You can make Salt Lake City to Zion National Park in about 4.5 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 310 miles on I-15, UT-9 and US-89, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable close to the park gates.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Salt Lake City
Aim to clear Salt Lake City before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 210 miles to Cedar City.
The headline stop on this route is Kolob Canyons. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Cedar City
Cedar City sits about 210 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, Bryce Amphitheater is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
Bryce Canyon City, the last stretch
Bryce Canyon City sits about 257 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Rolling into Zion National Park
The final 54 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Zion Canyon Scenic Drive; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen Kolob Canyons, Bryce Amphitheater and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. Springdale, UT is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along I-15, UT-9 and US-89 before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
