Basics: Be sure to fill up on gas before heading anywhere remote, and always aim to maintain at least a half tank. While there are gas stations throughout the route, they can be many miles apart, with stretches of wilderness in between.

Cell phone service is also very spotty in and around some of the parks, so it’s a good idea to download any maps or directions you may need before setting out for the day.

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Minyan: There is no minyan in Hurricane, Utah (where we stayed), but Chabad of St. George—a nearby city—often has a minyan during Yomim Tovim and in the summer months. Be sure to reach out to the rabbi before planning your trip to confirm availability.

In our case, the Rabbi connected us with Unique Adventures, a couple who arranged a Pesach program in Hurricane.

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Kosher Food: Chabad of Southern Utah (St. George) offers some kosher takeout options and a delivery service to nearby parks for an additional fee. In addition, local grocery stores carry basic products with an OU certification. We even found Pas Yisroel bagels at Walmart after Pesach!

For wine, the Chabad rabbi advised us to pick up kosher Bartenura at a DABS Utah State Liquor Store.

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Weather: The weather in the parks is generally cooler than the surrounding areas due to higher elevations. However, summers can still be very hot, and winters bring significant snowfall. Because it's a mountainous area, weather conditions can change suddenly, as we experienced firsthand.

Since the heat is a dry heat, you may not feel it as intensely as humid heat, so stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

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Hotels & Attractions: We stayed at the Pecan Valley Resort in Hurricane, Utah. They offer beautiful Airbnb rentals surrounded by stunning mountain views. At the time of our visit, they were in the process of completing an epic waterpark for families to enjoy.

Club Rec Utah operates an on-site rental service at the resort, offering jet skis, pontoons, and UTVs for use in the surrounding hills and lakes.

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Park Tips: State and national parks typically have small parking lots at each attraction. During peak seasons, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a better chance at parking. Some national parks require shuttle use during busy times.

The parks are large and handle crowds well. If you're planning to book an adventure tour (hiking, canyoneering, etc.), be sure to reserve in advance for the best selection of dates and times.

If you plan to visit more than two national parks on your trip, consider purchasing the National Park Pass. We used it for Zion, Bryce, and Willow Beach.

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Zion National Park Tip:
If you plan to hike Angels Landing, you now need to obtain a permit online before entering the park.

For any gear—whether bikes, hiking equipment, etc.—Springdale’s main street has many rental shops with options for all sizes.

Note: When entering Zion from Springdale by foot, you'll cross into the park via the pedestrian bridge at the entrance.

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Willow Beach Tip: 

Emerald Cove isn't accessible to small boats every day. Check with the boating company before booking, as some days are reserved for kayakers.