Embark on the ultimate road trip through the American West, blending the rugged mountain wilderness of Wyoming, the mystical salt flats of Utah, and the iconic red deserts of Arizona. On this journey, you'll experience incredible contrasts—from the alpine peaks of the Grand Teton range and bubbling geysers in Yellowstone, through the history of space exploration, to the Martian valleys of Goblin Valley. You'll explore iconic stone arches in Arches, breathtaking vistas in Canyonlands, and enjoy an adrenaline-filled trek through the narrow Zebra Slot Canyon. Magic awaits in the underground wonders of Lower Antelope Canyon, the famous Horseshoe Bend meander, and the Olympic atmosphere of Salt Lake City. It's a journey full of endless panoramas, wildlife, engineering marvels, and the most beautiful natural scenery that America has to offer.
After arriving in Salt Lake City, your first introduction to the capital of Utah awaits. Depending on your time and energy, you can head out to explore the historic city center, the atmosphere of Temple Square, or enjoy the sunset at the Utah State Capitol with a view of the entire city and the surrounding mountains.
Pick up your luggage at the airport and head to get your rental car (following the instructions you'll receive before departure).
The Temple Square complex has been undergoing renovations for several years and is gradually opening to the public. It includes the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle (home to the famous Tabernacle Choir), and the Assembly Hall, along with monuments, visitor centers, and expansive gardens. Temple Square is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
You can find out about the progress of the renovation work and what is currently open on the official website.
Leave the urban vibe of Salt Lake City behind and head towards the mountains and wide-open landscapes of the American West. Along the way, you'll encounter the salt flats and bison herds on Antelope Island, as well as the fascinating world of American aviation at the Hill Aerospace Museum. Gradually, the mountain scenery of Wyoming will start to appear, and by evening, you'll reach the quiet town of Victor, nestled beneath the majestic peaks of the Tetons.
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and one of the best spots in Utah for spotting wild bison. It offers wide views of salt flats and bison herds. If you're lucky, you'll come across them right by the road. You can also head out on one of the many hiking trails.
The park opens very early in the morning, and there is an entrance fee. More info here
- Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
Right at the beginning of Antelope Island, make a quick stop at the U.S. Army Ranger and Air Force Memorial. It commemorates the tragic night in 1992, when a military helicopter with twelve elite special forces soldiers crashed during a storm just off this shore.
This museum is packed with aviation technology. You'll find dozens of military aircraft, historic bombers, and exhibits related to the American space program, displayed in huge hangars and under the open sky.
Admission is free. Opening hours and the museum's official website are here.
Today is all about one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the entire United States. You'll head into Grand Teton National Park, where dramatic mountain peaks rise directly above lakes, rivers, and endless forests. Iconic views, peaceful nature, and the atmosphere of the true American West await you. You'll also stop at Jackson Lake Dam for stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and wrap up your day in the legendary western town of Jackson.
ATTENTION⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, a timed entry reservation is required. I recommend checking for the latest information on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also purchase park passes online in advance. If you plan to visit multiple American parks throughout the year, it's worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Grand Teton National Park is among the most photogenic places in the American West. The dramatic Teton Range rises abruptly from the Jackson Hole valley, creating scenery that has made Wyoming famous worldwide. The park is part of the vast Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
During your visit, you can explore mountain lakes, the iconic Snake River, dense forests, and endless hiking trails. The area is known for sightings of bison, moose, bears, and bald eagles, rightfully earning its place among the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
If you're planning a hike, arrive as early as possible in the morning to secure a parking spot. Especially in the summer, it gets quite crowded with tourists.
- Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Jackson Lake Dam is located in the north of Grand Teton National Park and offers stunning views of Jackson Lake and the surrounding peaks of the Teton Range. The dam was built in the early 20th century as part of an irrigation system for agricultural areas in the American West and still regulates the flow of the iconic Snake River today.
Jackson is an iconic western town that has kept its Wild West vibe to this day. It's surrounded by wooden boardwalks, cowboy bars, and western shops. The famous elk antler arches can be found on the town square.
- You can park your car on a side street or in one of the available parking lots near the Jackson Town Square
A full-day trip to Yellowstone National Park, one of America's most iconic national parks, awaits you. Prepare for a longer drive from Victor, where you'll be rewarded with stunning Wyoming scenery, wildlife, geysers, thermal springs, and the chance to spot bison, moose, or bears.
From Victor, you can enter Yellowstone either via West Yellowstone or drive through Grand Teton and use the Yellowstone South Entrance.
This oldest national park in the world was established back in 1872 and offers an incredible variety of landscapes — from deep canyons and lakes to mountain scenery and vast geothermal areas. It is famous for its geysers, colorful thermal springs, wildlife, and massive volcanic regions. While driving through the park, you might run into plenty of wildlife. Encounters with bears, moose, or herds of bison will be an incredible experience for you.
- Dedicated parking lots are located throughout the park.
On the final day of your northern road trip, you'll head back to Salt Lake City, but there are still a few iconic stops of the American West awaiting you. You'll explore the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden, a site linked to the history of space exploration, visit the Golden Spike National Historical Park where the first transcontinental railroad in the USA was completed, and finally, arrive at the mystical Spiral Jetty on the shores of the Great Salt Lake. A day full of history, technology, and the unique landscape of Utah awaits you.
The Rocket Garden is a smaller outdoor exhibit of rockets and technologies related to the American aerospace industry. The exhibit is free to access.
This is a historic site commemorating the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States in 1869. The park is located at Promontory Summit, where the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroad lines were symbolically joined with a "Golden Spike".
More info here
Spiral Jetty is a famous land-art work created right on the shore of the Great Salt Lake. The stone spiral emerging into the pink-tinted salt water is one of the most iconic art installations in the American landscape and has a unique atmosphere at sunset. Robert Smithson created the spiral in 1970.
Take a break between road trips and soak up the atmosphere of Salt Lake City, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. You'll start at the Alf Engen Ski Museum in Park City, surrounded by the venues where the world's best athletes competed. You'll visit Rice-Eccles Stadium, where the Olympic flame was lit, and walk through the former Olympic Village at Fort Douglas. A day full of sports history, Olympic vibes, and stories that continue to shape modern-day Utah awaits you.
Soak up the atmosphere of the place that hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. There is a free museum here, and freestyle shows take place on summer weekends. You can also purchase a guided tour of the Olympic venue, which will take you to the top of the ski jump. Or, try an adrenaline-filled ride on the bobsleigh track.
- Guided tours: Utah Olympic Park Tour
- Official museum website: The Alf Engen Ski Museum
- The vibe of the freestyle show is a fantastic experience. More info here
The park commemorates the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. It is here that Brigham Young is said to have uttered the famous words "This is the place" when the group arrived in what is now Salt Lake City. There is an open-air museum, historic buildings, and beautiful views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains.
Part of the park has an entrance fee. More info here: This Is The Place Heritage Park
The site was founded in 1862 by Colonel Patrick Edward Connor and played an important role during the settlement of the American West as well as the protection of the transcontinental railroad, mail route, and telegraph lines. Today, it is part of the University of Utah and is a hub of vibrant student life.
The museum maps military history from the 19th century to the present, including an outdoor equipment exhibit. Admission is free.
Official museum website: Fort Douglas Museum
As you stroll around the historic Officers Circle and take in the Bandstand gazebo, you're walking right through the spot where the Olympic Village stood in 2002. These beautiful 19th-century buildings originally served military officers, but during the Winter Games, they were transformed into facilities and housing for Olympic delegations from all over the world. Today, these historic homes are used by the university for its research and scientific institutes.
It's an elegant suspension bridge built for the 2002 Winter Olympics. During the games, athletes walked across it from the Olympic Village to the opening and closing ceremonies at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Part of the Fort Douglas military base is a small military cemetery, which was established in the 19th century and still commemorates the era of settling the American West as well as the history of the US Army in Utah. The cemetery is very peaceful; you won't run into many visitors here.
Rice–Eccles Stadium is the home of the University of Utah Utes football team. It was originally built in 1927 as Ute Stadium and later renovated. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics – and is planned to do so again in 2034.
Official stadium website: Rice–Eccles Stadium
A majestic neoclassical building that offers a stunning view of the city and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The building is surrounded by a large park and its interior is free to access. In the evening, you can watch the sunset over the valley from here.
Official building website: Capitol
Leave Salt Lake City and head south through Utah, right into the heart of the iconic red rocks of the American Southwest. You're off to the town of Moab for a visit to one of the most famous parks in the American West.
HEADS UP⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, you'll need a timed entry reservation. I recommend checking the latest info on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also buy park passes online in advance. Plus, if you're planning on hitting up more American parks throughout the year, it’s worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Arches National Park is a world of red rocks, natural arches, and desert landscapes that look like they belong on another planet. The park hides more than 2,000 stone arches and is one of Utah's most iconic places.
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
You'll spend the night in Moab, a small town surrounded by desert, canyons, and national parks. The vibe of road trips, off-roading, and sunsets makes it one of the most popular spots in the American Southwest. There's a lively outdoor atmosphere here, and the streets are packed with restaurants, cafes, gear shops, and agencies offering off-road expeditions.
Park your car at the hotel where you'll be staying.
Today will be all about breathtaking views, giant meanders, and the wild, untamed landscape of Utah, shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers. You will visit one of the most photogenic spots in the entire state and immerse yourself in the mysterious silence of the vast Canyonlands National Park.
A vast and wild national park divided by rivers into several sections. You will visit the most easily accessible section called "Island in the Sky," which is situated on a giant, flat mesa. You can look forward to views of deep canyons that look like they were carved into the Earth's surface. Definitely don't miss the short walk to the iconic Mesa Arch, through which you can see deep into the valley.
The Grand View Point Trail, which I also hiked, is breathtaking. You park at the Grand View Point Parking, and after completing it, you will find yourself at Grand View Point.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
This state park offers one of the most stunning views in all of Utah. From a high rock cliff towering 600 meters above the ground, you get a breathtaking look at the giant meander of the Colorado River, resembling a horseshoe.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Leave Moab behind and set off on a journey full of bizarre rock formations and ever-changing landscapes. Your first stop will transport you to another planet – a valley filled with stone goblins. Afterwards, you'll drive past Capitol Reef National Park and end your day in the heart of the wild and remote Escalante region, one of the most untouched places in all of America.
A fascinating and incredibly fun state park that looks like it's from another world or a sci-fi movie. The valley is filled with thousands of small sandstone formations called "hoodoos" or affectionately "goblins". There are no marked trails in the park – you can freely walk and wander through this stone labyrinth however you like.
Make sure to take plenty of water for your walk. It gets scorching hot here, and the sun will beat down on you just like in the desert.
Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
As you drive along the UT-24 highway, you'll be greeted by views of monumental, sharp-edged rock ridges known as "The Gray Ones". Unlike the surrounding red and orange sandstone you're used to in Utah, these massive formations have an unconventional, dark gray to ashen color.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
This time, you'll only be driving through Capitol Reef National Park along the main UT-24 road, but you're still in for an incredible visual experience. Right from the car, you'll be watching a fascinating spectacle as the Martian-gray, dull landscape suddenly transforms into monumental, vibrant red and orange sandstone walls. It's a fantastic scenic drive.
While passing through, you can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
A quick but impressive stop in the Capitol Reef National Park area. From this viewpoint, just a short distance from the main road, you can see the deep, sharply cut meanders of Sulfur Creek, which resemble goosenecks in shape. It's a great spot to stretch your legs on the drive to Escalante and admire the giant, colorful rock walls.
Approximately 1 km before the small town of Torrey, turn left onto the iconic Scenic Byway 12, rightfully nicknamed the “Journey to the Heavens.” This legendary stretch of asphalt will take you through an incredible landscape of sandstone rocks, deep canyons, and pine forests. Driving this road toward Escalante is a powerful experience, especially for drivers. It offers unique, far-reaching views with steep drops on both sides of the road, without any standard guardrails.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
It starts with a real adventure in the Utah wilderness and ends by the shimmering water in Arizona. In the morning, you'll trek through one of the most breathtaking hidden slot canyons, where sandstone walls narrow so much you'll brush them with your shoulders. Then, you'll head south to the town of Page, where you'll be amazed by a monumental feat of human engineering and endless views of the artificial Lake Powell.
An incredibly photogenic, narrow slot canyon named after its striped sandstone walls that look like a zebra. The trail to get there goes through open semi-desert terrain, and inside the canyon itself, be prepared to walk sideways or brace yourself against the walls at times.
- Route from the parking lot to the canyon here
CAUTION⬇️
- Before you head out, check the current conditions at the visitor center – there may be standing water in the canyon.
- Bring plenty of drinking water. You will be moving through desert terrain for about 2.5 hours. Don't forget a hat and good footwear.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged. The route from the parking lot to the canyon goes through dry riverbeds that crisscross. Be careful not to get lost.
- It's better to bring a smaller backpack. The canyon gets very narrow; at some point, you'll have to take off your backpack and continue without it.
- Follow the instructions in one of the photos.
Today, you'll enjoy the iconic Scenic Byway 12 and all its rock formations one more time. It will take you all the way to Red Canyon, and you'll get to drive through two rock arches.
Along the way, you can pull over to the side of the road.
A lookout on a hill just off the main road, offering panoramic views of the massive Lake Powell reservoir, the desert landscape, and Arizona's endless red rocks. It's a great spot for a quick stop or to watch the sunset.
A majestic concrete dam on the Colorado River, which is the second highest of its kind in the USA and created the massive Lake Powell. The dam reaches a height of 216 meters and was built in the 1950s and 60s. You can stop by the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, which offers great views of the structure itself and the bridge arching over the canyon.
You will experience the two absolute biggest and most photographed icons of the American Southwest. You will descend into the depths of the earth, where sunbeams play out an incredible theater of colors on the smooth sandstone walls of a magical canyon. In the afternoon, you will stand on the edge of a giant cliff and gaze into a deep canyon, where the Colorado River creates a perfect horseshoe-shaped meander.
This underground slot canyon on Navajo tribal land is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. You walk through narrow underground passages that water and wind have carved into smooth, flowing waves over thousands of years. The light filtering in from above shifts the color of the sandstone from yellow to orange and deep purple.
Due to its huge popularity, it is essential to book a slot for a tour with a Navajo guide in advance. You can purchase tour tickets, for example, here.
A famous viewpoint overlooking a monumental horseshoe-shaped river meander. Here, the Colorado River winds around a giant rock massif more than 300 meters below you. There is a comfortable, paved trail about a kilometer long leading from the parking lot to the edge of the abyss.
The spot offers incredible views, but be careful when taking photos at the edges where there are no railings.
You have the longest driving stretch of the entire trip ahead of you. You'll leave sunny Arizona and head out on an approximately six-hour road trip back north to Salt Lake City. The drive will fly by thanks to the constantly changing landscape, which gradually shifts from arid desert back into monumental mountain scenery. If you arrive in Salt Lake City in the afternoon, you'll still have time to soak up the atmosphere of the places where winter sports history was made.
During your long drive north on the highway, you can take a quick detour to some natural thermal springs hidden in the middle of the pastures. You'll find crystal-clear pools with warm water there. It's the perfect spot to take a break from driving, soak your feet in the warm water, and enjoy some peace and quiet with a view of the surrounding mountain ridges.
You can spend the evening at a unique shopping complex right in the heart of Salt Lake City, which features a real stream flowing through it with waterfalls and live trout. Its biggest attraction is the giant glass roof, which opens in good weather, letting warm sunlight stream in so you can shop under the open sky. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs, grab a great dinner, and have a relaxing end to your road trip.
Website of the shopping center here
- The shopping center has its own underground parking garages with several entrances. Map of entrances
Your big road trip through the most beautiful canyons of Utah and Arizona has come to an end. Today, all that’s left is returning the car and flying home. If your flight schedule leaves you with a bit of extra time, treat yourself to one last morning coffee with a view of the majestic Wasatch Mountains.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
Embark on the ultimate road trip through the American West, blending the rugged mountain wilderness of Wyoming, the mystical salt flats of Utah, and the iconic red deserts of Arizona. On this journey, you'll experience incredible contrasts—from the alpine peaks of the Grand Teton range and bubbling geysers in Yellowstone, through the history of space exploration, to the Martian valleys of Goblin Valley. You'll explore iconic stone arches in Arches, breathtaking vistas in Canyonlands, and enjoy an adrenaline-filled trek through the narrow Zebra Slot Canyon. Magic awaits in the underground wonders of Lower Antelope Canyon, the famous Horseshoe Bend meander, and the Olympic atmosphere of Salt Lake City. It's a journey full of endless panoramas, wildlife, engineering marvels, and the most beautiful natural scenery that America has to offer.
After arriving in Salt Lake City, your first introduction to the capital of Utah awaits. Depending on your time and energy, you can head out to explore the historic city center, the atmosphere of Temple Square, or enjoy the sunset at the Utah State Capitol with a view of the entire city and the surrounding mountains.
Pick up your luggage at the airport and head to get your rental car (following the instructions you'll receive before departure).
The Temple Square complex has been undergoing renovations for several years and is gradually opening to the public. It includes the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle (home to the famous Tabernacle Choir), and the Assembly Hall, along with monuments, visitor centers, and expansive gardens. Temple Square is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
You can find out about the progress of the renovation work and what is currently open on the official website.
Leave the urban vibe of Salt Lake City behind and head towards the mountains and wide-open landscapes of the American West. Along the way, you'll encounter the salt flats and bison herds on Antelope Island, as well as the fascinating world of American aviation at the Hill Aerospace Museum. Gradually, the mountain scenery of Wyoming will start to appear, and by evening, you'll reach the quiet town of Victor, nestled beneath the majestic peaks of the Tetons.
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and one of the best spots in Utah for spotting wild bison. It offers wide views of salt flats and bison herds. If you're lucky, you'll come across them right by the road. You can also head out on one of the many hiking trails.
The park opens very early in the morning, and there is an entrance fee. More info here
- Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
Right at the beginning of Antelope Island, make a quick stop at the U.S. Army Ranger and Air Force Memorial. It commemorates the tragic night in 1992, when a military helicopter with twelve elite special forces soldiers crashed during a storm just off this shore.
This museum is packed with aviation technology. You'll find dozens of military aircraft, historic bombers, and exhibits related to the American space program, displayed in huge hangars and under the open sky.
Admission is free. Opening hours and the museum's official website are here.
Today is all about one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the entire United States. You'll head into Grand Teton National Park, where dramatic mountain peaks rise directly above lakes, rivers, and endless forests. Iconic views, peaceful nature, and the atmosphere of the true American West await you. You'll also stop at Jackson Lake Dam for stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and wrap up your day in the legendary western town of Jackson.
ATTENTION⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, a timed entry reservation is required. I recommend checking for the latest information on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also purchase park passes online in advance. If you plan to visit multiple American parks throughout the year, it's worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Grand Teton National Park is among the most photogenic places in the American West. The dramatic Teton Range rises abruptly from the Jackson Hole valley, creating scenery that has made Wyoming famous worldwide. The park is part of the vast Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
During your visit, you can explore mountain lakes, the iconic Snake River, dense forests, and endless hiking trails. The area is known for sightings of bison, moose, bears, and bald eagles, rightfully earning its place among the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
If you're planning a hike, arrive as early as possible in the morning to secure a parking spot. Especially in the summer, it gets quite crowded with tourists.
- Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Jackson Lake Dam is located in the north of Grand Teton National Park and offers stunning views of Jackson Lake and the surrounding peaks of the Teton Range. The dam was built in the early 20th century as part of an irrigation system for agricultural areas in the American West and still regulates the flow of the iconic Snake River today.
Jackson is an iconic western town that has kept its Wild West vibe to this day. It's surrounded by wooden boardwalks, cowboy bars, and western shops. The famous elk antler arches can be found on the town square.
- You can park your car on a side street or in one of the available parking lots near the Jackson Town Square
A full-day trip to Yellowstone National Park, one of America's most iconic national parks, awaits you. Prepare for a longer drive from Victor, where you'll be rewarded with stunning Wyoming scenery, wildlife, geysers, thermal springs, and the chance to spot bison, moose, or bears.
From Victor, you can enter Yellowstone either via West Yellowstone or drive through Grand Teton and use the Yellowstone South Entrance.
This oldest national park in the world was established back in 1872 and offers an incredible variety of landscapes — from deep canyons and lakes to mountain scenery and vast geothermal areas. It is famous for its geysers, colorful thermal springs, wildlife, and massive volcanic regions. While driving through the park, you might run into plenty of wildlife. Encounters with bears, moose, or herds of bison will be an incredible experience for you.
- Dedicated parking lots are located throughout the park.
On the final day of your northern road trip, you'll head back to Salt Lake City, but there are still a few iconic stops of the American West awaiting you. You'll explore the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden, a site linked to the history of space exploration, visit the Golden Spike National Historical Park where the first transcontinental railroad in the USA was completed, and finally, arrive at the mystical Spiral Jetty on the shores of the Great Salt Lake. A day full of history, technology, and the unique landscape of Utah awaits you.
The Rocket Garden is a smaller outdoor exhibit of rockets and technologies related to the American aerospace industry. The exhibit is free to access.
This is a historic site commemorating the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States in 1869. The park is located at Promontory Summit, where the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroad lines were symbolically joined with a "Golden Spike".
More info here
Spiral Jetty is a famous land-art work created right on the shore of the Great Salt Lake. The stone spiral emerging into the pink-tinted salt water is one of the most iconic art installations in the American landscape and has a unique atmosphere at sunset. Robert Smithson created the spiral in 1970.
Take a break between road trips and soak up the atmosphere of Salt Lake City, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. You'll start at the Alf Engen Ski Museum in Park City, surrounded by the venues where the world's best athletes competed. You'll visit Rice-Eccles Stadium, where the Olympic flame was lit, and walk through the former Olympic Village at Fort Douglas. A day full of sports history, Olympic vibes, and stories that continue to shape modern-day Utah awaits you.
Soak up the atmosphere of the place that hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. There is a free museum here, and freestyle shows take place on summer weekends. You can also purchase a guided tour of the Olympic venue, which will take you to the top of the ski jump. Or, try an adrenaline-filled ride on the bobsleigh track.
- Guided tours: Utah Olympic Park Tour
- Official museum website: The Alf Engen Ski Museum
- The vibe of the freestyle show is a fantastic experience. More info here
The park commemorates the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. It is here that Brigham Young is said to have uttered the famous words "This is the place" when the group arrived in what is now Salt Lake City. There is an open-air museum, historic buildings, and beautiful views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains.
Part of the park has an entrance fee. More info here: This Is The Place Heritage Park
The site was founded in 1862 by Colonel Patrick Edward Connor and played an important role during the settlement of the American West as well as the protection of the transcontinental railroad, mail route, and telegraph lines. Today, it is part of the University of Utah and is a hub of vibrant student life.
The museum maps military history from the 19th century to the present, including an outdoor equipment exhibit. Admission is free.
Official museum website: Fort Douglas Museum
As you stroll around the historic Officers Circle and take in the Bandstand gazebo, you're walking right through the spot where the Olympic Village stood in 2002. These beautiful 19th-century buildings originally served military officers, but during the Winter Games, they were transformed into facilities and housing for Olympic delegations from all over the world. Today, these historic homes are used by the university for its research and scientific institutes.
It's an elegant suspension bridge built for the 2002 Winter Olympics. During the games, athletes walked across it from the Olympic Village to the opening and closing ceremonies at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Part of the Fort Douglas military base is a small military cemetery, which was established in the 19th century and still commemorates the era of settling the American West as well as the history of the US Army in Utah. The cemetery is very peaceful; you won't run into many visitors here.
Rice–Eccles Stadium is the home of the University of Utah Utes football team. It was originally built in 1927 as Ute Stadium and later renovated. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics – and is planned to do so again in 2034.
Official stadium website: Rice–Eccles Stadium
A majestic neoclassical building that offers a stunning view of the city and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The building is surrounded by a large park and its interior is free to access. In the evening, you can watch the sunset over the valley from here.
Official building website: Capitol
Leave Salt Lake City and head south through Utah, right into the heart of the iconic red rocks of the American Southwest. You're off to the town of Moab for a visit to one of the most famous parks in the American West.
HEADS UP⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, you'll need a timed entry reservation. I recommend checking the latest info on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also buy park passes online in advance. Plus, if you're planning on hitting up more American parks throughout the year, it’s worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Arches National Park is a world of red rocks, natural arches, and desert landscapes that look like they belong on another planet. The park hides more than 2,000 stone arches and is one of Utah's most iconic places.
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
You'll spend the night in Moab, a small town surrounded by desert, canyons, and national parks. The vibe of road trips, off-roading, and sunsets makes it one of the most popular spots in the American Southwest. There's a lively outdoor atmosphere here, and the streets are packed with restaurants, cafes, gear shops, and agencies offering off-road expeditions.
Park your car at the hotel where you'll be staying.
Today will be all about breathtaking views, giant meanders, and the wild, untamed landscape of Utah, shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers. You will visit one of the most photogenic spots in the entire state and immerse yourself in the mysterious silence of the vast Canyonlands National Park.
A vast and wild national park divided by rivers into several sections. You will visit the most easily accessible section called "Island in the Sky," which is situated on a giant, flat mesa. You can look forward to views of deep canyons that look like they were carved into the Earth's surface. Definitely don't miss the short walk to the iconic Mesa Arch, through which you can see deep into the valley.
The Grand View Point Trail, which I also hiked, is breathtaking. You park at the Grand View Point Parking, and after completing it, you will find yourself at Grand View Point.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
This state park offers one of the most stunning views in all of Utah. From a high rock cliff towering 600 meters above the ground, you get a breathtaking look at the giant meander of the Colorado River, resembling a horseshoe.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Leave Moab behind and set off on a journey full of bizarre rock formations and ever-changing landscapes. Your first stop will transport you to another planet – a valley filled with stone goblins. Afterwards, you'll drive past Capitol Reef National Park and end your day in the heart of the wild and remote Escalante region, one of the most untouched places in all of America.
A fascinating and incredibly fun state park that looks like it's from another world or a sci-fi movie. The valley is filled with thousands of small sandstone formations called "hoodoos" or affectionately "goblins". There are no marked trails in the park – you can freely walk and wander through this stone labyrinth however you like.
Make sure to take plenty of water for your walk. It gets scorching hot here, and the sun will beat down on you just like in the desert.
Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
As you drive along the UT-24 highway, you'll be greeted by views of monumental, sharp-edged rock ridges known as "The Gray Ones". Unlike the surrounding red and orange sandstone you're used to in Utah, these massive formations have an unconventional, dark gray to ashen color.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
This time, you'll only be driving through Capitol Reef National Park along the main UT-24 road, but you're still in for an incredible visual experience. Right from the car, you'll be watching a fascinating spectacle as the Martian-gray, dull landscape suddenly transforms into monumental, vibrant red and orange sandstone walls. It's a fantastic scenic drive.
While passing through, you can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
A quick but impressive stop in the Capitol Reef National Park area. From this viewpoint, just a short distance from the main road, you can see the deep, sharply cut meanders of Sulfur Creek, which resemble goosenecks in shape. It's a great spot to stretch your legs on the drive to Escalante and admire the giant, colorful rock walls.
Approximately 1 km before the small town of Torrey, turn left onto the iconic Scenic Byway 12, rightfully nicknamed the “Journey to the Heavens.” This legendary stretch of asphalt will take you through an incredible landscape of sandstone rocks, deep canyons, and pine forests. Driving this road toward Escalante is a powerful experience, especially for drivers. It offers unique, far-reaching views with steep drops on both sides of the road, without any standard guardrails.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
It starts with a real adventure in the Utah wilderness and ends by the shimmering water in Arizona. In the morning, you'll trek through one of the most breathtaking hidden slot canyons, where sandstone walls narrow so much you'll brush them with your shoulders. Then, you'll head south to the town of Page, where you'll be amazed by a monumental feat of human engineering and endless views of the artificial Lake Powell.
An incredibly photogenic, narrow slot canyon named after its striped sandstone walls that look like a zebra. The trail to get there goes through open semi-desert terrain, and inside the canyon itself, be prepared to walk sideways or brace yourself against the walls at times.
- Route from the parking lot to the canyon here
CAUTION⬇️
- Before you head out, check the current conditions at the visitor center – there may be standing water in the canyon.
- Bring plenty of drinking water. You will be moving through desert terrain for about 2.5 hours. Don't forget a hat and good footwear.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged. The route from the parking lot to the canyon goes through dry riverbeds that crisscross. Be careful not to get lost.
- It's better to bring a smaller backpack. The canyon gets very narrow; at some point, you'll have to take off your backpack and continue without it.
- Follow the instructions in one of the photos.
Today, you'll enjoy the iconic Scenic Byway 12 and all its rock formations one more time. It will take you all the way to Red Canyon, and you'll get to drive through two rock arches.
Along the way, you can pull over to the side of the road.
A lookout on a hill just off the main road, offering panoramic views of the massive Lake Powell reservoir, the desert landscape, and Arizona's endless red rocks. It's a great spot for a quick stop or to watch the sunset.
A majestic concrete dam on the Colorado River, which is the second highest of its kind in the USA and created the massive Lake Powell. The dam reaches a height of 216 meters and was built in the 1950s and 60s. You can stop by the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, which offers great views of the structure itself and the bridge arching over the canyon.
You will experience the two absolute biggest and most photographed icons of the American Southwest. You will descend into the depths of the earth, where sunbeams play out an incredible theater of colors on the smooth sandstone walls of a magical canyon. In the afternoon, you will stand on the edge of a giant cliff and gaze into a deep canyon, where the Colorado River creates a perfect horseshoe-shaped meander.
This underground slot canyon on Navajo tribal land is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. You walk through narrow underground passages that water and wind have carved into smooth, flowing waves over thousands of years. The light filtering in from above shifts the color of the sandstone from yellow to orange and deep purple.
Due to its huge popularity, it is essential to book a slot for a tour with a Navajo guide in advance. You can purchase tour tickets, for example, here.
A famous viewpoint overlooking a monumental horseshoe-shaped river meander. Here, the Colorado River winds around a giant rock massif more than 300 meters below you. There is a comfortable, paved trail about a kilometer long leading from the parking lot to the edge of the abyss.
The spot offers incredible views, but be careful when taking photos at the edges where there are no railings.
You have the longest driving stretch of the entire trip ahead of you. You'll leave sunny Arizona and head out on an approximately six-hour road trip back north to Salt Lake City. The drive will fly by thanks to the constantly changing landscape, which gradually shifts from arid desert back into monumental mountain scenery. If you arrive in Salt Lake City in the afternoon, you'll still have time to soak up the atmosphere of the places where winter sports history was made.
During your long drive north on the highway, you can take a quick detour to some natural thermal springs hidden in the middle of the pastures. You'll find crystal-clear pools with warm water there. It's the perfect spot to take a break from driving, soak your feet in the warm water, and enjoy some peace and quiet with a view of the surrounding mountain ridges.
You can spend the evening at a unique shopping complex right in the heart of Salt Lake City, which features a real stream flowing through it with waterfalls and live trout. Its biggest attraction is the giant glass roof, which opens in good weather, letting warm sunlight stream in so you can shop under the open sky. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs, grab a great dinner, and have a relaxing end to your road trip.
Website of the shopping center here
- The shopping center has its own underground parking garages with several entrances. Map of entrances
Your big road trip through the most beautiful canyons of Utah and Arizona has come to an end. Today, all that’s left is returning the car and flying home. If your flight schedule leaves you with a bit of extra time, treat yourself to one last morning coffee with a view of the majestic Wasatch Mountains.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
itinerary by Patty
Embark on the ultimate road trip through the American West, blending the rugged mountain wilderness of Wyoming, the mystical salt flats of Utah, and the iconic red deserts of Arizona. On this journey, you'll experience incredible contrasts—from the alpine peaks of the Grand Teton range and bubbling geysers in Yellowstone, through the history of space exploration, to the Martian valleys of Goblin Valley. You'll explore iconic stone arches in Arches, breathtaking vistas in Canyonlands, and enjoy an adrenaline-filled trek through the narrow Zebra Slot Canyon. Magic awaits in the underground wonders of Lower Antelope Canyon, the famous Horseshoe Bend meander, and the Olympic atmosphere of Salt Lake City. It's a journey full of endless panoramas, wildlife, engineering marvels, and the most beautiful natural scenery that America has to offer.
After arriving in Salt Lake City, your first introduction to the capital of Utah awaits. Depending on your time and energy, you can head out to explore the historic city center, the atmosphere of Temple Square, or enjoy the sunset at the Utah State Capitol with a view of the entire city and the surrounding mountains.
Pick up your luggage at the airport and head to get your rental car (following the instructions you'll receive before departure).
The Temple Square complex has been undergoing renovations for several years and is gradually opening to the public. It includes the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle (home to the famous Tabernacle Choir), and the Assembly Hall, along with monuments, visitor centers, and expansive gardens. Temple Square is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
You can find out about the progress of the renovation work and what is currently open on the official website.
Leave the urban vibe of Salt Lake City behind and head towards the mountains and wide-open landscapes of the American West. Along the way, you'll encounter the salt flats and bison herds on Antelope Island, as well as the fascinating world of American aviation at the Hill Aerospace Museum. Gradually, the mountain scenery of Wyoming will start to appear, and by evening, you'll reach the quiet town of Victor, nestled beneath the majestic peaks of the Tetons.
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and one of the best spots in Utah for spotting wild bison. It offers wide views of salt flats and bison herds. If you're lucky, you'll come across them right by the road. You can also head out on one of the many hiking trails.
The park opens very early in the morning, and there is an entrance fee. More info here
- Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
Right at the beginning of Antelope Island, make a quick stop at the U.S. Army Ranger and Air Force Memorial. It commemorates the tragic night in 1992, when a military helicopter with twelve elite special forces soldiers crashed during a storm just off this shore.
This museum is packed with aviation technology. You'll find dozens of military aircraft, historic bombers, and exhibits related to the American space program, displayed in huge hangars and under the open sky.
Admission is free. Opening hours and the museum's official website are here.
Today is all about one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the entire United States. You'll head into Grand Teton National Park, where dramatic mountain peaks rise directly above lakes, rivers, and endless forests. Iconic views, peaceful nature, and the atmosphere of the true American West await you. You'll also stop at Jackson Lake Dam for stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and wrap up your day in the legendary western town of Jackson.
ATTENTION⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, a timed entry reservation is required. I recommend checking for the latest information on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also purchase park passes online in advance. If you plan to visit multiple American parks throughout the year, it's worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Grand Teton National Park is among the most photogenic places in the American West. The dramatic Teton Range rises abruptly from the Jackson Hole valley, creating scenery that has made Wyoming famous worldwide. The park is part of the vast Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
During your visit, you can explore mountain lakes, the iconic Snake River, dense forests, and endless hiking trails. The area is known for sightings of bison, moose, bears, and bald eagles, rightfully earning its place among the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
If you're planning a hike, arrive as early as possible in the morning to secure a parking spot. Especially in the summer, it gets quite crowded with tourists.
- Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Jackson Lake Dam is located in the north of Grand Teton National Park and offers stunning views of Jackson Lake and the surrounding peaks of the Teton Range. The dam was built in the early 20th century as part of an irrigation system for agricultural areas in the American West and still regulates the flow of the iconic Snake River today.
Jackson is an iconic western town that has kept its Wild West vibe to this day. It's surrounded by wooden boardwalks, cowboy bars, and western shops. The famous elk antler arches can be found on the town square.
- You can park your car on a side street or in one of the available parking lots near the Jackson Town Square
A full-day trip to Yellowstone National Park, one of America's most iconic national parks, awaits you. Prepare for a longer drive from Victor, where you'll be rewarded with stunning Wyoming scenery, wildlife, geysers, thermal springs, and the chance to spot bison, moose, or bears.
From Victor, you can enter Yellowstone either via West Yellowstone or drive through Grand Teton and use the Yellowstone South Entrance.
This oldest national park in the world was established back in 1872 and offers an incredible variety of landscapes — from deep canyons and lakes to mountain scenery and vast geothermal areas. It is famous for its geysers, colorful thermal springs, wildlife, and massive volcanic regions. While driving through the park, you might run into plenty of wildlife. Encounters with bears, moose, or herds of bison will be an incredible experience for you.
- Dedicated parking lots are located throughout the park.
On the final day of your northern road trip, you'll head back to Salt Lake City, but there are still a few iconic stops of the American West awaiting you. You'll explore the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden, a site linked to the history of space exploration, visit the Golden Spike National Historical Park where the first transcontinental railroad in the USA was completed, and finally, arrive at the mystical Spiral Jetty on the shores of the Great Salt Lake. A day full of history, technology, and the unique landscape of Utah awaits you.
The Rocket Garden is a smaller outdoor exhibit of rockets and technologies related to the American aerospace industry. The exhibit is free to access.
This is a historic site commemorating the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States in 1869. The park is located at Promontory Summit, where the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroad lines were symbolically joined with a "Golden Spike".
More info here
Spiral Jetty is a famous land-art work created right on the shore of the Great Salt Lake. The stone spiral emerging into the pink-tinted salt water is one of the most iconic art installations in the American landscape and has a unique atmosphere at sunset. Robert Smithson created the spiral in 1970.
Take a break between road trips and soak up the atmosphere of Salt Lake City, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. You'll start at the Alf Engen Ski Museum in Park City, surrounded by the venues where the world's best athletes competed. You'll visit Rice-Eccles Stadium, where the Olympic flame was lit, and walk through the former Olympic Village at Fort Douglas. A day full of sports history, Olympic vibes, and stories that continue to shape modern-day Utah awaits you.
Soak up the atmosphere of the place that hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. There is a free museum here, and freestyle shows take place on summer weekends. You can also purchase a guided tour of the Olympic venue, which will take you to the top of the ski jump. Or, try an adrenaline-filled ride on the bobsleigh track.
- Guided tours: Utah Olympic Park Tour
- Official museum website: The Alf Engen Ski Museum
- The vibe of the freestyle show is a fantastic experience. More info here
The park commemorates the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. It is here that Brigham Young is said to have uttered the famous words "This is the place" when the group arrived in what is now Salt Lake City. There is an open-air museum, historic buildings, and beautiful views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains.
Part of the park has an entrance fee. More info here: This Is The Place Heritage Park
The site was founded in 1862 by Colonel Patrick Edward Connor and played an important role during the settlement of the American West as well as the protection of the transcontinental railroad, mail route, and telegraph lines. Today, it is part of the University of Utah and is a hub of vibrant student life.
The museum maps military history from the 19th century to the present, including an outdoor equipment exhibit. Admission is free.
Official museum website: Fort Douglas Museum
As you stroll around the historic Officers Circle and take in the Bandstand gazebo, you're walking right through the spot where the Olympic Village stood in 2002. These beautiful 19th-century buildings originally served military officers, but during the Winter Games, they were transformed into facilities and housing for Olympic delegations from all over the world. Today, these historic homes are used by the university for its research and scientific institutes.
It's an elegant suspension bridge built for the 2002 Winter Olympics. During the games, athletes walked across it from the Olympic Village to the opening and closing ceremonies at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Part of the Fort Douglas military base is a small military cemetery, which was established in the 19th century and still commemorates the era of settling the American West as well as the history of the US Army in Utah. The cemetery is very peaceful; you won't run into many visitors here.
Rice–Eccles Stadium is the home of the University of Utah Utes football team. It was originally built in 1927 as Ute Stadium and later renovated. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics – and is planned to do so again in 2034.
Official stadium website: Rice–Eccles Stadium
A majestic neoclassical building that offers a stunning view of the city and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The building is surrounded by a large park and its interior is free to access. In the evening, you can watch the sunset over the valley from here.
Official building website: Capitol
Leave Salt Lake City and head south through Utah, right into the heart of the iconic red rocks of the American Southwest. You're off to the town of Moab for a visit to one of the most famous parks in the American West.
HEADS UP⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, you'll need a timed entry reservation. I recommend checking the latest info on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also buy park passes online in advance. Plus, if you're planning on hitting up more American parks throughout the year, it’s worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Arches National Park is a world of red rocks, natural arches, and desert landscapes that look like they belong on another planet. The park hides more than 2,000 stone arches and is one of Utah's most iconic places.
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
You'll spend the night in Moab, a small town surrounded by desert, canyons, and national parks. The vibe of road trips, off-roading, and sunsets makes it one of the most popular spots in the American Southwest. There's a lively outdoor atmosphere here, and the streets are packed with restaurants, cafes, gear shops, and agencies offering off-road expeditions.
Park your car at the hotel where you'll be staying.
Today will be all about breathtaking views, giant meanders, and the wild, untamed landscape of Utah, shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers. You will visit one of the most photogenic spots in the entire state and immerse yourself in the mysterious silence of the vast Canyonlands National Park.
A vast and wild national park divided by rivers into several sections. You will visit the most easily accessible section called "Island in the Sky," which is situated on a giant, flat mesa. You can look forward to views of deep canyons that look like they were carved into the Earth's surface. Definitely don't miss the short walk to the iconic Mesa Arch, through which you can see deep into the valley.
The Grand View Point Trail, which I also hiked, is breathtaking. You park at the Grand View Point Parking, and after completing it, you will find yourself at Grand View Point.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
This state park offers one of the most stunning views in all of Utah. From a high rock cliff towering 600 meters above the ground, you get a breathtaking look at the giant meander of the Colorado River, resembling a horseshoe.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Leave Moab behind and set off on a journey full of bizarre rock formations and ever-changing landscapes. Your first stop will transport you to another planet – a valley filled with stone goblins. Afterwards, you'll drive past Capitol Reef National Park and end your day in the heart of the wild and remote Escalante region, one of the most untouched places in all of America.
A fascinating and incredibly fun state park that looks like it's from another world or a sci-fi movie. The valley is filled with thousands of small sandstone formations called "hoodoos" or affectionately "goblins". There are no marked trails in the park – you can freely walk and wander through this stone labyrinth however you like.
Make sure to take plenty of water for your walk. It gets scorching hot here, and the sun will beat down on you just like in the desert.
Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
As you drive along the UT-24 highway, you'll be greeted by views of monumental, sharp-edged rock ridges known as "The Gray Ones". Unlike the surrounding red and orange sandstone you're used to in Utah, these massive formations have an unconventional, dark gray to ashen color.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
This time, you'll only be driving through Capitol Reef National Park along the main UT-24 road, but you're still in for an incredible visual experience. Right from the car, you'll be watching a fascinating spectacle as the Martian-gray, dull landscape suddenly transforms into monumental, vibrant red and orange sandstone walls. It's a fantastic scenic drive.
While passing through, you can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
A quick but impressive stop in the Capitol Reef National Park area. From this viewpoint, just a short distance from the main road, you can see the deep, sharply cut meanders of Sulfur Creek, which resemble goosenecks in shape. It's a great spot to stretch your legs on the drive to Escalante and admire the giant, colorful rock walls.
Approximately 1 km before the small town of Torrey, turn left onto the iconic Scenic Byway 12, rightfully nicknamed the “Journey to the Heavens.” This legendary stretch of asphalt will take you through an incredible landscape of sandstone rocks, deep canyons, and pine forests. Driving this road toward Escalante is a powerful experience, especially for drivers. It offers unique, far-reaching views with steep drops on both sides of the road, without any standard guardrails.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
It starts with a real adventure in the Utah wilderness and ends by the shimmering water in Arizona. In the morning, you'll trek through one of the most breathtaking hidden slot canyons, where sandstone walls narrow so much you'll brush them with your shoulders. Then, you'll head south to the town of Page, where you'll be amazed by a monumental feat of human engineering and endless views of the artificial Lake Powell.
An incredibly photogenic, narrow slot canyon named after its striped sandstone walls that look like a zebra. The trail to get there goes through open semi-desert terrain, and inside the canyon itself, be prepared to walk sideways or brace yourself against the walls at times.
- Route from the parking lot to the canyon here
CAUTION⬇️
- Before you head out, check the current conditions at the visitor center – there may be standing water in the canyon.
- Bring plenty of drinking water. You will be moving through desert terrain for about 2.5 hours. Don't forget a hat and good footwear.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged. The route from the parking lot to the canyon goes through dry riverbeds that crisscross. Be careful not to get lost.
- It's better to bring a smaller backpack. The canyon gets very narrow; at some point, you'll have to take off your backpack and continue without it.
- Follow the instructions in one of the photos.
Today, you'll enjoy the iconic Scenic Byway 12 and all its rock formations one more time. It will take you all the way to Red Canyon, and you'll get to drive through two rock arches.
Along the way, you can pull over to the side of the road.
A lookout on a hill just off the main road, offering panoramic views of the massive Lake Powell reservoir, the desert landscape, and Arizona's endless red rocks. It's a great spot for a quick stop or to watch the sunset.
A majestic concrete dam on the Colorado River, which is the second highest of its kind in the USA and created the massive Lake Powell. The dam reaches a height of 216 meters and was built in the 1950s and 60s. You can stop by the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, which offers great views of the structure itself and the bridge arching over the canyon.
You will experience the two absolute biggest and most photographed icons of the American Southwest. You will descend into the depths of the earth, where sunbeams play out an incredible theater of colors on the smooth sandstone walls of a magical canyon. In the afternoon, you will stand on the edge of a giant cliff and gaze into a deep canyon, where the Colorado River creates a perfect horseshoe-shaped meander.
This underground slot canyon on Navajo tribal land is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. You walk through narrow underground passages that water and wind have carved into smooth, flowing waves over thousands of years. The light filtering in from above shifts the color of the sandstone from yellow to orange and deep purple.
Due to its huge popularity, it is essential to book a slot for a tour with a Navajo guide in advance. You can purchase tour tickets, for example, here.
A famous viewpoint overlooking a monumental horseshoe-shaped river meander. Here, the Colorado River winds around a giant rock massif more than 300 meters below you. There is a comfortable, paved trail about a kilometer long leading from the parking lot to the edge of the abyss.
The spot offers incredible views, but be careful when taking photos at the edges where there are no railings.
You have the longest driving stretch of the entire trip ahead of you. You'll leave sunny Arizona and head out on an approximately six-hour road trip back north to Salt Lake City. The drive will fly by thanks to the constantly changing landscape, which gradually shifts from arid desert back into monumental mountain scenery. If you arrive in Salt Lake City in the afternoon, you'll still have time to soak up the atmosphere of the places where winter sports history was made.
During your long drive north on the highway, you can take a quick detour to some natural thermal springs hidden in the middle of the pastures. You'll find crystal-clear pools with warm water there. It's the perfect spot to take a break from driving, soak your feet in the warm water, and enjoy some peace and quiet with a view of the surrounding mountain ridges.
You can spend the evening at a unique shopping complex right in the heart of Salt Lake City, which features a real stream flowing through it with waterfalls and live trout. Its biggest attraction is the giant glass roof, which opens in good weather, letting warm sunlight stream in so you can shop under the open sky. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs, grab a great dinner, and have a relaxing end to your road trip.
Website of the shopping center here
- The shopping center has its own underground parking garages with several entrances. Map of entrances
Your big road trip through the most beautiful canyons of Utah and Arizona has come to an end. Today, all that’s left is returning the car and flying home. If your flight schedule leaves you with a bit of extra time, treat yourself to one last morning coffee with a view of the majestic Wasatch Mountains.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
Embark on the ultimate road trip through the American West, blending the rugged mountain wilderness of Wyoming, the mystical salt flats of Utah, and the iconic red deserts of Arizona. On this journey, you'll experience incredible contrasts—from the alpine peaks of the Grand Teton range and bubbling geysers in Yellowstone, through the history of space exploration, to the Martian valleys of Goblin Valley. You'll explore iconic stone arches in Arches, breathtaking vistas in Canyonlands, and enjoy an adrenaline-filled trek through the narrow Zebra Slot Canyon. Magic awaits in the underground wonders of Lower Antelope Canyon, the famous Horseshoe Bend meander, and the Olympic atmosphere of Salt Lake City. It's a journey full of endless panoramas, wildlife, engineering marvels, and the most beautiful natural scenery that America has to offer.
After arriving in Salt Lake City, your first introduction to the capital of Utah awaits. Depending on your time and energy, you can head out to explore the historic city center, the atmosphere of Temple Square, or enjoy the sunset at the Utah State Capitol with a view of the entire city and the surrounding mountains.
Pick up your luggage at the airport and head to get your rental car (following the instructions you'll receive before departure).
The Temple Square complex has been undergoing renovations for several years and is gradually opening to the public. It includes the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle (home to the famous Tabernacle Choir), and the Assembly Hall, along with monuments, visitor centers, and expansive gardens. Temple Square is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
You can find out about the progress of the renovation work and what is currently open on the official website.
Leave the urban vibe of Salt Lake City behind and head towards the mountains and wide-open landscapes of the American West. Along the way, you'll encounter the salt flats and bison herds on Antelope Island, as well as the fascinating world of American aviation at the Hill Aerospace Museum. Gradually, the mountain scenery of Wyoming will start to appear, and by evening, you'll reach the quiet town of Victor, nestled beneath the majestic peaks of the Tetons.
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and one of the best spots in Utah for spotting wild bison. It offers wide views of salt flats and bison herds. If you're lucky, you'll come across them right by the road. You can also head out on one of the many hiking trails.
The park opens very early in the morning, and there is an entrance fee. More info here
- Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
Right at the beginning of Antelope Island, make a quick stop at the U.S. Army Ranger and Air Force Memorial. It commemorates the tragic night in 1992, when a military helicopter with twelve elite special forces soldiers crashed during a storm just off this shore.
This museum is packed with aviation technology. You'll find dozens of military aircraft, historic bombers, and exhibits related to the American space program, displayed in huge hangars and under the open sky.
Admission is free. Opening hours and the museum's official website are here.
Today is all about one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the entire United States. You'll head into Grand Teton National Park, where dramatic mountain peaks rise directly above lakes, rivers, and endless forests. Iconic views, peaceful nature, and the atmosphere of the true American West await you. You'll also stop at Jackson Lake Dam for stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and wrap up your day in the legendary western town of Jackson.
ATTENTION⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, a timed entry reservation is required. I recommend checking for the latest information on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also purchase park passes online in advance. If you plan to visit multiple American parks throughout the year, it's worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Grand Teton National Park is among the most photogenic places in the American West. The dramatic Teton Range rises abruptly from the Jackson Hole valley, creating scenery that has made Wyoming famous worldwide. The park is part of the vast Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
During your visit, you can explore mountain lakes, the iconic Snake River, dense forests, and endless hiking trails. The area is known for sightings of bison, moose, bears, and bald eagles, rightfully earning its place among the most beautiful national parks in the United States.
If you're planning a hike, arrive as early as possible in the morning to secure a parking spot. Especially in the summer, it gets quite crowded with tourists.
- Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Jackson Lake Dam is located in the north of Grand Teton National Park and offers stunning views of Jackson Lake and the surrounding peaks of the Teton Range. The dam was built in the early 20th century as part of an irrigation system for agricultural areas in the American West and still regulates the flow of the iconic Snake River today.
Jackson is an iconic western town that has kept its Wild West vibe to this day. It's surrounded by wooden boardwalks, cowboy bars, and western shops. The famous elk antler arches can be found on the town square.
- You can park your car on a side street or in one of the available parking lots near the Jackson Town Square
A full-day trip to Yellowstone National Park, one of America's most iconic national parks, awaits you. Prepare for a longer drive from Victor, where you'll be rewarded with stunning Wyoming scenery, wildlife, geysers, thermal springs, and the chance to spot bison, moose, or bears.
From Victor, you can enter Yellowstone either via West Yellowstone or drive through Grand Teton and use the Yellowstone South Entrance.
This oldest national park in the world was established back in 1872 and offers an incredible variety of landscapes — from deep canyons and lakes to mountain scenery and vast geothermal areas. It is famous for its geysers, colorful thermal springs, wildlife, and massive volcanic regions. While driving through the park, you might run into plenty of wildlife. Encounters with bears, moose, or herds of bison will be an incredible experience for you.
- Dedicated parking lots are located throughout the park.
On the final day of your northern road trip, you'll head back to Salt Lake City, but there are still a few iconic stops of the American West awaiting you. You'll explore the Northrop Grumman Rocket Garden, a site linked to the history of space exploration, visit the Golden Spike National Historical Park where the first transcontinental railroad in the USA was completed, and finally, arrive at the mystical Spiral Jetty on the shores of the Great Salt Lake. A day full of history, technology, and the unique landscape of Utah awaits you.
The Rocket Garden is a smaller outdoor exhibit of rockets and technologies related to the American aerospace industry. The exhibit is free to access.
This is a historic site commemorating the completion of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States in 1869. The park is located at Promontory Summit, where the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroad lines were symbolically joined with a "Golden Spike".
More info here
Spiral Jetty is a famous land-art work created right on the shore of the Great Salt Lake. The stone spiral emerging into the pink-tinted salt water is one of the most iconic art installations in the American landscape and has a unique atmosphere at sunset. Robert Smithson created the spiral in 1970.
Take a break between road trips and soak up the atmosphere of Salt Lake City, which hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. You'll start at the Alf Engen Ski Museum in Park City, surrounded by the venues where the world's best athletes competed. You'll visit Rice-Eccles Stadium, where the Olympic flame was lit, and walk through the former Olympic Village at Fort Douglas. A day full of sports history, Olympic vibes, and stories that continue to shape modern-day Utah awaits you.
Soak up the atmosphere of the place that hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. There is a free museum here, and freestyle shows take place on summer weekends. You can also purchase a guided tour of the Olympic venue, which will take you to the top of the ski jump. Or, try an adrenaline-filled ride on the bobsleigh track.
- Guided tours: Utah Olympic Park Tour
- Official museum website: The Alf Engen Ski Museum
- The vibe of the freestyle show is a fantastic experience. More info here
The park commemorates the arrival of the first Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. It is here that Brigham Young is said to have uttered the famous words "This is the place" when the group arrived in what is now Salt Lake City. There is an open-air museum, historic buildings, and beautiful views of the city and the Wasatch Mountains.
Part of the park has an entrance fee. More info here: This Is The Place Heritage Park
The site was founded in 1862 by Colonel Patrick Edward Connor and played an important role during the settlement of the American West as well as the protection of the transcontinental railroad, mail route, and telegraph lines. Today, it is part of the University of Utah and is a hub of vibrant student life.
The museum maps military history from the 19th century to the present, including an outdoor equipment exhibit. Admission is free.
Official museum website: Fort Douglas Museum
As you stroll around the historic Officers Circle and take in the Bandstand gazebo, you're walking right through the spot where the Olympic Village stood in 2002. These beautiful 19th-century buildings originally served military officers, but during the Winter Games, they were transformed into facilities and housing for Olympic delegations from all over the world. Today, these historic homes are used by the university for its research and scientific institutes.
It's an elegant suspension bridge built for the 2002 Winter Olympics. During the games, athletes walked across it from the Olympic Village to the opening and closing ceremonies at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Part of the Fort Douglas military base is a small military cemetery, which was established in the 19th century and still commemorates the era of settling the American West as well as the history of the US Army in Utah. The cemetery is very peaceful; you won't run into many visitors here.
Rice–Eccles Stadium is the home of the University of Utah Utes football team. It was originally built in 1927 as Ute Stadium and later renovated. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics – and is planned to do so again in 2034.
Official stadium website: Rice–Eccles Stadium
A majestic neoclassical building that offers a stunning view of the city and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The building is surrounded by a large park and its interior is free to access. In the evening, you can watch the sunset over the valley from here.
Official building website: Capitol
Leave Salt Lake City and head south through Utah, right into the heart of the iconic red rocks of the American Southwest. You're off to the town of Moab for a visit to one of the most famous parks in the American West.
HEADS UP⬇️
When visiting American national and state parks, you need to account for entrance fees. In some cases, you'll need a timed entry reservation. I recommend checking the latest info on the official National Park Service and State Parks websites before your trip. You can also buy park passes online in advance. Plus, if you're planning on hitting up more American parks throughout the year, it’s worth considering the America the Beautiful Annual Pass or a State Park Pass.
Arches National Park is a world of red rocks, natural arches, and desert landscapes that look like they belong on another planet. The park hides more than 2,000 stone arches and is one of Utah's most iconic places.
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
You'll spend the night in Moab, a small town surrounded by desert, canyons, and national parks. The vibe of road trips, off-roading, and sunsets makes it one of the most popular spots in the American Southwest. There's a lively outdoor atmosphere here, and the streets are packed with restaurants, cafes, gear shops, and agencies offering off-road expeditions.
Park your car at the hotel where you'll be staying.
Today will be all about breathtaking views, giant meanders, and the wild, untamed landscape of Utah, shaped by the Colorado and Green Rivers. You will visit one of the most photogenic spots in the entire state and immerse yourself in the mysterious silence of the vast Canyonlands National Park.
A vast and wild national park divided by rivers into several sections. You will visit the most easily accessible section called "Island in the Sky," which is situated on a giant, flat mesa. You can look forward to views of deep canyons that look like they were carved into the Earth's surface. Definitely don't miss the short walk to the iconic Mesa Arch, through which you can see deep into the valley.
The Grand View Point Trail, which I also hiked, is breathtaking. You park at the Grand View Point Parking, and after completing it, you will find yourself at Grand View Point.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
This state park offers one of the most stunning views in all of Utah. From a high rock cliff towering 600 meters above the ground, you get a breathtaking look at the giant meander of the Colorado River, resembling a horseshoe.
Entrance to the park here
Designated parking lots are located throughout the park.
Leave Moab behind and set off on a journey full of bizarre rock formations and ever-changing landscapes. Your first stop will transport you to another planet – a valley filled with stone goblins. Afterwards, you'll drive past Capitol Reef National Park and end your day in the heart of the wild and remote Escalante region, one of the most untouched places in all of America.
A fascinating and incredibly fun state park that looks like it's from another world or a sci-fi movie. The valley is filled with thousands of small sandstone formations called "hoodoos" or affectionately "goblins". There are no marked trails in the park – you can freely walk and wander through this stone labyrinth however you like.
Make sure to take plenty of water for your walk. It gets scorching hot here, and the sun will beat down on you just like in the desert.
Designated parking areas can be found throughout the park.
As you drive along the UT-24 highway, you'll be greeted by views of monumental, sharp-edged rock ridges known as "The Gray Ones". Unlike the surrounding red and orange sandstone you're used to in Utah, these massive formations have an unconventional, dark gray to ashen color.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
This time, you'll only be driving through Capitol Reef National Park along the main UT-24 road, but you're still in for an incredible visual experience. Right from the car, you'll be watching a fascinating spectacle as the Martian-gray, dull landscape suddenly transforms into monumental, vibrant red and orange sandstone walls. It's a fantastic scenic drive.
While passing through, you can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
A quick but impressive stop in the Capitol Reef National Park area. From this viewpoint, just a short distance from the main road, you can see the deep, sharply cut meanders of Sulfur Creek, which resemble goosenecks in shape. It's a great spot to stretch your legs on the drive to Escalante and admire the giant, colorful rock walls.
Approximately 1 km before the small town of Torrey, turn left onto the iconic Scenic Byway 12, rightfully nicknamed the “Journey to the Heavens.” This legendary stretch of asphalt will take you through an incredible landscape of sandstone rocks, deep canyons, and pine forests. Driving this road toward Escalante is a powerful experience, especially for drivers. It offers unique, far-reaching views with steep drops on both sides of the road, without any standard guardrails.
You can pull over on the side of the road along the way.
It starts with a real adventure in the Utah wilderness and ends by the shimmering water in Arizona. In the morning, you'll trek through one of the most breathtaking hidden slot canyons, where sandstone walls narrow so much you'll brush them with your shoulders. Then, you'll head south to the town of Page, where you'll be amazed by a monumental feat of human engineering and endless views of the artificial Lake Powell.
An incredibly photogenic, narrow slot canyon named after its striped sandstone walls that look like a zebra. The trail to get there goes through open semi-desert terrain, and inside the canyon itself, be prepared to walk sideways or brace yourself against the walls at times.
- Route from the parking lot to the canyon here
CAUTION⬇️
- Before you head out, check the current conditions at the visitor center – there may be standing water in the canyon.
- Bring plenty of drinking water. You will be moving through desert terrain for about 2.5 hours. Don't forget a hat and good footwear.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged. The route from the parking lot to the canyon goes through dry riverbeds that crisscross. Be careful not to get lost.
- It's better to bring a smaller backpack. The canyon gets very narrow; at some point, you'll have to take off your backpack and continue without it.
- Follow the instructions in one of the photos.
Today, you'll enjoy the iconic Scenic Byway 12 and all its rock formations one more time. It will take you all the way to Red Canyon, and you'll get to drive through two rock arches.
Along the way, you can pull over to the side of the road.
A lookout on a hill just off the main road, offering panoramic views of the massive Lake Powell reservoir, the desert landscape, and Arizona's endless red rocks. It's a great spot for a quick stop or to watch the sunset.
A majestic concrete dam on the Colorado River, which is the second highest of its kind in the USA and created the massive Lake Powell. The dam reaches a height of 216 meters and was built in the 1950s and 60s. You can stop by the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, which offers great views of the structure itself and the bridge arching over the canyon.
You will experience the two absolute biggest and most photographed icons of the American Southwest. You will descend into the depths of the earth, where sunbeams play out an incredible theater of colors on the smooth sandstone walls of a magical canyon. In the afternoon, you will stand on the edge of a giant cliff and gaze into a deep canyon, where the Colorado River creates a perfect horseshoe-shaped meander.
This underground slot canyon on Navajo tribal land is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. You walk through narrow underground passages that water and wind have carved into smooth, flowing waves over thousands of years. The light filtering in from above shifts the color of the sandstone from yellow to orange and deep purple.
Due to its huge popularity, it is essential to book a slot for a tour with a Navajo guide in advance. You can purchase tour tickets, for example, here.
A famous viewpoint overlooking a monumental horseshoe-shaped river meander. Here, the Colorado River winds around a giant rock massif more than 300 meters below you. There is a comfortable, paved trail about a kilometer long leading from the parking lot to the edge of the abyss.
The spot offers incredible views, but be careful when taking photos at the edges where there are no railings.
You have the longest driving stretch of the entire trip ahead of you. You'll leave sunny Arizona and head out on an approximately six-hour road trip back north to Salt Lake City. The drive will fly by thanks to the constantly changing landscape, which gradually shifts from arid desert back into monumental mountain scenery. If you arrive in Salt Lake City in the afternoon, you'll still have time to soak up the atmosphere of the places where winter sports history was made.
During your long drive north on the highway, you can take a quick detour to some natural thermal springs hidden in the middle of the pastures. You'll find crystal-clear pools with warm water there. It's the perfect spot to take a break from driving, soak your feet in the warm water, and enjoy some peace and quiet with a view of the surrounding mountain ridges.
You can spend the evening at a unique shopping complex right in the heart of Salt Lake City, which features a real stream flowing through it with waterfalls and live trout. Its biggest attraction is the giant glass roof, which opens in good weather, letting warm sunlight stream in so you can shop under the open sky. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs, grab a great dinner, and have a relaxing end to your road trip.
Website of the shopping center here
- The shopping center has its own underground parking garages with several entrances. Map of entrances
Your big road trip through the most beautiful canyons of Utah and Arizona has come to an end. Today, all that’s left is returning the car and flying home. If your flight schedule leaves you with a bit of extra time, treat yourself to one last morning coffee with a view of the majestic Wasatch Mountains.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
