Day 1: Richfield Arrival and Mountain Biking Thrills
Morning: Carb-Load and Gear Up
Arrive in Richfield and fuel up for your first big adventure. Grab a delicious breakfast burrito at Ideal Dairy. Alternatively, if you’re driving in from the north, a stop at Mom’s Cafe in Salina for a stack of their famous pancakes is a perfect energy loading breakfast. Next, gear up and meet with a local outfitter like Ride Richfield to shuttle you and your bikes to the top of “Spinal Tap.”
Afternoon: The “Spinal Tap” Downhill Ride
Enjoy a thrilling 18-mile, mostly downhill mountain bike ride down the “Spinal Tap” trail. This epic single-track descent offers stunning views and a continuous flow of fun. The ride is a must-do for any mountain biking enthusiast visiting the area.
Evening: Food, Drinks, and Relaxation at Bar 86
After your ride, head to Bar 86 for a well-deserved meal and drinks. It’s a great spot to relax, refuel with excellent food, and enjoy the friendly, local atmosphere.
Day 2: Journey to Bryce Canyon National Park
Morning: Early Start to Bryce Canyon
Get an early start for the beautiful, less than two-hour drive south to Bryce Canyon National Park. Famous for its unique hoodoo formations, this park is a spectacular sight to behold with its vast amphitheaters and otherworldly landscape.
Afternoon/Evening: Hike, Explore, and a True Western Experience
Spend the day exploring Bryce Canyon’s incredible landscape. While hiking down into the amphitheater is a classic experience, you have a couple of great alternatives to consider. For a scenic drive with minimal walking, you can drive the 18-mile road that winds along the rim, stopping at numerous viewpoints like Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Inspiration Point. This is a great way to see the park’s key features and take in expansive views without a long hike.
If you choose to hike, for first-time visitors, the Queen’s Garden-Navajo Loop combination is a must-do. This moderate, 3-mile loop descends into the amphitheater, offering an unforgettable adventure as you wind through towering rock formations like Thor’s Hammer and the iconic Wall Street.
After your day of exploring, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants in or near the park. For a unique and lively evening, consider the Ebenezer’s Barn and Grill dinner show, located at Ruby’s Inn. Enjoy a mouthwatering barbecue meal while being entertained by the live country music of the Bryce Canyon Wranglers. This family-friendly show is a perfect way to experience a taste of the Old West and cap off your day with a memorable performance. Be sure to check their website and make reservations in advance.
Day 3: River Rafting and Adventure Mountain
Morning: River Rafting on the Sevier
Enjoy a relaxing breakfast to prepare for your day of high-energy fun. Head over to Rocky Mountain Adventure for an exhilarating two to three-hour river rafting trip. The Sevier River offers plenty of Class II and III rapids that are sure to get your heart pumping and leave you smiling.
Afternoon: Zip Line & Via Ferrata
If you still have energy after rafting, consider checking out Rocky Mountain Adventure’s Adventure Mountain. They offer a thrilling Via Ferrata course and Zip Line, providing another way to experience the stunning Utah landscape from a unique perspective.
Evening: Steak Dinner
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a well-deserved steak dinner at a local Richfield restaurant.
Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park & Scenic Drive to Fish Lake
Morning: Check Out and Drive to Capitol Reef
Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before checking out. It’s an easy one-hour drive to Capitol Reef National Park, but it’s a journey you’ll want to take your time on. The scenic drive along Highway 24 is a beautiful transition from the green, rural farmlands of the Sevier Valley to the striking red rock cliffs and canyons of Capitol Reef, offering a taste of the park’s dramatic landscapes before you even arrive.
Afternoon: Exploring Capitol Reef
Capitol Reef is often called the “Land of the Sleeping Rainbow” for its diverse colorful rock formations and the immense Waterpocket Fold. There are countless ways to explore the park, whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a scenic cruise.
- Scenic Drive & Easy Hikes
Drive the scenic road to see the park’s key features, stopping for easy, family-friendly hikes like Sulphur Creek Trail or Goosenecks Overlook for a great view. - Moderate Hikes
If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Hickman Bridge Trail is a great hike that leads to a majestic natural bridge. - Guided Adventures
For a different experience, consider booking a guided trip for fishing, canyoneering, or a jeep tour of the park’s more remote areas.
No visit to Capitol Reef is complete without stopping at the historic Gifford House in the Fruita Historic District. Grab a freshly baked fruit pie, made from the orchards that were once a part of the pioneer homestead. The Gifford House is open seasonally, so it’s a good idea to check their hours if you plan to visit.
Evening: Scenic Drive to Fish Lake
After a full day of fun in the park, take the beautiful 30-minute drive to Fish Lake. Check into your cabin at Fish Lake Lodge or Bowery Haven. Keep your eyes peeled on the drive, especially as dusk approaches—you’re likely to see some of the spectacular wildlife like deer, elk, and other wildlife crossing your path.
Day 5: Pontoon Boat and Farewell
Morning/Afternoon: Pontoon Fishing on Fish Lake
Rent a pontoon boat and spend your final day on the largest natural mountain lake in Utah. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks and spend a few hours (or all day!) fishing for the legendary Mackinaw and other species that call the lake home. The natural beauty of the surrounding Fishlake National Forest provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing final day.
Evening: S’mores Cookout
Close out your amazing adventure-filled week with a classic S’mores cookout. Gather around a campfire, share stories from your trip, and reminisce about all the amazing things you’ve seen and done.
Day 6: Head Home
After a final breakfast, pack up your gear and hit the road, already planning your next great adventure in central Utah!
