This sounds good to me, though you may run into snow along the way. Obviously you could spend more time in some of the parks, but I think you'll get a good overview.

Be sure to catch the sunrise at Bryce Canyon before you leave.

Lee Ann

Posted too soon - you might want to look at flying home from Vegas to avoid one-way rental drop-off fees.

Lee Ann

I agree. Go back to LAS and save the drop-off fees.

That's a lot of driving. Let's see if we can smooth this out.

On day 2 you're driving to Zion. It's a 3 hour drive. If you leave right after breakfast you'll have half the day in Zion.

I would spend more time in Zion since the weather will be warmer than some other places in higher elevation.

So you should have Day 2 from noon, Day 3 and Day 4 until noon.

On Day 4, depending on the conditions in Bryce you'll either be able to hike down a bit of Navajo Loop or just along the rim.

But on Day 5 get up very early and go to Bryce Point for the sunrise. Will be cold but good things are worth it.

The drive to Capitol Reef is long and you may have snow on the road. That's a problem.

Arches is a very good park. Try to get to Delicate Arch for sunset.

GC is far from one of my favorite places. I go places for a combination of scenery, waterfalls and wildlife. It falls short compared to other places on all accounts.

what would you consider to drive from bryce to capitol reef other than that road. Also Avis does not charge different destination drop-offs. I have never seen the GC before so I want to at least look at the area

There are some National Monuments available also.
You will be there too early in the season for Cedar Breaks, but Natural Bridges should be viewable. Also there are the fascinating Goosenecks of the San Juan (River), Monument Valley, and some state parks. There is a good, if small, on Utah 12 between Bryce and Capital Reef.

I was in Zions two weeks ago and the Narrows is so unique and really beautiful. You walk in the water the entire time with rock walls on either side of you and make sure to bring some kind of camelbak with water, snacks, and a camera (like in a few plastic bags). We prepared poorly and had to go back only 2 hours in because we didn't have anything to eat. We didn't know how to bring a camera so putting it in plastic bags in a backpack/camelbak would be my suggestion. Also you can't drive to the base of the trails in Zion, you go everywhere by shuttle which took a lot longer than expected (40 mins from parking lot to beginning of Narrows which was only about 6 miles). If you get a chance hike Angels Landing, amazing hike.

In Arches (was there last month) you are able to drive to the base of every trail, some arches were right off the road and others you parked your car at the base and hiked too. Delicate is probably the most famous, I also liked Landscape Arch, Double Arch, and Corona Arch (a little outside of the park but really beautiful). Also do SlickRock, you bike on some kind of petrified rocks/sand dunes. Its difficult, but awesome. Have so much fun!

If you haven't seen Grand Canyon then you should. Unfortunately after seeing the Utah parks you may decide GC doesn't compare.

On your other thread you ask about going from Moab to GC. I've never driven that so somebody else will have to answer.

Between Capitol Reef and Arches plan on a stop at Goblin Valley State Park. Were you planning on staying in Torrey?
Sounds good if you have no drop off fee.

I LOVE the goblins!!

Yes tomfuller, i am staying in Torrey, not sure where yet, If you have a suggestion it would be much appreciated. I will try to include Goblin into or trip plan.

Your itinerary looks good although I would suggest taking one of the days from Grand Canyon and adding it to Moab area. That will give you some time to stop at Goblins on the way from Cap Reef to Moab. And also time to visit Canyonlands and other sites around Moab.

If your flight to LV gets in early enough, I'd leave for Zion that day - as Myer mentioned, it's only a 2 1/2 hr drive. That way, you'll have 2 full days in this gorgeous park. You might hike Angel's Landing (even if not to the top), Canyon Overlook hike on the east side of the tunnel is a great short hike. Here is the view at the end:

http://www.pbase.com/peterb/image/85429046

The Narrows might be off limits in March if water is too high or too cold. Hard to say. But its a great hike if its accessible.

Short ride to Bryce - less than 2 hrs - and some of my favorite hikes. The Fairyland loop -

http://www.pbase.com/peterb/image/85511202

and Queens Garden/Navajo loop are both incredible. Dining in the park at Bryce is pretty good although I suggest heading into Springdale for dining while in Zion. The in-park food was not good.

There are also lots of fine lodging options in Springdale and travel into the park takes just a few mintues although at that time of year, you should have no trouble getting rooms in any of the parks.

The drive from Bryce to Torrey on Rte 12 is amazing - although you may have snow in March. If you can rent a 4WD SUV, that might be a good idea. I am headed out there in a few weeks and I got a great deal from Dollar Rental for an SUV for 11 days - $400! Dropping it off at a different airport though will add significant cost.

In Torrey, I can recommend the Best Western and Austin's Chuckwagon. Both were spotlessly clean, good value. I love Capitol Reef - fascinating geological features, colorful rock formations, and you'll have the park to yourselves. Torrey is a great little town - good food at Cafe Diablo and Rim Rock. Also a good selection of food options at the store/deli at Austins.

Talk to the rangers about hiking in Capitol Reef. We are planning to finish Cohab Canyon/Frying Pan hike on our upcoming trip. Last time, storms cut it short. Hickman Bridge is a nice short hike.

Goblins State Park is outside of Hanksville on the way to Moab and worth a few hours. Fun place to walk around among some very odd formations:

http://www.pbase.com/peterb/image/21330435

There are lots of lodging options in Moab. Arches is incredible, one of my favorite parks. Devils Garden is a really fun hike. Delicate Arch is a classic.

We haven't been to Moab in awhile so I'm not sure about dining options. I'll post a trip report when we return in mid Sept and I'll be sure to include info on Moab. On past trips, we've stayed at River Canyon Lodge and it was just fine and a block off of the main drag, which is nice. Lots to see and do in Moab - do a search on Fodors and I'm sure you'll get plenty of information.

The South Rim is a must if you've never been to the Grand Canyon - it should be really nice in March with small crowds and maybe a little snow! You have a wonderful trip planned. Don't hesitate to post some questions once you do a little more research. Enjoy the planning!

I LOVE GC and the south rim is my favorite. I've done the loop you are planning and it is great. While you are in the Moab area, do stop in at Canyonlands Island in the Sky for a quick drive, stop, look at the major view points at least. DH thinks it's as impressive as GC.

If you do come down the Moki Dugway through Mexican Hat on your way to Monument Valley, make sure it hasn't snowed recently as it is an E ticket ride when it is not snowy.

If you can do your driving in day light and be aware of animals on the road especially in the "open range" areas where there are not only deer and pronghorn, but horses and cattle have the road too.

Have a fantastic trip.

Thanks Sharondi and everyone else for all the great info. I think I will cut off a day from Grand Canyon and add it to Moab so I can see Canyonlands for a bit. Goblins Valley looks very cool and is right on the way to Capitol Reef if I remember right.

I was also wondering if I would need a 4WD car rental for this trip or would a normal sedan rental work. I am probably going to stay on the paved roads and not on the gravel/dirt roads.

Right near Goblin Valley is a really awesome easy slot canyon called Little Wildhorse(they even sell t-shirts at Goblin Valley visitor cntr for LW). Don't confuse it with Wildhorse, you want Little Wildhorse. You can spend 2-6 hours at it, depending on how much of it you want to do. You will need 1-4 hours at Goblin Valley.

I've stayed at Austin's Chuckwagon twice and also liked it.


I don't know how adventurous you are, but www.deserthighlights.com in Moab is absolutely fantastic. I've been with them twice and hoping to go again soon.

Thanks for all the ideas for smaller parks, i had completely forgotten about thoose. Goblin Valley and Little Wildhorse look really cool for driving between Capitol and Arches. I have another thread asking for things to do between Arches and GC. Desert Hiighlights looks really cool, will have to check it out.

I was thinking about how much time I would need in all of the smaller parks in between Capitol Reef and Arches because I wanted to see Goblin Valley. Also how long would i need to spend in goosenecks and monument valley. Again, I thank everyone who has commented and those who add anything interesting.

Hadn't read this thread when I responded to the other one. Your time is fairly short, don't know how much extra stuff you can fit in and still have a good experience.

Hikes in Zion- Riverside Walk if not the Narrows, Hidden Canyon, Kayenta from Grotto to Emerald Pools, upper emerald Pools can be beautiful in March, good time to see it all.

If Kiva Koffehouse is open on hwy 12 just before the river bridge stop off there. Great place for lunch.

You asked what other road to go between Bryce and Capitol Reef...any other road would be a dull and longer route. Go hwy 12.

Day 6 if you haven't eaten up all your time with Goblin Valley and Little WIld Horse stop in to Canyonlands before you get to Moab/Arches. It is a bit of a back track otherwise and it is easy to see in half a day. DO catch Dead Horse Point as well sunset there is nice. March days are short so it might be harder to do it all before dark.

In Springdale look at the Cable Mountain Lodge, it is very nice, right outside Zion NP and you can walk into the park from there in less than 5 minutes. All of the lodging in Springdale is on the expensive side, we paid about $135 per night, last October which is less expensive than many other places. The park shuttle I believe starts April 1, so you may be able to drive into the park in March, check the Zion page on the National Parks website. Temperatures should be high in the mid 60s and low down to mid 30s. You can download the park guide which provides all the information you need to know. The narrows may not be open for hiking in March due to high water levels.
The drive on Hwy 12 from Bryce to Torrey is spectacular and there is only 1 section about 1-2 miles that is ' the scary bit'. The Best Western in Torrey is very pleasant, quite new with super views from the rooms on the back of the building, they have small balconies and are a great place to watch the sunset.
The drive from Torrey to Arches, assuming you will go via Hanksville and around the top, first part, stunning scenery, second part not exciting but okay.If the Fiery furnace hike at Arches is available at that time of year, you shoud do it, it isn't as dificult as it appears. I did it last year after much soul searching and was pleasantly surprised, but you must do it with the park rangers guided hike.
I am guessing but I think Moki Dugway would not be a good idea in March. We rented a 4 wheel drive, Rav 4, it actually was less expensive than a compact.
We spent about 3-4 hours at Monument Valley, having the 4 wheel drive meant we didn't have to take the very expensive jeep tour and could take as much time as we wanted to do the loop drive. When I look at photos from our trip, it was definitely one of the highlights.
The Desert Rose Inn in Bluff was a great place to stay, very reasonable prices, not sure how early in the season they are open.
Trying to drive from Moab to GC in one day and see MV on the way is probably too much.
On the topic of drop off fees, I know you said you did not have them with Avis, often people assume the fees are outrageous, but if you look at the cost of driving back to your start point, gas and maybe a night's lodging or two along the way, it isn't expensive, we paid $250 to drop off the rental in Phoenix rather than at our start point in Denver.It would have been at least 1 full days drive plus an overnight, meals, gas etc and cut 2 days off our vacation.
Sounds like it will be great, have fun

I kind of rewrote my loose itinerary a little and added a lot of things that people suggested to do.

1. Land in Las Vegas drive to Zion Ntl Park
2. Zion Ntl Park
3. AM in Zion-Bryce Canyon
4. Sunrise at Bryce- then Capitol Reef Ntl Park
5. Pie for Breakfast- Goblin Valley- then Arches Ntl Park (Dead Horse Point for sunset)
6. Arches Ntl Park (look at dinosaur tracks, Copper Ridge)
7. Arches Ntl Park
8. Goosenecks, Monument Valley- then Grand Canyon
9. Grand Canyon
10. Drive to Las Vegas
11. Fly out of Las Vegas

I have not made reservations yet so any hotel recommendations would be awesome. Thanks for all of the awesome posts and keep them coming.

Grand Canyon--I assume you mean South Rim.

I'm not totally sure which lodges are open, but

Zion Lodge

Bryce Lodge(may not be open in March), Ruby's would be 2nd choice

Bright Angel Lodge or El Tovar

Holiday Inn Express in Moab or just about anywhere there is ok
there are BnB's there if you like that type thing.

Day 10--See Hoover Dam
Day 5- I think you would have time for Little Wildhorse too.

Sounds like a good plan. The only flaw, I see is that The Narrows, Angels Landing, and Bryce may or may not have everything open, depending on snow levels in March.

Call The Gifford House to make sure they are open in March. Normally the pies arrive @ 8:00AM and are sold out by Noon.
Austin's Chuckwagon has a really good deli for lunch,sandwiches and even some breakfast items(their bread pudding is good for breakfast). they have a nice little store too.

Spirobulldog I was actually looking at Zion Mountain Resort for lodging at Zion and Ruby's at Bryce. Bryce Lodge only opens April 1st. have not really decided on anywhere to stay at Capitol, Moab, or South Rim. Thanks for the Hoover Dam, I completely forgot about it.

The Copper Ridge Dinosaur tracks are at N38* 49.90 W109 45.72.
Turn east off US 191 5 miles north of Canyonlands Field (23 miles N of Moab). 2 miles out the road is a parking spot with a BLM sign about the tracks at the foot of the trail.
If it has rained recently, be careful on the BLM dirt roads.

I'm not sure about sunset at Dead Horse Point.

Has anybody done that? I've seen photos of sunrise at Mesa Arch.

Make sure you go to Delicate arch in Arches for sunset. Some will say sunrise but that's a matter of opinion and choice.

You have three days / well two and a half / for Arches. You don't really need that. On day 5 when you say Arches where you should really go is either Canyonlands or if it is too late (depending on how much time you spend in Capitol Reef and Goblin valley and possibly Little Wild horse) then just Dead Horse Point for Sunset. Yes, I have been there for sunset and it can be wonderful, just a gorgeous view and if there are some clouds in the sky to make it interesting it is great.

Also you have Copper Ridge listed day 6. I hate back tracking, especially on a full itinerary... and you would be backtracking if you do it this day. This is another thing you can do day 5 on the way into Moab. Good luck finding the tracks though I sure couldn't.

On the other hand if day 5 gets too full, then you could do both Copper Ridge and Canyonlands / Dead Horse Point on day 6. This would leave one full day for Arches and that is enough time to get all the main points. Sunset at Delicate arch provides the best lighting, though it is beautiful any time. You are planning far enough ahead that you could sign up for the Fiery Furnace hike. This is kind of a slow wander through the fins and is a great way to enjoy the park. You could do this either day 6 or 7

tomfuller, I'll take your coordinates to copper ridge next time and see if that helps. I've tried twice, I just wonder if they are worn away.

You will need the better part of a day in Moab if you do anything with Desert Highlights.

Having done Delicate Arch at Sunrise and Sunset, I would choose Sunrise. Way to many people there at Sunset.

"Sunset at Delicate arch provides the best lighting"
This depends on if you want to have sunset or sunrise actually in your photo. The sun will be at your back, casting wonderful shadows and light if you go at Sunset. It is nearly impossible to go on the other side of the arch and get a photo with the sunset actually in the photo, due to all the people on that side.
In the morning, you can get the sunrise, the La Sal Mountains and the Arch all in your photo.

Be sure and take a flashlight, either way you would be in the dark.
You will have only a handful, if any, people there in the morning.

I know everyone thinks I'm crazy, because it seems like "the obvious" decision would be at sunset because "that's what everyone else does". If you watch the weather channel(can't remember the name of the guy-he has many photographic episodes in national parks), he goes a lot of time in the off season or at odd times of the day and even at night. The hike is actually good enough to do it morning and evening, so heck try both if you can.

http://www.flickr.com/groups/759571@N24/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/duoli/283273453/
This guy thought he got it wrong, but look at all the comments

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23YsPEvMEqQ

you'll have a glorious time, any time you go to it!!

I was also reading something about Delicate arch at sunrise and how it was much less crowded, i am sure my photos will not be that amazing but will keep sunrise in mind. I agree the Desert Highlights looked like a lot of fun but I do not want to spend a whole day on it.

spiro, to get a shot similar to that for sunrise you have to almsot fall of the cliff to the other side of Delicate Arch.

That photo almost has the color of a sunset.

If you go anywhere facing the Arch you'll have the sun in your face.

However, for sunset you can stay just about anywhere facing the Arch.

I guess the answer is to go back and do both.

Would that be a "Delicate" marathon?

I would like to see it at night at photograph a long exposure. I think snow would be nice too.

will try to do that if i can, i agree long exposure would look very cool.

Sadly the Gifford House is only open during the 'summer season'. I guess that means not March. If anybody has a suggestion for lodging in or near the South Rim of Grand Canyon it would be much appreciated. Also anywhere to stay in Las Vegas for the night would be good to know.

I was at Capitol Reef the last week of March and the Gifford House was open. Enjoyed the mixed berry pie.

Thank you wtm, that is very weird because it says that the Gifford House is only open during the summer season. That is exactly the same time I will be there. BTW where did you stay when you visited. Thanks

Hopefully it will be open for you too. We stayed at the Best Western in Torrey. Clean, basic motel room. I have no complaints but I might try Austin's Chuckwagon next time.

Outside of Zion, in Springdale, we stayed at The Desert Pearl Inn www.desertpearl.com which I love. We've stayed there twice and both times extended our stay.

In Moab I've stayed at the Best Western Canyonlands and at Ruby's outside of Bryce. Preferred the BW Canyonlands, but both were fine at the time of our stay. Since it has been several years since I've stayed in either do your research because who knows what may have changed.

I stayed at the BW in Torrey. Actually it's the closest motel to the park.

They have a large dining room and a heated pool.

I would stay there again.

As for the dinosaur tracks - insandy, They have been there for several thousand years. I poured a little of my water in the tracks to take a picture.
The road turns off across the RR tracks 5 miles North of the airport. Walk up the trail on the left side of the gully.
It's about 150 yards above the BLM sign about dinosaurs.

Actually tom, I am pretty sure that dinosaurs went extinct 65 million yrs ago, just proving your point that they did not wear away. Wow 40 replies in 5 days, that seems pretty good to me.

Also I was wondering if cell phones will work in this area. I have Verizon that can read analog signals. Any reason to look into short-wave radios?

Thanks tomfuller. I've been up there twice to look for them. I've seen dinosaur tracks, I've seen pictures of these specific tracks. I was unable to figure out where they were.

dshamritsky, you will have coverage in some spots and not in others. We were told that in Arches if you can see moab you'd have coverage. We did not anywhere in the park, but we did in town.

In Arches I had coverage in the strangest places and not in others. As with most national parks it's hit and miss.

Sorry for the break. I do not know why it did not cross my mind before but what type of wildlife should I expect. I mean I had my fair share in Yellowstone when I saw seven grizzlies near the road at various times and two wolves. The lists are very long if you go to Utah Fish and Wildlife, obviously all of these are not common and some are nocturnal. Other info is still appreciated. Thanks again

I've seem some wild turkeys and sickly thin deer on the Zion main lawn.

Also a few deer on Riverside Walk.

I a few deer in a few places in Bryce.

That's all I've seen in the Utah parks.

Wild Turkeys in Zion, Prairie Dogs in Bryce. Could see Bighorn Sheep if you get lucky.

Check my trip report for animal info. We saw Big Horn Sheep going thru the Virgin River Canyon on I-15 south of St.George. Prong Horns and Prairie Dogs at and near Bryce.. A porcupine on the way to North Rim of GC. Deer in various places.

I think that I have finally found good lodging for the trip.
Zion- Zion Mountain Ranch
Bryce- Ruby's Inn
Capitol Reef- Best Western
Moab- Moab Valley Inn
Grand Canyon- Maswik Lodge
I thought that the prices were very good compared to what they were in Yellowstone last year, about 2 times cheaper. Any good or bad experiences at these places would help. Thanks again to everyone who has pretty much made this trip possible. Keep the info coming.

For Zion, I would keep trying for the lodging in the park. Call, keep calling as cancellations come up frequently.

emalloy, zion lodge has plenty of rooms available for the time but is it worth the 80 dollars more a night? If it is then I will book that but the zion ranch seems pretty good for not to much.

Personally, I wouldn't have even checked Springdale if I could get inpark. That way I wouldn't know the difference.

Of all the natinal parks Zion gives you the closest out of park lodging. Just make sure you're close and not 10-15 miles away.

I'm sure Zion Mountain Ranch is nice. But as it is on the east side of the park, your drive to the park will be longer. Something in Springdale (which is 5 min to the park) would be better imo.

I enjoy staying at the lodge as well. There is just something about being in the canyon as the night comes on. But for Zion I don't think it is essential.

I really prefer staying in the park even if it isn't lots of stars and a bit more $. If you have to travel after a day of hiking, when you are tired, on small curvy, hilly roads, with wildlife in the road, in fading daylight, my advice is to make stay as close to the park as possible.

Have looked for some nicer hotels in Zion and think that I found the perfect one, Cable Mountain Lodge. The rooms seem amazing for the medium price, especially in March. Also it is a mile from the park entrance so it seems like the best of both worlds to me. Thanks for telling me not to stay 15 miles from the entrance because Zion Mountain Ranch was 14 miles away.

I suspected such when I checked their web site and they said "see three parks from one place"

You'll be very happy with Cable Mt Lodge and its location is much better.
And you can still stop at the Zion Mt Lodge on the drive past to look at their buffalo.

Okay, well that settles it.

Hello everyone again, I was wondering about roads and driving to the places that I am going. Will my GPS be pretty reliable in these areas or should I buy a Utah atlas and use that instead? Thanks in advance to anyone who answers.

Buy a Utah Delorme atlas for $20. It will have a lot more back roads on it than a GPS map program.
I like the contour lines and shading on the Delorme maps.
I use my Oregon Delorme a lot when I am geocaching with my GPS.
Find your way to Copper Ridge about 23 miles north of Moab to see the dinosaur tracks.

I got a free road map from dept of trans, UT. I emailed them.

I don't think you're doing anything off known roads.

Just enter it all in google maps and you'll see it.

Couple things to add: Bryce will still be in winter mode in late March. Average low is 17, average number of days in March that the temp drops below freezing (32F) is 31. So you are guaranteed to have winter temps there. If there is recent snow I don't know that the main park road will be fully open all the way to the end of the park, but that shouldn't matter as all the best viewpoints are in the first half.

Also, late March will have a full moon and some of the parks may have ranger-led full moon hikes. Bryce has a full moon snowshoe hike.....their website also mentions that trails are likely to be snow packed and icy so crampons are highly recommended.

Personally I think I would try to find lodging in Springdale, I think Cable Mountain is outside the east entrance, right? That means you have to do extra driving to get to the main canyon vs. staying in Springdale. Depends on what you can find in Springdale, but to me it seems like you are already doing a lot of driving so I'd try to minimize it whenever possible.

Expect winter conditions at Grand Canyon and Flagstaff as well.

Thanks wearewe for the idea of a snowshoe hike in Bryce. Cable Mountain is one mile outside of the entrance to the park and is in between Springdale and the park entrance. What you are thinking of is Zion Mountain Ranch. I realized that Bryce would be cold but since I am staying there for only one day and I am from Boston so I think that one day will be fine. Is the Delorme map better than the dept of trans Utah one? I guess I will not be doing off roading but in case the GPS dies, I never rely on technology too much. Wearewe, I posted a new itinerary around August 20, that changed Flagstaff to Las Vegas. Thanks again for all the interesting facts that I would never find anywhere else.

ds,

Wildlife is plentiful. Zion has wild turkeys (which I just love) and ringtail cats (nocturnal), deer, and all kinds of lizards, hawks, ravens and other birds. Bryce has deer and graceful little pronghorn antelope, again all the birds and reptiles, including rattlers so wear the proper footwear and watch where you step. Driving down hwy. 191 between I-70 and Moab, you should see lots of pronghorn if you keep your eyes peeled. They are in the park too.

Of course, all these places have coyotes and skunks. in the Henry Mountains south of Moab, there are bison. Mountain lions and bear are around, but you probably won't see them. Elk too in the mountains.

Hope this helps!

I wasn't trying to discourage you about the cold, just make sure you're prepared. Do look into buying a cheap pair of crampons for Bryce (and probably Grand Canyon) if you want to hike below the rim.

I don't know about the maps, but my gut feeling is you won't need them since you are travelling on highways from park to park. I think if you simply stick to your itinerary and have a simple map which shows the route you'll take then you will be fine. If you are someone who might want to deviate and go exploring off your planned route, then a more detailed map would be necessary. I would feel safer with a Delorme over a DOT map because Delorme is more detailed. But again, I don't think you'll need one, just print out your route and go with that. I'm sure you could pick up area maps in various tourist info places as well.

I've seen desert bighorn sheep in Zion and Arches, pronghorn in Bryce and elk and deer at the Grand Canyon.

Hello everybody, I think that I just had a small aha moment in the planning of my itinerary. I just realized(actually an hour ago) that I was flying out of Las Vegas on Saturday. I thought why should I leave a day early instead of seeing something else with an extra day. I started looking at suggestions in my forum and other topics and I found the suggestion of Canyon de Chelley and Page. I am not sure if driving from Moab to Natural Bridges to Goosenecks and Kayenta and the next day going to Monument Valley and Page would be good or if I should just simply add another day to Bryce or Capitol Reef. At first I planned flying out on Saturday because it was a little bit cheaper but if it is worth it to stay longer than I definetely would. BTW My parents decided that they are coming with me, isn't that just great!!! They are fine with hiking so luckily I won't have to adjust my hiking plans. I guess that they did not want to have to plan their own trip when they could come along with me. Thanks in advance to any and all suggestions.

Never mind, my mind was playing tricks on me, it turns out that I was leaving Las Vegas on Sunday either way. Sorry, wish I could have another day off.

Do you guys know what I just realized, that on this trip I can be near 70 in Zion and go cross-country skiing in Bryce. That seems so weird for someone from New England who goes cross-country skiing in the winter and has 70's in late spring or summer.

A couple of years ago I hiked to Lower Calf Creek Falls in sunny, 95 degree weather.

That evening a front came thru and the next day as we drove into Bryce Canyon our thermometer read 37 degrees and there were snow flurries.

I guess that that is Utah for you

I just read some of this again. There is lodging available in Zion Lodge and you are staying somewhere else? I love staying in park when I get the chance.

I agree with spiro. Even though Springdale is very close to Zion, for me there's nothing like being inpark.

OK so everybody is saying that staying inside the park is way better right? Just trying to make sure that I understand what everyone is saying, and I just want to make sure that the 100 dollars extra I spend will get me a much better location and scenery and convenience.

Yes, if you are there for really experiencing the parks. If you think that vacation is all about the 5 * perks though, you will be disappointed.

The parks are so much less crowded before 10 am and after 5 pm and you can participate in the ranger programs in the evenings. You won't be driving on small curvy roads with wildlife popping out before sunrise or after dark.

Do be aware that you need to get out of your room to see the spectacular scenery in places like Grand Canyon, since the view is mostly down from the rim, you need to be very close to see it and very few rooms, even on the rim, can see much in that direction. But you can get up take a short walk, perhaps see elk or deer on the way to the most spectacular view anywhere.

Okay, I think I am going there to really experience the parks so I will take your words for it because I am guessing that with all of this info you had to have been there a few times. Thanks again. In the Grand Canyon I am getting the cheapest room I can find in park so that I can be next to the rim so that I have the most time to see all of the overlooks and views in only one day.

If you are having trouble finding in park lodging, call and keep calling as people make reservations a year in advance and than cancel when the time gets close. Sometimes the cancellations don't make it to the web. In my years of innocence I drove into Yellowstone in late June and asked for a room, they said none were available, I asked them to check for a cancellation and there was one, right there at Lake Hotel cabins.

While I wouldn't say it is the best way to do it, there are often rooms in March that you can get when you walk in and ask. I've even scored el Tovar that way in April.

You definitely want to be in the park at Grand Canyon!

I don't think it matters quite as much at Zion and Bryce, though if this is your Park Trip you will get more from it if you stay in the parks there as well.

Just west of Kayenta/Monument Valley (if you work that into your driving route) is the Navajo National Park and it has some good Cliff Dwellings (think a smaller Canyon de Chelly). http://www.nps.gov/nava/index.htm

And for the South Rim of the Grand Canyon - I would keep checking back and see if you can stay in say Bright Angel Lodge with a view overlooking the rim, v. Maswik which as I recall is about a half mile away from the rim?

tomsd, angel lodge only has double rooms without anything including a shower. I am not spending my money on something that has a good view but no SHOWER!!! Maswik Lodge looks great to me even if it is not on the edge.

They all look so cool that I want to visit Goosenecks, Monument Valley and Navajo Monument on the same day. If I calculate right there are 12 and a half hours of daylight. The driving is 7 hours and 30 minutes at Goosenecks, hour and a half at Monument Valley, and an hour or two here gives me a grand total of 10 or 11 hours of sightseeing which gives me an extra hour of daylight. It will be really close but if I run out of time I can always cut out one place. Thanks for the place that you suggested.

The DeLorme Utah map has the state on 64 pages. It has 300 foot contour lines. It has lat/long grid ticks at the edge of the pages. REI is a good place to look for DeLorme maps.
There are a few on Ebay for a little less than the $19.95 list.
The map pages are 11" X 15.5"

"OK so everybody is saying that staying inside the park is way better right?"

Well, it's easy to spend someone else's money so take that into account.

Grand Canyon - yes, best to stay in park as the closest lodging is 12(?) miles away and not significantly cheaper than some of the in-park choices.

Zion/Bryce - lodging is a mile or so away from the park entrance. I found it incredibly easy to get into Bryce and couldn't justify the extra cost to stay in park. Zion Lodge is further up the main canyon so you're more in the middle of the park right away instead of having to drive in and jump on a shuttle.

Only you can decide what's best for you. If money is no object, in park is best. But $100 here and there does add up.

Hey everybody. I booked flights to and from Las Vegas because I have a friend flies to and from Las Vegas once or twice month who told me that now would be the cheapest, unless you want to check every single day for the next six months. Am going to get my lodging and already got a tentative reservation at the Bellagio (hey when your in Vegas). Thanks a lot for all of the stuff, I never could have done it with out you guys.

Hey everyone
I thought that I should give you all an update. All of the lodging, flights and car rentals have been booked so I'm glad thats over! I was thinking that now would be a good time to head over to REI or EMS to buy some stuff that I might need because of the holiday sales/discounts. I have a camelbak, a deuter 42 liter backpack, and pretty much all of the basics after I went to Yellowstone. I was wondering if there is some other stuff that I am missing. Thanks to everyone who has helped me out, I couldn't have done it without you guys.

Looking forward to a report when you return.

Not only a report but many photos.

Have a great trip!!!

Did you get your DeLorme map book?
I walked outside the east side of Arches from the Delicate Arch viewpoint and found a geocache. Delicate Arch was one of my favorite Earthcaches.
Have a great trip.

Haven't read all the posts but as for wildlife in Utah - saw a big ole Bear hauling arse in a field - just below the road - from Zion to Bryce - and he was really making tracks - chasing a rabbit or something - which zipped under the fence and he came to an abrupt stop.

Also saw lots of Antelope and Deer in Bryce (in the meadows along the road) - and on the lawn in front of the Blue Angel Lodge at the Grand Canyon - saw two big Elk - one a 7 x 7 (Imperial) and the other a Royal (6 x 6) - which were just casually munching on the grass.

Thanks tomfuller, I am planning on getting the map soon. Tomsd thanks for the wildlife info, I couldn't find anything on their websites that told about what type of wildlife is common. Was the bear a grizzly or a black bear? Thanks again to everybody

d-

We don't have grizzly in Utah. We have lots and lots of other wildlife!

Bear
Bison
Moose
Elk
Deer
Pronghorn Antelope
Coyote
Fox
Cougar
Bobcat
Ringtail Cats (Zion, nocturnal)
Bald and Golden Eagles, several species of Hawks
Beaver
Badger
Skunk
Racoon
Most of the weasel family
only poisonous snakes are Rattlers
all kinds of rodents and reptiles
mosquitoes in the during the summer - areas where there is water

Prairie dogs and porcupines.

wow not much to add with all the reply but here is my 2 cents:

1st get the year park pass, it will save you money

If you can, it is worth the expense to stay in the parks at least one nite .. Bryce you are right there at the rim, maybe 20 yards and get to the nite ranger walks real easy .. follow my name and it will take you to pics of the inside of the cabins at Bryce

Most of all have fun !!

They say they don't have Grizzlies in Utah anymore - and haven't had for a while - but this guy sure looked like a Griz (Black bears can also be brown) - and was big!!!

As for Bright Angel Lodge - maybe some rooms don't have baths/showers but we had one in a Rim View Room (not the cabins.)

MichelleY,

Thanks! Forgot about the prarie dogs and porcupines. Oh yeah, marmotts too.

Speaking of weasels. This morning as I drove out of the neighborhood to work, I saw an ermine run across the street! They are kind of beautiful little guys, white with black tipped tail. This is only the second time I've seen one.

2dogs, the lodge on the rim of Bryce is only open ater March 31 which after me. Dayle and Michelle thanks for the list of wildlife in Utah. Also Bright Angel Lodge has no more open rooms, on Maswik and Yavapai had rooms

Book a room and call for cancellations on the rim.

Hey everyone,

As the trip is getting closer I am beginning to think about what hikes I should do. I only want to do hikes in Zion, Arches and maybe one of the smaller parks such as Goblin State Park or Little Wildhorse. In places like Bryce and Capitol Reef I think that I will just do the scenic drive because I do not have that much time in those parks. What are some good day hikes in those parks? Above people have listed tons of things but with 10 options I really do not know which one to do. Obviously great views are nice but wildlife would be a plus. The hikes could probably be somewhere around 6 miles and not to easy or overly strenuous. Thanks in advance and for everything everyone has written to make this trip possible.

The best 2 hikes in Arches are to Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. I logged Delicate Arch as an EarthCache on the geocaching website.
I also parked at the viewpoint for Delicate Arch and walked east out of the park and found a physical geocache.
In Goblin Valley I did the required task and logged the Earthcache and then I wandered among the hoodoos and found a geocache there as well.
Doing geocaching with a GPS, I have seen many places that I would never have found otherwise.

Goblin Valley-There really isn't a hike, you just wander around through the little Goblins Probably allow an hour or so.

Little Wildhorse is actually a part of San Rafael Swell. You should allow 2-5 hours depending on if you do the entire loop or just a short in and turn around back out type of thing after a mile or two.

Capitol Reef. I hiked 29 miles there. I don't like the hikes there nearly as much as I do the other UT parks(I've been to CR twice). I am the type of person who likes to see major attractions along the route or a destination type of hike-such as an arch, waterfall, etc. The hiking here is very scenic and very very very few people. So, if you like that type of hike, then this is a great place.

Bryce--It would be a shame not to hike down into the Hoodoos. I would for sure do Queens Garden/Navajo Loop Combo hike. It is one of the best hikes in UT. Peekaboo Loop is nice too
Probably allow 2-3 hours

Zion--I love The Narrows and Angels Landing. Either of these take about 1/2 day or so. Emerald Pools is ok and so is canyon overlook trail.

Arches--Hike to Delicate Arch takes 3 hours or so. Hike to Landscape Arch take an hour or 4 hours if you do the entire Devil's Garden Trail. Allow another couple hours to see Turret Arch, The Windows, Double Arch, and Balanced Rock

In Arches Delicate Arch. I think being there for sunset is one of those lifetime events.

In Bryce you're wasting you time if you don't at least do Navajo Loop and Queens Garden. Two or three hours.

Thanks guys, I was not really sure about hiking in Bryce because I was told that there will be snow there. Is this true because at 9,000 ft I would imagine there would be too much snow to hike without snowshoes and all of that stuff?

Ooops. I didn't realize you were going in late March. I think you will have a snow issue.

When you get there ask at the visitors center. At the least walk the rim between Sunrise and Sunset Points.

Also, from Sunset Point walk down the trail about 100 yards. It's wide and not steep and it will at least get you below the top of the hoodoos.

You will most likely have snow in March in Bryce. I've been there more than a couple times that time of year and there is always at least some snow. It depends on the winter how much. Most of the time even if there is alot you can still head down the trails as people will tromp through it to create a path. If it isn't snowy it will likely be muddy. I'd give it a try unless it is icey. One of my favorite memories was a mid march visit. It was eons ago and we were the only ones there- literally, not even a ranger. We hiked through the muddy snow to the Wall Street section of the Navajo trail. It was memorable for its beauty and peace.

Way behind on suggestions here but wanted to say LOVED the gobblins at Gobblins state park.

In Moab, www.deserthighlights.com does rappelling trips - so much fun!

Hey guys,

With 27 days to go, final preparations are underway. I ordered my Delorme atlas and it came in yesterday. Not much else to say but wanted to thank all of you that have made this trip possible.

Great! Please give us a trip report when you return.

Lee Ann

Yes! Looking forward to a trip report.

d - hope you do have a great time! Looking forward to the trip report!

Happy Trails

Have a great time and I hope you've already started your trip report and taking photos.

The dinosaur tracks are at N38* 49.900 W109* 45.723
The BLM road turns east off 191 23 miles north of Moab. There is a BLM sign next to the parking area where you walk up to see the tracks.
Have a great trip!

Hey in case you didn't know just wanted to alert you to the fact that hwy 89 is closed between Page and Bitter Springs Junction. There was a landslip on the cutaway. No telling how long it wil take to repair.

I can't tell if your plan has you headed that way, but thought you should know. There is a detour which will make the journey about an hour longer.

http://www.azdot.gov/Index_Docs/Headlines/index_022213.asp

Thanks, InSandy
I am not heading through that way but am going on 160 through Kayenta and Tuba City

Have a wonderful trip! Looking forward to a great trip report.

Hey everybody,

This will probably be my last post on here. I wanted to thank anyone and everyone who answered my original question. Some people I would like to thank are myer, tomfuller, spirobulldog, dayle, insandy, and emalloy. This trip would not have been possible with you guys and I am looking forward to write about the trip after I come back. It was definitely fun planning the trip and am already looking forward to my next trip.

Thanks,
dshamritsky

I was in Zion yesterday and it was beautiful. I hope the weather holds out for you, it was a perfect Spring visit.

Have a great trip and make sure you write a detailed report and post a lot of photos.

A lot of planning went into this trip.