A Week Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of the American Southwest

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and vibrant city life, promising a memorable journey through the American Southwest.

Day 1: Arrival in Flagstaff

For this itinerary, I recommend flying into Flagstaff for a shorter drive to Grand Canyon. Upon landing in Flagstaff, get a car rental and check into your accommodation for a good night’s rest, gearing up for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Flagstaff to Grand Canyon

Morning:

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Grand Canyon. The first stop is the Visitor Center and iconic Mather Point, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Then, hop onto the orange shuttle to South Kaibab Trail, hiking the picturesque 1.7-mile trail to Ooh Aah Point.

Afternoon:

Post-hike, drive to the Desert View Watchtower, an architectural marvel with equally stunning vistas. You can bring some sandwiches and snacks for lunch with a view.

There’s still snow/ice on the trail in early April.

Evening:

To cap off the day, hike along the Rim Trail, catching the Hopi, Mohave, and Pima Points via the Hermits Rest red shuttle, just in time for a mesmerizing sunset.

Day 3: Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon

It will be a long drive today, around 6 to 7 hours, to Bryce Canyon. En route, make a detour stop for the awe-inspiring Horseshoe Bend in Glen Canyon Park. Stretch your legs on a short 1.5-mile round trip trail leading to a jaw-dropping overlook.

Make sure to have enough daytime light before you reach the accommodation near Bryce Canyon for the night.

Day 4: Exploring Bryce Canyon Park

Morning:

Explore the wonders of Bryce Canyon Park, beginning with the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop Trail. It takes about 2 to 3 hours and combines the two trails:
- Queen’s Garden Loop: a 1.5 mile hike through unique formations, named Queen Victoria, Gulliver’s Castle and the Queen’s Castle.
- Navajo Loop: a strenuous 2.2-mile loop from Sunset Point that changes in elevation.

Afternoon:

Go on an 18-mile scenic drive to Rainbow Point and Natural Bridge.

Evening:

Enjoy the nice stroll along the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Rim Trail, overlooking the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater and Thor’s Hammer rock formation. Head back to enjoy a hearty dinner and a good night rest.

Day 5: Bryce Canyon to Zion Park

Morning:

Set out on a 2 to 2.5-hour drive to Zion Park. The first hike is the Canyon Overlook Trail, a perfect introduction to Zion’s unique landscapes. It’s one mile in length and offers breathtaking view of the open canyon.
For the best view of the park, consider hiking the strenuous Angel’s Landing trail. A 2.5 mile climb takes visitors up to see dramatic cross-canyon views and steep 1,500 foot drops.

Tips: Park in Springdale and take a town shuttle to Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Inside the park, take the free park shuttle to trailheads to hikes. Always check the current conditions and latest information on the NPS website and shuttle system.

Afternoon:

After lunch, get on the shuttle to go to the Riverside Walk leading to the Narrows. This trail is an easy 2-mile stroll on a paved path that begins at Zion Canyon, follows a section of the Virgin River all the way up to the start of The Narrows.
Conclude the day with another hike on the tranquil Emerald Pools Trail. There are different sections to the trail: lower, middle and upper emerald pools.

Evening:

Spend the night in Springdale.

Day 6: Zion to Las Vegas

Morning:

It’s another day of hiking adventures! Start with the Watchman Trail. It’s 3 miles in length, and a strenuous uphill climb but offers more panoramic views of the valley below. This trail doesn’t have much shade so embark on this hike early in the morning.

Afternoon:

Later, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Pa’rus Trail. It’s an easy 3.5 mile paved trail that starts near the South Campground and follows the river for part of the way and offers beautiful views up to the soaring mountains known as The Watchman, Bridge Mountain, West Temple, and Bee Hive. Stop at the Junction Bridge for a picturesque view.

Late Afternoon:

Time to say goodbye to Zion Park and start on the last scenic drive of the trip to reach the vibrant city of Las Vegas.

Evening:

Kick off the Vegas adventure with some drinks and enjoy the ambience on The Strip. It’s lined with famous hotels and casinos and you can walk along the Blvd or catch one of the fantastic shows.
Don’t forget to check out the incredible Fountains of Bellagio.

Day 7: Morning in Vegas and Departure

Make the most of the final morning in Vegas and soak in the city’s unique atmosphere one last time. Head to the airport for your flight home, cherishing the memories of your Southwest adventure.