Discover Utah’s Mighty 5: A Journey Through the National Parks

Utah is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the country, and its five iconic national parks—known as the Mighty 5—are a must-see for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Each park offers its own unique wonders, from towering red rock formations to winding slot canyons and dramatic desert vistas.

Zion National Park
Utah’s first national park, Zion is a breathtaking mix of soaring sandstone cliffs, lush hanging gardens, and narrow slot canyons. The iconic Zion Canyon is home to famous hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows, offering visitors a chance to walk through a river between towering canyon walls or climb to panoramic views above it all.

Bryce Canyon National Park
Famous for its otherworldly hoodoos—tall, spindly rock formations—Bryce Canyon feels like stepping onto another planet. Sunrise and sunset light up the natural amphitheaters in brilliant oranges and reds, and stargazing here is unmatched thanks to the park’s high elevation and dark skies.

Capitol Reef National Park
Often the most underrated of the five, Capitol Reef offers a rugged, uncrowded escape into Utah’s red rock country. The park is centered around the Waterpocket Fold, a massive wrinkle in the earth’s crust, and features scenic drives, hidden slot canyons, and historic orchards from early settlers.

Canyonlands National Park
Carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers, Canyonlands is a vast wilderness of canyons, mesas, and buttes. Divided into four districts, including the easily accessible Island in the Sky, this park offers dramatic overlooks, challenging trails, and remote backcountry adventures.

Arches National Park
Home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches, this park is a surreal playground of red rock formations, balancing rocks, and fins. Delicate Arch, one of the most photographed landmarks in the U.S., is just one of many jaw-dropping sights visitors can explore on foot or by car.

Exploring Utah’s Mighty 5 is like stepping into a living postcard—each park offering its own distinct and unforgettable landscape. Whether you're chasing adventure, awe-inspiring views, or quiet moments in nature, these parks deliver. A road trip through all five is a bucket list journey that every outdoor lover should experience at least once in their lifetime. Which park is your favorite? Don’t miss the chance to see the magic for yourself.