big-guy Loc: Peterborough Ontario Canada

Hi hoggers,

I have been researching this trip for some time now and without the experience of being there I ask for some help. In September we are planning a 3 week cross country trip driving/camping from Ontario Canada through Ohio, Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Colorado and back through Canada. The main focal point of the trip is Utah and that is where my query lay. After doing the logistics of driving we can afford to spend 3 maybe 4 days in Utah. Of the many parks I think I would be better served to do 3 of them and try to do each justice.

My choices are:
-Arches
-Canyonlands
-Capital Reef
-Kodachrome
-Bryce
-Zion
-Monument Valley

Because of proximity I have chosen Monument Valley, Canyonlands and (#1) Arches. Do any of you agree with this choice or is there a compelling need to change the list? You should be aware that I love night and star trail photography and plan on doing as much of that as possible especially at Arches.

My wife reminds me that in a few years we will be doing a year long camping trip across the US and I can spend as much time as I want at any location. So missing something now is not mission critical.

Your help and advice is greatly appreciated. :P

fotographis Loc: Alexandria, VA

Zion Really shouldn't be missed. Hiking up the river through The Narrows really is an experience that will never be forgotten. Also star trail photography possibilities with the soaring cliffs and canyon walls as a frame are amazing.

drg Loc: Portland, OR

I just did Arches, Canyonlands and MV. Given your time constraints, I think these three are the best choice(s)distance wise. They are close by and so amazing. If you want, you might consider adding Antelope Canyon near Page, AZ. It's about 40 minutes from The View at MV. You have to make reservations for a guide though. I am about to embark on a road trip of a lifetime again in a few months. Post your pics!!

minniev Loc: MIssissippi

I've been to all of them except Kodachrome and they all are wonderful. You can add and delete any of them and you'll still have a great trip. That said, I am so fond of Capitol Reef and I'd have a hard time leaving it off, especially if the trees have begun to turn color later in the month. It is one of our least photographed parks and though it isn't as famous as some, it has incredible and varied scenery to explore and discover and photograph.

Arches is a great choice for your night photography.

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

I have travelled to all the parks on your original list and each and every one of them is fantastic to visit. The three you have chosen will not disappoint you. You may also wish to consider Dead Horse Point State Park, which is right in the area between Arches and Canyonlands. It is a stunning spot and was in the final scene of the movie "Thelma & Louise."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dead_Horse_Point_State_Park

Have a great trip and prepare to be awed. :thumbup:

plessner Loc: North Dakota

I have been to most of these parks and my advice is to do lots of walking and get in shape before you go--there is so much to see, but most of it you need to get out and take a hike! You will love it!

Stanley Fleming Loc: Maine/Florida

Given your 2-3 day time frame I would suggest you go to Moab Utah and stay in Spanish Trail CG - very nice and not as crowded as most in that town.

You will have easy access to Canyonlands, Arches and Dead Horse Point State Park - all worth spending time at as they each have different personalities. Arches was my favorite. Be sure to drive Rt 128 along the river (it is at the north end of town).

I also feel you should plan your route so that you go through Loveland Pass (11,000 feet+ elevation) and Vail Colorado (RT 70) - just the drive is spectacular.

I don't know your age and or mobility but I want to reiterate what some others have said - be ready to walk / hike and if you want a real thrill I think renting a four-wheeler would be a great experience - I didn't as age and mobility are an issue for us - but Moab is a hub for that activity, off-road vehicles are everywhere - you can ride through canyons and out to places most never get to see otherwise. That said, the parks in this area are much more accessible to visitors who cannot walk/hike than many of the other well known parks - there are lots of great vistas and photo ops are everywhere.

I also agree with the Page AZ suggestion - if time permits - however, I really believe you have the right idea - pick a spot and do it justice - DON'T fly through the area.

Moab is a great little town that, while a tourist destination, does not look or feel like a 'tourist trap'. Plenty of great restaurants (ask the locals for suggestions and look at parking lots) and easy to get around in.

We just returned from a 13,000 mld trip that included many states and lots of parks - Utah was a big part of that trip and Moab was a highlight. Some day you want to visit Sedona Arizona as well - another great small town, lots of great food and vistas that are hard to believe.

Also, be ready to drive through lots of wide open spaces - keep your fuel tank full! To me it is hard to believe that people actually live in some of those 'one horse' towns - populations under 100 people and miles from population centers - but then I am from New England (Maine)! I thought I lived out in the 'sticks' because it takes 1/2 an hour to get to a decent shopping center - WOW, were my eyes opened.

Have a great trip!

MtnMan Loc: ID

If I could do only one it would be Bryce Canyon. But then why miss Grand Canyon?

I also like Natural Bridges. Smaller and much less crowded.

Monument Valley ticks me off because you have to pay the Indians to visit it.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

There is a thread currently running that was started by someone who has backpacked in Utah every year for 20 years, and he gives suggestions about what to see. If I can find it, I will post a link.

http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-218013-1.html

Eric Bornstein Loc: Toronto Canada

Several years ago, I had a business trip to Salt Lake City. I left to a day early and arriving in Salt Lake City, rented a car and drove to Moab. The next morning, I was on the short drive to Arches, arriving before the opening time. It was August so it was wise to start early in the day. I was on a mission and spent 5 hours in the park, got some iconic and memorable photographs and by noon was in my rental car on my way back to SLC.
I hace seen photographs from Zion and Brice and will make it there one say. For the time that you have available, I think your choice of parks is appropriate.
By the way, I chose Arches because of its smaller size and the ability to see the highlights in a short space of time as that was all that I had.
Have a great time!

MtnMan Loc: ID

While I support hiking, just to note that Utah has the highest average elevation of all states. The end of the road at Bryce is over 9000 ft.

This is a good thing for your night shots but can be taxing for those not acclimated. Also it can get cold at night.

Stanley Fleming Loc: Maine/Florida

EXCELLENT POINT!!!!!!

Leland22 Loc: Texas

You could 3 days in each,except Kodacrome which you could put off for the future. If your travel logs permits, try to drive the Valley of the Gods loop slightly northwest of Monument valley and also Goosenecks state park- Great and short photo ops. Spend the most time in Zion and definately do the Narrows hike-rated one of the top in the US. Just do the drive through of Monument Valley and Bryce (or if you have some time in Bryce, take the relatively short hike through Wall Street). Near Page take the short hike to Horsehoe Bend (best around 11 am to avoid the shadows. This post is to just add to others.

PhotoGenesis131 Loc: Michigan

Great trip where ever you go.

MtnMan Loc: ID

Additional tip. If you qualify (62 or older), and if they are available to non-US citizens, you might consider getting an America The Beautiful senior pass for $10. It offers free admission and half price camping to all Federal Government facilities, e.g. National Parks and Monuments. It is good for life.

You can get them at Visitor Centers. You should try to get it before entering a Park. Most do not sell them at the entrance. Otherwise entry fees range up to $25 for 7 days.

No entry fee at Canyonlands.

It does not apply at Indian controlled areas such as Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelley, or Antelope Canyon.