The Open Road Travel

US Route 89 National Parks

US Route 89 is nicknamed the “National Park Highway”, as there are 6 US Route 89 National Parks. For many, these will be the highlights of the drive and the reason for the trip. While some websites list seven US Route 89 National Parks, this has not been the case since 1992, when the southern section of US Route 89 Arizona, which included Saguaro National Park, was removed.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in the US, located in the rugged Rocky Mountains along the border with Canada. Often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent,” the park showcases striking alpine landscapes characterised by sharp peaks, mountain valleys, pristine lakes, tranquil forests, and over 700 miles of hiking paths. The renowned Going-to-the-Sun Road traverses the park’s core, providing stunning viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and opportunities to observe wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears.



Visitors to the park can explore, immerse themselves in its natural beauty, or take scenic boat tours on Lake McDonald and Lake St. Mary, guided hikes, and ranger-led programs. Photographers and outdoor lovers will enjoy iconic locations such as Logan Pass, Hidden Lake, and Grinnell Glacier.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States, the sixth most visited, and the eighth largest. This vast wilderness encompasses a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and canyons, teeming with remarkable wildlife including bears, bison, bighorn sheep, elk, and many species of fish and birds.

One of its most renowned features is the Grand Prismatic Spring, the third-largest hot spring on the planet. It showcases a vibrant array of colours unique to its location. Surrounding the Grand Prismatic Spring are smaller hot springs and geysers, notably the Excelsior Geyser. However, the most famous geyser is Old Faithful, which erupts with remarkable consistency every 44 to 120 minutes, drawing numerous visitors eager to see its display.

Add in picturesque lodges, museums, Old Faithful Inn, the largest log hotel worldwide, villages, and historic areas, and Yellowstone National Park is an ideal destination for those wishing to experience the beauty of America’s wilderness while enjoying nearby comforts such as hotels and activities.



Read our detailed Yellowstone National Park guide here.

Grand Teton National Park

Ranked as the 7th most frequented national park in the United States, Grand Teton National Park is located in the southwestern part of Wyoming. The park is centred around the Teton Mountain Range, which is one of the youngest and most breathtaking in the country. It derives its name from the highest peak in the range, Grand Teton, which rises to an elevation of 13,775 feet (4,200 meters).

Within the park, visitors can find expansive forests, historical buildings, pristine lakes, flowing rivers, and vast valleys teeming with wildlife. This diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of animals, including bears, bison, deer, elk, pronghorn, moose, and more than 300 species of fish and birds.

The park is a favoured destination for outdoor activities, such as biking, boating, climbing, fishing, hiking, and mountaineering, as well as a variety of winter sports.



Our Grand Teton National Park guide is available here.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park attracts more than 2.1 million visitors annually, making it the 15th most popular park in the United States. Established in February 1928, it’s the 17th-oldest national park. Despite its popularity, at 35,835 acres, it is the 10^th-smallest park in the contiguous United States and the 12th smallest in the entire country.

The park is renowned for its striking red hoodoos and a naturally occurring geological amphitheatre, shaped by erosion over thousands of years.

For centuries, various Native American tribes have inhabited this landscape, and today, Bryce Canyon National Park hosts a wide array of wildlife, including badgers, bears, bobcats, deer, elk, foxes, prairie dogs, porcupines, pronghorns, 15 different species of amphibians and lizards, and nearly 200 bird species.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park ranks as the second-most-popular national park in the United States, following Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with about 5 million visitors each year. Established in November 1919, it is the 15th-oldest national park in the country and covers 147,242 acres, making it the 28th smallest. The park is centred around Zion Canyon and is located at the convergence of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert.

It features a variety of landscapes, including canyons, pine forests, vibrant deserts, scenic overlooks, riparian woodlands, towering rock formations, mesas, and rivers. Popular attractions include Angels Landing and Weeping Rock. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of fauna, with rats, badgers, bighorn sheep, bobcats, cougars, coyotes, deer, rabbits, foxes, ring-tailed cats, squirrels, numerous lizards, and nearly 300 bird species.

More detailed information on Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks can be found in our Utah Mighty 5 road trip guide, as can information on Capitol Reef National Park, which is just a short detour from US Route 89.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most visited natural attractions in the world, featuring one of the largest canyons on Earth. Just a few miles from US Route 89 AZ, it was carved by the persistent erosion of the Colorado River over millions of years. The canyon extends for 277 miles, presents a width that ranges from 4 to 18 miles, and descends to depths of more than a mile in certain sections.

This region has been home to Native Americans for generations and holds spiritual significance for various tribes. The park boasts breathtaking vistas, historical sites, waterfalls, ancient pathways, and a wide array of wildlife, making it a must-visit location for anyone eager to witness its splendour.



For a detailed overview of its offerings, check out our in-depth Grand Canyon National Park guide here.

Best Place To Stop On The Ultimate US Route 89 Road Trip Itinerary

With at least 21 hours of driving time, you will be making plenty of overnight stops on a US Route 89 road trip. For many, the US Route 89 National Parks and their surrounding areas will be where they make the bulk of these stops. However, another destination on US Route 89 also deserves an extended stop and is perfect for an overnight stay: Salt Lake City, Utah.

Salt Lake City, Utah

As the capital and most populous city in the state, Salt Lake City ranks as the 22nd most populous city in the nation and is located right by the Great Salt Lake. This prime setting, along with the surrounding mountains, lakes, and numerous parks, makes Salt Lake City excellent for outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and winter sports such as skiing.

The city is widely recognised for its connection to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. An offshoot of Christianity established by Mormon pioneers in the 1840s, Salt Lake City features countless historical and religious sites linked to this distinct and often secretive community.

Salt Lake City also boasts a rich array of art galleries, museums, and performance venues that host events such as concerts, festivals, plays, and rodeos. Furthermore, it is home to Utah's largest LGBT community, offering a vibrant selection of bars, shops, and other amenities, and it even hosts the Utah Pride parade, making it a welcoming destination for visitors seeking diversity on a US Route 89 road trip.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Salt Lake City – Grand America Hotel

The Grand America Hotel is an exquisite five-star establishment located in the vibrant downtown area of Salt Lake City. Its elegantly designed exterior is complemented by equally impressive interior décor and stunning features, including a fountain. This level of luxury covers the guest rooms, too. Each is equipped with amenities such as a marble bathroom and a private balcony that offers breathtaking views.

Additional comforts include plush bathrobes and slippers, iPod docking stations, Wi-Fi, and round-the-clock room service. Moreover, guests can enjoy communal areas, including the Garden Café, which serves gourmet American dishes, and a lounge bar perfect for relaxation. Facilities also include business and fitness centres, a comprehensive spa, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

Best Things To See On The Ultimate US Route 89 Road Trip Itinerary

Salt Lake City and the US Route 89 National Parks may be the main events on this trip, but they are far from the only attractions. Let’s now take a look at some of the other things to do along US Route 89 to help you fill out your ultimate US Route 89 road trip itinerary.

Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest

Helena–Lewis & Clark National Forest spans nearly 2 million acres of rugged mountains, plains, and wilderness, named after the State Capitol and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It extends from Helena to the grasslands east of Great Falls and includes notable sites like the Kings Hill Scenic Byway, the Big Belt, and the Little Belt Mountains. The area offers historic landmarks and various recreational activities, including camping, hiking, wildlife observation, and winter sports.

Custer Gallatin National Forest

Custer Gallatin National Forest covers nearly 2 million acres, featuring mountains, valleys, rivers, and forests from the historic Custer and Gallatin areas. Visitors can explore the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains and enjoy hiking trails, fishing streams, and campsites. The Beartooth Highway offers stunning views and abundant wildlife, including elk and bears. In winter, the forest becomes a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, particularly around Big Sky and Bridger Bowl.

Bridger – Teton National Forest

The 3.4-million-acre Bridger-Teton National Forest is the 6^th largest US National Forest. Encompassing parts of the Salt River, Wyoming, Wind River, and Teton mountain ranges along the continental divide, it features the Bridger, Gros Ventre, and Teton wilderness areas, 40 named peaks, including among them Gannett Peak, Wyoming's highest at 13,804 feet (4,207 meters), and one of the planet’s largest visible landslide areas.

Furthermore, the forest is home to 27 glaciers, 1,500 lakes, three major rivers, numerous streams, and 2,000 miles (3,200 km) of hiking trails. Wildlife thrives here, with 75 mammal species, 355 bird species, and a variety of amphibians, fish, and lizards, making Bridger-Teton a favourite destination in Wyoming for activities like camping, hiking, boating, and backpacking.



Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson, Wyoming’s 10th most populous town, is a popular tourist destination known for its western culture and historic significance in films. The Jackson Town Square features iconic elk antler arches and nearby attractions like the National Elk Herd, which houses around 7,500 elk, and the National Museum of Wildlife Art, known for its extensive art collection. It is among the best Wild West towns remaining in the United States.

Garden City, Utah

Garden City, situated on Utah's northern border with Idaho, is appreciated for its rural charm and visual appeal, featuring intricate wood carvings, and is renowned for its delicious raspberries and the products made from them. The main attraction is Bear Lake, known as the "Caribbean Of The Rockies" for its clear turquoise waters, offering year-round activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.

Cache National Forest

Utah’s Cache National Forest is a scenic destination in the Bear River Range, offering outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, camping, and fishing. Visitors enjoy picturesque drives, wildlife viewing, and tranquil environments year-round. The forest features attractions such as Minnetonka Cave, known for its limestone formations and guided tours, and the adventurous Wind Caves, recognised for their narrow passages and natural air flows.



Great Salt Lake

Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and the eighth-largest endorheic lake globally, is a popular destination in Utah known for its stunning views and unique landscapes. Visitors can experience beautiful sunsets and float in its salty waters. Antelope Island State Park offers close encounters with wildlife, including bison and many bird species, and accessible hiking trails, ideal for birdwatching and photography, especially during migration seasons.

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Timpanogos Cave National Monument, established in 1922, covers 250 acres to protect a series of caves discovered by Martin Hansen in 1887. It includes Timpanogos Cave, Hansen Cave, and Middle Cave, famous for their geological formations. From May to September, guided tours and introductory caving excursions are available for visitors.

Provo, Utah

Provo is Utah’s fourth most populous city and the largest outside the Salt Lake City metropolitan area. It has a significant Mormon presence, being home to the largest missionary training centre and Brigham Young University. The city features various artistic and cultural venues, including the Covey Center for the Arts and several temples. Provo also hosts numerous cultural events, providing a unique opportunity to explore a distinct culture.

Dixie National Forest

The nearly 2-million-acre Dixie National Forest in southern Utah is the state's largest national forest. It features steep gorges, canyons, and colourful cliffs carved by the Colorado River. The forest features extensive high-altitude plateaus and numerous lakes, supporting diverse plant life from desert vegetation to various tree species. Its mountain ranges and wilderness areas provide excellent hiking opportunities, showcasing the region's varied weather and landscapes.



Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument

Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument covers nearly two million acres of remote desert in southern Utah. With vibrant cliffs, deep canyons, and natural arches, it offers a wilderness experience with scenic drives, hiking, and notable sites, including Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch canyons, Calf Creek Falls, and the Escalante River canyon system. Scenic routes give access to various viewpoints and trails, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers.

Kaibab Indian Reservation

The Kaibab Indian Reservation, home to the Kaibab Band Paiute Indians, offers opportunities to engage with Native American culture and buy handmade crafts. It hosts the historically significant Pipe Spring National Monument, which includes a garden, museum, orchard, visitor centre, and Winsor Castle. Additionally, it is part of the Thunder Mountain Pootseev Dark-Sky Preserve, ideal for stargazing and learning about the universe.

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument

Vermillion Cliffs National Monument spans 293,689 acres and protects four significant rock formations: Coyote Buttes, Paria Canyon, Paria Plateau, and Vermillion Cliffs. Established in 2000, it has hosted human inhabitants for 12,000 years. The site features cliff faces up to 3,000 feet high and supports diverse wildlife, including over 20 raptor species, hawks, desert bighorns, pronghorns, and mountain lions, along with rare fish species, attracting nature enthusiasts.



Navajo Nation Indian Reservation

Shortly after it arrives in Arizona, Route 89 enters the Navajo Nation. Spanning 17,544,500 acres, it is home to around 400,000 residents, making it the largest and most populous Indian Reservation in the U.S. Its extensive land area exceeds that of the ten smallest states in the country. Rich in distinctive landscapes, sacred Native American sites, cultural hubs, and numerous enterprises, the Navajo Nation stands out as an exceptional location for exploring the history and culture of Native American people.

Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest spans 1.6 million acres across the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon, featuring a diverse landscape of various tree species and shrubs. It includes attractions like Scholz Lake and the Historic Spring Valley Cabin, built in 1917. The forest is rich in wildlife and hosts species such as Coues white-tailed deer, elk, black bears, bison, and numerous birds like bluebirds and hawks.

Flagstaff, Arizona

At the southern terminus of Route 89, Arizona is home to the often-overlooked city of Flagstaff. Known as "the city of seven wonders" and "the city in the pines," highlighting its appeal as a blend of urban and natural beauty. Its "seven wonders" include Slide Rock State Park, Humphreys Peak, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Wupatki National Monument, Walnut Canyon National Monument, Mormon Lake, and Coconino National Forest. The city offers diverse activities and sights, making it a destination worth more than a brief visit.

Final Thoughts On The Ultimate US Route 89 Road Trip Itinerary

As we conclude our ultimate US Route 89 road trip itinerary, you should now know how to plan it perfectly for when you make the drive yourself. This includes when to go, how long it takes, where to stay, and what to see along the way. All that’s left is to decide what to take with you and start budgeting and booking everything, so you can look forward to enjoying it all for yourself as soon as possible.



For anyone who wants to continue the drive, you can either follow the original route to the Mexican border or join one of the other road trips we have planned on America’s legendary roads that pass through Flagstaff and connect with US Route 89 AZ. These include:

A Route 66 road trip to Chicago

A Route 66 road trip to Los Angeles