When you have opted for a sustainable lifestyle, there’s no vacation – even on vacation. In other words, you cannot stop being considerate to the environment, and communities around you just because you are traveling. You cannot stuff and depend on plastics because it’s break time. It might be a break from your work, mundane lifestyle, but there shouldn’t be a break from being environmentally conscious.
I mean think about it, it’s not just you who’s traveling, but there are plenty of tourists, so imagine the waste and wreckage everyone will create together when not traveling responsibly.
Ergo, if you are living a sustainable lifestyle already – Kudos to you! You are doing an amazing thing. But don’t you forget sustainable travel. You have to be a responsible tourist – besides being a responsible citizen. This article will help you do just that. So, keep reading.
Responsible tourism – amazing tips for sustainable travel
1. Carefully plan your itinerary
Trust me, if you want your trip to be enjoyable and sustainable at the same time, picking places to visit would make all the difference. Try to visit less crowded places. Doing so will be beneficial for their economy. Not to mention, crowded places cannot provide you peace as isolated places would – that’s the reason why you are taking the trip in the first place, isn’t it? Try to look at places locals tend to visit when you get to your vacation if you are like me and want to play things by ear. If it’s a local recommendation, there’s less of a chance tourists will be flooding the place.
2. Opt for sustainable transport
Transportation is a trivial factor when it comes to the environment. Going for non-eco-friendly travel would not only increase pollution but may also use up more fuel. Having said that, try to avoid road trips via personal vehicles – go for alternatives that go easy on the resources; such as buses, trains, and airplanes. Another opportunity to see and take routes you wouldn’t normally take or think to take when hiring a vehicle.
3. Take your own mugs and bottles
You wouldn’t want to stop on your way to buy plastic packaged drinking bottles, right? So, the solution here is obvious – take your own mugs and bottles. Apart from environmental benefits, don’t forget the monetary benefits it carries. You can also ensure you have something to drink aways, instead of having to wait until you make a stop. It’s super important to always have water with you in Arizona because the summer heat is unforgiving. A reusable water bottle like my favorite Hydroflask is the best option as it keeps cool things cool, and warm things warm, even in the heat!
4. Take your own toiletries
Almost every hotel provides toiletries – from creams to face wash to everything. Although you must be tempted to use them, it is not a good idea from the point of sustainability. Using such items would increase their demand, which would lead to more consumption of resources. Thus, it would be better if you take your own toiletries and use them. If you have sensitive skin or hair, you probably have a special cream or lotion which makes your skin easier to manage than introducing something new to your skin and risk it causing issues. When we travel, we make sure to use our products from home in a travel sized container, and take them with us so we can use what our skin and hair is used to and keep on track.
5. Conserve resources – even when you are in a hotel
Even though you would be paying for these services, using them all the time even when there is not a need would only create more wastage. Remember your goal, and try to conserve resources. Many places on islands require a room key to be placed in a slot to turn on electricity, so it reminds you to conserve. However, that’s not everywhere, so being mindful of conservation is the best idea.
Here are a few tips.
You can choose to ventilate in place of using air-conditioners.
Switch off electrical appliances when you go out.
Reduce your shower times.
Stay in nature as much as you can
Don’t use paper napkins. Use clothe ones or your own handkerchief.
6. Don’t use airplane supplies
Remember the headphones and the plastic cutlery? Airplanes are not at all sustainable when it comes to the resources they provide you. These items are made from cheap quality plastic – it’s better to avoid using them. For God-knows-what happens to the used ones – they might keep it, or throw it away. If it’s the latter, then it only means one thing – Plastic waste. We know how we feel about that, don’t we?
7. Eat, stay and shop locally
Whether it is for shopping, resting, or eating, always make a wiser choice. Do not go for international shops, hotels, and restaurants that are franchised, or are a part of large chains. The profits go out of the country – so for the benefit of the country’s economy and communities, always choose local. When you shop and eat and stay local, you oftentimes get to experience your travel as if you lived there locally. You might save some money, but you will also be getting the best immersive experience like those who live there daily.
8. Limit snacking
Road trips cannot go without dozens of chips, beers, drinks, and snacks – all of them that have plastic packaging. Thus, to avoid all of it, limit your snacking. If it helps, always eat out at the stopovers. Moreover, if you happen to struggle with hunger – make sandwiches and other snacks for your journey – but don’t rely on plastic packaged foods.
9. Ask for Green Certifications
When choosing a hotel, be mindful of what you choose. It’s better to choose hotels that operate in eco-friendly and sustainable habits. Thus, go for hotels that have Green Certifications from authentic bodies.
Apart from that, enquire the following.
The eco-friendly services and sustainability initiatives they provide such as solar power, rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, and low-flow toilets.
Recycling programs.
If they provide plastic bottles to customers. One must go for glass bottles to be sustainable.
In case, if they don’t have either of the mentioned services, encourage them to start.
10. Lastly, be on your best behavior (environmentally friendly I mean)
Little things matter, such as these.
Walk, use public transportation, or go biking but avoid using cars to save on fuel.
Return brochures, and pamphlets for them to be reused.
If you still use toiletries, take the leftovers with you. Don’t let the hotel throw them away.
Bring bags to collect your trash.
Do not engage in any activity that exploits wildlife – such as camel and elephant riding.
That’s all folks; my work is done here but yours start. Follow these tips for your next eco-friendly travel, and let me know how they work out for you in the comments later.
Longing for a road trip through the desert? If you’re planning a getaway to the Southwest, the best way to get to know the region is by checking out some of the most enthralling sites in the area, and many of those happen to be set in both Utah and Arizona.
Planning a road trip across the desert can be quite overwhelming because of the huge number of possibilities, but don’t worry, here’s the perfect Utah & Arizona itinerary created with first-timers in mind.
From Bryce Canyon’s unique hoodoos to the amazing vistas of Canyonlands National Park, here’s the perfect Utah & Arizona road trip even for those who don’t have much time!
The Ultimate Arizona & Utah Roadtrip Itinerary for Desert Lovers
Day 1: Zion National Park
Begin the day as early as possible by driving to Zion National Park to embark on the road trip of a lifetime.
Once there, get acquainted with the area by visiting the Zion Human History Museum, where you’ll learn about the indigenous Paiute who once inhabited the place. Some of the most famous rock formations of Zion are located right outside the museum (including Watchman and the Towers of the Virgin), so you’ll get to free two birds with one key!
Next, put on your hiking shoes and start exploring the park on foot. Many trails here are short, gentle, and very alluring, so you can cross off several hikes off your list in a few hours.
If you’ve still got some energy after hiking, hop on your car and drive to Kolob Canyon, the lesser-visited part of the park and the ideal place to catch a sunset. For the ultimate spot to watch the sun go down, hike Timber Creek Overlook at Kolob View Point, where you’ll get to admire 360-degree views of the nearby rock formations and even some glimpses of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon!
Days 2 and 3: Bryce Canyon National Park
Because it is one of the smallest national parks in the USA, one day and a half is more than enough to catch the highlights of Bryce Canyon National Park. Do start your first day as early as possible to get the most out of it.
Red rock hoodoos are the stars of Bryce Canyon, so start the day by packing a lunch and driving along the park’s scenic road (Highway 12). During the drive, stop by at some of the park’s most scenic overlooks to get a wildly picturesque introduction to some of the best vistas at Bryce Canyon.
Come afternoon, pick one of the many short hiking trails if you’re in the mood to get to know the park a little better. For an epic sunset, head to Sunset Point, where you’ll get to see the sun go down while overlooking the striking amphitheater of red rock hoodoos!
Day 3 will be all about getting closer and more personal with Bryce Canyon. As mentioned before, hoodoos are what make Bryce Canyon’s landscape so unique, and there’s really no better way to admire them than braving the Queen’s Garden to Navajo Loop and Wall Street trail. As you make your way through otherworldly-looking rocky tunnels and pine forests, you’ll get access to the best views of the park’s iconic sandstone hoodoos that will make you feel as though you’re walking on another planet!
In the evening, leave Bryce Canyon and drive to Capitol Reef to get a good night’s sleep and prepare for another full day of desert goodness.
Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park
Get the most out of your visit to Capitol Reef National Park by hiking to Hickman Bridge, a classic, 2-mile round trip trail that will have you stumbling across some of the most iconic sights in the park. When you’re done hiking, hop back in your car and drive down Highway 24 to check out the park’s famous petroglyph panel, which will give you a good insight into the Capitol Reef’s indigenous heritage.
Next, drive along the 8-mile long scenic road, where you’ll get to check out some of the most iconic sights of Capitol Reef. If you’ve still got time and energy after the drive, try the hike to Cassidy Arch, one of the most thrilling trails and probably the most iconic photo spot in the whole park!
Day 5: Arches National Park
Although it is very small, Arches National Park isn’t short of incredible things to see and do, so get ready for another day of desert adventures!
Start the day by checking out Delicate Arch, which is undoubtedly the most iconic sight in Utah (actually, it’s the arch you see on Utah’s license plates!). Next, get ready for some desert hiking by following the Landscape Arch trail, the largest natural arch in the USA and an absolute must.
When you’re through exploring on foot, jump on your car and drive down the Arches Scenic Drive, which offers a variety of incredible viewpoints where you can revel in the sweeping desert views.
For a stunning sunset, hike the Double Arch trail to check out yet another arch before finishing at The Windows to say goodbye to another amazing day in your road trip!
Days 6 & 7: Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky and The Needles)
Canyonlands National Park is so huge that you could keep going back and never get to do the same thing twice. For first-timers, though, the best way to go about it is taking off at the easier-to-explore Island in the Sky section of the park to get to see some of the most famous landmarks of the park.
Rise and shine early and hike up to the iconic Mesa Arch, where you’ll get to witness one of the most stunning sunrises of your life. Then, you can take on a few of the hikes (recommended ones are Gooseberry Canyon, Grand View Point Trail, and Upheaval Dome).
To top off your day, head over to Green River Viewpoint to catch an epic sunset with sweeping views of the canyons, with the sun illuminating the canyon walls and making the hues of red on the rocks jump to life.
The next day, you can either explore more of Island in the Sky or venture deeper into Canyonlands by hitting The Needles, which offers extensive vistas of the canyons and off-the-road, more challenging hikes, and backpacking opportunities.
Day 8 & 9: Grand Canyon National Park
Cap off an unforgettable desert road trip by challenging your desert hiking skills on the Bright Angel Trail, a 9.5 mile-long trail that stretches from the rim of the Grand Canyon all the way down to the Colorado River at the bottom. The trail itself begins close to Bright Angel Lodge and ends at Phantom Ranch, which is the only place other than camping where you can sleep inside the canyon before heading out to the trailhead in the morning.
I hope this itinerary helped you plan the perfect Arizona + Utah road trip! Even though both states are king when it comes to incredible sights and nature, these destinations are the perfect stops to make if it’s your first time traveling through the area to get a pretty good introduction to the best of the desert in both states!
Do you only have a week for a Southwest road trip? Worry not! Even though the Southwest is enormous and has tons of amazing sights and things to do, a week is enough to get a pretty good feel of some of the best that it offers if you’re able to maximize your time and don’t mind a bit of a challenge. If you’re currently struggling to put together a perfect one-week itinerary through the Southwest, here’s the ultimate one-week itinerary that will get you in touch with the enchanting Southwest of the USA, taking you from the Mars-like landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands in Utah to the historical jewel of Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado.
The Ultimate One-Week Itinerary through the Southwest USA
Day 1 and Day 2: Moab
Stunning red rock formations that look like they belong on Mars, gorgeous canyons with sweeping vistas, and sandstone spires that pierce the skies are only a few of the highlights this enchanting region of Utah has to offer. Although a whole week can be devoted to visiting the Moab region, the main sights can be seen in two days in both Canyonlands National Park and Arches National.
Begin your road trip by checking out the iconic Delicate Arch, one of the most famous landmarks in the state (so much that it’s depicted on their license plates!). Next, get a pretty good feel of what hiking in the desert is like by doing the Landscape Arch trail, which leads to the largest natural arch in the USA.
Hop back in your car and drive down the Arches Scenic Ride, which will have you taking some of the best viewpoints in the park in no time. Put your trail shoes back on and prepare for an epic sunset by hiking the Double Arch trail and finishing at the Windows, where you can find a cozy spot to watch the sun go down and think back on the first day of your road trip!
Day 2 will be about visiting the main highlights of the Island in the Sky district at Canyonlands. Even though Canyonlands is huge, one day is enough to see some of the best it has to offer if you focus your attention on this district. The reason for that is that it boasts the most iconic sights at the park while also offering relatively short and easy trails, which means you can cover a ton in just a few hours.
To start an unforgettable day, set an early alarm and hike up to the emblematic Mesa Arch for an epic sunrise you won’t soon forget.
Afterward, pick a few hiking trails to follow (don’t worry, Island in the Sky’s trails are pretty short and gentle). A few must-do hikes include the Delicate Arch trail as well as the Landscape Arch trail, where you’ll get to see the longest natural arch in the United States.
For a stunning sunset with sweeping views of the canyons, you can head to Green River Viewpoint, where the sun shines over the walls of the canyons and makes the rocks come alive with color.
Day 3: Mesa Verde National Park
The third day is about driving to Colorado to visit one of the most intricate areas of the Southwest! Nestled deep in the cliffs, ruins of complex structures and dwellings built way back by ancestral Puebloans are today open to visitors.
Nobody quite knows why this ancestral society collapsed, but you’re welcome to come up with a theory or two while walking through the site!
Days 4 and 5: Grand Canyon National Park
No Southwest itinerary would be complete without a visit to Grand Canyon National Park.
Day Four will be for driving your way from Mesa Verde to Grand Canyon (5-6 hours), so take things slowly today. You should have enough time to drive a section of the viewpoints and might even be able to fit in a short hike below the rim. A top one here is the trail that leads to Ooh Aah Point, which is only a 1.8-mile round trip and provides sweeping vistas of the canyon.
On day 5, you can challenge your desert hiking skills by braving the Bright Angel Trail, a 9.5-mile hike that will have you going past some of the most alluring views of the Grand Canyon. Although doing the complete hike out and back in a day is not recommended, there are many milestones where you can turn around and get back to the trailhead. It’s completely up to you and your skill level when to get back. As a tip, bring plenty of water (that means more than you think you’ll need).
Day 6: Zion National Park
Another day spent hiking in the desert in search of awe-inspiring views? Yes, please!
Before taking on the trails, be sure to visit the Zion Human History Museum, where you’ll learn about the indigenous Pauite people who once inhabited the region. Once you’re acquainted with Zion’s past, set off to conquer a few more desert trails. A lot of the trails in Zion are short, relatively easy, and absolutely stunning, so you can do several of them in just a few hours.
A few of the must to hikes include Emerald Pools, Canyon Overlook (perfect for families), and The Narrows, which will take you through canyon walls and wading through the river. Note that The Narrows hike is 16-miles long and not exactly doable in just a day, but you can turn back any time in order to maximize your time at Zion!
Next up, drive to Kolob Canyon, which is the less visited part of Zion. Park your car and hike Timber Creek Overlook at Kolob View Point, where you’ll get a 360-degree vista of the landscape (on clear days, you might even catch glimpses of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim!)
Day 7: Valley of Fire State Park
Finish an action-packed itinerary with a visit to Valley of Fire State Park, a place that will transport you into a world of epic red Aztec sandstone outcrops, petrified trees, ancient petroglyphs, and landscapes colored in all shades of red, orange, and pink.
While at Fire State, gear up for another day of hiking in search of out-of-this-planet landscapes. Two must-do hikes are Fire of Wave and Rainbow Vista trails, both of which are relatively easy to follow and provide some of the most incredible views in the park.
If you prefer to relax on your last day, though, you can opt to explore Valley of Fire from the comfort of your car by taking Mouse’s Tank Road, which will have you going past some of the most breath-taking viewpoints you can calmly gaze at while bidding goodbye to the desert!
I hope this itinerary helped you plan a perfect one-week in the Southwest! Even though there’s a humongous array of incredible things to do in this part of the United States, these 4 destinations are a great place to get started exploring the best it has to offer.
Have you ever visited the Southwest? What are some other incredible places everyone’s got to visit at least once in their life? Let me know all about them in the comment section below!
As the most populated island in Hawaii and the most visited one of them all, Oahu is usually the first island most first-timers in the state visit. Boasting a vast shoreline, volcanoes, and idyllic forests, there’s plenty to do in Oahu to keep you entertained no matter how long you’re visiting.
With so many visitors flocking to the island, it’s easy to imagine that escaping the crowds in Oahu is not an easy feat. But don’t despair if you’re the type of traveler who prefers to avoid tourist hotspots. With a little effort, you can visit some really sweet hidden gems here!
Hidden Gems in Hawaii You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Kaena Point State Park
Lying placidly at the northwestern most tip of the island, Kaena Point State Park is a beach park not many people know exists.
Although Kaena’s is not a great place for swimming because of the strength of the waves here, hiking here is absolutely splendid. A 2.7 mile-long trail runs along the shore and up some steep rocks, which pretty much guarantees stunning views every step of the way. Some of the highlights you’ll get to appreciate are the volcanic coast, tide pools, caves, and even some natural rock arches. If you’re lucky, you might even see dolphins. But you have to get there early in the morning!
Kawela Bay
If you don’t exactly love crowds, Kawela Beach is just right for you because very few people visit this off-the-beaten-path gem in Oahu! This beautiful beach has trees lining the entire shoreline, which makes for a very unique scenario. Kawela may just be one of the biggest hidden gems in all of Hawaii. Especially when it comes to gorgeous beaches.
Moreover, Kawela’s waves are very calm most of the time. Making it a great Oahu beach to visit if you’re traveling with kids.
Goat Island
Located a mere 720 feet from Malaekahana State Recreation Area, Mokuʻauia Island, or Goat Island as it’s more commonly called by the locals, is a flat islet in Laie Bay.
What makes it very special is the fact that it’s made of lithified dunes, a truly unique sight. There are no goats on Goat Island, though. But there are lots of seabirds, as they’ve made it their nesting point!
Pro tip: This is a protected seabird sanctuary. So it’s important to stay away from the center of the island, where the seabirds lay their eggs. But you can still see them at a distance.
Goat Island is close enough to the beach that you can swim over. Wading your way over is not recommended at all. Because you can cut yourself with the coral reef underneath, damaging it in the process too. If you’re not too fond of the idea of swimming over, you can paddle on a bodyboard or surfboard!
Mokuauia Island boasts three different beaches. But your best bet is the one located on the left side of the islet because this beach is protected from strong waves by cliffs, which make it perfect for floating in very calm waters with gorgeous views of Oahu’s mountains in the background.
Kahuku Farms
If you love organic dining and want to live a truly unique experience in Oahu, go to Kahuku Farms, where you can tour the estate and sample fresh fruits directly from the vine!
What began as a small roadside shop a long time ago has turned into a great place to visit. After strolling through the farm and eating farm-to-table-goodies, you can also shop for some natural beauty and self-care products!
Byodo-In Temple
Oahu has its very own small replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan. This version was built in Kahaluu as a homage to the Japanese people who inhabited Hawaii for over 100 years. As a non-practicing Buddhist temple, it is open to the public and visitors are welcome. So you can feel free to walk around and take pictures.
Mermaid Cove
Mermaid Cove is probably one of the biggest hidden gems in Oahu, to the point that there are no tours for visitors available to this off-the-beaten-track location. You’ll have no problem getting there. Though, if you’re willing to walk a bit and find your way through some tunnels. Just head to Nanakuli Beach Park and you’ll be sure to find it.
The magical thing about Mermaid Cove is that its caverns are partly underwater. Creating a stunning effect when sunlight is reflected on its walls. Seeing this unique light spectacle is a reward well worth the effort of getting there.
Electric Beach
Electric Beach is certainly an unusual name. But there is a logical explanation for it. A power plant was built across the street from this location so that just about explains it.
What makes this beach so delightful, though, is the fact that the warm water that is thrown from the plant into the ocean attracts marine life like a magnet! Needless to say, snorkeling here is an almost otherworldly experience. Make sure to go close to the water pipe because that’s where tons of animals like to hang out.
China Walls
China Walls is a very particular formation of rocks jutting into the ocean. Which produces an alluring view as the ocean waves crash against the rocky walls. Here, you can also enjoy splendid views of Oahu’s volcanic side, making it a real gem worth visiting if you love amazing vistas.
Have you ever visited any of these hidden gems on Oahu or know of others? If you’ve got any other exciting places to visit on the island that didn’t make it to this post, let me know all about them in the comment section below!
We all love to travel – to be away from the stressful life, toxic people; and stay in the most peaceful state of mind. There are a million reasons I can list down, but what can I say we are running against the clock, so I’ll stick to one.
We love traveling, most importantly because we take with us a lot of memories of the places we visited, and the moments we spent. You might as well agree – glad you do. But take a moment and wonder, what we leave behind?
Frankly speaking, nothing but damage and ignorance. Environmentally speaking, if you count on the waste we generate for the environment and the resources we use in abundance as if we would never run out of them, it’s just too much to ignore. Culturally speaking, we hand in our neglect to the communities’ services and culture.
So, if you haven’t had a chance to think this through, but you do agree, here are some tips you can follow to become a more responsible traveler.
Tips for being a more responsible traveler
1. Respect Locals
You might have paid for the services and experience you are getting, but it’s no reason to feel that you’re entitled or you’re doing them a favor. If you feel that way, then it is a very toxic approach, and you need to change that.
Nevertheless, the service providers, locals, and the culture deserve your respect. This includes being on your best behavior that doesn’t cause inconvenience to them. For instance, you cannot take photos of locals without their approval. At the same time, you cannot complain about the food to the locals who serve you with love and admiration. Everybody’s human and humans make mistakes. It’s okay. You don’t have to be hard on them.
2. Respect the culture
With different cultures as yours, come different mindsets. You might not be on the same page with the other culture, but it doesn’t mean you show disrespect or voice out your opinion in front of them. You are the guest, and you have to live by the rules.
For instance, when you are in a temple, or any other religious place, follow the culture or abide by the simple rules. Be mindful of your tone, language, and dress-up. Do it to respect the culture, even if you have different beliefs.
3. Enjoy cultural experiences
The locals love it when you devote your time and energy to have a taste of their culture. They give it all to provide a memorable, exotic, and authentic cultural experience.
Thus, for any local, it feels good to see that you are enjoying it. It’s a moment of pride for them
Thus, to be a responsible citizen, all you have to do is embrace their culture for as long as you are there. This is for international as well as domestic travel. Living in a heavy tourist state and area like Arizona, we have a vast local culture that is influenced by Native Americans as well as people who have moved here from all over the country to live and provide for those visiting. This can include little things like,
Shopping for cultural souvenirs.
Going in for cultural experiences like joining a local tour, trying out traditions.
Talk politely and lovingly to locals. Pass a smile, and words of encouragement and appreciation.
Learn their language.
Respect their dress codes.
Bargain respectfully when you are shopping from locals.
4. Avail local services
The big business and commerce tycoons don’t care if you enjoy their products and services. But locals do. Call it their modesty or humbleness but they don’t see you as outsiders, they see you as their own – which reflects in their services.
Ergo, it’s always wiser to opt for local services – this includes choosing local markets over malls, eating out at local restaurants instead of Burger King and McDonald’s. Not only it brings them joy but it also helps their economy and their lifestyle.
The cherry on the cake is, it’s environmentally friendly as well. You reduce the carbon footprint by opting out of services that heavily consume and exploit resources.
5. Conserve resources
No one likes a heavy electricity bill, locals don’t either. Not to mention, resources are scarce, no matter which part of the world’s resources you use. We have to protect them for the sake of mankind, together.
Here are a few tips that can help
Don’t exploit your hotel’s resources – this includes electricity and as little things as paper napkins and toilet paper.
Watch your step – don’t step on little plants and flowers.
Walk or use public transport as much as you can.
Don’t ask for plastic bottles, paper, or plastic bags, carry your own.
6. Give out tips, provide financial help
Not everybody has money. You might be fortunate enough, but the locals or the people who serve you might not be. They might share a smile with you, but who knows if they’re struggling to make their ends meet.
Having said that, being generous with tips can help them tremendously. If you think you can do more, you can even find local ethnicities, or foundations to donate a generous amount to them. Who knows if your kindness can make someone’s life better?
Lastly, remember – You don’t owe anything to anybody, but you owe the environment, culture, and most importantly, yourself to become a responsible traveler.
Fascinating red rock formations, utterly dramatic desert landscapes, unparalleled hiking trails, and vistas that look straight out of this world are just a few staples of a road trip through Utah.
If you’re currently in the planning stages of your Utah itinerary, chances are you’re feeling a tad bit overwhelmed with options. To help you out a little, we decided to craft a list of the absolute best destinations that need to be on your bucket list while road tripping around Utah’s desert magic!
The Ultimate Utah Road Trip for Some Serious Desert Magic
Zion National Park
Sandstone cliffs that come in all shades of color, congregations of desert wildlife you never even knew existed, and vistas that will take your breath away are what make Zion National Park a must in any Utah itinerary.
The best part? Zion’s got a little something for everyone. Whether you’re keen to hit a few hiking trails, try your hand at rock climbing, or test out your mountain biking skills, there are plenty of ways to explore Zion’s alluring terrain.
A surefire way to see some of the best this stunning park has to offer is by hiking The Narrows. It’s a 16-mile trail that will have you walking, hiking, and wading your way through a narrow canyon of red rock walls. Another must-do hike in Zion is Angel’s Landing. Which is a little shorter than The Narrows and will have you finishing the adventure at one of Zion’s most iconic views.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon’s allure lies in the fact that it’s home to the largest collection of hoodoos in the world. Hoodoos are large spires of rock that protrude from the ground. And seeing hundreds of them gathered together at Bryce Canyon’s magnificent amphitheater is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
Thanks to its relatively small size, Bryce Canyon can easily be explored in a day or two. One of the best ways to see its highlights is by driving down the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive. Which cuts right across the park and provides viewpoints to some of the main attractions without having to break a sweat.
If you’re up for a challenge, though, put your hiking shoes on and brave the Queen’s Garden Trail. Which will have you making your way through tremendous views of hoodoos down below as well as staggering natural archways you can walk under. Another must-do hike for those who would rather avoid the crowds is the Fairy Land Trail. This will give you an epic overview of the entire canyon and killer views of hoodoos.
Monument Valley
Being one of America’s most iconic landmarks, Monument Valley is known for its stunning sandstone buttes and maze-like hiking trails. Moreover, the entire area surrounding it brims with Old West and Native American history. Which adds a ton of value to its emblematic beauty.
Tip: Monument Valley is a wonderful spot to try your hand at horse riding! Whether you love the experience or not, you’re guaranteed to feel as though you’re living inside an Old West film!
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef is often overshadowed by Utah’s more popular national parks. But we highly recommend making time for it in your Utah itinerary. Especially if you’re into more adventurous experiences like backcountry hiking and mountaineering. If you’re not super keen on getting sweaty, though, there are scenic roads that cover all sections of the park. So there’s no excuse not to pay this gem of a national park a visit to check out its highlights!
What makes Capitol Reef so special is the fact that it’s home to the Waterpocket Fold, a “wrinkle” on the ground’s surface that extends almost 100 miles into the desert. Which creates a dramatically beautiful landscape of canyons, bridges, arches, and rugged cliffs. As if that weren’t enough, the park is also home to ancient petroglyphs, native history like no other. And a vast array of wildlife you wouldn’t expect to see in the desert.
Ever wondered what starring in a Western movie would feel like? Visiting Dead Horse Point will bring you pretty close to that feeling. In fact, Thelma and Louise’s final scene was filmed here. Which should be enough to convince you to visit this impressive State Park in Moab!
Although usually overlooked by travelers to Moab, Dead Horse Point is a collection of dramatic desert views and epic hiking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also throw in a day spent exploring caves or an afternoon trying your hand at horse riding.
Moreover, this is a great spot to experience what sleeping in the desert is like. Especially if you’ve always dreamed of sleeping in an authentic yurt!
Arches National Park
Natural red rock arches and exceptionally beautiful desert vistas are the staples of Arches National Park. With over 2000 natural arches and an array of strange rock formations to see, this mesmerizing desert oasis is a must on your Utah road trip.
Whether you’re feeling in the mood for hiking in the desert (make sure to do the Landscape and Double Arch trails!) or would much prefer to see the highlights from the comfort of your car, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Arches regardless of your travel style. If you’re feeling up for a serious adventure, make sure to snag a spot to hike Fiery Furnace, which is a maze of narrow passageways and towering sandstone walls that will leave you awe-struck.
Canyonlands National Park
Sweeping views of canyons, whacky-looking red rock formations lining the sky, and birds-eye views of the desert are just a few of the things that make Canyonlands National Park such a unique place to see.
Due to the fact that Canyonlands is absolutely humongous, you could actually focus your entire Utah trip just on it and still not get to see even half of the things it has to offer. So make sure you plan at least a few days to explore the main highlights!
The national park is divided into three sections: Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze. If you don’t have much time or aren’t very experienced with hiking under rough conditions, Island in the Sky is the best place for you to get an introduction to Canyonlands. Because the trails here are relatively short and easy to follow.
If you’re feeling up for a backcountry adventure, though, head to The Needles for some more challenging hikes that you’ll get pretty much all to yourself. If you’re the intrepid type, The Maze is the ultimate adventure for you. But do make sure you plan things to the T as it’s considered one of the most remote regions in the country!
In conclusion, it’s pretty much impossible to get bored while traveling in Utah. Even though the places mentioned in this post are just a few in the list of incredible spots this wonder state has to offer, these destinations are some of the most iconic and a pretty good way to get an introduction to the best it has to offer!
Have you ever visited any of these destinations in Utah? Which one was your favorite? Let me know all about it in the comments section below!
your own mugs and bottles. Apart from environmental benefits, don’t forget the monetary benefits it carries. You can also ensure you have something to drink aways, instead of having to wait until you make a stop. It’s super important to always have water with you in Arizona because the summer heat is unforgiving. A reusable water bottle like my favorite Hydroflask is the best option as it keeps cool things cool, and warm things warm, even in the heat! 
them, it is not a good idea from the point of sustainability. Using such items would increase their demand, which would lead to more consumption of resources. Thus, it would be better if you take your own toiletries and use them. If you have sensitive skin or hair, you probably have a special cream or lotion which makes your skin easier to manage than introducing something new to your skin and risk it causing issues. When we travel, we make sure to use our products from home in a travel sized container, and take them with us so we can use what our skin and hair is used to and keep on track. 
restaurants that are franchised, or are a part of large chains. The profits go out of the country – so for the benefit of the country’s economy and communities, always choose local. When you shop and eat and stay local, you oftentimes get to experience your travel as if you lived there locally. You might save some money, but you will also be getting the best immersive experience like those who live there daily. 
it.
another day of desert adventures!
section of the park to get to see some of the most famous landmarks of the park.
mile-long trail that stretches from the rim of the Grand Canyon all the way down to the Colorado River at the bottom. The trail itself begins close to Bright Angel Lodge and ends at Phantom Ranch, which is the only place other than camping where you can sleep inside the canyon before heading out to the trailhead in the morning.
sandstone spires that pierce the skies are only a few of the highlights this enchanting region of Utah has to offer. Although a whole week can be devoted to visiting the Moab region, the main sights can be seen in two days in both Canyonlands National Park and Arches National.
the cliffs, ruins of complex structures and dwellings built way back by ancestral Puebloans are today open to visitors. 
should have enough time to drive a section of the viewpoints and might even be able to fit in a short hike below the rim. A top one here is the trail that leads to Ooh Aah Point, which is only a 1.8-mile round trip and provides sweeping vistas of the canyon. 
Pauite people who once inhabited the region. Once you’re acquainted with Zion’s past, set off to conquer a few more desert trails. A lot of the trails in Zion are short, relatively easy, and absolutely stunning, so you can do several of them in just a few hours. 
orange, and pink.
people know exists.
unique scenario. Kawela may just be one of the biggest hidden gems in all of Hawaii. Especially when it comes to gorgeous beaches.
goats on Goat Island, though. But there are lots of seabirds, as they’ve made it their nesting point! 
homage to the Japanese people who inhabited Hawaii for over 100 years. As a non-practicing Buddhist temple, it is open to the public and visitors are welcome. So you can feel free to walk around and take pictures.
the ocean waves crash against the rocky walls. Here, you can also enjoy splendid views of Oahu’s volcanic side, making it a real gem worth visiting if you love amazing vistas.
you’re entitled or you’re doing them a favor. If you feel that way, then it is a very toxic approach, and you need to change that.
provide a memorable, exotic, and authentic cultural experience.
reflects in their services.
existed, and vistas that will take your breath away are what make Zion National Park a must in any Utah itinerary.
are large spires of rock that protrude from the ground. And seeing hundreds of them gathered together at Bryce Canyon’s magnificent amphitheater is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
and maze-like hiking trails. Moreover, the entire area surrounding it brims with Old West and Native American history. Which adds a ton of value to its emblematic beauty.
making time for it in your Utah itinerary. Especially if you’re into more adventurous experiences like backcountry hiking and mountaineering. If you’re not super keen on getting sweaty, though, there are scenic roads that cover all sections of the park. So there’s no excuse not to pay this gem of a national park a visit to check out its highlights!
pretty close to that feeling. In fact, 
With over 2000 natural arches and an array of strange rock formations to see, this mesmerizing desert oasis is a must on your Utah road trip.
on it and still not get to see even half of the things it has to offer. So make sure you plan at least a few days to explore the main highlights!
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