Take on Utah’s Mighty 5 in One Epic RV Road Trip

Utahans will tell you they’re home to five of the best national parks in the U.S., and anyone who’s visited Utah’s Mighty 5 would be inclined to agree. Utah’s Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks offer stunning landscapes, unique geological formations, and diverse outdoor recreational opportunities that attract adventurers from around the world. These parks are close enough to each other that you can visit all five in one epic RV road trip.

Preparing for the Journey

Before setting off, you’ll want to plan your route and make any necessary campsite reservations, especially during peak seasons. An RV provides the perfect combination of adventure and convenience, allowing you to stay within or close to the parks. Be sure to stock up on essentials, including food, water, and camping supplies. 

Also make sure your tow rig or RV is well-equipped for the long drive and varying terrains. Check your tires, batteries, and fluids. To keep your RV protected from dents and scratches during your road trip, consider custom mud flaps from DuraFlap. Then get ready for the road trip of a lifetime through Utah’s iconic national parks.

Arches National Park

Renowned for its extraordinary collection of natural sandstone arches, as well as other unique geological formations, Arches National Park is a captivating destination. You won’t want to miss:

• Delicate Arch: Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Utah, this freestanding natural arch is a must-see landmark that’s best viewed at sunset.
• Double Arch and The Windows: Short hikes lead to some of the park’s most impressive formations, including the North and South Windows and the Turret Arch. It’s a great spot for families and photographers.
• Landscape Arch: A relatively easy hike in the Devil’s Garden area leads you to the longest arch in North America.

Camping:
Devils Garden Campground is the only campground in Arches and is perfect for RV travelers.

Canyonlands National Park

With its dramatic vistas and the convergence of the Colorado and Green Rivers, Canyonlands is a multifaceted destination featuring:

• Island in the Sky: This district offers some of the most accessible and dramatic viewpoints such as Grand View Point Overlook and Mesa Arch, which is breathtaking at sunrise.
• The Needles: Known for its colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone, this area has hiking and backpacking that differs from the other parks.
• The Maze: For the truly adventurous, this district is one of the most remote areas in the continental U.S., requiring careful planning and plenty of time.

Camping:
Willow Flat Campground at Island in the Sky and Squaw Flat Campground at The Needles provide basic amenities in stunning settings.

Capitol Reef National Park

Fewer crowds on the hiking trails and fresh fruit picking set Capitol Reef apart. Be sure to check out:

• Scenic Drive: This paved road offers easy access to the park’s colorful cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges.
• Waterpocket Fold: The nearly 100-mile long monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) reveals millions of years of geological history.
• Fruita Historic District: Once a Mormon pioneer settlement, this area features orchards where visitors can pick fresh fruit during harvest season.

Camping:
Fruita Campground is a picturesque site with full RV facilities.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Unique hoodoos (tall, thin rock spires) and natural amphitheaters are just a few of Bryce Canyon’s unique features. You won’t want to miss:

• Bryce Amphitheater: Home to the park’s most famous views, this natural amphitheater is filled with hoodoos and other rock formations.
• Sunrise and Sunset Points: These points provide stunning views and are the perfect spots to witness their namesake spectacles.
• Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trails: These interconnected trails offer a fantastic way to take a closer look at the park’s hoodoos and amphitheaters.

Camping:
North Campground provides a serene spot to park your RV and enjoy the night sky.

Zion National Park

With its dramatic canyons and iconic heights, Zion National Park is a must-visit destination featuring:

• The Narrows: Be prepared to get wet as you hike through the Virgin River in one of the world’s most renowned slot canyons. 
• Angels Landing: Not for the faint of heart, this challenging trail offers one of the most rewarding views in Zion. The final ascent involves a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs.
• Scenic Drive: The Zion Mount-Carmel Highway features the famous Zion Tunnel and stunning views.

Camping:
South Campground and Watchman Campground are ideal for RVs, offering easy access to the park’s shuttle system.

Your Mighty 5 Road Trip Starts with DuraFlap

An RV road trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 is more than just a vacation – it’s an immersive experience. Each park offers its own unique landscapes and adventures. Make sure your tow rig or RV is ready for it with custom mud flaps from DuraFlap. Made in the USA and easy to install, DuraFlap will help protect your vehicle from the dents and dings that can come with the rugged terrain of Utah’s Mighty 5. Then pack your bags, fuel up the RV, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through five iconic national parks.