3-Day Southwest USA National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: Zion, Bryce Canyon & Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
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If you’re dreaming of red rock canyons, epic hikes, and star-filled desert skies, this 3-day Southwest USA road trip from Las Vegas is pure magic. You’ll explore Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim: some of the most breathtaking landscapes in America.
From hiking iconic trails like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows to watching sunset at Bryce Amphitheater and standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon, this itinerary is perfect for couples, adventure seekers, and national park lovers.
Best Time to Go: Late September through early November (milder temps, fewer crowds)
Perfect For: Anniversary trips, hiking enthusiasts, bucket list travelers
Day 1: Las Vegas → Bryce Canyon → Zion National Park
Drive Time: ~6 hours total
Overnight Stay: Zion Lodge (inside the park)
Highlights: Scenic drive through Southern Utah, Bryce Amphitheater, Sunset at Inspiration Point
Morning: Leave Las Vegas (we stayed at our fav, The Bellagio) and head northeast toward Bryce Canyon National Park (about 4 hours). Even with just an afternoon, you can see Bryce’s top highlights:
Inspiration Point – Breathtaking at golden hour.
Bryce Amphitheater – The park’s most iconic hoodoo formations.
Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail – Short, easy walk with sweeping views.
Evening: Drive 2 more hours to Zion National Park and check into Zion Lodge. Staying inside the park means you’ll wake up surrounded by towering canyon walls and be close to all of the action… pure magic.
Day 2: Zion National Park Hikes + Desert Glamping
Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Overnight Stay: Base Camp 37° – Josey Wales Tent (glamping outside Zion)
Highlights: Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, Canyon Overlook, sunset drive along Scenic Highway 9
Zion Canyon is shuttle-only during peak season, so start early to make the most of your day.
Must-Do Zion Hikes:
Angel’s Landing – 4.1 miles RT, 3 to 6 hours. Permit required for final chained ridge. Personally, I’m not a fan of heights so we hiked up the switchbacks but stopped before the chains.
Canyon Overlook Trail – 1 mile RT, perfect sunrise or sunset view.
Observation Point – 8 miles RT, panoramic views higher than Angel’s Landing.
The Narrows (Bottom-Up) – 2.5 miles one way, wading through the Virgin River between 1,000-foot canyon walls. My favorite hike ever! Don’t forget to bring or rent the right gear!
After your hikes, take the Scenic Highway 9 (best during sunset!) and head to Base Camp 37° for a remote, starlit night in the desert.
Day 3: Grand Canyon North Rim → Return to Las Vegas
Drive Time: ~6.5 hours
Highlights: Bright Angel Point, Transept Trail, classic Vegas photo op
The Grand Canyon’s North Rim is quieter and more forested than the South Rim, with equally jaw-dropping views.
Must-See Trails:
Bright Angel Point – 0.5 miles, paved, panoramic views.
Transept Trail – 3 miles RT, forested path with canyon vistas.
After exploring, drive back to Las Vegas, stopping at the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign before catching your flight home.
What to Pack for a Southwest USA National Parks Road Trip
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
Trekking poles (great for steep or wet trails)
Layered clothing (desert temps vary)
America the Beautiful Pass (saves money on park entry fees)
Pro Tips for First-Timers
Start hikes early to avoid heat and crowds.
Always check flash flood alerts before hiking The Narrows.
Book lodging and tours (like Antelope Canyon) well in advance.
Fuel up before remote drives as gas stations are sparse.
This 3-day Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Canyon road trip is the ultimate Southwest adventure, packed with jaw-dropping viewpoints, challenging hikes, and unforgettable desert nights. Whether you’re tackling the chains of Angel’s Landing, wandering among Bryce’s hoodoos, or standing on the Grand Canyon’s rim for the first time, these landscapes will stay with you forever.
