Essential Tips for Visiting Utah’s Mighty Five
Utah’s Mighty Five—Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion—are the crown jewels of the American Southwest. Towering red rock formations, vast canyons, and starry desert skies draw millions of visitors each year, and it’s no wonder why. Planning your first visit will require careful planning and preparedness for the unexpected.
Here are 7 essential tips to help you make the most of your trip to Utah’s Mighty Five:
1. Book Early:
Lodging inside or near the parks fills up fast—especially during spring and fall. Campsites, park lodges, and even permits for hikes like Angels Landing in Zion can book out months in advance. Plan early to avoid the stress of last-minute scrambling. Pro tip: Some parks now require timed entry reservations or shuttle passes—check each park’s website before your trip.
2. Pack Layers
Desert temps are unpredictable. It might be 80°F in the afternoon and 40°F by sunrise. Bring layers you can easily shed or add: think moisture-wicking shirts, an insulating layer, and a windproof jacket. Bonus: Even in summer, mornings in Bryce Canyon can be surprisingly cold thanks to its higher elevation.
3. Start Early
Sunrise and sunset are your best friends. Not only will you beat the heat and the crowds, but golden hour in the desert is magic. Popular trails like Delicate Arch or The Narrows are far more enjoyable (and safer) when started early.
4. Get a National Parks Pass
If you’re visiting multiple parks—or even just two—the America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annually) pays for itself. It covers entrance fees to all national parks and federal lands. You can grab one online HERE or at the entrance station of your first park.
5. Pack Food + Drinks
Services inside the parks are limited. Bring your own snacks, meals, and lots of water. Bonus points for packing a cooler—some parks (like Capitol Reef) have beautiful picnic spots with shade trees and views for days.
6. Hydration and Sun Protection
Utah’s high desert is dry and intense. Bring at least one gallon of water per person per day when its hot, plus electrolyte packets if you’re hiking. Don’t forget sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and SPF lip balm. Trust us—sunburns and dehydration are a miserable combo. See my other Tip here on How Much Water You Should Drink.
7. Leave No Trace
This land is sacred and fragile. Stay on trail, pack out everything (yes, even fruit peels), and resist the urge to stack rocks or carve into walls. The beauty of the Southwest is wild—let’s keep it that way.
Final Thoughts:
The Mighty Five offer some of the most unforgettable landscapes in the world—but they require careful planning. Planning ahead and recreating responsibly helps protect these places for future generations of adventurers, families, and nature-lovers.
If you’re looking for route ideas, hidden gems, or Southwest town stops between the parks—check out my Best of the Southwest Guide and Map.