Zion National Park

Zion National Park, named after the Hebrew word for "refuge", is no longer the peaceful haven it once was in Utah's southwest corner. The park is now one of the most popular in the country, with over four million visitors each year. It's as if visitors have discovered a hidden treasure and can't get enough of the apricot-colored Zion Canyon, which they can see while wading through its Virgin River or ascending Angels Landing, with each bend in the river or turn in the trail providing an even more breathtaking view.

Furthermore, the blanket of stars that illuminates the night sky is a welcome end to a day full of active pursuits. And when it's time to return to reality from the refuge, the 166-mile drive from Las Vegas or the 308-mile drive from Salt Lake City is just about the right amount of time to process all the beauty you've just witnessed. The best time to visit Zion National Park is between April and November when the park's free shuttles run and the weather is pleasant.