The Grand Circle Road Trip is one of the most iconic Southwest routes, weaving through an impressive concentration of national parks. Covering some of the most spectacular landscapes, from Arches and Zion to Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon, it’s the type of trip that will leave you feeling inspired.
If you’re craving wild open spaces and thrilling adventures, the national parks of the Grand Circle will deliver. Plus, it’s the perfect way to extend a road trip through the Southwest, after exploring the marvels of New Mexico.
You’re about to cover a lot of ground, so make sure to pack your Rand McNally maps so you never miss a hidden gem or take a wrong turn.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Grand Circle Road Trip?
- Grand Circle National Parks
- More Must-See Attractions
- How Long Does the Grand Circle Road Trip Take?
- Best Time of Year to Visit the Grand Circle
- Grand Circle Trip Itinerary Options
- Driving the Grand Circle: Tips and Essentials
- Plan Your Grand Circle Road Trip
- FAQ
What Is the Grand Circle Road Trip?
The Grand Circle road trip is an adventure-packed loop that connects parts of Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada, forming what’s often called the national park Grand Circle. Housing 10 national parks, the Grand Circle serves up unique landscapes and unforgettable moments along nearly every mile. Plus, it features dozens of state parks and national monuments for added exploration between the national parks. It’s no wonder many consider it one of the most scenic drives in America.
Grand Circle National Parks
There aren’t many places in the world that contain as many national parks as the Grand Circle. Utah houses 5, and the rest are spread across Arizona, Colorado and Nevada, making this trip as rich in landmarks as it is in climates. Below, we’ll cover the highlights of the parks, but it’s always a good idea to keep your road atlas and national park guide handy. With up-to-date details on all 63 U.S. National Parks, this resource will guide you through the must-see spots, from major attractions to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Zion National Park (Utah)
If striking red cliffs and unforgettable hikes are what you’re after, Zion National Park is going to scratch that itch. Tackle legendary trails like Angels Landing for sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River and the red sandstone towers. Or get in the action by wading through the waters of the Virgin River in the idyllic Narrows. Enjoy a refreshing stop at the waterfall-fed Emerald Pools.
Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
Prepare to step into what feels like another world at Bryce Canyon National Park. It’s known for its hoodoos, thin rock spires formed over hundreds of years of erosion. If you’re short on time, don’t miss Sunrise, Sunset and Inspiration Points, three of the most epic lookouts in the park.
For a mesmerizing and sometimes challenging hike, explore the Navajo Loop, with its dramatic switchbacks, towering fir trees and hoodoos. Stroll the Queen’s Garden Trail to see one of the most renowned hoodoos of the same name, and views of the amphitheater.
Capitol Reef National Park (Utah)
Capitol Reef is a natural wonderland. In addition to its awe-inspiring cliffs and canyons, it’s also home to the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile-long “wrinkle” in Earth’s crust that formed roughly 50 to 70 million years ago. Hike through history on the Capitol Gorge trail.
Head to Hickman Bridge for views of a sandstone arch spanning 133 feet across a canyon. Feel like a healthy snack with a charming atmosphere? Visit the historic Fruita District, where you can pick produce in the orchards and view a pioneer-era schoolhouse.
Arches National Park (Utah)
Prepare to be astounded; you’re about to witness over 2,000 natural sandstone arches at Arches National Park, all spread across a dramatic desert landscape. Choose from easy to challenging hikes to iconic formations like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch or Double Arch.
Among its spires, fins and balanced rocks, the park creates an otherworldly backdrop that’s perfect for a nature photoshoot. If you’d prefer to stay in the car, cruise the Arches Scenic Drive, a 36-mile round-trip route that runs past some of the park’s most iconic structures.
Canyonlands National Park (Utah)
Canyonlands National Park feels like nature’s playground, with hiking, off-roading and river recreation available. Boasting canyons, mesas and buttes (isolated, flat-topped hills), its scenery is dynamic and enchanting. Visitors can journey through the park’s 4 main districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, the Maze and the rivers.
Mesa Arch and Grandview Point are two must-see attractions, especially at sunrise, when the desert light paints the landscape in golden hues.
Utah’s “Mighty 5” National Parks
If you only have time to explore part of the Grand Circle road trip, we recommend making it to the Mighty 5. However, if there’s room in your schedule to expand your Utah national parks road trip into other states, the following parks will also serve up natural grandeur and memorable adventures.
Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most famous parks in the country, and for good reason. Its uniquely layered rock formations, majestic cliffs and sheer size will leave you speechless. Visit the South Rim for 360-degree views of the canyon’s distinct features, or the North Rim for a quieter experience (perfect for visiting the Grand Canyon with kids).
The Desert View Watchtower, Yavapai Observation Station and Mather Point are other photographers’ favorites because of their expansive panoramic views and the dramatic light and shadow play during sunrise and sunset. Hike into the canyon itself via the South Kaibab or Bright Angel trails. If you’re feeling up for water activities, you can also cruise the Colorado River in a raft.
Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
For an invigorating blend of natural history and beauty, head to the Petrified Forest National Park. See ancient artwork in the Painted Desert, where colorful layered rock formations create a stunning scene.
Wander through the park’s famous fossilized trees and learn about the local Native American heritage on the interpretive signs. For a sight unlike any other, be sure to visit the Crystal Forest. Here, giant petrified logs that almost appear to glimmer lie across the desert floor.
Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)
Finished your Million Dollar Highway drive and looking for more Colorado treasures? Get a peek into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde National Park. The park’s impressively preserved cliffs contain the dwellings of the people who lived there over 700 years ago, amongst the sandstone alcoves.
Wander through the ancient homes on a ranger-led tour, or view them from a distance at one of the overlooks. The park also offers many captivating hiking trails and the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, where visitors can view artifacts that once belonged to the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
Sojourners from around the world visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for its dramatic cliffs and the awe-inspiring Gunnison River. Overlooks like Pulpit Rock, Gunnison Point and Painted Wall provide sweeping panoramas. Meanwhile, short hikes into the canyon, like that on the Oak Flat Loop trail, end in rewarding vantage points.
Great Basin National Park (Nevada)
Great Basin National Park is one of the lesser-known parks in the Grand Circle, but well worth a visit. Between its varied landscapes, including sprawling desert areas and glacier-carved peaks, it almost contains several worlds within it.
Roam the Lehman Caves and snap pics of the stalactites and stalagmites, icicle-like mineral deposits hanging from the cave ceilings. Take a stroll through the bristlecone pines, some of our planet’s oldest trees. Advanced hikers can make their way to the top of Wheeler Peak for expansive sightlines of the park.
More Must-See Attractions on a Grand Circle Road Trip
There’s more to see beyond the national parks. Along the way, you’ll also encounter these remarkable landmarks and other sights:
- Monument Valley: Witness some of the most mesmerizing landscapes in the Southwest at Monument Valley, where red sandstone buttes appear to spring up from the desert ground and reach towards the sky. The scenic 17-mile Valley Drive is a smart way to see the sights without leaving your car.
- Antelope Canyon: Wander through Antelope Canyon’s narrow, winding passageways. This slot canyon is known for its smooth sandstone walls, which look like they have orange, red and gold waves rolling through them. Navajo guides provide tours on which they share local cultural and geographical insights.
- Horseshoe Bend: Not far from Page, Arizona, the Colorado River takes a dramatic turn, creating the shape of a horseshoe, resulting in what is known as Horseshoe Bend. A viewpoint is accessible via an easy hike, and from there, visitors can get a sprawling look at the river snaking through the red rock cliffs.
- Lake Powell: Continue appreciating the magnificent Colorado River at Lake Powell, a reservoir on the river. The glistening blue waters with their red stone cliff background create a stunning landscape. Visitors can get out on the water to enjoy kayaking, fishing and boating.
Our maps and atlases will guide you towards these attractions outside of the Grand Circle, providing insights into each stop.
How Long Does the Grand Circle Road Trip Take?
You can complete the Grand Circle Road Trip in as little as 1 week or stretch it out to several weeks. The number of sites you visit and how much time you dedicate to each will influence the length of your trip.
Driving pace will also influence your total trip time, and adding side trips will lengthen the journey.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Grand Circle?
Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit the Grand Circle. You’ll enjoy mild weather, allowing for comfortable outdoor excursions. Because the Grand Circle covers multiple states, you’ll experience different microclimates throughout your journey.
Summer Visits
Summer brings high temperatures and big crowds. However, if you’re planning water-centric days, summer is the perfect time to take advantage of boating, kayaking and swimming across various parks. Just plan to arrive early at major attractions to avoid congestion, and be sure to check ahead of time if reservations are required.
Winter Visits
Select parks become winter wonderlands in the cold months — the snow-covered hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and the arches of Arches are a striking spectacle. However, winter presents its challenges, like road closures and inclement weather that make outdoor activities uncomfortable, if not inaccessible. Many parks also have limited hours in the winter, and certain amenities, like campgrounds, might be closed.
When winter weather leads to unexpected challenges like road or attraction closures, you’ll be glad to have a map on hand. Our maps can help you reroute or research additional nearby attractions.
Grand Circle Trip Itinerary Options
There is no one right way to experience this journey — that’s part of what makes it so special. No matter how much time you have, you can have a fun-filled, memorable road trip. Below are our itinerary options for several trip lengths.
1 Week Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary
If you’re short on time, you can still experience the highlights of the Grand Circle in just 1 week. Here are the drive times between some of the major parks:
Zion → Bryce → Capitol Reef → Arches → Canyonlands → Grand Canyon.
- Zion to Bryce = 1.5 hours (73 miles)
- Bryce to Capitol Reef = 2 hours (111 miles)
- Capitol Reef to Arches = 2 hours (133 miles)
- Arches to Canyonlands = 30 minutes (27 miles)
- Canyonlands to Grand Canyon = 5.5 hours (320 miles)
Plan to spend at least a few hours in each park to see the highlights.
10-Day to 2-Week Grand Circle Itinerary
With 10 to 14 days, you’ll have time to slow down and savor each destination, where you can try kayaking, rafting or a guided tour. You’ll also have time to stop by attractions between the parks, like Monument Valley and Mesa Verde.
Extended Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary
Have a few weeks to travel? The Grand Circle offers more than enough to fill an unforgettable 3- or 4-week adventure.
In addition to the Mighty 5, you can visit off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest National Park. You can explore the parks in less conventional ways, too, like on donkeys or ATVs. Plus, you can enjoy neighboring towns and cities, like Moab near Arches with its quirky downtown area, or Springdale near Zion with its art galleries and boutiques.
Driving the Grand Circle: Tips and Essentials
Here are some other important tips to keep in mind before you hit the road:
- Rental cars vs. RVs. If you’re aiming for efficiency, both fuel- and scheduling-wise, a car is your ideal mode of transportation. However, if you’d like to take your accommodations with you and have time to extend your trip, an RV can provide a unique experience.
- Gas stops. Some areas of this trip lack gas stations. Consult your map to find major towns and cities along the way, and fill up while you’re there.
- Lodging. You can find gateway towns and cities outside most parks, offering hotels and motels. For a more rugged experience, you can also camp in most parks.
- Permits. Check the NPS before visiting parks to learn about permit requirements. Some parks require permits to enter, while others only require permits or reservations to camp, park and/or hike.
A little preparation goes a long way on a trip this vast. Plan ahead, pack smart and you’ll be ready for anything the Grand Circle has in store for you.
Packing and Preparation for the Grand Circle
The right gear makes all the difference. Here’s our suggested packing list for a smooth and enjoyable trip:
- Layers. The weather can change rapidly in the parks. Even summer can bring storms, and spring and winter can bring surprisingly sunny days.
- Water/hydration. Having enough water is critical for hikers and campers. Even if you’re staying in your car, you could find long stretches without services.
- Park passes. Some parks only take cash at the gates, so check requirements before you go.
- Maps/atlas. Rand McNally maps and atlases can help you find your way in areas with little or no cell service.
- Navigation tools. If you plan on hitting the trails, a compass or GPS can guide you, even when you leave the beaten path.
With the right equipment and essentials, you can avoid unwanted surprises.
Plan Your Grand Circle Road Trip with Rand McNally
If you’ve been yearning for a bucket-worthy road trip, the Grand Circle is calling you. Its multitude of parks and other attractions provides opportunities for creating memories with friends and family. From mountain peaks to desert landscapes and winding rivers, this itinerary covers diverse nature that reveals majestic perspectives at every turn.
While digital navigation is handy, Rand McNally maps make planning easier and provide peace of mind on the road. Pack a road atlas to stay on track, even when your signal fades. If you’re still craving more open road, check out our list of the best road trips in the USA.
FAQ About the Grand Circle Road Trip
Looking to learn more about the Grand Circle? Find important information below.
How many national parks are in the Grand Circle?
There are 10 main national parks within the Grand Circle. However, the route itself isn’t an officially designated national park area; it simply connects 10 major parks and many state parks and monuments.
Is the Grand Circle worth it?
Yes, the Grand Circle is definitely worth it if you want to go on a beautiful, fun road trip in the Southwest.