Exploring the National Parks of Utah in One Epic Week

Utah’s “Mighty 5” (Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands) are incredible, but trying to see all five in one week is a marathon. I did it and I was exhausted. My advice for beginners: pick three. Fly into Las Vegas, hit Zion and Bryce, then drive to Moab for Arches and Canyonlands. That’s plenty. You need time to hike, not just drive. Also, get a National Parks Pass if you’re doing more than two parks—it pays for itself. And book lodging near Moab and Springdale months in advance. These towns fill up faster than you’d think.