The Mighty Five and Dark Skies
independent TOUR
Discover Utah's five spectacular national parks - Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion on this 12-day self-drive adventure, taking in towering red-rock arches, sweeping canyons and otherworldly hoodoos along the way. Beyond the daytime scenery, Utah is home to some of the darkest, clearest skies in the world, with ranger-led stargazing at Bryce Canyon revealing the Milky Way in full glory. Starting and finishing in Salt Lake City, this itinerary combines the Mighty Five with scenic byways, state parks and the mountain town of Park City for a complete Utah experience
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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Day 12
Day 1 : UK - Salt Lake City
Arrive into Salt Lake City and make your way to your downtown hotel for a 2-night stay.
Day 2 : Salt Lake City
Spend the day exploring the city, starting with Temple Square. Take in the Clark Planetarium, Red Butte Gardens and the Natural History Museum of Utah before an overnight in Salt Lake City.
Day 3 : Green River
This morning, collect your car and head out to Antelope Island State Park to spot bison and antelope, or ride Snowbird's tram up to Hidden Peak in the Wasatch Mountains. Mid-afternoon, drive the three hours to Green River for your overnight stay.
Day 4 : Arches National Park – Moab
Explore Arches National Park's 2,000-plus stone formations, hiking out to Delicate Arch or taking the shorter walk to The Windows. Alternatively, stick to the 18-mile scenic drive, then spend the evening in Moab.
Day 5 : Canyonlands National Park
Discover Canyonlands via the Island in the Sky district, with an easy walk out to Mesa Arch. Round off the day with panoramic views at Dead Horse Point State Park, before overnighting again in Moab.
Day 6 : Torrey
Wander the hoodoos of Goblin Valley State Park, then continue via Highway 24 to Capitol Reef National Park, stopping at the Fremont Petroglyphs and Gooseneck Overlook. Overnight in Torrey.
Day 7 : Bryce Canyon
Discover Koh Rong’s natural beauty on a full-day exploration of its rainforest and coastal ecosystems. Trek through the island’s lush interior, discovering its vibrant flora and fauna and, in season, continuing to a secluded waterfall. After lunch, join professional kayak guides for an adventure through the quiet, winding mangroves, offering a unique perspective of the island’s serene waters. A full day of adventure and exploration in Koh Rong’s tropical paradise. (B, L)
Overnight: You & Me Resort (or similar)
Day 8 : Zion National Park
Catch sunrise over Bryce Canyon before descending into the hoodoos on the Queens Garden and Navajo Loop trails. This afternoon, drive the Zion-Mt Carmel Scenic Byway to Springdale for your overnight stay.
Day 9 : Zion National Park
Ride the shuttle along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and hike the Upper Emerald Pools trail, or wade into The Narrows slot canyon and then return to Springdale to overnight.
Day 10 : Park City
Enjoy a final morning in Zion, perhaps with a soak in the Zion Canyon Hot Springs, before the 4.5-hour drive north to Park City. Spend the evening strolling Historic Main Street for dinner and drinks.
Day 11 : Park City
Take your pick of mountain activities, from the alpine slide and Mountain Coaster at Park City Mountain to the scenic chairlift at Deer Valley Resort. In the evening, wander historic Main Street sampling Park City’s restaurants and bars.
Day 12 : Salt Lake City departure
Visit Utah Olympic Park before a final stop at Junction Commons for some last-minute shopping. Head on to Salt Lake City Airport to return your car before your return flight.
