Our 17-Day Summer Road Trip: 15th – 31st August

Starting Point: Redmond, WA

1️⃣ Boise, ID – Overnight stay
2️⃣ Twin Falls, ID – Overnight stay
3️⃣ Salt Lake City, UT – Overnight stay
4️⃣ Bryce Canyon, UT – Overnight stay
5️⃣ Zion Canyon (Springdale, UT) – 2 nights
6️⃣ Grand Canyon, AZ – 2 nights
7️⃣ Las Vegas, NV – 2 nights
8️⃣ Bakersfield, CA – Overnight stay (driving break)
9️⃣ San Mateo, CA – 4 nights
🔄 Return Drive – through Redding, Lake Shasta, Mount Shasta, Siskiyou Pass, Ashland, OR
🔟 Roseburg, OR – Overnight stay
🏡 Home: Redmond, WA

Day 1: Redmond to Boise – Distance 491 miles

It was 9:30 AM when we finally pulled out of Redmond—cars loaded, excitement high, and Boise firmly on our minds. Our first stop was Costco in Issaquah to top off the tank—premium gas cost $4.799 per gallon, a good benchmark for the road ahead.

The journey began with a moody, rainy trek over Snoqualmie Pass, where summer fog wrapped the mountains in mystery. After clearing some construction zones, I-90 smoothed out, leading us past Ellensburg and onto I-82. The changing scenery ushered us into Yakima Valley, where we paused at scenic overlooks to soak in the views.

By 12:30 PM, hunger led us to Taco Bell in Sunnyside, WA. This small city of around 16,000 sits in the heart of Yakima Valley, known for its sunny climate, vineyards, and hop farms—perfect for a casual meal amid agricultural charm.

Refreshed, we drove into Oregon, crossing the majestic Columbia River—a vital natural and historic boundary shaping the Pacific Northwest. Next, we entered Pendleton, where winding roads through the foothills of the Blue Mountains made the landscape feel cinematic. We pulled off at the Pendleton Vista for a few memorable snapshots.

Pendleton is a storied city that proudly calls itself “The Real West.” Nestled at the foothills of the Blue Mountains along the Umatilla River, it’s known for its rodeo heritage, the iconic Pendleton Woolen Mills, and vibrant cultural institutions.

Our drive continued into Baker City, where we visited the exterior of the historic Geiser Grand Hotel—an Italian-Victorian beauty built in 1889 and once known as “the finest hotel between Portland and Salt Lake City.

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One of the interesting sign and meaningful sign, we noticed while driving on I-84 was 45th Parallel. It’s line of latitude that circles the Earth halfway between the Equator (0 degrees) and the North (90 Degrees). We were exactly halfway between the equator and the North Pole in terms of latitude.

A quick refresh at Albertsons Starbucks and refuel—premium gas was now $4.099 per gallon—got us ready for the final leg to Boise. Along the way, tech landmarks like Micron and Leidos hinted at our return to urban life.

We pulled into Simple Suites Hotel near Boise Airport around 7:30 PM. Located at 2909 W Elder St, Boise, ID 83705, it offered clean, comfortable rooms with thoughtful amenities like a snack shop, fitness center, EV charging, and convenient airport access—just what we needed after a full day of driving.

Summary Day 1

🥾 Day Essentials

• Waterproof layers for Snoqualmie Pass
• Water, snacks, and a playlist for the road
• Camera for impromptu views at scenic spots
• Be mindful of time zones (Pacific vs Mountain Time in eastern OR)

Road Notes

• 9:30 AM departure from Redmond
• Foggy and moody Snoqualmie Pass
• Scenic stops in Yakima Valley
• Lunch in Sunnyside—a sunny wine-growing town in WA.
• Crossed the Columbia River into Oregon—a historic natural boundary.
• Pendleton: gateway to eastern Oregon’s rich Western heritage.
• Geiser Grand Hotel in Baker City—Victorian era landmark.
• Gas prices: Issaquah $4.799/gal, Baker City area $4.099/gal
• Final stretch: Boise tech corridor
• Checked-in to Hotel around 7:30pm.

Our Highlights

• Foggy Snoqualmie Pass setting a dramatic tone
• Panoramic Yakima Valley vistas
• A taste of the Old West in Pendleton
• Visual delight in the architecture of the Geiser Grand Hotel
• Modern comforts at Simple Suites Hotel were a welcome end to Day 1

Day 2: Exploring Boise & Twin Falls

After a home-cooked dinner prepared by my wife the night before at Simple Suites (thanks to the in-room kitchen), we had an early night’s rest. The next morning, a light breakfast was enough to get us going. Starting the day unhurried felt right after the long drive on Day 1. By 10:30 AM, we were checked out and ready to explore some of Boise’s highlights.

Old Idaho State Penitentiary

Our first stop was the Old Idaho State Penitentiary, which we reached around 11:00 AM. Parking was plentiful, and adult tickets cost just $8.00.

Exhibits of Interest

The penitentiary opened in 1872 and housed inmates for over 100 years until its closure in 1973 due to prison riots that burned some parts of the buildings. Built largely by prisoners from nearby sandstone, the prison once held some of the West’s most notorious criminals. As we explored the grounds, we stepped into cell blocks, solitary confinement areas known as “Siberia,” the laundry room, shower facilities, kitchen and dining, gallows, and even the women’s ward. Each space carried echoes of the past, and the exhibits revealed fascinating stories of prison life, escapes, and daily struggles. Spending a couple of hours wandering its corridors gave us a vivid glimpse into Idaho’s history of justice and punishment.

Idaho State Capitol Building

Next, we drove downtown to the Idaho State Capitol Building. Completed in 1920, the Capitol is a striking example of Renaissance Revival architecture, designed by J.E. Tourtellotte and Charles Hummel. The sandstone exterior was quarried from nearby Table Rock, while the interior features four kinds of marble from around the world. The most unique feature? It’s the only U.S. state capitol heated by a geothermal system, tapping into hot water beneath the city.

Since it was Saturday and the legislature wasn’t in session, parking was easy to find. We spent about 40 minutes taking photos inside and outside, admiring its stately dome and beautifully carved details.

By now, it was lunchtime, so we stopped at Mod Pizza, conveniently located near the Capitol. With parking nearby, it was a quick and tasty meal—just what we needed before hitting the road again.

Boise to Twin Falls – 132 Miles

By 2:20 PM, we were back on I-84, heading southeast toward Twin Falls, about two hours away. The drive revealed a sunnier side of Idaho—rolling hills, wide-open skies, and distant mountains that seemed to follow us along the way.

Our first stop in Twin Falls was the Visitor Center, located right next to the iconic Perrine Bridge. Completed in 1976, this 1,500-foot span soars nearly 500 feet above the Snake River Canyon, making it one of the highest bridges in the U.S. It’s also famous as one of the only man-made structures where BASE jumping is allowed year-round. Standing at its edge, we admired the bridge’s engineering and the breathtaking canyon carved by the Snake River over millennia.

Shoshone Falls – “Niagara of the West”

From there, we continued to Shoshone Falls, arriving around 5:45 PM. Entry was just $5.00 per vehicle. Often called the Niagara of the West, Shoshone Falls is actually taller than Niagara at 212 feet high and nearly 900 feet wide. Even in peak summer, the water flow was majestic, and it was easy to imagine how thunderous it must be during spring runoff. We spent time capturing photos and simply soaking in the grandeur of the falls framed by the basalt canyon walls.

Rest for the Night

By early evening, we checked into the SureStay Best Western Hotel in Twin Falls (1260 Blue Lakes Blvd N, Twin Falls, ID 83301). The accommodations were basic and not particularly impressive, though the room did include a microwave and refrigerator, which allowed us to warm up some tasty homemade meals we had packed. After a full day of exploring, it was time to rest and recharge for Day 3.

Summary Day 2

🥾 Day Essentials

• Comfortable walking shoes (for exploring penitentiary & Capitol)
• Camera for capturing Shoshone Falls & Snake River Canyon
• Water bottles for the road trip
• Light layers for varying weather

📌 Road Notes

• 10:30 AM checkout from Boise
• Old Idaho State Penitentiary (opened 1872, closed 1973; “Siberia” solitary cells, women’s ward)
• Idaho State Capitol (completed 1920, sandstone, geothermal heating system)
• Lunch at Mod Pizza near Capitol
• Scenic 2-hour drive on I-84 to Twin Falls
• Perrine Bridge (1976, 500 ft above Snake River Canyon, BASE jumping site)
• Shoshone Falls (212 ft high, 900 ft wide, taller than Niagara Falls; $5 entry)
• Hotel: SureStay Best Western, Twin Falls

💡 Our Highlights

• The eerie but fascinating feel of the penitentiary’s stone cells
• The elegance of Idaho’s Capitol building dome and marble halls
• The jaw-dropping scale of Perrine Bridge and the Snake River Canyon
• Watching the power of Shoshone Falls at sunset—truly unforgettable

Day 2 was the perfect mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty—from walking the haunted halls of an old prison to admiring the grandeur of the Capitol, and finally standing in awe at the edge of Shoshone Falls. It felt like we had experienced the heart of Idaho in just one day. With tired feet, full hearts, and a camera roll overflowing with memories, we settled into our hotel for the night, eager to see what Day 3 would bring.

Day 3: Twin Falls to Salt Lake City — From Desert Roads to Temple Square

Waking up in Twin Falls after a day packed with history and waterfalls, we were excited to continue exploring southern Idaho and beyond. After a good night’s sleep and a light complimentary breakfast at the hotel, we packed our bags and set out for Salt Lake City, Utah, around 9:30 AM. By this point, we had already logged about 636 miles on our journey.

Road to Salt Lake City

Our first stop was to fill up at Costco Gas in Twin Falls, where premium was a refreshing $3.869 per gallon—a welcome drop compared to Washington and Oregon prices. With a full tank, we drove the 220 miles toward Salt Lake City via I-84. The scenery shifted between mountains, desert stretches, and smoky skies as we passed areas affected by wildfires. Eventually, the highway merged onto I-15, leading us closer to Utah’s capital.

Around 11:30 AM, we stopped for lunch at Olive Garden in Bountiful, conveniently located just 10 miles north of Salt Lake City right off the interstate. It was a perfect midway pause before the afternoon of sightseeing.

The Great Salt Lake & Antelope Island

One of Utah’s most famous landmarks, the Great Salt Lake, is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, stretching about 75 miles long and 35 miles wide. Fed by rivers but with no outlet, minerals accumulate, creating salinity levels much higher than the ocean. For centuries, it’s been both a natural wonder and a habitat for millions of migratory birds.

We chose to experience the lake from Antelope Island State Park, the largest island on the lake. Spanning 28,000 acres, the island is renowned for its free-roaming wildlife—most famously a herd of over 500 American bison, along with pronghorn antelope, mule deer, coyotes, and countless bird species. The entry fee was $15 per vehicle, well worth the visit.

Driving across the causeway, we soon spotted bison grazing in the distance. We made our way to Buffalo Point, one of the island’s most scenic overlooks. With an easy one-mile trail, it offers sweeping views of the lake, the Wasatch Mountains, and the endless sky reflected in the shimmering waters. It was the perfect spot for family and individual photos, capturing both the beauty of the landscape and the serenity of the moment.

We spent about 90 minutes on the island, taking photos and enjoying the drive across its unique terrain before heading into the city.

Check-In at Downtown Hyatt

By 4:30 PM, we arrived at the Hyatt House Salt Lake City (140 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101). The hotel was a welcome retreat: spacious rooms with kitchenettes, upscale amenities, and even free parking—an unexpected perk in a downtown location. Since it was a Sunday, we managed to get a great deal on our stay, adding to the sense of comfort and satisfaction.

Evening at Temple Square

After some refreshments with coffee and snacks, we decided to head out on foot to Temple Square, conveniently just a short walk from our hotel.

Founded in 1847 by Brigham Young and early pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon Church), Temple Square spans 10 acres in the heart of downtown. It’s home to the Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle, Assembly Hall, and several visitor centers.

Unfortunately, the Salt Lake Temple was closed due to major reconstruction and seismic upgrades, with reopening projected between April 2027 and October 2027. Still, its towering spires and detailed Gothic-inspired architecture left a lasting impression.

Inside the Salt Lake Tabernacle, completed in 1867, we marveled at its extraordinary acoustics. The oval-shaped hall can seat over 3,000 people, and its design allows even the quietest sounds—a pin drop or whispered word—to be heard clearly across the room. Standing beneath its domed ceiling with the grand organ as backdrop was a moving experience.

We spent a few hours exploring the grounds, admiring both the spiritual and architectural legacy. Walking back to our hotel through the streets of downtown, we were struck by how meticulously planned the city felt. With its grid layout, trams, buses, and nearby shopping malls, Salt Lake City appeared well-suited for residents and especially welcoming to the younger generation.

Summary Day 3

🥾 Day Essentials

• Water & snacks for Antelope Island
• Camera for sweeping lake and bison views
• Comfortable walking shoes for Temple Square
• Sunscreen and layers for desert-to-city transitions

📌 Road Notes

• Start: 9:30 AM, Twin Falls
• Gas: Costco Twin Falls – $3.869/gal
• Lunch: Olive Garden, Bountiful (~11:30 AM)
• Great Salt Lake: Largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere (75×35 miles)
• Antelope Island State Park: 28,000 acres; bison herd, pronghorn, mule deer; $15 entry
• Buffalo Point: Easy 1-mile hike, panoramic views of lake and Wasatch Mountains
• Hotel: Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City – upscale, kitchenettes, free parking (Sunday deal)
• Temple Square: Founded 1847; 10-acre LDS spiritual hub; Temple closed until 2027; Tabernacle completed 1867, famous acoustics

💡 Our Highlights

• Affordable fuel stop at Costco Twin Falls
• Spotting bison on Antelope Island and the lake’s shimmering horizon
• The breathtaking acoustics inside the Tabernacle
• The thoughtful urban planning of Salt Lake City’s downtown

Reflective Closing

Day 3 brought us from the desert roads of Idaho into the cultural and spiritual heart of Utah. Between the natural wonder of the Great Salt Lake, the wildlife of Antelope Island, and the architectural marvels of Temple Square, it was a day that perfectly blended nature, history, and city life. Resting back at our downtown hotel, we looked forward to where Day 4 would lead u

Day 4: Salt Lake City to Bryce Canyon — Temples, Highways & Hoodoos

After a restful night in Salt Lake City, we started Day 4 with a delicious complimentary breakfast at Hyatt House. By 10:15 AM, we had packed up, checked out, and noted the odometer—920 miles into our road trip adventure.

Fuel and a Landmark Costco Stop

As usual, the day began with a gas stop, and this time it was special: the Costco at 1818 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT—the largest Costco in the world. Filled tank with premium gas priced at $3.649 per gallon, and a quick photo marked the memory. With the car ready, we pointed ourselves south toward the canyons. We would need to drive 256 miles to reach Bryce.

Spiritual Stops: Hindu Temples South of Salt Lake

My wife had discovered two Hindu temples just outside Salt Lake City, and both became meaningful detours.

• Sri Ganesha Hindu Temple (South Jordan, UT): A beautifully structured temple in traditional South Indian style, complete with sannidhis (shrines) for Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva and Parvati, Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi, Andal/Bhudevi, Rama Parivar, Radha Krishna, and the Navagrahas. We had a peaceful darshan, took photos, and felt uplifted before returning to the road.

• Sri Sri Radha Krishna ISKCON Temple (Spanish Fork, UT): Rising unexpectedly against Utah’s desert backdrop, this temple resembles a Rajasthani palace and is set on a serene 15-acre site. Known for its annual Festival of Colors, it serves as a spiritual hub and cultural center. Inside, we enjoyed a blessed darshan of Radha Krishna and then indulged in a tasty vegetarian lunch buffet—just $12 per person.

Southbound on Interstate 15

Back on the road, we rejoined Interstate 15 (I-15)—a 1,433-mile north–south artery stretching from San Diego, CA to the Canadian border in Montana. It connects major cities like Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, making it one of the busiest freight corridors in the western U.S. Unsurprisingly, the road was filled with heavy truck traffic, likely en route to Los Angeles, San Diego, where I-15 ends.

An Unexpected Scenic Detour

Interestingly, Google Maps diverted us from the usual I-15 → UT-20 → US-89 → UT-12 route. Instead, we wound through US-50 East, UT-24 East, UT-62 West, UT-22 South, and finally UT-63 South. The detour may have been due to traffic or roadwork, but it rewarded us with peaceful small towns and open desert vistas—a reminder that sometimes the unplanned paths add their own charm.

Arrival at Ruby’s Inn

By 4:30 PM, we reached our lodge for the night: the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn in Bryce Canyon City. Ruby’s Inn is a rustic gateway to Bryce Canyon, offering not only comfortable rooms but also a general store, dining, and even stables. It’s essentially a hub for visitors heading into the park.

First Taste of Bryce Canyon National Park

After check-in, we couldn’t resist exploring. Entry into Bryce Canyon National Park was just $35 per vehicle (valid for a week) and we drove the full length of the park road to Rainbow Point. We felt weather to be pleasant even at this time of year. We stopped at Rainbow Point first, and then on return along the way, we stopped at various scenic pullouts, each one revealing otherworldly hoodoos and amphitheaters bathed in the evening light.

Our final stop was at Sunset Point, one of the park’s most iconic viewpoints. Overlooking the largest concentration of Bryce’s hoodoos, Sunset Point offers dramatic vistas of the Bryce Amphitheater, stretching from Inspiration Point to Bryce Point. Even though the parking lot was full, we were lucky enough to find a spot. Though there are other parking lots available nearby, which I found later, along the trail. We spent time wandering the paths, capturing photos, and simply soaking in the surreal beauty as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Closing the Day

Back at Ruby’s Inn, we ended the day with a homemade dinner packed by my wife, grateful for both the spiritual and natural experiences the day had brought.

🌟Day 4 Summary

🥾 Day Essentials

• Comfortable attire for temple visits
• Vegetarian lunch at ISKCON ($12 per person)
• National Park pass or $35 entry fee for Bryce Canyon
• Camera and tripod for sunset photography

📌 Road Notes

• Start: 10:15 AM, Salt Lake City (mileage: 920)
• Gas: Costco SLC — world’s largest Costco
• Distance to Bryce Canyon – 256 miles.
• Sri Ganesha Temple, South Jordan: Traditional Hindu temple with multiple sannidhis
• ISKCON Radha Krishna Temple, Spanish Fork: Cultural landmark, Festival of Colors site, vegetarian buffet
• Interstate 15: 1,433 miles long; connects San Diego to Canadian border
• Scenic reroute via UT-28, US-89, UT-24, UT-62, UT-22, UT-63
• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn: Lodge with full amenities at Bryce Canyon entrance
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Entry $35, valid for a week, drove to Rainbow Point, ended at Sunset Point

💡 Our Highlights

• Spiritual serenity from visiting two beautiful temples
• Enjoying a hearty vegetarian lunch in the middle of Utah
• The surprise detour that showed us quieter corners of the state
• Watching the hoodoos glow in orange and red at Sunset Point

Reflective Closing

Day 4 combined the spiritual calm of temple visits with the majestic beauty of Bryce Canyon, reminding us that journeys are as much about the soul as the sights. With hoodoos silhouetted against the setting sun, we returned to our lodge with hearts full—ready to greet Bryce Canyon again at sunrise on Day 5.

Day 5: Sunrise at Bryce, the Scenic Drive to Zion, and First Trails

After a peaceful night at Ruby’s Inn, we started our morning with a refreshing complimentary breakfast. By 10:00 AM, bags were packed, and we checked out, eager to squeeze in a little more Bryce magic before heading south.

Morning at Bryce Canyon

We parked at Sunrise Point, one of the most popular overlooks in the park. From there, the view of the hoodoos in soft daylight was spectacular. We followed a trail for a short walk, admiring the colors and formations, while watching seasoned hikers descend deep into the canyon—a reminder of how vast and immersive Bryce really is.

On the Road Again

By noon, it was time to head toward Zion National Park. Our car’s odometer read about 1,221 miles into the trip. A quick gas stop right across from Ruby’s Inn topped us off (premium at $4.349 per gallon) before beginning the 86-mile drive south.

We entered Zion through the North (East) Entrance, following US-89 into the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel. Completed in 1930, this 1.1-mile tunnel was an engineering marvel of its time, blasted through solid sandstone to connect Zion with Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon. Narrow and dimly lit, it features “gallery windows” cut into the rock for ventilation and brief glimpses of the canyon outside. Emerging from the tunnel, we were greeted by towering cliffs and winding roads that demanded a photo stop—though the desert heat was a blazing 100°F.

Checking in at Bumbleberry Inn

By 3:30 PM, we rolled into Springdale and checked into the Bumbleberry Inn, a long-standing family-run hotel located less than a mile from Zion’s south entrance. Our room was cozy and practical, with a microwave and refrigerator—perfect for storing and heating up meals. The inn also has its own shuttle stop, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Zion without driving. We were going to stay for 2 nights in this hotel.

Supplies for the Stay

Before heading into the park, we stopped at Sol Foods Supermarket in Springdale. This is the town’s only full-service grocery store, offering fresh produce, packaged foods, outdoor gear, and even hardware items. It’s a lifeline for park visitors stocking up on snacks, picnic lunches, or last-minute essentials. We paired our grocery run with a homemade packed meal my wife had prepared, keeping lunch simple and satisfying.

First Look at Zion

In the evening, it was time for our first taste of Zion. We boarded the Springdale Shuttle right outside our hotel. This free service runs along Zion Park Boulevard, linking local hotels and shops to the park entrance.

At the Zion Visitor Center, we switched to the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Since private vehicles aren’t allowed on the Scenic Drive during peak season, the shuttle is the only way to access the canyon in summer. This system helps reduce traffic, protect the fragile environment, and manage the millions of visitors who pass through each year. The shuttles run every 10–15 minutes between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM, stopping at all major attractions along the canyon floor.

Shuttle Information

Scenic Stops by Shuttle

Our first stop was the Court of the Patriarchs, a trio of towering sandstone cliffs named Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob by early Mormon settlers. From the overlook, we snapped photos of the dramatic formations glowing in the late afternoon light.

We then hopped back on and got off at Zion Lodge, the only in-park lodging, surrounded by giant cottonwoods. From there, we walked the short Emerald Pools Trail—about 1 mile round trip—to the Lower Emerald Pool. The shaded path led us to a gentle waterfall and reflective pool, a refreshing pause amid the canyon heat. The trail was bustling, with many international visitors soaking in Zion’s beauty.

On our return, we rode the shuttle back down to the South Visitor Center, where we made a final stop to rent gear, the company Zion Outrigger, for our big hike the next day: The Narrows. Boots, neoprene socks, and hiking sticks were neatly packed for tomorrow’s adventure. It was $32.00 to rent boots, socks and hiking sticks per person.

Carrying our rentals, we hopped back on the Springdale Shuttle and rode back to our hotel. After a homemade dinner, we turned in for the night, already excited for what Day 6 would bring.

🌟 Summary Day 5

🥾 Day Essentials

• Breakfast at Ruby’s Inn set us up perfectly
• Gas top-off at Bryce City station: premium $4.349/gal
• Sunscreen, hats, and water—100°F in Zion!
• Shuttle schedules (Springdale + Zion Canyon) handy for planning

📌 Road Notes

• Start: 10 AM checkout, odometer ~1,221 miles
• Sunrise Point: panoramic views, trail access into Bryce Amphitheater
• Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel: 1.1 miles, built 1930, connects Zion with Bryce/Grand Canyon
• Bumbleberry Inn: family-run hotel, ~1 mile from park entrance, with shuttle stop, microwave, fridge
• Sol Foods Supermarket: Springdale’s only full-service grocery + outdoor supply store
• Shuttle Systems:
  • Springdale Shuttle (hotel-to-entrance)
  • Zion Canyon Shuttle (inside park, 9 stops, 6 AM–8 PM, every 10–15 min)
• Court of the Patriarchs: iconic cliffs, quick overlook stop
• Emerald Pools Trail: ~1 mile, easy walk to Lower Pool waterfall
• Gear Rental: boots, socks, sticks for The Narrows at outfitters near Visitor Center

💡 Our Highlights

• Watching expert hikers descend into Bryce from Sunrise Point
• Driving through the historic tunnel into Zion’s cliffs
• The convenience of shuttles making the park accessible without stress
• Cooling off at the Lower Emerald Pool in 100°F heat
• Prepping gear for The Narrows—the big hike ahead

Day 6: Into the Narrows — River Trails, Shuttle Rides & Shaded Canyons

Waking up still awe-struck by the red rocks and hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, we felt ready for our next adventure. A relaxing breakfast at Porter’s Restaurant in Springdale fueled us up for the day ahead at Zion’s iconic Narrows.

We geared up and boarded the Springdale Shuttle at 10:00 AM, taking it to the Zion Visitor Center. We checked the park’s flash flood advisories on the Zion Outfitter board before diving in—safety first when hiking through canyon slot trails.

From there, we boarded the Zion Canyon Shuttle, packed with travelers from around the world—some heading for the adrenaline-inducing Angels Landing, but we were bound for a wetter sort of adventure: The Narrows.

From Temple of Sinawava to the Riverside Walk

We disembarked at the shuttle’s final stop, the Temple of Sinawava, a natural amphitheater carved by the Virgin River. It’s also the gateway to the Riverside Walk, a peaceful, paved trail following the river into ever-narrowing sandstone walls—a scenic 1-mile round-trip. This is where the main Narrows hike begins.

Into the Narrows (Bottom-Up Hike)

We walked the Riverside path until it opened into the Virgin River, where the Bottom-Up Narrows hike begins. This form of the hike allows visitors to go as far as they like upstream before turning back.

Stepping into the water—just a moment of wet feet—felt exhilarating. The narrow canyon walls soared around us, offering shade from the 100°F sun. Families, couples, and solo adventurers all navigated the gently flowing water, immersed in this unique river journey.

We continued until the water deepened to about 2–2.5 feet, just past the Lower Narrows zone. Though many kept going further, we decided that was our sweet spot and turned back, having spent approximately 80–90 minutes wading through the canyon river.

The experience was unforgettable—cool water, towering cliffs, and a sense of stepping outside of everyday life.

Back to Springdale for Lunch and Relaxed Evening

After hiking back on the Riverside Walk and returning our gear at the Visitor Center, we hopped back on the shuttle to Springdale for a late Thai lunch at Thai Sapa—a popular family-owned restaurant with warm hospitality and great food.

Full and content, we returned to our hotel for the evening. We relaxed, caught up on laundry, enjoyed a light homemade dinner, and reflected on a day that was adventurous, refreshing, and simply “one of a kind.”

Summary Day 6

Day Essentials

• Waterproof footwear or sandals—expect to get wet!
• Hydration and snacks—especially since heat and exertion combine
• Check flash flood risk at Zion Outfitter or Visitor Center before heading into Narrows
• Gear: rented boots, socks, sticks—essential for river wading

Trail & Shuttle Notes

• Trailhead: Temple of Sinawava → Riverside Walk → Bottom-Up Narrows hike (~3.6 miles round trip option)
• Angels Landing: Dramatic ridge hike with chains; permits now required due to safety and crowd control
• Riverside Walk: A family-friendly paved trail into the canyon
• The Narrows: Hiking in river between slot canyon walls; flash flood risk—water levels can rise dramatically during storms
• Shuttle schedules: Springdale to Visitor Center + Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (required in peak season) (Business Insider)
• Thai Sapa Restaurant: Local family-run spot serving Thai cuisine—convenient stop post-hike

Our Highlights

Relaxing with Thai food after a day of canyon immersion

That initial step into the cold river—a shock and delight

The play of light and shadow in the canyon—magical and meditative

Hiking with strangers, but sharing smiles in flowing water

Day 7: Scenic Roads from Zion to the Grand Canyon

Waking up in Springdale after our Zion adventures, we packed the van and refueled with a strong breakfast at Porter’s Restaurant before embarking toward the next colossal wonder: the Grand Canyon South Rim. The odometer read a mile-strong 1,306.4 miles and counting. It was 10:00am and distance to travel 257 miles.

Canyon Overlook: Zion’s Final Vista

Before bidding farewell to Zion, we couldn’t resist the trek to Canyon Overlook, just north of the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel. The trail is a manageable 1-mile round trip, featuring sandstone steps, handrails, and a lookout that frames the Towers of the Virgin, slot canyons, and possibly bighorn sheep in the distance (National Park Service). A 35–40 minute climb rewarded us with sweeping views; the descent took roughly 25 minutes. A powerful canyon finale.

Goodbye, Zion – Hello, Grand Canyon

Back on the road, we crossed from Utah into Arizona—mindful of the time change. As we navigated US-89 south, We took a detour to the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook, gazing upon the imposing dam built between 1956 and 1966. Its arch-gravity structure, towering 710 feet over the Colorado River, impounds Lake Powell—one of the nation’s largest reservoirs and a vital source of hydroelectric power (Wikipedia).

Soon after, we found ourselves in Page, AZ, where we grabbed a quick bite at Taco Bell and headed to Horseshoe Bend. At $10 per vehicle, we hiked about 0.7–1.5 miles round trip along a paved and gently graded trail to the rim of this iconic Colorado River meander—it’s unreal to see that 1,000-foot drop and mile-wide curve in person (Horseshoe Bend).

Final Stretch to the Canyon

We refueled again at Cameron, AZ—premium gas was $3.539/gallon—before turning west onto AZ-64 toward the South Rim entrance of the Grand Canyon, paying the $35 vehicle fee valid for a full week of exploring.

Along the scenic Desert View Drive, we made stops at key overlooks and viewpoints, absorbing the canyon’s layered complexity as it stretched to the horizon.

By 7:15 PM, we arrived at Maswik Lodge in Grand Canyon Village, checking into the “Fern” building. Nestled among ponderosa pines, this lodge is just a quarter-mile from the rim and offers cozy rooms, food court access, and even EV charging (National Park Service).

To top off the day, my daughter and I ran to the South Rim Market for groceries for our two-night stay, while my wife prepared a comforting home-style dinner—ending a long but adventure-packed day at the edge of the world.

Summary Day 7

Day Essentials

• Sunscreen and hat—desert heat can be intense
• Trail-friendly shoes for Canyon Overlook and Horseshoe Bend
• Camera for panoramic canyon shots
• Be aware of the Arizona time zone change

Road & Route Highlights

• Canyon Overlook Trail: 1-mile hike, moderate difficulty, excellent view (National Park Service)
• Glen Canyon Dam: 710-ft arch-gravity dam, forms Lake Powell, built 1956–1966 (Wikipedia)
• Horseshoe Bend: $10 parking fee; ~0.7–1.5-mile hike; rim view of Colorado River meander (Horseshoe Bend)
• Maswik Lodge: Within Grand Canyon Village; pines, food court, EV charger, steps from rim (Grand Canyon Lodges)

Our Highlights

• That final sunrise-like view from Canyon Overlook—a fitting goodbye to Zion
• The massive engineering of Glen Canyon Dam and peaceful Lake Powell vista
• The jaw-dropping rim view at Horseshoe Bend—nothing prepares you for it
• Settling into Maswik Lodge under pine trees, with the canyon waiting outside