hike your heart out: a solo woman's guide to utah's mighty trails

Intro

Hey there, fellow hiking enthusiasts! If you're itching for adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, and the thrill of conquering some seriously epic trails, then buckle up – we're road-tripping through Utah's hiking paradise! As a solo female hiker who's always up for a challenge (and a good dose of nature therapy), I've crafted this itinerary just for you. Whether you're a seasoned pro or lacing up your boots for the first time, get ready for a journey that'll leave you breathless (in the best way possible).

Just a heads up: this post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's like buying me a virtual coffee for sharing these awesome tips and recommendations with you. Thank you for your support and happy travels!

Vegas, Baby! (But Just for the Layover)

We're kicking things off in Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps. Grab your rental car, snag a few road trip snacks, and hit the gas. The real adventure starts now!

Stop 1: Bryce Canyon National Park (2 Nights)

Bryce Canyon isn't just a park – it's a geological masterpiece. Picture this: a sea of hoodoos (those funky rock spires) glowing in the morning sun. Yeah, it's that good.

• Day 1: Rim Trail Ramblin': Take it easy and soak up those views from above. The Rim Trail is perfect for this, and you can hop on and off at different viewpoints. Sunset Point to Sunrise Point is a classic for good reason.
• Day 2: Hoodoo Hangout: Now it's time to get up close and personal with those hoodoos! Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail (don't miss Thor's Hammer!) and the Tower Bridge Trail.

Eats & Treats in Bryce:

• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon: Their salad bar lunch buffet is a hiker's dream come true.
• Valhalla Pizza: Patio + cold beer + carb-loaded pizza = hiker heaven.
• General Stores: The North Campground General Store and Ruby's Inn are your go-to's for snacks and supplies.

Where to Rest Your Head:

I stayed at the Bryce Canyon Resort, and while the room wasn't fancy, the onsite bar/grill was a lifesaver. Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground gets rave reviews, and the Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel looks super cozy.

Bonus Stop: Valley of Fire State Park

If you've got the time, Valley of Fire is a detour worth taking on your way to Bryce Canyon. It's like stepping onto another planet, with fiery red rocks and otherworldly landscapes.

Stop 2: Moab (3 Nights)

Moab is the adventure capital of Utah, and for good reason. Here, the desert comes alive with hiking, biking, and off-roading opportunities galore.

• Day 1: Arches National Park: Snag that timed entry ticket and hit the trails! Don't miss the Windows Loop, Double Arch, Delicate Arch, and Park Avenue (especially at sunset).
• Day 2: BLM Bliss: Escape the crowds on the BLM trails. The Moab Rim Trail, Corona Arch Trail, and Mill Creek Trail are my favorites.
• Mill Creek Trail has a number of water crossings so be sure to wear sandals instead of your hiking boots on this trail.
• KEEN Womens Closed Toe Sandals
• Teva Women’s Verra Sandals
• UBFEN Womens Hiking Sandal Sport
• Day 3: Canyonlands National Park: Mesa Arch for sunrise is a MUST. Then, check out Chesler Park Loop, or Druid Arch.  End the day with the Grand View Point (sunset magic!).

Moab Munchies:

• Trailhead Public House and Eatery: Perfect post-hike fuel.
• Spitfire Smokehouse + Taps: BBQ and brews, yes please!
• More Yummy Options: Josie Wyatt's Grille, Woody's Tavern, Jailhouse Café

Moab Lodging:

I've stayed at both the Scenic View Inn & Suites (quiet and comfy) and the Hyatt Place Moab (great breakfast!). If you're feeling fancy, the Casitas at the Hoodoo look amazing.

Stop 3: Zion National Park (2 Nights)

Zion is the grand finale of this road trip, and it's nothing short of spectacular. Prepare to be awestruck by towering canyon walls, emerald pools, and trails that wind through it all.

• Zion Canyon Overlook Trail: Short and sweet, but the view is worth a million bucks.
• Observation Point via Stave Spring: A challenging hike, but the payoff is a view even better than Angels Landing (without the crowds!).

Where to Eat:

• Ponderosa Eats at the Ranch Resort: an eclectic mix of homestyle cooking, casual eats, and treats!
• Zion Canyon Brew Pub: the Signature Buffalo Meatloaf is to die for.

Where to Rest Your Head:

I stayed at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort the last time I visited.  This resort offers nine unique lodging options, ranging from cozy cabins to spacious vacation rentals.  Love that it’s on the east side of the park and offers quick access to the Observation Point and Canyon Overlook trailheads as well as a variety of tours and recreation options.

Essential Gear:

• REI Flash 18 Daypack: Lightweight and durable.
• Osprey Hydraulics 3L Hydration Bladder: Stay hydrated on the trail.
• Peak Design Capture Camera Clip: Keep your camera handy for those Insta-worthy shots.

Let me know if you'd like any more specific recommendations or information please feel free to reach out. Happy hiking!