Southern Utah is one of my favorite places in the world. There is so much beauty packed into that corner of the state. If you are planning a Utah road trip, this guide will help as you plan three perfect days in Southern Utah!
How to Spend Three Days in Southern Utah
Table of Contents
- Day 1: Hiking in Bryce Canyon
- Day 2: Glamping at Whispering Pines
- Day 3: Hiking at Zion National Park
Day 1: Hiking in Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is a geological wonderland! With towering hoodoos the color of orange creamsicles, the landscape is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Hiking the Navajo Loop Trail
If you only have one day in Bryce Canyon, the one hike that I would recommend doing is the 1.3-mile roundtrip Navajo Loop Trail.
As a bonus, the trailhead starts at Sunset Point, one of the best overlooks in the park. After taking in the dramatic views at the overlook, head to the right where you’ll find the trail.
The loop trail begins and ends at this point. I would recommend starting the trail on the right at the fork.
This takes you to Wall Street, a narrow slot canyon. Here you’ll descend over 500 feet down into the canyon through a series of steep switchbacks.
The view from the top looking down is spectacular, with captivating views along the entire trail.
You’ll walk under tunnels, climb down sandstone steps, and enter a narrow slot canyon.
As you reach the bottom, you’ll find two towering Douglas Fir trees that are more than 750 years old.
Continue along the trail and you’ll see a turn off for the Queen’s Garden Trail. You can add this extension for a combined 2.9-mile hike.
As the trail begins to ascend, you’ll also have a chance to view Two Bridges. These two natural stone bridges connect high above the canyon walls.
You’ll also have views of the Amphitheater as you continue up the switchbacks towards Sunset Point. Thor’s Hammer, the Silent City, and the Temple of Osiris can also be viewed from the trail.
While you’re nearby, head over to Inspiration Point for another fantastic lookout.
For more things to do in Bryce Canyon, including a cool waterfall hike, check out our guide to One Day in Bryce Canyon!
Day 2: Glamping at Whispering Pines
After spending a day at Bryce Canyon, head about 45 minutes south along Hwy 89 to Whispering Pines. Here you’ll have the unique experience of spending the night in a Conestoga wagon.
This magical campground is nestled in the sweet pines at Seaman Canyon. The Conestoga wagons give a historic nod to the pioneer heritage in this region.
The rustic wagons are tastefully decorated with all the modern comforts and conveniences to make your stay relaxing and comfortable.
Pack hot dogs and ingredients for ‘smores and enjoy dinner around the campfire.
Afterward, settle in for a cozy night of card games before falling asleep to sound of crickets chirping under a coal-black starry sky.
*Related Post: If you’re planning to head up north, check out our guide to Sanpete County: A Utah Hidden Gem!
The next morning you’ll find that the campground has plenty of activities to keep your little ones busy.
The campground is equipped with a zipline, trampoline, saucer swing, basketball hoop, horseshoe pit, volleyball net, hammocks, hiking trails, fairy garden, and a playset tucked into the trees. Your kids will get lost in their imagination while enjoying the outdoors!
Trail rides are also offered at an additional cost and are an exciting new addition to Whispering Pines.
It is an unforgettable experience as you ride across open meadows scattered with wildflowers, through sun-dappled forests, and down rocky ravines.
I can’t think of a better way to embrace the heritage of the wild west than sleeping in a wagon and riding horses through wooded trails!
There is plenty to keep your family busy at the campground, but if you would like to explore more of the area, I would highly recommend checking out the local beauty and adventure in the nearby town of Kanab.
Day 3: Hiking at Zion National Park
After spending another night at Whispering Pines, wake up refreshed and ready for another day of exploring!
Whispering Pines is located a short 35 minutes to the east entrance of Zion National Park where you’ll be greeted with a resident herd of buffalo.
As you make your way through the park, you’ll be surrounded by unrivaled beauty.
Be sure to stop at the various lookouts along the way, like the famed Checkerboard Mesa.
If you only have one day in Zion National Park, I would recommend the Canyon Overlook Trail and Lower Pine Creek Falls Trail.
The more popular hikes require a shuttle through the canyon, but these two hikes can be reached by car and take less time.
Canyon Overlook Trail
The parking lot for the Canyon Overlook Trail can be found on the right just before entering the Mount Caramel Tunnel.
The trail is only 1-mile round trip and leads to the most incredible lookout. It is a short hike but packs a big punch!
For all the details for this hike, check out our guide for the Canyon Overlook Trail.
Lower Pine Creek Falls Trail
To reach the hidden Lower Pine Creek waterfall, you’ll continue west on the Zion-Mount Caramel Hwy.
After you go through the mile-long Mount Caramel Tunnel, the road will wind back and forth until you reach the last bend that crosses over Pine Creek. You’ll see a small parking area on the right just after the bridge. This is where the trail starts.
While hiking the trail, keep to the left when the trail forks and continue until you reach the creek. At this point the trail is not well marked, just keep following upstream along the river.
You’ll need to climb some rocks and boulders and hop across the stream as you find the best route. You’ll soon hear the waterfall and discover this serene setting.
The water gently cascades into a clear pool of water that is perfect for splashing and cooling off from the heat.
Your kids will love sliding under the waterfall on a natural waterslide, jumping off rocks into the refreshing pool, and catching tadpoles in the early summer.
The waterfall trail is only .7 miles roundtrip. However, it is a little challenging as you scramble over the rocks, but my kids loved it! For more details about this hike, check out our Pine Creek Falls guide.
After a day at Zion, I would recommend heading to St George for some more Southern Utah fun! Check out our guides 9 Awesome Things to Do in St. George with Kids and 4 Epic Things to Do in St George This Summer for some fun ideas!
I hope this guide helps as you plan your Southern Utah road trip, there really is so much to discover!
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Thanks so much for sharing our tips, glad you enjoyed your time in Zion!