The ultimate USA roadie!

Jenny Gauthier, HOT Lakers Invercargill, takes to the road and explores the Mighty Five!

Why take a USA road trip

The USA has so much to offer – and the best way to stumble across unique experiences, marvel at extraordinary vistas, explore charming small towns, and discover hidden gems is to hire a car and hit the open road! 

When you think of the all-American road trip, ‘getting your kicks on Route 66’, instantly spring to mind. But Utah’s Scenic Byways offer the chance to get off the beaten track and truly explore USA icons and the natural beauty of the Mighty Five!

Our expert tips

If you're craving jaw-dropping landscapes and pinch-me scenery, a roadie through Utah’s Scenic Highways and Byways delivers the kind of magic you don’t easily forget. Starting from Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, you’ll be cruising through a natural wonderland where every bend in the road feels like it belongs in a movie.

Sure, the big names like Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon always impress, but don’t skip the under-the-radar gems like Joshua Tree, Great Basin, and the misty beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. These parks have their own kind of magic — less crowded, more peaceful, and just as breathtaking.

To get exploring, you’ll need a National Parks entrance pass — grab one online before you go or pick one up at the gate. If taking a car, the pass is a per car cost, if visiting on foot it's a per person cost. If you are visiting more than one national park on your roadie, purchase the National Parks Pass which allows you multiple entries to multiple parks in a 12 month period.

A quick heads-up if you’re hitting the road in the warmer months: it gets seriously hot out there. Bring more water than you think you’ll need, and stock up on snacks and essentials before you enter — most parks don’t have shops, and you’ll want to focus on soaking up the views, not hunting for supplies.

My road trip highlights

If Utah’s national parks were a playlist, they’d be all killer, no filler. Each one is wildly different, but all of them serve up those “how is this even real?” moments in spades.

Two of the big hitters? Zion and Bryce Canyon. These parks aren’t just for looking – although trust us, you’ll be doing a lot of that. They’re playgrounds for hikers, thrill-seekers and wildlife lovers. Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer, bighorn sheep, coyote, and if you’re incredibly lucky – a mountain lion sighting you’ll be talking about forever.

Here’s a peek at what’s waiting:

• Zion National Park: This one’s for the brave. Tackle the famous Angels Landing hike (you’ll need to grip chains to reach the summit – yes, it’s that steep!) or wade through The Narrows, a slot canyon river hike where towering cliffs close in around you. It’s pure, pulse-racing magic.

• Bryce Canyon National Park: Hoodoos. Everywhere. These towering spires glow orange and pink at sunrise and deliver some of the clearest stargazing skies in the world. Stay the night – the Milky Way puts on a show you won’t want to miss.

• Canyonlands National Park: Big, bold and endlessly beautiful. For hikers, The Needles district is a dream with 120km of scenic trails. Prefer iconic views? Island in the Sky is your spot – don’t miss the legendary Mesa Arch at sunrise.

And did we mention Utah has five national parks in total? (We weren’t kidding about that playlist.)

Keen to walk among giants, stare into the stars and see what a real adventure feels like yet?

Best time to go

April-May & September-October.

Inspired to hit the open road? Embark on the ultimate USA road trip and uncover breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and unforgettable adventures. Connect with our USA specialists today to start planning your journey!