National Parks Highway
SELF DRIVE TOUR
SCOTTSDALE | PETRIFIED FOREST GRAND CANYON | ZION | BRYCE CANYON CAPITOL REEF | ARCHES CANYONLANDS | PARK CITY | JACKSON GRAND TETON | YELLOWSTONE | HELENA WHITEFISH | GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
Travel from the Sonoran Desert to the Northern Rockies, crossing multiple ecosystems and landscapes taking in some of America’s most iconic sights. Route 89, often called the National Parks Highway, provides a continuous drive connecting canyons, alpine peaks and prairies. On this itinerary, you will take in 10 of America’s magnificent National Parks, with scenic byways and western hospitality in abundance.
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 5-6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10-11
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Day 12
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Day 13
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Day 14
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Day 15-16
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Day 17
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Day 18-19
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Day 20
Day 1 : UK - Phoenix/Scottsdale arrival
Arrive in Phoenix and transfer independently to Scottsdale for a 2-night stay. You may wish to collect your car on arrival instead.
Day 2 : Scottsdale
Soak in Scottsdale’s desert charm today. From shopping, dining, luxury resorts and outdoor adventure, there is plenty to enjoy.
Day 3 : Holbrook – Petrified Forest (189 miles)
Collect your rental car at Phoenix Airport today and drive through the desert to Holbrook. This Route 66 town lies just outside Petrified Forest National Park with some of the Southwest’s most unique landscapes. Explore some quirky roadside Americana before heading into the park
Day 4 : Grand Canyon (177 miles)
As national parks go, the Grand Canyon needs little introduction. You may choose to explore on foot or opt for a helicopter tour of this natural marvel.
Day 5-6 : Springdale – Zion National Park (254 miles)
Today you’ll enter Utah, but you may wish to make a stop at Lake Powell on the way. Arrive in Springdale, nestled at the base of towering red cliffs at the gateway to Zion National Park. Spend 2 nights here to explore the world-famous trails of the park including The Narrows. Leave your car behind and take the park shuttle from the town (season dependent).
Day 7 : Bryce Canyon – Torrey (156 miles)
Leave Springdale behind as you drive Scenic Byway 12, connecting Bryce Canyon and Torrey. Stop at Bryce Canyon to do a short hike on the Navajo Loop Trail, overlooking the hoodoos and spires. After some more photo stops passing GrandStaircase Escalante Monument, arrive in Torrey.
Day 8 : Torrey – Capitol Reef National Park
Today is a full day for you to explore Capitol Reef. A hidden gem of dramatic slot canyons and natural bridges, make sure to stop at historic pioneer settlement Fruita, for a taste of the region’s history.
Day 9 : Moab (156 miles)
Arrive in Moab today, the perfect base to explore both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Check in for a 3-night stay and explore the eclectic shops and restaurants downtown.
Day 10-11 : Arches & Canyonlands
Over the next two days, these two parks will provide you with spectacular views of iconic arches, towering spires and canyons. Explore the trails through the parks to appreciate the desert landscapes
Day 12 : Salt Lake City (234 miles)
Stay in Salt Lake City for the night, home to an impressive pioneering history and vibrant food, drink and arts scene.
Day 13 : Jackson (277 miles)
As the open countryside changes to mountain scenery on your drive today, you will arrive in Jackson. The gateway to Wyoming’s rugged beauty, the town is your base for 2 nights.
Day 14 : Grand Teton National Park
Escape to the mountains today as you drive through Grand Teton. Hike a trail, enjoy a lakeside picnic and look for wildlife.
Day 15-16 : Yellowstone National Park (98 miles)
Wind your way north today to Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Expect dramatic alpine peaks and pristine lakes, as well as sightings of bison and elk along the route. Stay in one of the park’s lodges to ensure you cover plenty of ground during your 2 nights here.
Day 17 : Helena (208 miles)
Wind your way north today to Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Expect dramatic alpine peaks and pristine lakes, as well as sightings of bison and elk along the route. Stay in one of the park’s lodges to ensure you cover plenty of ground during your 2 nights here.
Day 18-19 : Whitefish (209 miles)
Wind your way north today to Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Expect dramatic alpine peaks and pristine lakes, as well as sightings of bison and elk along the route. Stay in one of the park’s lodges to ensure you cover plenty of ground during your 2 nights here.
Day 20 : Kalispell departure (12 miles)
Return your car at Kalispell Airport today, in time for your departing flight.
