Driving from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park? Don’t Miss These Incredible Stops Along the Way
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Driving from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park? Don’t Miss These Incredible Stops Along the Way
Planning to explore Zion once you arrive? Many visitors find that starting their trip with a guided Zion National Park tour helps them understand the park, avoid crowds, and experience trails more confidently, especially on a short visit. Explore our Zion National Park
tours.
1. Navajo Moenave Dinosaur Tracks
Just outside Tuba City, the Navajo Moenave Dinosaur Tracks offer one of the most unique roadside experiences in northern Arizona. Here, local Navajo guides share fossilized dinosaur footprints preserved in ancient sandstone dating back nearly 200 million years.
Things to do:
- See real dinosaur tracks embedded in rock
- Learn about the region’s prehistoric history
- Support local Navajo families who steward the site
Why it’s worth it: A quick, fascinating stop where history literally lies beneath your feet — and a memorable cultural experience you won’t find in national parks.
2. Horseshoe Bend
One of the most photographed viewpoints in the Southwest, Horseshoe Bend overlooks a dramatic curve of the Colorado River carved deep into Navajo Sandstone cliffs.
Things to do:
- Walk the easy 1.5-mile round-trip trail
- Photograph sunrise or sunset views
- Watch rafting trips float far below
Why it’s worth it: A short walk delivers one of the most iconic views in the American West.
3. Antelope Canyon
Located near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is famous for its flowing sandstone walls and beams of light illuminating narrow slot canyon passages.
Things to know:
- Guided tours are required
- Upper Antelope Canyon is known for light beams
- Lower Antelope Canyon offers a more adventurous experience
Why it’s worth it: Few places in the world match the surreal beauty of Antelope Canyon’s sculpted sandstone corridors.
4. Lake Powell & Glen Canyon Dam
As you leave Page, take time to enjoy sweeping views of Lake Powell and the impressive Glen Canyon Dam, which created one of the largest reservoirs in the United States.
Things to do:
- Stop at Wahweap Overlook
- Walk across Glen Canyon Dam
- Enjoy lakeside viewpoints and scenic pull-offs
Why it’s worth it: The contrast of deep blue water against red desert cliffs creates some of the most striking scenery on the entire drive.
5. The Toadstools (Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument)
Often missed by travelers rushing toward Utah, the Toadstools Trail leads to whimsical mushroom-shaped rock formations rising from colorful badlands terrain.
Things to do:
- Hike the easy 1.8-mile round trip trail
- Explore hoodoos and layered geology
- Photograph unique desert formations
Why it’s worth it: An easy hike with outsized rewards and surprisingly few crowds compared to nearby national parks.
6. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Located in scenic Angel Canyon near Kanab, Utah, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is the largest no-kill animal sanctuary in the United States.
Things to do:
- Take a guided sanctuary tour
- Visit Dogtown, Cat World, and Horse Haven
- Volunteer or simply enjoy the peaceful canyon setting
Why it’s worth it: A heartwarming and unexpected stop that combines beautiful scenery with an inspiring mission.
7. The Sand Caves (Moqui Cave Area)
Just outside Kanab along Highway 89, the Sand Caves provide a short adventure with big visual payoff.
Things to do:
- Climb into large carved sandstone caves
- Enjoy panoramic desert views
- Capture dramatic photos at sunset
Why it’s worth it: A quick stop that feels adventurous and uniquely southern Utah.
How Long Does the Drive Take?
Without stops, the drive from Grand Canyon South Rim to Zion National Park typically takes 4.5–5 hours.
With scenic stops included, many travelers turn it into a full-day road trip adventure and often say the journey becomes just as memorable as the parks themselves.
Tips for Driving from the Grand Canyon to Zion
- Start early to avoid peak crowds at Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon
- Book Antelope Canyon tours in advance (they sell out frequently)
- Bring water — desert conditions can be extremely dry year-round
- Check time zones (Arizona and Utah observe daylight savings differently)
- Allow extra time for photography stops — you’ll want it
Consider Zion National Park Tours for your Zion Experience
After a day filled with unforgettable scenery, Zion National Park is the perfect place to slow down and explore more deeply.
Many visitors quickly discover that Zion can feel overwhelming due to shuttle logistics, permits, and crowded trailheads. A guided hiking experience allows you to focus on the landscape while learning about Zion’s geology, ecology, and hidden viewpoints.
Explore Zion Tours offers private and small‑group guided hikes designed to help you see more, stress less, and truly understand Zion, whether that’s tackling Angels Landing, hiking The Narrows, or discovering quieter trails and viewpoints.
Related Posts: 13 Things to Do in Zion National Park, 10 Unique Things To Do Outside of Zion, Best Day Trips from Zion National Park, 8 Epic Stops Driving from Las Vegas to Zion
