8 Day National Parks Road Trip

Matt and I planned a grand out west road trip our senior year of college. The trip was meant to celebrate the end of college and signal our start to the “real world.” Unbeknownst to me, it was also the trip where Matt planned to propose. Sadly, the spring of 2020 had other plans. Instead of our grand trip, we instead spent our first four months post-grad social distancing and working from home.

It’s three years later, and we’re finally taking our road trip in May. We’re flying into Las Vegas, renting a car, driving to each of our destinations, and then flying out of Salt Lake City. We’re excited to set off on our 8-day national parks road trip, out west edition.

Zion National Park

Where We’re Going

  • Zion National Park

  • Bryce Canyon National Park

  • Lake Powell

  • Mesa Verde National Park

  • Arches National Park

  • Park City

What I’m Packing

I’m packing for 9 days, and 8 nights in Utah, Arizona, and Colorado in May. We plan to hike every day and stay at a combination of hotels and campsites. I’ve linked more of my trip essentials on my Amazon storefront.

Layers

Most days, we plan to do early morning hikes and then spend the heat of the afternoon driving to our next destination. However, there are a few days when we plan to hike all day. Because I get cold super easily, I plan to pack plenty of layers that can easily be removed throughout hikes. Since we’re also camping a night at Lake Powell, I’m packing lightweight jackets that don’t take up too much space in a suitcase. I absolutely love my Lululemon jacket. I’ve been eyeing this Amazon jacket as a Lululemon dupe.

Wide-Brimmed Hat

I have a UPF 50+ wide-brimmed hat from San Diego Hat Company I absolutely love, but it’s not travel-friendly. Instead, I’ve been searching for a packable bucket hat that will help keep me sun safe. This Lululemon wide-brimmed hat doesn’t have as wide of a brim as I usually select, however, it is quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and super packable. Plus, I’ll wear the hat with a L.U.V. gaiter to ensure I’m protected.

UPF 50+ Tops

If you know me, it’s no surprise that I’m packing all my UPF 50+ tops and gaiters. L.U.V. tops are my go-to because they’re lightweight, breathable, anti-microbial, and UPF 50+. While we plan to pack sunscreen, I don’t want to have to worry about reapplying sunscreen every 1.5-2 hours. I burn super easily, so it’s always easier for me to choose breathable sun protection I can wear.

Cropped Shorts Bra

Because I plan to dress in layers, I’m packing a ton of cropped sports bras. Longlined sports bras are my favorite because I can wear them with high-rise leggings as a top. That helps to reduce the need to pack both sports bras and tank tops for every day.

Hiking Boots

Matt got me a pair of waterproof Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots and Darn Tough socks as a Christmas present. This combo is my go-to for hikes year-round.

Chacos

Chaco Classic Sandals are my go-to for water hikes in the summertime. I have the z-strap sandal with the toe loop. They’re incredibly comfortable and durable.

We don’t have our full itinerary planned out just yet, just a list of hikes, hotels, and a basic schedule. Once we get back from the trip, we’ll share a full itinerary with where we stayed, ate, hiked, and more.

TravelErica SullivanComment