Ready to turn your trip plans into an unforgettable adventure? This five-day itinerary follows the exact route I recommend for first-time visitors, balancing iconic hikes, scenic drives, incredible viewpoints, and enough flexibility to make the trip your own.

You’ll fly into Las Vegas, spend three nights exploring Zion National Park, continue to Bryce Canyon National Park for one night, and finish with an evening drive back to Las Vegas for your flight home. Along the way, I’ll share the route I took, practical tips that made the trip easier, and a few personal recommendations I’d absolutely do again.

This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of each day without feeling rushed. Whether you’re planning to hike The Narrows, tackle Angels Landing, explore Zion by e-bike, or simply soak in the incredible scenery, you’ll know where to be, when to go, and how to fit it all together.

If you’re still deciding when to visit, where to stay, what to pack, or how to plan your trip, start with my complete guide to planning the perfect Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park trip. Then come back here and follow this itinerary day by day.

If you’re still deciding when to visit, where to stay, what to pack, or how to plan your trip, be sure to read my complete guide on How to Plan the Perfect Zion & Bryce Canyon National Park Trip before diving into this itinerary.

Why Zion & Bryce Canyon Pair So Well

While both Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are incredible destinations on their own, their close proximity makes them a natural pair. Located less than two hours apart, you can experience both parks without spending a large portion of your vacation driving.

They’re also very different experiences. Zion is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and adventurous hikes like The Narrows and Angels Landing. Bryce Canyon, on the other hand, is more compact and easy to explore in a day, with colorful hoodoos, sweeping overlooks, and scenic hiking trails that showcase an entirely different landscape.

Together, they offer an incredible introduction to southern Utah. In just five days, you’ll experience two of the state’s most iconic national parks, each with its own distinct scenery, making this one of the best road trips in the American Southwest. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas and Make Your Way to Zion

Today’s route: Las Vegas → St. George → Springdale
Driving time: About 2.5 to 3 hours (without stops)
Where to stay: Springdale

Your Zion and Bryce Canyon adventure starts with a scenic drive from Las Vegas to Springdale, the gateway town just outside Zion National Park. While it may be tempting to head straight to the park, taking care of a few errands before you arrive will make the rest of your trip much easier.

Pick Up Your Rental Car and Stock Up on Supplies

After landing at the Harry Reid International Airport, pick up your rental car and start making your way toward Zion.

Before arriving in Springdale, I recommend stopping for groceries and supplies. Prices in Springdale tend to be higher because it is a small gateway town, so picking up supplies before you arrive can save you both time and money. You have two good options:

Option 1: Shop in Las Vegas
If you land early and want to get everything taken care of before leaving the city, grab groceries, snacks, and drinks in Las Vegas. This gives you the most options and lets you hit the road without another stop.

Option 2: Stop in St. George
If you prefer to get on the road quickly, St. George is the perfect place to stock up. It is the last major city before Zion and has larger grocery stores, outdoor retailers, and restaurants. I recommend buying things like breakfast items, trail snacks, electrolyte drinks, and anything you’ll need for long days in the park.

👉 I shopped ahead of time and scheduled a Target pick-up order in St. George. This saved me a lot of time and ensured I didn’t forget anything.

Check Into Your Springdale Accommodations

From St. George, it’s about an hour drive to Springdale. Once you arrive, check into your accommodations and get settled.

I recommend staying in Springdale for your Zion portion of the trip. Being close to the park entrance makes early mornings much easier, especially on days when you’ll be hiking or trying to beat the crowds.

Stop by Zion Peddler for Your E-Bike Rental

One of the highlights of this itinerary is exploring Zion Canyon by e-bike, but you’ll want to be prepared before your first full day in the park.

After checking in, head over to Zion Peddler to check in for your early-bird rental (this allows you to pick up your e-bike as early as you like and hit the canyon before the first shuttle leaves). They’ll give you all the info you need about the bike, parking, and routes within the canyon so in the morning you can grab and go!

Watch the Sunset in Zion (If You Have Time)

Depending on your arrival time, you may have enough daylight left to squeeze in one of Zion’s beautiful sunset spots.

Easy option: Pa’rus Trail
If you’re tired from traveling but still want to experience Zion, the Pa’rus Trail is a perfect first stop. This easy, mostly flat trail follows the Virgin River and offers beautiful views of the canyon walls glowing in the evening light.

Moderate option: Watchman Trail
For a little more adventure, hike the Watchman Trail for sunset. This trail gives you a classic view of the Watchman formation and the town of Springdale below.

Best sunset option: Canyon Overlook Trail
If you arrive with enough time and energy, drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel to East Zion for sunset at Canyon Overlook Trail. The views from this short hike are some of the best in the park and make for an incredible first impression of Zion.

Keep in mind that Canyon Overlook is a popular sunset spot, and parking is limited, so this option works best if you arrive earlier in the afternoon.

Dinner in Springdale

After a travel day, you’ll probably be ready for a good meal. If you don’t have a place to cook, Springdale has several great restaurants, but they can get busy during peak season, so don’t wait until you’re starving to decide where to eat.

A few good options:

• Iceberg Drive Inn $ — Classic burger, fries and treats. Try the cajun tots!!
• Oscar’s Cafe $$ — A local favorite with a casual menu and generous portions. Great after a long travel day or a big hike.
• Zion Canyon Brew Pub $$ — A convenient option near the park entrance with a relaxed atmosphere and canyon views.
• Whiptail Grill $$ — A fun choice if you’re craving Mexican-inspired food after your drive.

Day 2: Explore Zion Canyon by E-Bike

Today’s adventure: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by e-bike
Distance: About 14 miles round trip to the Temple of Sinawava
Where to stay: Springdale

One of my favorite ways to experience Zion National Park is by e-bike. Instead of waiting for shuttles and navigating crowded trailheads, you can ride at your own pace, stop whenever you want, and enjoy the incredible scenery along the way.

Start your morning early by picking up your e-bike from Zion Peddler and heading into Zion Canyon. Stop at Canyon Coffee for breakfast, it’s in the same parkign lot as Zion Peddler.

The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive has nine shuttle stops, and you’ll ride the entire route to the Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9), stopping at some of the park’s most iconic viewpoints and hikes along the way. All the stops mentioned here are optional, and you probably won’t have time to do them all so choose two or three that look the best to you and stick with those.

Starting early is key. You’ll avoid the biggest crowds, have cooler temperatures for hiking, and get to experience some of Zion’s most popular trails before they become crowded.

Morning: Ride Into Zion Canyon

Pa’rus Trail (Bike Ride)

Start your Zion Canyon adventure by cruising into the park along the Pa’rus Trail. Beginning at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center (Shuttle Stop #1), this is the only trail in Zion National Park where e-bikes are allowed, and it’s a beautiful way to start your morning.

The trail bypasses Shuttle Stop #2 and connects with the canyon road near Shuttle Stop #3, giving you your first views of Zion’s towering cliffs before continuing deeper into the park.

Trail Details
Trailhead: Zion Canyon Visitor Center (Shuttle Stop #1)
Distance: 1.7 miles one way
Elevation gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 15-20 minutes by bike

The early morning light makes this one of the best times to ride the trail, and it’s a great place to stop for photos before continuing toward the canyon’s bigger hikes.

Emerald Pools Trail (Shuttle Stop #5)

Your first major stop should be Emerald Pools. This is one of Zion’s most popular hikes, so getting here early is worth it. By midmorning, the trail can get crowded and summer temperatures can make the climb feel much harder.

The trail starts near Zion Lodge, which is also a great place to stop for restrooms, water, or a snack. Save a longer break at the lodge for your ride back down the canyon.

The great thing about Emerald Pools is that you can choose how far you want to go. If you’re looking for a quick stop, Lower Emerald Pools is a great option. If you want more of a hike, continue to the Upper Pools for a more rewarding view.

Hike Details
Trailhead: Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5)

Lower Emerald Pools
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~70 feet
Difficulty: Easy

Middle Emerald Pools
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~150 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Upper Emerald Pools
Distance: 3 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~350 feet
Difficulty: Moderate

Time: It will take you around 1.5-2 hours to hike the entire trail.

The Grotto Trail or Scout’s lookout (Shuttle Stop #6)

Continue biking to The Grotto, where you have a couple of options depending on your plans for the rest of your trip.

The Grotto Trail
Distance: 1.1 mile round trip
Elevation gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour

This short trail follows the Virgin River and offers beautiful canyon views without taking too much time.

For a longer hike, you can continue toward Scott’s Landing, the start of the Angels Landing trail.

Scout’s Lookout
Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~1,100 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Time: 2.5-3 hours

Weeping Rock Trail (Shuttle Stop #7)

Continue to Weeping Rock, one of Zion’s most recognizable viewpoints. This is a quick stop, making it a good option if you want to stretch your legs without committing to another long hike.

Hike Details
Distance: 0.4 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~100 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30 minutes or less

The trail is short but steep, leading to a viewpoint where water seeps through the sandstone cliffs, creating the “weeping” effect. It’s a great quick stop before continuing deeper into the canyon.

Big Bend (Shuttle Stop #8)

Big Bend is a quick roadside stop rather than a hike, but it’s one of the best places to appreciate Zion’s scale.

From here, you’ll have an incredible view of Angels Landing, including the famous chain section that hikers climb to reach the summit. Even if you aren’t hiking Angels Landing, it’s worth stopping here for photos and to see just how dramatic the landscape is.

Temple of Sinawava and the Riverside Walk (Shuttle Stop #9)

Continue all the way to the end of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive at the Temple of Sinawava. This is where you’ll begin the Riverside Walk, which leads to the entrance of The Narrows.

Riverside Walk Hike Details
Trailhead: Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9)
Distance: 2.1 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~190 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1-1.5 hours

The Riverside Walk is paved and mostly flat, making it one of the most accessible hikes in Zion. It’s also one of the most beautiful, with towering canyon walls, hanging gardens, and the Virgin River flowing beside the trail.

There are several places along the trail where you can get in the river to swim – perfect on a hot afternoon!

Optional: Start the Narrows

If you are hiking The Narrows on Day 3, you can skip this. But if you’re hiking Angel’s Landing instead of the Narrows, you also have the option to get a taste of the Narrows now by hiking in a short ways (or further if you have time!)

Just be prepared—you will get wet. Proper footwear with good traction is important because the canyon floor is rocky and slippery.

Afternoon: Ride Back Down the Canyon

Once you’ve explored the Temple of Sinawava, begin your ride back through the canyon. This is one of my favorite parts of exploring Zion by e-bike because you can stop whenever you want and enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Depending on how long you spent hiking, stop at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5) for a snack, drink, or lunch. This is also a great stop for restrooms and water refills.

If you’re visiting during the summer, I recommend aiming to return to Springdale by early afternoon. The heat in Zion Canyon can be intense, and the middle of the day is a great time to relax at your accommodations, take a swim, eat lunch in an air conditioned restaurant, and recharge for your next adventure.

go pick up rental gear for the narrows

If you’re hiking The Narrows tomorrow, you’ll want to go pick up your rental gear now so you can leave early in the morning.

The rocks in The Narrows can be really slippery so you’ll want to wear proper footwear with good traction and bring a hiking pole for stability. There are several rental companies in Springdale where you can rent boots, neoprene socks, walking poles, and in colder months waterproof pants and bibs. I rented my gear from Zion Guru for $35.

Evening: Golden Hour & Sunset in Zion

One of the biggest advantages of renting from Zion Peddler is that your full day rental doesn’t end until 8 p.m. You can take advantage of the cooler evening temperatures and ride through the canyon during golden hour.

The canyon looks completely different in the late afternoon as the sunlight hits the sandstone cliffs, creating some of the most beautiful views of the day. This is also a great time to revisit a favorite stop from earlier or take a shorter hike you may have skipped.

Option 1: Ride Back Through Zion Canyon

If you’re tired after a full day of biking and hiking, simply enjoy the ride back through the canyon. Stop at viewpoints, take photos, and soak in the scenery without the crowds you experienced earlier in the day.

Zion Canyon is especially beautiful in the evening when the light starts to soften and the canyon walls glow.

Option 2: Hike the Watchman Trail for Sunset

If you still have some energy, the Watchman Trail is a great sunset option and is easy to access from Springdale.

Watchman Trail Details
Trailhead: Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Distance: 3.1 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~368 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5-2 hours

The trail climbs above the visitor center and offers beautiful views of Springdale, the Virgin River, and the Watchman formation glowing in the evening light.

Option 3: Canyon Overlook Trail at Sunset

If you didn’t make it to Canyon Overlook on Day 1, this is another incredible sunset option. The viewpoint looks out over the East Canyon and offers one of the most dramatic views in Zion.

Canyon Overlook Trail Details
Trailhead: Canyon Overlook Trailhead (East Zion)
Distance: 1 mile round trip
Elevation gain: ~160 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 30-60 minutes

Keep in mind that parking is limited and sunset is one of the busiest times to visit, so plan to arrive early.

Dinner in Springdale

After sunset, grab dinner in Springdale and get some rest before your big hiking day tomorrow. Whether you’re hiking The Narrows or Angels Landing, you’ll want a good night’s sleep and plenty of energy.

My Tip for Day 2:
Don’t underestimate how much ground you can cover on an e-bike. The temptation will be to check every hike off your list, but some of the best moments in Zion come from simply slowing down and enjoying the canyon. Save some time to ride, stop for photos, and take in the views.

Day 3: Choose Your Big Zion Adventure — The Narrows or Angels Landing

Today is the day to tackle one of Zion’s legendary hikes: The Narrows or Angels Landing. Both are bucket-list experiences, but they offer completely different adventures.

The Narrows takes you through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls, while Angels Landing takes you high above the canyon with steep climbs, exposed sections, and incredible views over Zion Canyon.

Whichever hike you choose, plan for an early start. These are two of Zion’s most popular hikes, and arriving early means cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and a better overall experience.

Getting to Your Trailhead Early

If you’re using the Zion Canyon shuttle system to reach the trailheads keep in mind that during the summer season, the first shuttles typically begin running around 7 a.m., but the lines at the visitor center can get long quickly. Plan to arrive by 6:30 a.m. if you want to be on one of the first shuttles.

Also be aware that the shuttle ride itself takes time. Getting to The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6) for Angels Landing takes around 20 minutes, and reaching the Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9) for The Narrows takes about 45 minutes. That means even if you catch the first shuttle, the earliest you’ll likely begin The Narrows is around 7:45 a.m.

If you booked a multi-day e-bike rental, you have another option. You can ride your e-bike directly into Zion Canyon, which allows you to bypass the shuttle wait, or begin before the first shuttle leaves, and reach your trailhead on your own schedule.

For Angels Landing, ride to The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6). For The Narrows, continue all the way to the Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9).

Tip
If you don’t want to commit to the full e-bike ride to The Narrows, and you don’t mind starting at 7 a.m. or a little after, you can use your bike strategically. On my trip, I rode my e-bike to Shuttle Stop #4 (Court of the Patriarchs) and hopped on the shuttle from there. This allowed me to skip the long visitor center line, which was already about 1.5 hours at 7:30 a.m. in mid-June.

Option 1: Hike Angels Landing

Angels Landing is one of the most famous hikes in the United States, known for its steep climb, narrow ridge, and dramatic views over Zion Canyon.

Before you go, know that you need a permit to hike beyond Scout’s Lookout to the Angels Landing chains section. Permits are issued through a seasonal lottery system, and you’ll want to plan ahead.

If you didn’t manage to score permits ahead of time, there is also a day before lottery you can try for.

If you don’t get a permit, you can still hike to Scout Lookout, which offers incredible views and is a challenging hike on its own.

Angels Landing Hike Details
Trailhead: The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6)
Distance: 4.3 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~1,827 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Time: 4-6 hours

The hike begins with the West Rim Trail, including the famous Walter’s Wiggles switchbacks, before reaching Scout Lookout. From there, hikers with permits continue along the exposed ridge using the chains for assistance.

This hike is not for everyone. The final section includes steep drop-offs and exposed terrain, so if you’re like me and heights make you uncomfortable, skip this one.

Option 2: Hike The Narrows

The Narrows is one of the most unique hiking experiences in Zion (and one of my favorite hikes ever!) Instead of climbing above the canyon, you’ll walk through it—following the Virgin River between towering sandstone walls.

The hike begins at the Temple of Sinawava (shuttle stop #9) with the Riverside Walk before entering the river itself.

The Narrows Hike Details
Trailhead: Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9)
Distance: Up to 9.4 miles round trip to Big Spring
Elevation gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Time: 6-8 hours for the full bottom-up hike

The best part about The Narrows is that you don’t have to hike the entire route to have an incredible experience. You can walk into the canyon as far as you feel comfortable and turn around whenever you’ve had enough. I ended up hiking 8 miles round trip, plus the riverside walk.

Be prepared to get wet! Wear proper footwear with good traction, bring a hiking pole for stability, and check conditions before heading out. Water levels, weather, and flash flood risk can all affect whether the hike is safe.

Evening: Dinner and Stargazing in Zion

After a big hiking day, take some time to relax and enjoy a well-earned dinner in Springdale.

If you still have energy after dinner, tonight is a great night for stargazing. Zion’s dark skies make it an incredible place to see the stars, and the canyon walls create an unforgettable backdrop after sunset.

Head back into the park or find a darker area away from town, turn off your lights, and give your eyes time to adjust. On a clear night, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the night sky.

My Tip for Day 3:
Don’t underestimate these hikes. Both Angels Landing and The Narrows are unforgettable experiences, but they require energy. Eat a good breakfast, pack plenty of water and snacks, and give yourself permission to turn around before reaching the end if you’re tired.

Day 4: Drive Through East Zion to Bryce Canyon

Today’s route: Springdale → East Zion → Bryce Canyon
Driving time: About 2 hours without stops
Where to stay: Bryce Canyon area

Today is a travel day, but don’t rush through it. The drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon is one of the most scenic parts of the trip, taking you through the dramatic landscapes of East Zion, across the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, and into a completely different desert environment.

Start early this morning. You’ll need to pass through the Zion entrance station in Springdale, and traffic can build quickly later in the day, especially during peak season. Leaving early means less waiting and more time to enjoy the stops along the way.

👉 Before your trip, download the GuideAlong app and purchase the Zion & Bryce Canyon tour. It’s like having a tour guide in the car, with stories, history, and travel tips that play automatically as you drive. It has commentary for the entire drive to Bryce Canyon and the Scenic Drive in the park which makes it much more fun and informational. Download it at home so it’s ready to go, even without cell service.

Drive Through East Zion and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

As you leave Zion, you’ll climb through one of the most beautiful sections of the park: the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.

Built in the 1920s, this historic road was an incredible engineering feat for its time. The highlight is the 1.1-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, which was completed in 1930 to connect Zion Canyon with the east side of the park.

Fun fact: When the tunnel was built, large “gallery” windows were carved into the canyon walls to allow workers to discard rock and debris. They give fantastic views as you drive past them, but you cannot stop inside the tunnel.

The drive itself is worth taking slowly. Watch for Checkerboard Mesa, towering sandstone cliffs, and changing landscapes as you leave the canyon behind.

Canyon Overlook Trail (If You Didn’t Do It on Day 1 or 2)

Before leaving Zion, make a stop at the Canyon Overlook Trail if you haven’t already. This short hike is one of the best viewpoints in the park and offers a completely different perspective than Zion Canyon.

The small parking lot is on the right immediately after exiting the tunnel. It it’s full, there is another parking lot a little further on on the left. You may need to wait for someone to leave, or park along the road if you can do so safely as both lots fill quickly.

Canyon Overlook Trail Details
Trailhead: Canyon Overlook Trailhead (East Zion)
Distance: 1 mile round trip
Elevation gain: ~160 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 30-60 minutes

The trail is short, but don’t underestimate the views. From the overlook, you’ll see the Great Arch, Pine Creek Canyon, and the winding road below.

Stop in Orderville for Lunch and Supplies

Continue toward Bryce Canyon and stop in Orderville for lunch, snacks, and any last-minute supplies.

There are a surprising number of rock shops in this little town as well but do yourself a favor and make a stop at “The Rock Stop.” This quirky little shop is shaped like the Flinstone’s house! They even have a Flinstone car! There’s plenty to look at here, plus they have a taco truck, serve fresh donuts and some tasty iced coffees.

Bryce Canyon National Park

After turning towards Bryce off Hwy 89, you’ll drive through Red Canyon. Feel free to stop and take a look, or even a quick hike! There is a pull out near the arches so you can get some good photos!

You’ll drive through Bryce Canyon City before arriving at the park entrance station for Bryce Canyon. You’ll need to show your annual pass, or the receipt for the entrance you purchased in Zion (it’s good for 7 days). Make sure you stop at the Visitor’s Center before heading into the park.

This is a great time to check:

• Current trail conditions
• Road or trail closures
• Ranger programs happening during your visit
• Guided hikes or evening astronomy programs

If you’re lucky, you may be able to join one of Bryce Canyon’s ranger-led stargazing programs or guided hikes, which are some of the best ways to experience this dark-sky park.

Drive the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

The Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to experience the park. The road runs about 18 miles one way and takes roughly 2–3 hours round trip if you stop at the main viewpoints along the way.

👉 I recommend driving all the way to the last viewpoint, Rainbow Point, first, then work your way back north—this puts you on the correct side of the road for the overlooks and saves you from constantly crossing traffic.

Starting from the top and working your way back down, the drive takes you through several overlooks, each offering a slightly different perspective of the canyon and hoodoo formations. The final stops (closest to the entrance) are known as the Bryce Amphitheater. These overlooks—Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point—offer the postcard views you’ve been waiting for.

Some of the best stops along the way include:

• Rainbow Point
• Natural Bridge
• Agua Canyon
• Bryce Point
• Inspiration Point

Take your time here. Bryce Canyon is much smaller than Zion, and this route allows you to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Check Into Your Hotel and Dinner in Bryce Canyon

After exploring the scenic drive, head into town, check into your accommodations, and grab dinner.

A few options:

• The Pizza Place $ — A casual option for pizza and a quick meal after a long day of driving and exploring.
• Stone Hearth Grille $$ — A great choice for a sit-down meal with a little more variety.
• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon Dining Room (inside the park) $$$— A historic dining experience inside the park with a beautiful setting.

Sunset and Stargazing at Bryce Canyon

After dinner, head back into the park for one of the highlights of your Bryce Canyon visit.

Head to Bryce Point for one of the most incredible sunsets you’ll ever see. The views from here are some of the most spectacular in the park, with hundreds of hoodoos glowing as the light changes.

After sunset, make your way to Sunset Point for stargazing. This area is often where ranger-led astronomy programs take place, and after dark, Bryce becomes an entirely different experience. It is officially designated as an International Dark Sky Park, meaning it has some of the clearest, darkest night skies in the United States.

On clear nights, you’ll often see:

• The Milky Way stretching across the sky
• Thousands of visible stars
• Occasional ranger-led astronomy programs and telescope viewings

If you have a powerful headlamp, good shoes, and are comfortable hiking in the dark, you can even wander partway down the Navajo Loop Trail for a unique perspective looking up at the stars from below the hoodoos.

My Tip for Day 4:
Don’t rush sunset at Bryce. The colors change quickly as the sun drops, and the hoodoos seem to glow brighter with every passing minute. Give yourself time to arrive early, find a good viewpoint, and enjoy one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Day 5: Sunrise at Bryce Canyon and Head Home

Today’s adventure: Sunrise and one last hike in Bryce Canyon
Driving time: About 4.5 hours to Las Vegas
Flight recommendation: Book an evening flight (9-10 p.m.)

Today is your final day, but don’t pack up just yet. Bryce Canyon is famous for its spectacular sunrises, and if you’ve made it this far, it’s absolutely worth getting up early one last time.

Sunrise at Sunset Point

Start your morning at Sunset Point. Despite the name, it’s one of the best places in the park to watch the sunrise as the first light illuminates the hoodoos below.

Arrive 20-30 minutes before sunrise to watch the canyon gradually come to life. The changing colors on the rock formations make this one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail

After sunrise, it’s time for one final hike. The Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails take you down into the Bryce Amphitheater, where you’ll walk among the hoodoos instead of simply looking down on them.

You have three great options depending on how much time and energy you have before the drive back to Las Vegas.

Option 1: Navajo Loop Trail

Hike Details
Trailhead: Sunset Point
Distance: 1.3 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~515 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1-2 hours

This is Bryce Canyon’s classic hike, descending through Wall Street or Two Bridges before climbing back to the rim.

Option 2: Queen’s Garden Trail

Hike Details
Trailhead: Sunrise Point
Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~320 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1.5-2 hours

This is the easiest trail into the Bryce Amphitheater and a great choice if you’re looking for a gentler hike on your final day.

Option 3: Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Combination

Hike Details
Trailhead: Sunset Point or Sunrise Point
Distance: 2.9 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~650 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2-3 hours

If you only have time for one hike in Bryce Canyon, make it this one. Combining the two trails gives you the best overall experience, taking you through towering hoodoos, narrow switchbacks, and some of the park’s most iconic scenery.

Lunch and the Drive Back to Las Vegas

After your hike, grab an early lunch before beginning the drive back to Las Vegas.

The drive takes about 4.5 hours, so I recommend booking an evening flight—ideally between 9 and 10 p.m. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy your final morning in Bryce Canyon without feeling rushed and provides a buffer for traffic or unexpected delays on the drive.

My Tip for Day 5:
If your schedule allows, don’t be tempted to skip sunrise so you can sleep in. Bryce Canyon is one of the few places where sunrise is even more impressive than sunset, and it’s the perfect way to end your five-day adventure through southern Utah.

Ways to Extend Your Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park Trip

If you have an extra day or two, there are several incredible destinations that pair perfectly with a Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park trip. Whether you’re looking for another national park, a scenic state park, or an easy stop on your drive, these additions are well worth considering.

Valley of Fire State Park

If you’re flying into or out of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is one of the easiest and most rewarding additions to your itinerary. Located about an hour northeast of the city, it’s famous for its vibrant red sandstone formations, petroglyphs, and short scenic hikes.

It’s an especially good option on your arrival or departure day since it requires very little extra driving.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

Located just 30 minutes from Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin State Park is one of Utah’s most underrated parks. Instead of hoodoos, you’ll find towering sandstone spires, colorful cliffs, and quiet hiking trails without the crowds.

It’s a great place to spend a half or full day if you’re looking for something beyond the national parks.

Utah’s Mighty Five

If five days turns into a week or more, consider expanding your trip into Utah’s famous Mighty Five national parks.

From Bryce Canyon, you can continue east to:

• Capitol Reef National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park

Or head south to:

• Zion National Park (if you’re starting elsewhere)

Visiting all five parks typically takes 10–14 days, making it an unforgettable Southwest road trip.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Only about 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock Canyon makes an easy stop before your flight home. The scenic drive, hiking trails, and dramatic desert landscapes offer a completely different experience from Zion and Bryce while requiring very little extra time.

North Rim of the Grand Canyon

If you have an extra full day and you’re visiting between mid-May and mid-October, consider adding the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

It’s about a 2½-hour drive from Bryce Canyon (or roughly 2 hours from Zion’s east entrance) and offers a quieter, more relaxed experience than the South Rim. While it doesn’t make sense as a quick detour, it’s an excellent addition if you’re extending your trip by a day or two.

👉 If you only have one extra day, I’d choose Valley of Fire. It’s an easy addition from Las Vegas and offers some of the most colorful desert scenery in the Southwest.

Your Zion & Bryce Adventure Awaits

Five days is the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of both Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks without feeling rushed. From biking through Zion Canyon and hiking The Narrows or Angels Landing to watching the sunrise and sunset over Bryce Canyon’s incredible hoodoos, this itinerary gives you a chance to experience some of the best scenery in the American Southwest.

Of course, every trip is a little different. You may choose a longer hike, spend extra time taking photos, or simply slow down and enjoy the views. Don’t be afraid to make this itinerary your own.

If you’re still planning your trip, be sure to check out my companion guide, How to Plan the Perfect Zion & Bryce Canyon National Park Trip, where I cover the best time to visit, where to stay, what to pack, shuttle tips, and everything else you need to know before you go.

Most importantly, don’t try to do everything. Some of my favorite memories from this trip weren’t the famous hikes—they were the quiet moments between them: cruising through Zion Canyon on an e-bike, watching the sun light up the cliffs at sunrise, and standing beneath one of the darkest night skies I’ve ever seen. Make time for those moments, too.

Happy Adventuring!