The scenic drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon is a treasure trove of roadside marvels and otherworldly landscapes that most visitors drive right past.
The national parks of Southern Utah will always be the highlights of any regional road trip itinerary, but the journey from one to the next is its own adventure.
What may seem a short trek is actually full of hidden gems and popular destinations alike, many of which are as spectacular as the parks themselves.
This guide reveals all of the best things to do along the way, as well as providing relevant information on the journey from Zion NP to Bryce Canyon NP.
β οΈ NOTE
If you’re planning your trip to these parks in the opposite direction, you’ll want our Bryce Canyon to Zion guide where we have reversed the itinerary.
π Zion to Bryce Canyon Drive Overview
This section provides a quick overview of everything covered for the skim-readers out there.
Drive Time & Distance from Zion to Bryce: 2 hours, 85 miles
The must-see stops between Zion and Bryce Canyon in order of appearance are:
- Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
- Many Pools Slot Canyons
- Zionβs Little Lonely Tree
- Pine Creek Slot Canyons
- Keyhole Canyon
- Checkerboard Mesa
- Red Hollow Slot Canyon
- Orderville Slot Canyon Tours
- Belly of the Dragon
- Elkheart Slot Canyons
- Moqui Cave
- Hwy 89 Sand Caves
- Duck Lake
- Cedar Breaks National Monument
- Panguitch Lake Resort
- Red Canyon
- Arches Trail in Losee Canyon
πΊ Zion to Bryce Canyon Map
As there are a plethora of amazing things to see and do along the drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon, we have included a map to help you plan your route.
Click here or on the image above to open an interactive Google Map.
Information and photos for each of the stops included can be found in greater detail in the following section.
π Zion to Bryce Canyon Itinerary
Those travelers who have allowed themselves some spare time in the Southern Utah itinerary will want to devote at least an extra couple of days to see all there is to see on the way from Zion to Bryce Canyon.
Below is a list of the best things to see and do as you drive between the national parks. All of these destinations can be seen either roadside or with minimal hiking, though those with physical limitations may not be able to access all of them.
The destinations included are ordered from west to east as you travel from Zion to Bryce Canyon.
πΈ 1. Mt Carmel Highway 9 (Leaving Zion NP)
The Mt Carmel Highway comprises the eastern section of Zion National Park, beginning at the end of the long tunnel that divides the park.
This stretch of road is incredibly scenic and has a variety of noteworthy stops that often slip under the radar of visitors.
Be sure to have a look as you exit Zion on your way to Bryce Canyon.
π₯Ύ 2. Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
The moment you exit the Mt Carmel Tunnel headed east out of the Zion Valley, you will see a small parking lot that will be full nearly every moment of the day. This parking area is for the Overlook Trail, which provides a spectacular vista of the Zion Canyon rivaled only by the famous Angel’s Landing Trail.
It is worth noting that this parking lot is only for compact vehicles. Any oversized vehicles will need to find parking along the roadside.
Assuming you can find parking in the main lot or one of the nearby pull-offs, this is definitely a must-see on your way out of Zion National Park. It is only half a mile each way (1 mile roundtrip), but be warned this is a deceptively long and challenging trail given the short length.
It is best viewed at sunrise or sunset, though parking is significantly easier before sunrise. Finding parking for sunset requires something of a miracle!
π3. Many Pools Slot Canyons
Utah is home to more slot canyons than anywhere else in the world, and Zion in particular hosts a lot of them! Be sure to check out our Utah Slot Canyons Comprehensive Guide to learn more about these canyons and others nearby.
There is no official sign or notice for Many Pools, which is both a shame and a blessing. The lack of exposure keeps the crowds thin, meaning those in the know can expect to have the pools and semi-secret slot canyons to themselves!
You will not find Many Pools on the Zion NP map nor signage when you have arrived, but it is on Google Maps. The only indicator you are in the right place is the vault toilet and large parking area.
From the parking lot, there is no clear trail. Not to worry, just begin walking the most apparent trail you find to the RIGHT (assuming your back is to the road). Eventually, you will hit the wash as it runs along the steep canyon wall.
There is one true slot canyon here which can be seen from the parking area as a large crack in the wall. There is also another more scenic but less “slotty” canyon as you walk the wash to the right.
π³ 4. Zion’s Little Lonely Tree
This little tree has captured the heart of many photographers, though its simple beauty may not be appreciated as much by the casual viewer.
Like most of the stops along the way out of Zion, there is no spot on the map nor official parking area for the Little Lonely Tree.
To find it, you will simply have to keep your eyes peeled on the right-hand side as you are leaving the park for the tree that matches the photo. It is located between Many Pools and Keyhole Canyon, with the closest parking area being a small pull-off just before a large corner.
π 5. Pine Creek Slot Canyons
We found information regarding the Pine Creek Slot Canyon(s) extremely confusing, but hopefully this guide makes things more clear.
There is one official “Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon” which is a technical slot canyon beginning near the Overlook Trail. It is one of the most spectacular canyons you will find between Zion and Bryce Canyon, but it requires permits, equipment, and experience.
By foot, you can walk to several points that look down into the slot canyon but you will not get the incredible scenes you will discover inside.
However, Pine Creek runs throughout most of the Eastern section of the park. Along the wash, there are several lesser-known slot canyons of varying length to be discovered! Most have no official names or trailheads, so this is only for those with time and a sense of adventure!
The simplest way to find them is to look for cracks and crevices in the distant wall as you are driving out of Zion.
Additionally, look for parking areas with gates and signs but no names. Most of these will lead to the Pine Creek Wash which you can follow and inevitably stumble upon some of the hidden canyons therein.
π 6. Keyhole Canyon
Keyhole Canyon is a technical slot canyon requiring canyoneering equipment and training. However, you can access the top of the canyon quickly and easily and have a little peek into it.
The canyon is not on the official park map, but Google Maps will land you directly at it with small pull-offs across the road to park at.
While you cannot enter the canyon directly without proper gear, you can walk above it for some distance if you like and peer down into it.
Even without venturing into the depths, it is still an impressive sight to see!
π 7. Checkerboard Mesa
Finally, something on the Zion National park map! Checkerboard Mesa is a large rock formation that you cannot miss on your way out of the park.
There is ample signage and parking available for viewers to stop and enjoy the aptly-named mesa.
For what it’s worth, you will likely see many similar formations if you are spending any significant time in the Southwest, so don’t plan too much time for this roadside attraction.
8. Mount Carmel Junction
Upon leaving Zion National Park, you will arrive at Carmel Junction where Hwy 9 ends.
This small town has a couple fuel stations, restaurants, a golf course, and a few hidden gems nearby.
πΊ 9. Red Hollow Slot Canyon
Drive Distance: 7 minutes, 5 miles north of Mount Carmel Junction
Hike Distance: 2 miles roundtrip
Red Hollow Slot Canyon is one of the hidden gems that most people drive right by without realizing what a treasure they have missed!
“Slot Canyons” are a rare natural marvel that exist in very few places in the world outside of the American Southwest. Utah is home to more of these incredible features than any other state, and Red Hollow ranks among the Top 10 best slot canyons in Utah.
The most famous slot canyons are all located near Page, Arizona, especially the Antelope Slot Canyons.
Google Maps will deliver you to the parking area for the trail. It can be difficult to follow but don’t worry. All you need to do is start walking until you hit the obvious river wash, then turn LEFT.
Within a half mile at the most, you will arrive at the entrance to this incredible slot canyon.
π» 10. Orderville Slot Canyon Tours
At no cost to you, we receive a small amount for any bookings made using the links below.
From Orderville you can also take a tour to further explore the spectacular slot canyons in the area.
This Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour will take have you exploring the backcountry of East Zion on a thrilling UTV ride followed by a stunning hike in a slot canyon.
Alternatively, if you want to give canyoneering a try, this Rappelling Slot Canyon & UTV Tour will take you on a rappelling adventure by UTV. No experience is necessary and the tour has drops for every skill level, even those with no prior rappelling experience.
Both of these tours offer a great addition to your Zion to Bryce Canyon itinerary.
π 11. Belly of the Dragon
Drive Distance: 2 minutes, 1 mile from Mount Carmel Junction
Hike Distance: <1 minute
Originally constructed as a water drainage for highway 89, the Belly of the Dragon has become a favorite adventure stop for travelers between Zion and Bryce.
The parking area is located just a mile from Carmel Junction and there is no hike required. That said, you do need to drop down a short distance to enter, so those with physical disabilities may struggle some getting in.
π¦ 12. Elkheart Slot Canyons (Huntress Canyon)
Drive Distance: 4 minutes, 3 miles from Mount Carmel Junction
Hike Distance: 1-5 miles roundtrip, depending on desired distance.
This stop had us extremely confused during our time researching slot canyons between Zion and Bryce Canyon! Each guide had wildly varying hike times, distances, and even different names! Some said it required technical expertise, while others claimed you could walk through them…
Here is what we learned: the Elkheart Slot Canyons are also known as the Huntress Slot Canyons. They are sometimes also referred to as Diana’s Throne, but technically that is a feature within the canyon.
Google Maps will send you to an unmarked dirt lot located on a corner just south of Carmel Junction. There is an obvious trail that can be accessed by foot or ATV.
Begin walking the trail until you arrive at the telephone wires that intersect the path, then follow any of the unmarked trails directly ahead toward the canyon wall. Inevitably, you will get to the wash.
From here, you can hike in either direction; if you go right, the trail will dead-end at a pool less than half a mile up which requires rope to continue past. If you go left, you will encounter a few smaller slot canyons, many of which require you to walk above at first as the drop is too sheer. Eventually, you will be able to get back down to the wash and backtrack through the slot canyon.
The easiest way to see the Elkheart Canyons is to get a guide who can help you navigate these, and other regional beginner canyons. The cheapest way, however, is to go for a walk!
π 13. Moqui Cave
Drive Distance: 11 minutes, 11 miles from Mount Carmel Junction
Hike Distance: N/A
There is no missing this family-owned and operated historic roadside attraction as you venture toward the incredible southwest city of Kanab.
Those curious about the history of the Native American tribes who once called this region home should definitely make time for this stop.
History and culture buffs will enjoy the tour and attention to detail that has been preserved by the Chamberlain family for generations.
Photographers, however, may wish to bypass Moqui Cave and drive just a minute further down the road to the nearby sand caves.
πΈ 14. Hwy 89 Sand Caves
Drive Distance: 12 minutes, 11.5 miles from Mount Carmel Junction
Hike Distance: Very challenging 0.5 mile roundtrip (but can be seen from road)
Just a quarter-mile past the Moqui Cave are some small holes in the rock on the lefthand side of the road. To the right, you can find an unmarked parking area with a trail to these small but impressive sand caves.
Be warned that the entire hike is incredibly short, but it does require a somewhat nerve-wracking climb up steep slickrock. This will be impossible when wet and requires shoes with good grip even at the best of times.
Once you have made the ascent, you’ll discover a series of caves that look out into the desert and make for intriguing photographs.
π² 15. Dixie National Forest (Detour)
Total Detour: 1h 15m, 50 miles
At this point, you will be heading north on Highway 89 toward Bryce Canyon National Park. The most direct route from Zion to Bryce Canyon NP is to stay on the highway until it connects to Scenic Byway 12.
The direct drive is pretty enough, but there are very few points of interest along this stretch of road. Those with the time should consider a short detour loop into the Dixie National Forest instead.
The scenery in this region is incredible and includes pristine alpine lakes, waterfalls, caves, but most importantly, Cedar Breaks National Monument.
Think of Cedar Breaks as the little brother to Bryce Canyon. It is not as large and has less hiking, but the trade-off is almost no crowds. You also get slightly different colorations and the area is one of the best for seeing the warped beauty of bristlecone pine.
If you decide to do this as a loop (which I highly recommend), you will detour onto Hwy 14 and be spat out back on track just past Panguitch onto Hwy 89.
π¦ 16. Duck Lake & Duck Creek Village (Detour)
This charming lakeside town offers a variety of accommodation from cozy cabins to RV parks, as well as providing some quaint cafes and restaurants.
While it is mostly a winter town, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy it any time of year.
There are two lakes nearby: Duck Lake and Aspen-Mirror Lake, the latter known for its perfect morning reflections.
Also Nearby: Duck Creek Ice Cave, Cascade Falls, and Navajo Lake.
π 17. Cedar Breaks National Monument (Detour)
It’s hard to describe any National Monument as a hidden gem, but Cedar Breaks certainly feels like one! As mentioned above, it could be thought of as the little brother to Bryce Canyon National Park. Both offer stunning hoodoo-filled amphitheaters with otherworldly color palettes.
What makes Cedar Breaks so appealing is that, unlike Bryce Canyon, it never seems to be busy.
You can enjoy perfect views of sunset and milky way from one of several viewpoints dotting the road. Or go for an afternoon stroll along the Spectra Point / Ramparts Overlook trail. Along this short 1-2 mile jaunt, you will discover awe-inspiring views of the canyon, as well as the gnarled beauty of ancient bristlecone pine.
π£ 18. Panguitch Lake Resort (Detour)
On your way out of the Dixie National Forest loop back to the main road to Bryce Canyon, you will pass by a town and lake both known as Panguitch. This little mountain town is buzzing with life year-round. It is a favorite destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike looking to get away.
Most of Panguitch’s beauty can be appreciated from the road. If time permits, however, you may want to plan your itinerary to include a picnic or dine-in meal before you venture onward toward Highway 12.
19. Utah Scenic Byway 12
Scenic Byway 12 is perhaps the most renowned road in all of Utah for its spectacular roadside views and vistas.
You do not need to even leave the driver’s seat to appreciate the incredible, Mars-like red rock you will pass through as you near Bryce Canyon. However, there are several hiking trails of all distances to consider on the way!
β€οΈ 20. Red Canyon
Just before arriving at Bryce Canyon from Zion, you will first drive through the Red Canyon section of Highway 12.
A sign indicates you have arrived just before driving through a red-rock tunnel. However, you will recognize you have arrived long before this as the vibrant red hues are impossible to ignore.
Most visitors do not realize how many amazing trails and sights are available in the Red Canyon region between Zion and Bryce and drive right past.
If you have time, stop by the Red Canyon visitor center on the way. Here you can pick up a list of all available trails, some of which begin right in the parking lot! You’ll also find restrooms and drinking water available here.
π 21. Arches Trail in Losee Canyon
We walked most of the shorter trails nearby Red Canyon. However, we ended up backtracking when we discovered the little-known Arches Trail.
This short walk begins at the Losee Canyon trailhead, located a few miles up a dirt road. 2WD vehicles should have no trouble accessing the trailhead except following heavy rains. However, be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Once you have arrived at the trailhead, you will see signs for a variety of different trails, but NOT Arches Trail! We ended up walking over a mile in the wrong direction as a result.
If you are looking at the main information board, instead turn to your left. Look for a small paper sign that just has the words “Arches Trail” typed on it. You will have to jump into the wash from here but there will be plenty more signage as you go.
The entire trail is less than a mile in total, with the Arches Trail loop covering about half a mile. There are over 25 arches along the way, but most are very small.
π 22. Bryce Canyon City & Bryce Canyon National Park
The final stop before entering Bryce Canyon from Zion NP will be Bryce Canyon City. This gateway town is small but vibrant, full of life and character.
Ruby’s Inn provides historic lodging as well as a general store and restaurant. Even if you do not require any services, it is worth roaming the hallway and enjoying the nostalgic photos from a not-so-distant time of cowboys and pioneers.
Beyond accommodation and tour companies, there is not a ton in Bryce Canyon City. Restaurants are limited and those that do exist do not have particularly great reviews, but that’s what you get in a small town sometimes.
During peak season weekends, you may be able to watch an event at the local rodeo as well.
Due to the limited accommodation in the area, it is worth booking in advance, particularly during busy times.
Check here for current availability and prices for lodging in Bryce Canyon City.
πββοΈ Zion to Bryce Canyon FAQs
This section provides some quick answers to many of the most common questions regarding the journey from Zion to Bryce Canyon.
π How long is the drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon?
The drive from Zion National Park west entrance to Bryce Canyon NP is 85-miles and takes about 2 hours without stops. There is a lot to see and do in between, however, for those who have the time.
βοΈ Can you see Zion and Bryce Canyon in one day?
Zion and Bryce Canyon are close enough to visit both in one day, but it is not recommended. Not only would this force a rushed visit, but you will also miss all the incredible sights between the parks. If you have only one day, it is best to just explore one of the parks.
πΈ What are the best things to do between Zion and Bryce Canyon?
There are a myriad of amazing sights and things to do on the drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon, of which the best are:
- Belly of the Dragon
- Many Pools Slot Canyon
- Red Hollow Slot Canyon
- Red Canyon
- Cedar Breaks National Monument (slight detour)
β½οΈ Are there services available between Zion and Bryce?
You will find all necessary services including gas, groceries, accommodation, and restaurants at Carmel Junction, Orderville, Hatch, and at the Bryce Canyon Village. Additionally, the detour towns of Brian Head and Panguitch also provide a full array of amenities.
π° How much does it cost to enter Zion and Bryce Canyon?
Weekly passes cost $35 per vehicle for each individual park. This means a total of $70 for the two parks. We, therefore, highly recommend buying an annual America the Beautiful Interagency Pass for $80. Not only does it grant access to both Zion and Bryce Canyon, but it also allows you to enter more than 2,000 recreation sites for a year.
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π΅ More Southwest Travel Guides
The two of us work very hard to create these free travel guides to help you plan your dream vacation. If you think we’ve done a good job and would like to say thanks, please consider clicking the donate button below π
If you have found this guide useful for your journey to Bryce Canyon from Zion National Park, you will also potentially find value in some of our other regional guides.
Discover other hidden gems or photography inspiration from the American Southwest.
- Utah Slot Canyons Comprehensive Guide
- Top 25 Best Things to Do in Kanab, Utah
- 50 Best Canyons in the USA
- Things to do in St George, Utah
- Snow Canyon State Park Guide
- The Windows Section – Arches National Park
- Grand Canyon Photography Guide
- Grand Canyon North Rim Comprehensive Guide
- One Day in Grand Canyon Itinerary
- Things to do in Page, Arizona
- Ultimate Guide to Red Rock Canyon, Nevada
π¬ Final Thoughts on Driving Zion to Bryce Canyon NP
The two of us work very hard to create these free travel guides to help you plan your dream vacation. If you think we’ve done a good job and would like to say thanks, please consider clicking the donate button below π
As you have read, there is so much to see on the way from Zion to Bryce Canyon that most people will drive right by! Personally, we spent about 5 days just in this stretch of our road trip. Although admittedly we travel slow and are patient when it comes to the light.
We genuinely hope you have found this guide useful and welcome all feedback. Whether you discover something out of date or you go on to have a life-changing experience as a result of finding our blog, please let us know! Both things help us as we create these travel guides.
Also, if you haven’t yet, be sure to check our other Southwest guides to ensure you do not miss anything throughout your journey!
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This is a great itinerary for Zion to Bryce! I did many of your recommendations when I drove between the two this summer. I second your recommendation for Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, it was one of my favorite hikes I did in the area!
Thank you for the kind feedback Kate! It’s great to hear you also enjoyed the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail π It was one of our favorites too.
Zion to Bryce Canyon is such a bucket list trip of mine. I really appreciate how detailed you got about the logistics of everything and wow – those photos! Definitely makes me want to book my flight and go right away!
I really hope you can make it! There’s so much to see between Bryce and Zion that people often miss.
I almost just traveled to Zion recently but changed my mind and visited Salt Lake City instead. Zion and Bryce Canyon are still on my list of must visit places! This was a great guide!
Sounds like you just have a good excuse to go back π
We sure loved our travels around the Utah parks. We were glad we planned a full day in Bryce and then two days in Zion. But I love all the spots you found on the drive between these two great parks. A good reason to stay longer and plan some time at the the slot canyons and canyons. I would sure keep my eyes peeled for the lonely tree!
That sounds like an amazing trip! It’s absolutely worth taking at least a day between the two parks, Utah is such a beautiful state. We loved exploring all the slot canyons in Utah too.
Great itinerary for a road trip. We drove from Zion to Bryce as part of a larger Southwest road trip years ago, but missed all these things. Those slot canyons look amazing.
That must’ve been a fun road trip! There’s so many thing to do throughout the American Southwest, I think it’d be impossible not to miss a few things. At least it gives you a good excuse to go back though π
Can I get a copy of this sent to me in the mail?
Hi Carol. Unfortunately, we’re not able to send a copy via mail. I’d recommend bookmarking the page to refer to when needed π
Will this be applicable to travel from bryce to Zion. Because from Zion we will be back to Las Vegas? Nice post. Will get some ideas from here.
If you do a search on the website, we have a Bryce to Zion version that changes the order for you π
Awesome info! We went to Zion last year and want to go back. We tried canyoneering for the first time with some local guides and it was so fun!
Oh how fun!! Glad you had such a great trip and that the info proved useful π
Awesome blog. Very inspiring. Planning a Fall Foliage trip to Zion with an extra day or 2 to see Bryce. I’m mobility impaired but I can dream!
Youve chosen some good parks for visiting with mobility issues Susan! Bryce in particular is easily done as so much of it is only viewpoints. Zion is somewhat more limited but still has plenty to see from the roadside. I appreciate the kind words regarding our guide and hope you have an amazing visit π