DAY EIGHT
What to do?
Leave early and drive 3-1/2 to 4 hours south to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.
The vast Grand Canyon is one of the most visited national parks in the national park system. However, only 10-percent of visitors venture to the North Rim, or the “other side.” The season here is shorter from mid-May to mid-October, but the North Rim makes more sense than the South Rim if your family is visiting the national parks of Utah, as well.
Compared to the South Rim, the North Rim is very low-key. There are far fewer services and options, but that’s also part of the attraction. For classic North Rim views, start at the Grand Canyon Lodge patio and then walk the paved, 1/2-mile trail to Bright Angel Point. Do keep a hand on little ones, as there are steep drop-offs.
Catch a ranger program at the lodge. My boys enjoyed the one on California condors that encouraged audience participation.
It’s possible to do one of the famous mule rides from the North Rim, but they don’t go to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon. You can choose from a 1-hour rim ride, 3-hour rim ride or 3-hour inner canyon ride. Kids must be at least 7 years old for the short trip (220 lb. weight limit) and 10 years old for the longer rides (200 lb. weight limit). Cost: 1-hr. ride $45; 3-hr. ride $90. If you really want to ride, I’d recommend the shorter trip, especially for kids. It’s not all that comfortable.
Where to eat?
Dining choices are more limited on the North Rim. The Main Lodge Dining Room serves a buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a lovely setting. Deli in the Pines offers to-go sandwiches and salads, if you’re looking to take a picnic on a hike. There’s also pizza by the slice and ice cream. Snacks and drinks are available at The Coffee Shop & Roughrider Saloon.
Where to stay?
I’d recommend the North Rim Campground, literally steps from the canyon wall. Many visitors consider it to be the best campground in the park. Some sites (11, 14, 15, 16, and 18) actually have canyon views through the ponderosa pines. In the morning or evening, it’s just a short walk to catch the sunrise or sunset.
KidTripster Tip: If you have small children, you may want to avoid the sites nearest the canyon, just for peace of mind.
DAY NINE
What to do?
Drive about 3-1/2 hours from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim to Zion National Park.
A spectacular canyon cut by the Virgin River, Zion National Park is perfection. My family has visited 44 national parks to date, and Zion is in our Top 3. With its town and park shuttle systems (April-October), it’s also one of the most RV-friendly national parks.
Take a bike ride along the 1.75-mile Pa’rus Trail, a paved path between the visitor center and Canyon Junction that hugs the Virgin River. If you ride at dusk, you’ll likely see mule deer and wild turkeys along the path. If you’re traveling with pets, they, too, are allowed on this scenic trail. Don’t be surprised if you come across a tarantula on the trail. Not to worry, these amazing arachnids are basically harmless.
KidTripster Tip: Didn’t bring your bikes? You can take the Springdale shuttle into town and rent bikes. There are several shops.
Where to stay?
I’d recommend staying in the national park at Watchman Campground; reservations are available for these electrical hookup-only sites. There are a few sites along the Virgin River, but they go quickly, so reserve early… like the-minute-reservations-open early! Playing in the water here was one of my boys’ favorite memories of the trip.
DAY TEN
What to do?
There are plenty of easy and moderate hiking trails at Zion National Park to keep you busy for several days. We enjoyed the hike to both the Upper and Lower Emerald Pools and waterfalls. The gorgeous, green water here is stunning. Also, don’t miss the hike to Weeping Rock and its hanging garden where you can catch water droplets that have been making their way down inside the canyon walls for 1,200 years!
Remember all the trailheads are accessible from the park shuttle. You’re not allowed to drive the park in your own vehicle.
KidTripster Tip: If you’re really fortunate, you’ll experience a sudden rainstorm. Why would you hope for rain? When we were there, a heavy rainstorm caused a small landslide that washed iron-laden rocks from the canyon walls into the Virgin River, turning it blood red. It was an astounding sight!
Where to eat?
Plan to have a sit-down meal at the Red Rock Grill inside the historic Zion Lodge and enjoy the tasty food and fantastic views.
Where to stay?
Return to Watchman Campground.
