun comes out you’ll be sweating if you don’t dress in layers.
• Download maps beforehand
  Many of these places are remote, and cell reception can be spotty, nonexistent even.

What to Pack for Zion National Park & Horseshoe Bend Road Trip

Packing for a road trip from Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend requires some careful planning to ensure you have everything you need for the journey.

*See our packing guide for Zion National Park

Here’s a comprehensive packing list:

Essentials:

• Identification and Travel Documents:
  Driver’s license, passport, vehicle registration, insurance, and any required permits or tickets for places you plan on visiting.
• Maps and Navigation:
  GPS device or smartphone with navigation apps and a physical map as a backup. These are our favorite apps
• Cash and Cards:
  Sufficient funds in cash and credit/debit cards for expenses along the way.

Clothing:

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing:
  Check the weather forecast and pack clothing suitable for the season. Layers and moisture wicking are key for changing conditions.
• Comfortable Shoes:
  Sturdy, comfortable walking or hiking shoes for exploring parks and trails.
• Rain Gear:
  A lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
• Hat and Sunglasses:
  To protect yourself from the sun.
• Swimwear:
  If you plan to take a dip in any swimming areas or hotel pools.

Luggage and Packing Accessories:

• Luggage:
  A suitcase or travel backpack to hold your clothing and personal items.
• Daypack:
  For carrying essentials during hikes and day trips.
• Packing Cubes:
  To keep your clothing organized and save space in your luggage.
• Reusable Water Bottle:
  To stay hydrated on your adventures.
• Cooler:
  If you want to bring snacks and drinks for the road.

Personal Items:

• Toiletries:
  Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and any other personal hygiene items.
• Medications:
  Prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit.
• Sunscreen and Insect Repellent:
  To protect your skin from the sun and bugs.
• Chargers and Power Banks:
  For your devices, such as phones, cameras, and GPS.

Camping Gear (if applicable):

• Tent, Sleeping Bag, and Sleeping Pad:
  If you plan to camp.
• Cooking Gear:
  Portable stove, utensils, and cookware if you’ll be preparing your meals.
• Camping Accessories:
  Headlamp/flashlight, camping chairs, and a cooler for food storage.

Entertainment and Comfort:

• Entertainment:
  Books, magazines, music, or audiobooks for downtime during the trip.
• Small Pillow and Blanket:
  For added comfort along the way

Optional Extras:

• Camera and Accessories:
  Capture the stunning landscapes.
• Binoculars:
  To get a closer look at wildlife and scenery.
  *Check out our guide on binoculars. It was written for Yellowstone, but it’d be helpful for any situation.
• Reusable Bags:
  Handy for storing trash or carrying souvenirs.

Remember that packing light is often the key to a smoother road trip experience. Tailor your packing list to your specific needs.

Here are some popular national park reads:

8 Best Hikes in Badlands National Park
10 Easy Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Crater Lake National Park
East Coast Road Trip to Acadia National Park
Gifts for National Park Lovers

As we wrap up this guide to the incredible road trip from Zion National Park to Horseshoe Bend, we hope you’re feeling inspired to hit the open road. From the awe-inspiring beauty of Zion’s red rock canyons to the iconic curve of Horseshoe Bend, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this route offers something for everyone.

Have you taken a similar road trip? Share your favorite moments, hidden gems, or travel tips in the comments below. Your insights could inspire others to embark on their own memorable journeys. And, if you have any questions please leave those too.

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