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

The Petroglyph Panels in Capitol Reef National Park are a fascinating attraction if you are interested in history and ancient rock art. The panels consist of hundreds of petroglyphs, or rock carvings, created by the Fremont people over a thousand years ago. The petroglyphs depict a variety of figures and symbols, including animals, people, and abstract designs. Many of the figures are believed to have been created for religious or ceremonial purposes, and the panels are considered sacred by some Native American tribes. You can see the petroglyphs up close by taking a short hike to the panel site or viewing them from a distance using binoculars.

The petroglyphs are located in a beautiful and rugged desert landscape, adding to the allure of this unique attraction. You can also learn more about the history and culture of the Fremont people at the nearby Capitol Reef Visitor Center, which features exhibits and displays on the park's rich human history.

The Petroglyph Panels offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and are a great stop for visitors to Capitol Reef National Park.

Petroglyphs Panels

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.