Nice state parks between the NPs we visit?

Question

So our family will be visiting Grand canyon, Utah 5 (Arches to Zion NP), Death Valley and Yosemite - are there state parks we should consider also visiting that might be unique and different from all these NPs.

Thanks

Answer

Visiting the major national parks you mentioned gives you incredible natural scenery, but there are some unique state parks along your route that offer different landscapes and experiences. These parks can provide less crowded, more intimate encounters with nature, and some have distinctive features that the national parks don’t emphasize.

Arizona / Grand Canyon Area:

Red Rock State Park: Located near Sedona, this park features stunning red sandstone formations, hiking trails, and a small visitor center with wildlife exhibits. Great for photography and a short stop if coming from Flagstaff or Sedona.
Slide Rock State Park: Also near Sedona, known for the natural water slides formed by Oak Creek — a fun stop if the weather is warm and you want a more playful nature experience.

Utah (Arches to Zion corridor):

Dead Horse Point State Park: Near Canyonlands NP, this park offers one of the most dramatic overlooks of the Colorado River and canyons. Trails are relatively easy and less crowded than the national parks.
Snow Canyon State Park: South of St. George, Utah, this park has beautiful red and white sandstone formations, lava flows, sand dunes, and short hikes. It’s quieter than Zion and very scenic.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park: Near Kanab, famous for its striking pink sand dunes. You can hike, sled on the sand, or just enjoy the surreal landscape.

California (Death Valley / Yosemite corridor):

Alabama Hills Recreation Area: Near Lone Pine, CA, offers unique rounded rock formations and stunning views of Mount Whitney. This is a great stop for photography and short hikes.
Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve: Near Lee Vining, CA, showcases unusual limestone tufa formations and a very different landscape compared to Yosemite.
Emerald Bay State Park: On Lake Tahoe, near your potential route if going north of Yosemite, offers beautiful lake views and short hikes.

These state parks provide diverse experiences ranging from dramatic overlooks to unique geological formations and water features. They can be great for quick stops or half-day adventures, giving you variety and fewer crowds than the major national parks.

Nice state parks between the NPs we visit?

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