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Arches, Canyonlands & Capitol Reef

Trip Information

Number of Nights: 7 nights

Seasons: Year Round

Start / End: Salt Lake City, UT

Average Price: $4,300

Detailed Itinerary

Start: 1 night Salt Lake City, UT

Begin your trip in Salt Lake City, where you can arrive at any time and enjoy a relaxing first night in our favorite hotel. Spend your time exploring the city’s highlights, such as the beautiful Temple Square, home to the historic Salt Lake Temple and the impressive Tabernacle. Discover the vibrant local scene at City and County Building or take a leisurely stroll through Liberty Park. For a taste of local culture, visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts or the Natural History Museum of Utah. Salt Lake City offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, setting a great tone for the road trip ahead.

Salt Lake to Green River: 180 miles

1 night Green River

After picking up your RV, embark on a scenic drive to Green River State Park, a journey that takes you through diverse Utah landscapes. The route will showcase the dramatic red rock formations and expansive desert vistas typical of this region. Upon arrival at Green River State Park, you’ll find a tranquil oasis with lush greenery along the banks of the Green River. Its peaceful setting and beautiful surroundings provide a relaxing start to your road trip, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty before continuing your adventure.

Green River to Canyonlands: 60 miles

1 night Canyonlands National Park

Heading to the Moab area, your first stop will be Canyonlands National Park, specifically the Island in the Sky area, where you’ll spend one night. Here you’ll be treated to expansive views from sheer cliffs overlooking the vast canyon below. This district offers breathtaking panoramas from viewpoints such as Mesa Arch and Grand View Point, where you can marvel at the intricate maze of canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers. Short hikes, like the one to the iconic Upheaval Dome, provide closer looks at the park’s unique geological features. Dead Horse State Park next door is just as stunning. Learn more about Canyonlands and Moab.

Canyonlands to Arches/ Moab: 30 miles

2 nights Moab & Arches National Park

The next two nights will be spent in Moab, an ideal basecamp for exploring both Arches National Park and the surrounding Moab area. This vibrant town offers dining options, and local shops, all while being perfectly positioned to access the region’s natural wonders. Moab provides easy access to a variety of outdoor adventures, from mountain biking the famous Slickrock Trail to floating on the Colorado River. Arches National Park, just a short drive away, is renowned for its incredible collection of over 2,000 natural stone arches, with iconic formations such as Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. There is no lack of things to do in the amazing area.

Moab to Capitol Reef: 160 miles

1 night Capitol Reef National Park

To tick another national park off your list, head to Capitol Reef National Park, a hidden gem in the national park system. Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef is known for its human history, colorful cliffs, and unique geological features. Explore the park’s scenic drives, such as the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive, which provides breathtaking views of the Waterpocket Fold and historic Fruita District. Hike to natural wonders like Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch, or stroll through the charming Fruita orchards, where you can sample fresh fruit in season. With its less crowded trails and captivating landscapes, Capitol Reef offers a serene and rewarding experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Capitol Reef to Provo: 170 miles

1 night Provo Area

Saying goodbye to the stunning Red Rock country, head back north to spend your last night in the Provo area. Nestled between the rugged Wasatch Mountains and the serene shores of Utah Lake, Provo offers a peaceful conclusion to your journey. Here you can have a good nights sleep and be ready to drop your RV off and fly home the following day in Salt Lake City.

Provo to Salt Lake: 45 miles

TOTAL TRIP MILEAGE: 545 miles

End: Salt Lake City, UT

Trip Extensions

Cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Parks Colorado USA scaled from Tumbleweed Travel

2 nights Mesa Verde National Park +$1050

Mesa Verde National Park is a must-add to your itinerary for its remarkable preservation of ancient cliff dwellings and Puebloan history. Located in southwestern Colorado, the park features well-preserved archaeological sites like Cliff Palace and Balcony House, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who lived there over 700 years ago. The park’s dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty with profound historical significance. Adding Mesa Verde to your trip provides an enriching experience and a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous history.

Learn more about Mesa Verde National Park.