Visa

No visa is required for U.S. citizens or residents. Check the link for foreign travelers.

COVID

Fully open. The last remaining vaccine requirements for foreign travelers ended in May 2023.

Not as grand, but still a circle, with the most stunning parks of Utah and Arizona.

Small Circle

Embark on the ultimate road trip with all the parks and regions of the Grand Circle.

Full Grand Circle

Grand Circle

This is the best time to visit all the parks. March might be a bit unpredictable with snow still covering some trails, but April and May feature perfect weather with some green fields to contrast with the outworldly landscapes. And there are no summer crowds yet.

Spring

Summers feature warm sunny days, but it comes with hoards of people and brief but heavy rainstorms in some regions. Aim to hit the trails in Grand Canyon and Zion at 9 am latest if you plan to enjoy them.

Summer

Fall is another sweet spot for this trip with lesser crowds and cooler days for strenuous hikes. But some roads and hotels start closing with the first snowfall in November, so plan accordingly. Also, make sure all-season or winter tires are installed on your rental car.

Fall

Winter snow usually affects Grand Canyon and Bryce regions, but the rest of the parks are fully open. Some high-elevation trails can be closed or difficult to navigate. We only recommend this season to advanced travelers with winter gear.

Winter

The Grand Circle

America’s Road Trip

The Grand Circle – America’s Road Trip

Capitol Scenic Drive is a beautiful scenic drive that takes you through Capitol Reef National Park, one of Utah's most stunning and underrated national parks. This drive offers a unique experience as it allows you to explore the park's different geological features, including colorful canyons, towering cliffs, and striking rock formations. The drive is approximately 25 miles long, and it offers numerous viewpoints and overlooks where you can stop, get out of your car, and take in the breathtaking views.

One of the highlights of the drive is the Capitol Gorge Road, which takes you through a narrow canyon with towering cliffs on both sides. The Capitol Scenic Drive is a must-do for anyone visiting Capitol Reef National Park, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.

Capitol Scenic Drive

Less crowded but equally stunning, Capitol Reef’s cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges tell a geological story millions of years in the making. The scenic drive and fruit orchards offer a serene experience.