national park road trip from las vegas

19 Epic Road Trips from Las Vegas to National Parks (2024)

I love visiting Las Vegas and not for the casinos! Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for embarking on road trips to some of the best national parks in the United States.

Las Vegas is conveniently located near several National Parks, National Recreation Areas, National Monuments, and other protected National preserves.

Discover both popular and underrated road trips from Las Vegas to National Parks in the states of Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and California.

Which are the most popular National Parks near Las Vegas?

Some of the most popular National Parks near Las Vegas are Zion, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Death Valley, Arches, Joshua Tree, and Yosemite.

But there are also some lesser-known National Parks near Las Vegas, like Canyonlands, Petrified Forest, Great Basin, Capitol Reef, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon.

In this article, discover road trips to the most popular National Parks near Las Vegas as well as many other hidden gems, how far they are from Vegas, the best time to visit, top things to do there, and where to stay.

➡ You will need a rental car for your road trip from Las Vegas! I recommend checking rental car rates and availability at Discover Cars as they provide the best deals with top car rental brands!

19 Best Road Trips from Las Vegas to National Parks

This list covers National Parks in Nevada, California, Arizona, and Utah that are within driving distance (2 to 7 hours) from Las Vegas.

Some of these National Parks near Las Vegas, like Death Valley, Zion, and Red Rock Canyon can be day excursions from Las Vegas , but others like Joshua, Grand Canyon, Bryce, Arches, Antelope Canyon, and others can be overnight or multi-day road trips.

Make sure to add some of these road trips to your Las Vegas itinerary with family or friends trip to Vegas .

1. Death Valley National Park

Visiting Death Valley in California is a popular day trip from Las Vegas. Death Valley is one of the most impressive and unique National Parks near Las Vegas and in the United States, as it is the lowest point in North America.

Distance and travel time from Las Vegas to Death Valley

• Distance from Las Vegas to Death Valley: About 142 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Death Valley: Around 2 hours drive

Death Valley National Park is only about 142 mi or a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas. Visiting Death Valley from Las Vegas by car is a must for nature lovers.

There are several road trip routes from  Las Vegas to Death Valley . The shortest route from Las Vegas to Death Valley is via Pahrump to Death Valley Junction. It is not a scenic route, but it takes only 2 hours.

The longest and the most scenic route is from Las Vegas via Pahrump to Ashford Junction. It takes 4 hours to reach Death Valley. 

➡ Alternatively, you can take this Death Valley Small Group Day Adventure From Las Vegas which will ensure you see all the highlights of Death Valley in one day!

Top things to do in Death Valley

Regardless of the route, visiting Death Valley means seeing one of the most spectacular places on earth. Death Valley covers an impressive area of 3.3 million acres. Besides that, the landscapes of Death Valley are unique.

The most important and must-see sites in Death Valley are Zabriskie Point, Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin, Artist Palette, Devil’s Golf Course, Ubehebe Crater, Racetrack Playa, and Mesquite Sand Dunes.

The Furnace Creek hosts the Furnace Visitor Centre , where you can pick up a Death Valley map and get all the needed info for visiting Death Valley. 

The heart of Death Valley is the Badwater Basin, which is 272 feet below sea level. Badwater Basin is the lowest place in North America.

In addition, Death Valley’s Devil’s Golf Course is a large area of sharp salt formations reminiscent of the lake that had existed a hundred years ago.

Mesquite Sand Dunes are breathtaking dunes, and Ubehebe Crater is a thousands-year-old volcanic crater in Death Valley.

Last Kind Words Salon & Steakhouse is a good dining place for grabbing quick bites inside the park.

Best time to visit Death Valley

The best time to visit Death Valley is from mid-October to mid-May since summers in Death Valley see unbearable heat. Death Valley is a must-visit National Park in California. 

Where to stay for Death Valley National Park

Consider booking a room in the 4-star The Ranch at Death Valley if you wish to spend more than one day in Death Valley. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and sports facilities, and it is one of the best and rare places to stay in the park. 

➡ Check rates and availability at The Ranch at Death Valley

Contributed by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

2. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most popular National Parks near Las Vegas and is known for its spectacular canyon views and excellent hiking trails.

At just under three hours from Las Vegas, a road trip to Zion National Park makes a perfect weekend getaway. It is also one of the best things to do in Las Vegas !

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Zion

• Distance from Las Vegas to Zion: About 160 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Zion: around 2 hours 40 minutes drive

If you have time, spend a night or two inside the park, but even if you only have time to drive through Zion, do it. It’s worth it!

We stopped at Valley of Fire State Park on our way to Zion. This park has the most amazing red sandstone landscape which is a must-see! The Fire Wave hiking trail was cool with the red and white striped pattern on the rocks.

➡ Alternatively, you can take this 3-Day National Parks Tour: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley and Grand Canyon – covers 4 iconic National parks, with camping accommodations and option to upgrade to lodging.

Top things to do in Zion National Park

The most popular and strenuous hike in Zion National Park is the Angels Landing hike, and you now require a permit reservation to hike this trail.

Kolob Canyons is a great option if time is short. The five-mile scenic drive showcases the narrow crimson box canyons, Navajo sandstone, and mountain creeks Zion is famous for. Get out and stretch your legs at the one-mile Timber Creek Overlook Trail .

If you have more time, hop on one of the Zion Canyon Shuttles at the South Entrance Visitor Center or at one of the parking lots in Springdale. (Be sure to check the schedule, as the buses do not run all year.)

Ride the shuttle to the end, taking in the scenery of the canyon along the way. Exit at the Temple of Sinawava and take the short one-mile paved Riverside Walk to the Zion Narrows .

Here you can continue, but be prepared to get wet as you hike through the Virgin River on one of the most scenic bucket list hikes in America, the Zion Narrows .

The entire hike is 10 miles long, but since it’s an out-and-back hike, you can go as far as you want and turn around. Check with the rangers, as this area can close when there are chances of flash flooding.

Two other short and scenic trails to check out are the Lower Emerald Pool trail , near the Zion Lodge, and the Canyon Overlook trail on the east side of the Zion Tunnel.

The Zion Tunnel itself is fun to drive through. At just over a mile long, at the time it was completed, it was the longest tunnel in the United States. Oversize vehicles need to pay a $15 fee, and bicycles and pedestrians are prohibited.

Best time to visit Zion National Park

The best time to visit Zion National Park is in the Spring and Fall seasons, as during Summer, temperatures are high and not ideal for hiking.

That said, the park still is very crowded during the summer. April to October are the most popular months to visit Zion National Park.

Where to stay for Zion National Park

To get the most out of a visit to Zion, stay inside the park at the Zion Lodge . You’ll have easier access to all Zion has to offer. And with hotel rooms, cabins, and suites, there is something for every size group.

Springdale town is just outside of Zion National Park and has several great accommodations. The park’s free shuttle picks up right outside the main street in Springdale.

Springhill Suites , Holiday Inn Express , and Hampton Inn and Suites are all great accommodation options in Springdale, and they usually have a hot breakfast and a pool.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay for Zion National Park

Contributed by Kathy Belge of SoloWomenRV

3. Bryce Canyon National Park

Of Utah’s five national parks, Bryce Canyon takes the cake for being one of the most unique and beautiful National Parks near Las Vegas.

Distance and travel time from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon

• Distance from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon: About 260 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon: Around 4 hours drive

At just a 4-hour drive and just under 260 miles, a road trip from Las Vegas to Bryce makes for the perfect weekend trip from Sin City.

➡ Alternatively, if you are short on time, you can take this Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Small Group Tour from Las Vegas which covers both Zion and Bryce Canyon Park in a day trip

Top things to do in Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon National Park has a huge variety of fun activities to do, whether you enjoy hiking, just viewing the sites, or taking scenic drives.

One of the best ways to see the unique rock formations, known as hoodoos , within the park is by going on a hike.

One of the best hikes in the park is the Queens Garden trail to Wall Street . This beautiful trail leads you down into the hoodoos and up through a narrow slot canyon. Be sure to pack your hiking boots, as the trail is slightly strenuous.

Other popular hikes include the Mossy Cave trail and the Tower Bridge trail.

If you aren’t much of a hiker, consider watching the sunrise at either Sunrise or Sunset Points , which both provide beautiful views of the park.

Another fun activity is going stargazing at night because the park is recognized as a Dark Sky Park.

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, head down to the small town of Tropic a few miles away and try IDK BBQ .

Best time to visit Bryce Canyon

If you’re planning a visit to Bryce Canyon, consider planning your trip between May and September, as these are the best months for no snow and warm temperatures.

However, the best time to plan is in the shoulder season, which is May and September, as there will be fewer visitors and the temperatures won’t be as hot.

Where to stay for Bryce Canyon

When it’s time to call it a night, head to the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn in Bryce. This hotel is just about 2 miles from the park entrance and is within a short distance of everything in town. There’s a large gift shop and convenience shop attached to the hotel, as well as a pool and hot tub to relax in.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay for Bryce Canyon National Park

Contributed by Kassidy Olson of The Hiking Helper

4. Grand Canyon National Park

The  Grand Canyon  is one of the most popular National Parks near Las Vegas and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States. Every year, millions of people from all over the world flock to see this amazing natural wonder. 

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

• Distance from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim: About 280 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim: around 4.5 hours drive

It takes around 4.5 hours drive to reach the South rim of Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. Alternatively, the West rim of Grand Canyon is only around 2 hours drive from Las Vegas and 125 miles away.

A popular stop in the Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip is visiting Hoover Dam . I loved walking on the top of the dam and marveling at the massive dam and surrounding scenery.

➡ Alternatively, you can take this highly rated Grand Canyon West Rim With Hoover Dam Stop From Las Vegas full-day tour with Skywalk upgrade.

Taking a road trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon is an amazing experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. You get to go at your own pace, see more of Arizona, and enjoy being out on the open road. 

Top things to do in Grand Canyon

Some of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon South Rim include taking a mule ride , going for a hike, checking out the viewpoints, and visiting other attractions like Yavapai Point and Grandview Point.

When at Yavapai Point, don’t forget to stop at the Geology Museum and walk the Trail of Time just outside it!

The West Rim of Grand Canyon has a lot of activities catered to tourists and has the Skywalk experience which has a glass platform extending out on the canyon where you can walk and look at the deep Canyon below.

The West Rim also has some popular lookout points like Eagle Point and Guano Point.

Visiting the Grand Canyon West and Hoover Dam are the most popular things to do for families in Las Vegas .

Best time to visit Grand Canyon

The best time of year to visit depends on what you want to do while you’re there. If you’re looking for mild temperatures and few crowds, then spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) are great times to visit.

However, if you want to hike or tour the canyon by mule train, then summer (June-August) is a better choice as that’s when most companies operate these tours.

Where to stay for Grand Canyon

Keep in mind that no matter what time of year you visit, it’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance, as lodging near the park tends to fill up quickly. 

If you’re planning on visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, then it’s best to stay inside the park boundaries so that you don’t have to waste time traveling back and forth each day. 

El Tovar hotel is a popular option as it’s right on the edge of Bright Angel Trailhead – one of the most popular hiking trails in the Grand Canyon. This hotel tends to fill up quickly though so be sure to make reservations well in advance if this is where you want to stay during your visit. 

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay for Grand Canyon National Park

Contributed by Brodi Cole of Our Offbeat Life

5. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is one of the best places to visit on a road trip from Las Vegas. Antelope Canyon (though not a National Park) is a highly popular and incredible slot canyon located on Navajo land in northern Arizona and is often visited along with Zion and Bryce Canyon.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon

• Distance from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon: About 280 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon: Around 4 hours 45 minutes

It is a 4-hour and 45-minute (280 miles) drive from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon, so it can be done in one day, but it’s highly recommended to spend 2 or 3 days doing this road trip. It is common to combine Horseshoe Bend with a trip to Antelope Canyon.

➡ Alternatively, you can take this highly-rated Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Small Group Tour from Las Vegas which covers both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in a day trip and includes admission to the Canyon

Top things to do in Antelope Canyon

The Antelope Slot Canyon was formed by millions of years of water and wind erosion, creating the scenic canyon you can now walk through.

You can see two parts of the canyon,  Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon , and you have to take a tour to see either canyon.

If you choose to see Upper Antelope Canyon and go at the right time of day, you can see the famous light beams that shine down from the top of the canyon, creating absolutely gorgeous scenery and even better photos!

If you decide to see Lower Antelope Canyon instead, it is quite an adventure because you have to climb down a few flights of stairs to enter the canyon. 

Besides seeing Antelope Canyon, there are plenty of amazing things to see on the way to the area or nearby.

Zion National Park is actually on the way to Antelope Canyon and is a great destination to stop at on your road trip. Another incredible natural wonder to see while you’re in the area is Horseshoe Bend.

Best time to visit Antelope Canyon

The best months to visit this area of the southwest are spring and fall. It can be fairly hot in the summer months, and the attractions can get really crowded. It’s recommended to visit in the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds as well as the heat. 

Where to stay for Antelope Canyon

The best place to stay to visit Antelope Canyon is Page, AZ, which is a 15-minute drive away from the canyon. One of the best hotels in the area is Wingate by Wyndham , a new hotel that has clean, comfortable rooms, a great breakfast, and nice views from the hotel. 

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Page, AZ for Antelope Canyon

Contributed by Jessica of Unearth The Voyage

6. Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend (though not a National Park) is an area of the Colorado River where that makes nearly a 180-degree turn and is one of the most recognizable and most visited places in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend

• Distance from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend: About 275 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend: Around 2 hours 30 minutes

Although a little far from Las Vegas, a visit to Horseshoe Bend can be combined with Antelope Canyon, which is only 5 miles away.

➡ You can also take this highly-rated Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Small Group Tour from Las Vegas which includes admission to the Canyon and covers both Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in a day trip.

Top things to do in Horseshoe Bend

Along with Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell, seeing the famous Horseshoe Bend is one of the best things to do in Page Arizona.

You’ve probably seen pictures of this famous natural attraction on social media as it’s skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. But for good reason! It gives you a unique view of the Colorado River with the towering cliffs it has carved over 500 million years. 

It’s gotten so popular that the Navajo Nation now charges $10 for parking. To get to Horseshoe Bend, you need to pay to park and then walk along a relatively flat, paved trail for about 3/4 of a mile. 

If you don’t mind sharing the vista with the crowds, then plan on parking about 30 minutes before sunset. Not only is the Arizona desert famous for its painted skies, but the sun sets directly behind the bend, which makes for some amazing photos.

On the other hand, if you want to enjoy the scenery in relative solitude, then make the trek at sunrise instead.  

Best time to visit Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is open year-round to visitors from sunrise to sunset. That said, weather-wise, Spring and Fall are the best months to visit. Summer sees the most crowds.

Where to stay for Horseshoe Bend

Page doesn’t have any luxury hotels or big resorts, but the Courtyard by Marriott is just five minutes down the road and is one of the best places to stay nearby.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Page, AZ for Horseshoe Bend

Contributed by JJ Haglund of The Minivan Bucket List  

7. Great Basin National Park

The high peaks area of Great Basin National Park holds beautiful alpine mountains, elder trees, and incredible caverns. Much of the park lies at elevation, and quite a few of the trails and sights sit above 10,000 feet.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Great Basin

• Distance from Las Vegas to Great Basin: About 340 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Great Basin: Around 5.5 hours drive

Located about 340 miles (5.5 hours) from Las Vegas, Great Basin showcases a unique Nevadan environment.

Top things to do in Great Basin National Park

Among the high peaks of the Great Basin are the Bristlecone pines , one of the oldest trees in the world. These trees only grow between 6,000 and 11,000 feet in this area and in California.

Along with the  Bristlecone Pines, there is the Bristlecone Glacier , the only glacier located within the state of Nevada. The glacier is often hidden underneath rocks, which is why it is often called a “rock glacier”.

Along with the high peaks area, the most incredible sight in Great Basin is the Lehman Caves , one of the best preserved and beautiful examples of cave formations. Even for many who’ve seen several caves, Lehman still manages to stun visitors.

Stargazing is a popular activity in Great Basin National Park on moonless nights.

There’s quite a lot to see among the places within Great Basin. Several areas are not connected internally to the park by roads.

So, for those who want to really explore, a longer stay than a day trip is required. There’s certainly enough within the park to see over a few days, including arches, several bristlecone groves, and beautiful hikes.

Best time to visit Great Basin

Typically summer months of June to September are the best months to visit Great Basin with pleasant weather for activities. The higher elevations can be covered in snow in early summer but the valley can have warmer temperatures.

Where to stay for Great Basin

Lodging options close to Great Basin are very limited, with camping the only option within the park. Outside the park, most options are pretty basic.

Ely, the closest large town, is about 1-hour drive. There are several options to stay in Ely, with the Holiday Inn Express among the best choices in town.

Contributed by Anwar of Beyond my Door

8. Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is located in south-central Utah in red rock country and is popular for its cliffs and canyons, hiking, geology, and stargazing.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Capitol Reef

• Distance from Las Vegas to Capitol Reef: About 325 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Capitol Reef: Around 5 hours

Las Vegas to Capitol Reef can be done in as little as two days, but you may want to spend longer exploring the park and surrounding areas. The drive takes about 5 hours (325 miles), making it a little too long to feasibly do as a day trip.

Top things to do in Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef is a large national park with plenty to see and do. Just driving through the park from Torrey to Hanksville lets you see many of the beautiful and unique landscapes the park and area are known for.

If you want to hike, consider Hickman Bridge , Cassidy Arch , and Cohab Canyon . These are all easy to access from the main route through the park and can easily all be completed in a day.

It is worth it to have a four-wheel drive vehicle as well so you can go off-road to visit Cathedral Valley . Some of the most famous features include the Temple of the Sun , the Temple of the Moon , and Glass Mountain which are all located right next to each other.

If you have additional time, consider checking out the neighboring Bentonite Hills that are adjacent to the park. You can see some of these colorful hills on the drive through Cathedral Valley and even more of them on the drive to Hanksville, where you can find lodging and a restaurant.

Best time to visit Capitol Reef

The best time to visit Capitol Reef is in the spring or the fall. It gets very hot in the summer, and there is a higher risk of flash floods and very cold in the winter, with snow possibly making driving more difficult.

Where to stay for Capitol Reef

For accommodations, consider either Hanksville, Loa, or Torrey, depending on which side of the park you want to be on.

Whispering Sands Motel in Hanksville is a great option for the park’s east side.

The Snuggle Inn in Loa is family-run and another good option not too far from the park.

Contributed by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

9. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is an incredible addition to any southwest road trip and a famous National Park near Las Vegas. Whether you start your journey in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, a road trip to the famous Utah National Park is a scenic and memorable adventure.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Arches

• Distance from Las Vegas to Arches: About 450 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Arches: Around 6.5 hours

From Las Vegas, plan for about 6 and a half hours, if driving directly to Arches. Although most travelers opt to break up the 450 drive into multiple days with stops at Zion, Bryce, and even Capitol Reef National Parks. 

You can even combine Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in one trip with a stay at Moab, Utah.

Top things to do in Arches National Park

Located in eastern Utah, just outside the town of Moab, Arches National Park is best known for its massive red, sandstone natural arches. The most popular of which, Delicate Arch , is featured on the Utah license plate and the Welcome to Utah state signs. 

A hike to Delicate Arch is a must-do in the striking park with its beautiful desert landscapes. You’ll want to start the 3-mile long in-and-out hike in the morning hours, particularly if visiting during the busy summer months.

There is very little shade along the hike for you to escape the intense desert heat. So, starting early in the morning not only helps you beat the crowds but also allows you to beat the heat. 

Best time to visit Arches National Park

The best time to visit Arches is during the Spring and Fall seasons, as summers can be incredibly hot and not comfortable for hiking.

Where to stay for Arches National Park

While there are a lot of great campsites near Arches, you’ll also find plenty of hotels, restaurants, and breweries in Moab.

If visiting Arches and Moab with kids , the Springhill Suites by Marriott is a nice hotel with an incredible pool that makes for the perfect place to relax and cool often after a morning of hiking and exploring.

Moab town is a great base for exploring both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Moab, UT for Arches National Park

Contributed by Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

10. Canyonlands National Park

Located just a few hours from the bright lights of Las Vegas, Canyonlands is the perfect destination for a quick road trip. Whether you’re looking to escape the heat of the summer or enjoy some winter activities, Canyonlands has something for everyone.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Canyonlands

• Distance from Las Vegas to Canyonlands: About 450 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Canyonlands: Around 6 hours

Canyonlands National Park is located approximately 450 miles from Las Vegas, which means it’s about a 6-hour drive. If you do want to break it up a little, your best stop options are St George, Cedar City, or a stop at the small town of Monroe.

Top things to do in Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands is best known for its incredible scenery and off-road trails. Canyonlands is a great place to rent a jeep and explore the Shafer Trail and the White Rim Road . Many people love to enjoy these beautiful and exciting trails that are easy enough for all skill levels.

Be sure to also stop by popular attractions like Grand View Point and Mesa Arch and enjoy a quick stop at the Dead Horse Point State Park. You can also take a  Moab jeep tour  if you don’t want to drive yourself. 

Best time to visit Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands is open year-round, but the best times to visit are Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November). This is the ideal time to go since temperatures are milder and there’s less chance of rain.

Where to stay for Canyonlands National Park

If you are camping, a great place to stay is the Sun Outdoors camping location. They have multiple amenities, with a great hot tub and heated pools. Another great, unique experience for glamping is Under Canvas.

For all others, you should check out the Hyatt Place in Moab. They have a large, beautiful pool area with a playground, splash pad, hot tub, and pool. The hotel is modern with a very classy and modern feel that is only about 30 minutes away from the Canyonlands National Park Entrance.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Moab, UT for Canyonlands National Park

No matter what time of year it is or what your interests are, Canyonlands is the perfect destination for a road trip from Las Vegas. With its stunning scenery and plethora of activities, there’s something for everyone at this incredible national park.

Contributed by Candice of CS Ginger

11. Petrified Forest National Park

If you’re looking for a classic United States road trip, there’s perhaps nothing more iconic than cruising along America’s first highway, Route 66.

And if you make your way from Vegas eastward, you’ll get to cruise along parts of this famous highway all the way to Petrified Forest National Park , tucked in the northeastern corner of Arizona.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Petrified Forest

• Distance from Las Vegas to Petrified Forest: About 366 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Petrified Forest: Around 5.5 hours

Top things to do in Petrified Forest National Park

In this hidden gem of a national park, you’ll get to see striated badlands, colorful deserts, and, of course, fossilized pieces of ancient wood.

One of the best trails in the park is the Blue Mesa Trail , which takes you down below the rim of a mesa to weave your way between indigo-colored bentonite hills.

Alternatively, if you’re a geology buff, the Crystal Forest Trail is an easy loop through the park’s rolling hills, littered with seemingly endless pieces of vibrant petrified wood. 

Best time to visit Petrified Forest

Spring and fall are lovely times to visit the park- you’ll beat the heat and the crowds of summertime.

Where to stay for Petrified Forest

Given that Las Vegas is over five hours away, it’s best to visit here on an overnight or weekend trip.

Stay in the nearby town of Holbrook, which has really leaned into the kitschy Americana vibe of Route 66, with plenty of ‘50s diners and dinosaur statues. 

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Holbrook is a great place to stay, only 20 minutes away from Petrified Forest National Park.

Contributed by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

12. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park, in Southern California, is a great destination for desert hiking, rock climbing, birdwatching, and seeing the unique “Joshua Tree”, which is a type of yucca plant found in the Mojave Desert.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree

• Distance from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree: About 204 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree: around 3.5 hours drive

Joshua Tree National Park is a great multiday road trip destination from Las Vegas. Joshua Tree is located 204 miles and roughly 3.5 hours from Las Vegas, making it too long of a drive for a day trip.

Top things to do in Joshua Tree National Park

Popular hikes in the Joshua Tree National Park include Barker’s Dam, Ryan Mountain, and 49 Palms Oasis Trail.

There are also plenty of sites throughout Joshua Tree National Park worth visiting that don’t require high levels of activity, including Key’s View , Cholla Cactus Gardens , and Skull Rock . 

Right outside the national park is a quirky desert town with a whole personality of its own.

Besides hiking in the national park, other things to do in the Joshua Tree area include stargazing at the Sky’s The Limit Observatory , visiting the eccentric desert-style shops, and admiring the many murals and street art found in town.

Perfect for a meal before or after a visit to the national park, recommended restaurants in the area include Natural Sisters and Crossroads Café.

Best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park

Since Joshua Tree is located in the desert, the weather in the summer is extremely hot. Because of this, October-April is the best time to visit Joshua Tree.

Dry weather can be expected during most of the year. However, the occasional thunderstorm and flash flood may occur, so checking the weather before hiking is important.

During the spring, flowers bloom from the desert cacti, bringing something extra special to the desert landscape. 

Where to stay for Joshua Tree National Park

AutoCamp Joshua Tree is a great place to stay when visiting Joshua Tree National Park for a desert camping feel without all the work.

Stay in beautifully designed airstreams that provide a unique luxury stay in the desert. It’s located in Joshua Tree town and just a short 10-minute drive to the national park entrance. 

Contributed by And There They Went Travel Blog

13. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is one of the most popular and most visited National Parks in the United States. There are some amazing waterfalls, hikes, and jaw-dropping scenery to be experienced here. This is a bucket list National Park in the United States and a must-see.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Yosemite

• Distance from Las Vegas to Yosemite: About 450 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Yosemite: Around 7 hours drive

Yosemite is about 450 miles and a 7-hour drive from Las Vegas if done nonstop. If you are traveling in the fall months of September/October, the 395 route is spectacular with fall scenery, and Mammoth Lakes is a good stop. Death Valley is also a good stop on this road trip.

Top things to do in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is a dream destination for an outdoor enthusiast.  Some activities you can enjoy in your Yosemite 2 day itinerary are hiking, biking, rock climbing, fishing, camping, backpacking, birdwatching, and admiring the waterfalls and scenery. 

During the Spring and early Summer months, the Yosemite Falls are spectacular. The lower Yosemite Falls trail is accessible and an easy stroll. Bridalveil Fall is another popular waterfall here.

There are some amazing and more challenging hikes here, like the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls, the Mirror Lake Loop , and the Upper Yosemite Falls trail.

The most popular and very strenuous hike here is the Half Dome hike , which now requires a permit reservation.

The popular vista points here are Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Valley View, Yosemite Falls, Vernal Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome.

You can rent a bike at Yosemite Valley Lodge and enjoy Yosemite Valley riding on the bike path.

Best time to visit Yosemite National Park

May and June are great months to visit Yosemite if you want to see the waterfalls. September and October are great months to see fall scenery and fewer crowds.

The summer months of July and August are very crowded.

Although Yosemite National Park is open year-round, During winter in Yosemite , most trails are covered in snow, and the Tioga Pass road is closed. Some roads to Yosemite Valley are open in winter.

Where to stay for Yosemite National Park

The best way to experience Yosemite is to stay inside the park. Accommodations can fill up months in advance.

Curry Village is the most popular and affordable accommodation inside the park, with camping, tent cabins, and wooden cabins.

Yosemite Valley Lodge is another excellent option, with lodge rooms and a food court. Yosemite Valley Lodge is within walking distance of Lower Yosemite Falls.

The Ahwahnee in Yosemite is great for a luxury stay, and we enjoyed staying here for a special occasion. It was a splurge, but it was so worth it!

There are several hotels and resorts outside the park entrance, which can be a good alternative if no accommodations are available inside the park.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay for Yosemite National Park

14. Las Vegas to Sequoia & Kings Canyon Road Trip

Sequoia and Kings Canyon are excellent parks for a road trip from Las Vegas.

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are actually separate parks but are often visited together as they are right next to each other and are administered by the same management system.

Distance and travel time from Las Vegas to Sequoia & Kings Canyon

• Distance from Las Vegas to Sequoia & Kings Canyon: 400 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Sequoia & Kings Canyon: around 6 hours drive

Both parks are 400 miles from Las Vegas via a 6-hour drive. While you can easily get there in a day, because of the distance and in order to explore both parks fully, this would ideally be a multiday or weekend trip from Las Vegas.

Top things to do in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Sequoia National Park  is home to the biggest tree in the world- the sequoia. See the biggest of all the sequoia trees, including General Sherman the world’s largest living organism, by hiking the Giants Loop . Moro Rock is another popular hike.

Kings Canyon also has sequoia trees but is better known for its steep canyons and peaks. A must-do in Kings Canyon is a horseback ride.

Try a two-hour ride or have the horse pack in and out your camping gear on a backpacking excursion. Enjoy all the scenery in one peaceful adventure.

Best time to visit Sequoia & Kings Canyon

For the easiest adventure and the best weather, visit in the summer or fall. As these parks are in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, prepare for snow and cold weather if you visit in winter or early spring.

Where to stay for Sequoia & Kings Canyon

Check out The Darling Hotel , a renovated 1930s courthouse, for a vintage and boutique stay. Visalia is the closest major city to the parks and is only a one-hour drive from Sequoia.

Contributed by Cassie of Cassie’s Compass

15. Red Rock Canyon (National Conservation Area)

If you’re in the Las Vegas area and looking for a simple day trip to escape the chaos of the city, consider heading over to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area from Vegas !

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon

• Distance from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon: About 16 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Red Rock Canyon: Around 20 minutes

This beautiful desert region is only 16 miles from downtown Las Vegas, which equates to a quick 20-minute drive from the city.

Top things to do in Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is known for its striking Red rock formations and has lots of activities perfect for anyone.

We enjoyed the Red rock Canyon scenic drive through the park and exploring all the vista points.

➡ These top-rated Red Rock Canyon hiking tour , electric bike tour , and scooter tours are an excellent way to explore Red Rock Canyon!

A popular thing to do at Red Rock Canyon is hiking . There are all kinds of trails that range in difficulty, so you can easily find a trail that takes 30 minutes to hike or the entire day, depending on what you’re up for.

Alternatively, if you enjoy rock climbing , Red Rock Canyon is home to hundreds of different climbing routes. So, whether you’re an avid rock climber or just a beginner who wants to scramble, Red Rock Canyon has it all!

And if you aren’t into hiking and climbing, then consider exploring the stunning canyon area on horseback ! You’ll be able to witness breathtaking views of the local desert, mountains, and wildlife up close. Plus, there are several places to stop along the way, so you can take photos and enjoy all that this area has to offer.

Anu’s pro-tip: Another popular area with red rock formations is Valley of Fire , which is around 50 minutes away from Vegas. Valley of Fire is much more vast and has more dramatic scenery when compared to Red Rock .

Best time to visit Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is a desert region, so ideally, Spring, Winter, and Fall are the best seasons to visit as the temperatures are mild to enjoy outdoor activities. Summers can be very hot here.

Where to stay for Red Rock Canyon

If you’re looking for places to stay in the area, consider the Wynn Las Vegas . It’s one of the best resorts to stay in Vegas with family . You’ll be able to enjoy lots of fantastic amenities that will help you relax after a long day exploring the desert area!

Contributed by Kristin Lee of Global Travel Escapades

16. Lake Powell (Navajo Tribal Park)

Located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Powell is a stunning reservoir that straddles the border between Utah and Arizona.

With 250 square miles of surface area, it is the second-largest artificial reservoir in America and a popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and nature lovers alike.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Lake Powell

• Distance from Las Vegas to Lake Powell: About 270 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Lake Powell: Around 4 hours

With  so much to see at Lake Powell and Page and being far from Las Vegas, it is recommended to take at least a weekend trip. Driving directly from Las Vegas to Lake Powell takes more than 4 hours or 270 miles.

Top things to do in Lake Powell

With its pristine blue waters and stunning desert landscapes, Lake Powell is a mesmerizing place to behold.

Alstrom Point , Waheap Viewpoint , and Glen Canyon Dam provide some of the best vantage points to take in Lake Powell’s beauty. Alstrom Point is more secluded, while Waheap and the dam views are easier to access with just a short detour.

There are a number of things to do on Lake Powell, from fishing and boating to camping and sightseeing. Boating is the most popular activity; rental boats, kayaks, and SUPs are available at both marinas.

Having your own water transport is the only way to see unique landscapes like the lowest part of Antelope Canyon, Labyrinth Slot Canyon, and the incredible Rainbow Bridge. You can also camp on the shores of the lake. Just make sure to leave no trace behind.

Best time to visit Lake Powell

The summer months tend to be the busiest and hottest, while the winter leaves nightly temperatures chilly and a quieter atmosphere. Overall, the best time to visit Lake Powell is during the shoulder seasons – spring and fall – when the weather is milder, and there are fewer crowds.

Where to stay for Lake Powell

If you’re looking for a place to stay near Lake Powell, consider booking the Baymont by Wyndham Page Lake Powell . It’s just a few minutes from the lake and offers various amenities, including a complimentary buffet breakfast, an indoor pool, and parking.

Contributed by Catherine of Nomadicated

17. Lake Mead (National Recreation Area)

Located within Boulder City, Nevada, Lake Mead is an incredible day or afternoon trip from Las Vegas.  Lake Mead, a National Recreation Area, is the reservoir created by Hoover Dam and offers many recreational activities.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Lake Mead

• Distance from Las Vegas to Lake Mead: About 31 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Lake Mead: Around 35 hours

At just 31 miles and 35 minutes by car, visitors can incorporate a quick trip into their busy schedule.  Travelers looking for more adventure can stay longer at one of Lake Mead’s 90 campsites and take advantage of all of the adventure activities.  Campgrounds have access to both tent and RV sites throughout the park.  

Top things to do in Lake Mead

Consider hiking several trails, slot canyons, biking, kayaking, or swimming.  Swimming is not permitted in boat launch areas, and boats are not permitted in swimming-only areas. 

There is never a lifeguard attendant at any of the beaches, so take precautions.  Visitors planning to swim may consider sandals or swim shoes as the walk-up to the water is very rocky.  

Visitors looking for relaxation can enjoy views at one of many pull-out stops at several scenic viewpoints along the main roads.  Almost all of these stops have bathroom facilities.  

Lake Mead National Recreation Area accepts the USA National Parks pass or a $30 entrance fee per vehicle.  

Best time to visit Lake Mead

The best months for hiking are considered November through March due to the Mojave Desert’s cooler temperatures.  Summer months can boast temperatures as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit, so this time of year is not recommended for hiking.  

Where to stay for Lake Mead

The Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa in Henderson , Nevada, comes highly recommended.  This 4-star hotel boasts beautiful views of Lake Mead and houses a cafe, spa, pool, and fitness center. 

Contributed by Alyssa of An Apple A Plane

18. Monument Valley (Navajo Tribal Park)

Six and a half hours east of Las Vegas, at the border of Utah and Arizona, lies one of the most unique desert landscapes on the planet. Monument Valley  is an expansive region of red soil and giant sandstone buttes that was first made famous by Western movies from the 1960s and 1970s.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Monument Valley

• Distance from Las Vegas to Monument Valley: About 400 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Monument Valley: Around 6 hours 45 minutes

The drive from Vegas is nearly 400 miles but takes you past some incredible places in the Desert Southwest, like Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. A road trip from Vegas to Monument Valley is certainly one of the most beautiful drives in the US.

Top things to do in Monument Valley

There’s no official boundary of Monument Valley, as it’s not a national or state park. It is, however, partially protected as a Navajo Nation Tribal Park. The region lies mostly within the Navajo Nation and is thus Native American land.

The Navajos have protected some of the most spectacular rock formations on the Arizona side of the border, such as Monument Valley Tribal Park. No visit to the region is complete without a scenic drive around the loop road and a hike around the buttes in Monument Valley Tribal Park (entrance $8 per person).

Outside the park boundary, be sure to stop at Forest Gump Point , where you get the epic view of Highway 163 with the buttes in the background, just like Forest had on his run across the country when he decided he was “pretty tired”.

While in the area already, head a little north up 163 to Goosenecks State Park , one of Utah’s hidden gems.

Best time to visit Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a year-round destination and experiences all seasons. Summers can be brutally hot, and winter can feature white-out conditions. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times.

Where to stay for Monument Valley

There are not a whole lot of places to stay in Monument Valley. There is one KOA campsite and a hotel at Goulding’s Lodge.

But if you want a truly unique experience, reserve a night at the Dreamcatcher House, run by Nate, a Navajo local who built the residence himself by hand. The house features an outdoor kitchen and a spectacular view of Monument Valley Tribal Park.

A road trip to Monument Valley will be a drive you will never forget!

Contributed by Chris of Around The World With Me

19. Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve is perfect for a day trip from Las Vegas or for an overnight camping destination as it is just over the Nevada – California State Line.

Distance and Travel time from Las Vegas to Mojave National Preserve

• Distance from Las Vegas to Mojave National Preserve: About 90 miles
• Travel time from Las Vegas to Mojave National Preserve: Around 1.5 hours

Mojave National Preserve is located 90 miles from Las Vegas and takes about 1.5 hours to reach by car. Its remote location and wide range of desert outdoor activities make it the perfect day trip location for any adventurer visiting Las Vegas.

Top things to do in Mojave National Preserve

While exploring the preserve, you’ll experience the unique geologic formations and the diverse desert ecosystem.

Mojave National Preserve is famous for its extreme landscapes of dense Joshua Tree growth (home to more than Joshua Tree National Park itself), towering Kelso Sand Dunes , and stunning Cinder Cones.

You will find scenic drives, hiking trails, off-roading paths, and some great backcountry campsites inside the preserve.

Some of the top things to do in the Mojave National Preserve include hiking Rings Loop , climbing Kelso Dunes , and exploring the Lava Tube (pictured). 

Because of its remote destination, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. Having enough fuel, water, and food before entering the preserve is essential. Some roads do require 4WD, so make sure to visit the Visitor Center in Kelso or Park Headquarters in Barstow for up-to-date information.

Best time to visit Mojave National Preserve

The best time to visit the Mojave National Preserve is in the Spring, between March-May when the wildflowers and cacti begin to bloom. However, the Fall months are also great for exploring the area as the weather starts to cool, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the desert.

The desert is dry most of the year, but checking the weather is essential in case of extreme heat in the summer and thunderstorms that may cause flash floods.

Where to stay for Mojave National Preserve

If you are looking to spend the night in the preserve, there are two designated campgrounds and many dispersed camping areas offering beautiful views. 

Outside of the preserve, lodging is limited because of the remote area, and staying in Las Vegas is recommended.

However, you will find the Rio Del Sol Inn , about a 30-minute drive from Mojave National Preserve in Needles, California. This hotel offers clean and family-friendly rooms with a swimming pool to cool down after a long day exploring the desert. It’s the perfect place for resting after enjoying your day at Mojave National Preserve if the drive back to Las Vegas is too far. 

What makes Las Vegas the ultimate destination for road trips to nearby National Parks?

Las Vegas can be reached from anywhere in the country within 2-3 hours.

Flights to Vegas are comparatively cheaper, and car rentals are easily available, too.

Plenty of hotel accommodations are available in Vegas for shoulder nights between your road trips and flights.

There are excellent options for Las Vegas hotels off the strip and on the strip .

Las Vegas is within driving distance of several National Parks in California, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona.

Most National Parks and National areas in this road trip list can be reached within 2 to 7 hours of drive from Las Vegas. You can also combine several national parks in a single road trip or take your time visiting one at a time.

Las Vegas is also a premier shopping and dining destination to explore during the days between your road trips.

Final Takeaways: Best Road Trips to National Parks Near Las Vegas

These epic road trips from Las Vegas to National Parks are bucket list experiences. Explore the desert regions of Nevada, Arizona, and Utah and enjoy some fabulous landscapes and vistas.

See some of the most popular National Parks near Las Vegas, like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Arches, Death Valley, Joshua, Yosemite, and many other off-the-beaten-path ones like Capitol Reef, Petrified Forest, Great Basin, Canyonlands, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon.

Las Vegas is the ultimate starting and ending point for these road trips to National Parks. So start planning your visit to Vegas and check out the best places to stay in Vegas for your trip!

National Parks near Las Vegas ideal for day trips:

Below National Parks and lands are less than 3 hours drive and can be done as day trips from Las Vegas :

• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Zion National Park
• Red Rock Canyon
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area
• Mojave National Preserve

National Parks near Las Vegas ideal for weekend trips:

Below National Parks and National lands are 4+ hours drive and are best as weekend or long weekend trips from Las Vegas:

• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Great Basin National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Sequoia and Kings National Parks
• Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend (Glen Canyon)
• Lake Powell
• Monument Valley

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Planning a trip to Las Vegas? Check out my other related posts:

Best places to stay in Las Vegas: On, Near and Off Strip

21 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

The BEST 3 day Las Vegas family itinerary

Ultimate Las Vegas girls trip: 18 fun things to do in Vegas with girlfriends

14 Best Places to go Shopping in Las Vegas (on and off Strip)

Anu Agarwal is the founder and author of vacation travel blog Destination Checkoff. Anu, a Northern California resident, and a regular nine-to-fiver, loves to vacation with her family to destinations all over the world. She is obsessed with doing endless research for her trips. She has traveled to several destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. With her blog, Anu is excited to share her destination itineraries and vacation travel guides and help you check those dream destinations off your bucket list!

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USA , Itineraries , Road Trips

Utah’s national parks: ultimate 5-day road trip from vegas.

Table of Contents

Planning a road trip through Utah’s National Parks? I’m here to help! This is one of my favourite road trips I’ve ever done. The diversity of Utah’s scenery and landscapes is breathtaking. It almost feels like being transported to another planet.

Utah is like nowhere else on Earth. With its magnificent red landscape and unusual rock formations, Utah is home to some of the most unique national parks in the United States. It’s the perfect place for a road trip.

In this post, I’ve shared a 5-day itinerary through Utah’s National Parks which starts and ends in Las Vegas. The itinerary takes you through Utah’s epic ‘Mighty 5’ – the five National Parks of Utah. It’s a jam-packed itinerary to say the least but an epic one at that.

I’ve also suggested additional spots for those who have more time on their road trip, including destinations a little further afield. The itinerary can also be adjusted to start in Las Vegas and end in Salt Lake City .

There are a couple of long drives in this itinerary, but I promise it’s worth it!

Make sure you’re prepared for your trip and know what to pack for your journey through Utah . 

Here’s my 5-day Utah National Parks itinerary from Las Vegas.

When is the best time of year to visit Utah’s National Parks?

Utah’s National Parks are mostly accessible all year round. Having said that, different seasons have their advantages.

Spring and fall are the best times of year to visit Utah. There are fewer crowds and the temperatures aren’t too extreme. You’ll also likely find it’s cheaper to travel in Utah during the spring and fall. I’d recommend the months of April & May and September & October .

It’s worth noting there might be some snowfall during the spring or fall. This could affect hiking trails and roads. I visited Utah in October and there was snow in Bryce Canyon. We could still do all the hikes, but it was slippery to say the least. Oh, and the camping was freezing!

The summer is a popular time to visit and is the peak season in Utah. School is out and families are looking to vacation in the national parks. If you can, I’d avoid the months of July and August . Utah’s National Parks will be crowded and the temperatures have the potential to be too hot to hike.

It’s also possible to visit Utah in the winter. The national parks will be at their quietest between November and March . This may not be the best time to visit if you plan to hike. Utah can see a lot of snowfall and ice meaning the hiking trails are prone to closure in these months. That’s not to say a winter road trip through Utah isn’t possible.

Next up, here’s what to pack for a road trip through Utah . 

Utah’s National Parks – The Mighty 5

The five national parks of Utah are known as The Mighty 5. If you’re planning a road trip through Utah, visiting each of the Mighty 5 is the best way to see the true diversity of the Utah landscape.

I’ve shared a brief overview of each of Utah’s Mighty 5 below.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most famous national parks in all of the United States. It’s a stunning spectacle of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons and lush forested valleys.

Zion is known for several iconic hikes. This includes the notorious Angels Landing, one of the most dangerous hikes in the USA . Another popular hike in Zion is ‘the Narrows’. This renowned track leads hikers between sheer slot canyon walls through the Virgin River. It’s an absolute must-do hike while in Utah.

Canyonlands National Park

I had never heard of Canyonlands before my Utah road trip, but wow was I impressed. Canyonlands National Park is the largest national park in Utah. It feels like a never-ending expanse of canyons, rock formations and desert.

Arriving in Canyonlands felt like landing on another planet. The park is split into four distinct areas all open to be explored. The Island in the Sky district is one of the most popular areas of the park offering incredible panoramic views. Another famous district is The Needles, with unusual striking rock spires and colourful canyons. I spent two days exploring these two districts and was constantly blown away by the scenery.

With just five days in Utah, it would be impossible to see all of Canyonlands, but a trip there is still a must.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is the smallest of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks. Despite its size, Bryce Canyon is still a force when it comes to beauty and adventure.

This geological place of wonder is known for its incredible hoodoos – tall rock spires which have been formed by erosion. The park’s main attraction, the Bryce Amphitheatre, is a surreal landscape filled with hoodoos. I’d highly suggest visiting Bryce for sunrise or sunset where the orange and red rock formations create a stunning display.

Bryce Canyon is also filled with incredible hiking trails. It’s an absolute must on any Utah road trip itinerary.

Arches National Park

This destination is my personal favourite national park in Utah. Arches National Park is in the Red Rock Country of south-eastern Utah. It’s right next door to Moab, the ‘Adventure Capital of The West’.

Arches National Parks boasts an other-worldly landscape. It’s known for its iconic sandstone arches and has the highest concentration in the entire world. In fact, Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches. These geological wonders create a surreal landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.

There are ample hiking opportunities in Arches National Park . One of my personal favourites is the Devils Garden area. The landscape here is breath-taking.

Arches National Park is a haven for hiking lovers, nature lovers and photography lovers alike.

Capitol Reef National Park

Last, and by no means least, is Capitol Reef National Park. The park is known for the ‘Waterpocket Fold’. A 100-mile-long geological fold in the Earth’s crust. The Waterpocket Fold exposes rock layers, showcasing the geological history of the region over millions of years.

Capitol Reef is also home to petroglyphs – ancient rock carvings. If you’re keen to see the petroglyphs, this will be the easiest spot to see them in this itinerary. The park is also home to Cassidy Arch, an impressive natural bridge which you can visit.

Black Arch Lookout

5-Day Utah National Parks Itinerary from Las Vegas

The below itinerary is a suggested 5-day road trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks from Las Vegas. This itinerary starts and ends in Las Vegas.

I’m going to be honest, 5 days is not enough time to see absolutely everything, but it’s enough time to try. If you have an extra day or two for your Utah National Parks road trip, I’d suggest adding a day at Canyonlands National Park.

I hope the below helps you to build your perfect Utah road trip itinerary.

Day one: Drive to Moab and visit Canyonlands National Park

Start your day in Las Vegas where you will begin your 5-day road trip through Utah’s National Parks.

Today is an early start and a long drive. The idea is to get a big chunk of the driving done today so you can focus the rest of your 5 days on exploring Utah’s National Parks.

Start as early in the day as possible and head straight to Canyonlands National Park . It’s going to be at least a 7-hour drive, so try and get on the road early enough to give you the afternoon in the park.

Canyonlands National Park is a HUGE and vast area, and it’s going to be impossible to explore it all in this time frame. I’d personally focus on one area of the park. If you don’t have much time in Canyonlands National Park, focus on the Island in the Sky area or the Needles district.

A good option for a few hours in Canyonlands is the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive . This incredible drive gives you a feel for the true vastness and beauty of this area. At the end of the road, there is a short hiking trail to Grand View Point. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views at every moment on this hike.

Another epic spot on the Island in the Sky Scenic Drive is the White Rim Overlook Trail . This is another fun short hike with some of the best views in the area. This hike is particularly amazing at sunset.

Here are some other things to do in Canyonlands National Park: 

• Hike to Mesa Arch : this short hike leads you to the incredible Mesa Arch. It’s known for its epic sunrise views.
• Green River Overlook : this viewpoint boasts some of the best views in all of Canyonlands. It’s a convenient short walk from the parking lot and boasts stunning views of the Green Review. I’d highly recommend this spot for sunset.
• Newspaper Rock Historic Monument : if you’re venturing into the Needles district, stop at this monument to admire the incredible petroglyphs. There are some great hiking trails in this area.
• Chesler Loop Trail : this was one of my favourite hikes in Utah. At 10 miles (16km) it’s no short hike, but the diversity of scenery makes it all worthwhile.

Want to explore more hiking opportunities? Here are some of the best hikes in Canyonlands National Park . 

Note : As mentioned above, if you have an extra day for your road trip, I’d consider spending more time at Canyonlands National Park. This is such a huge and diverse national park and there is so much to see here.

Where to stay in Canyonlands National Park

For night one and night two of your 5-day road trip, I’d suggest basing yourself in the nearby town of Moab . This town is close to both Arches and Canyonlands National Park making it the perfect spot to stay.

The town is also known as the ‘adventure capital of the West’. It’s full of exciting and adrenaline filled activities. There are ample restaurant choices and plenty of accommodation options.

For campsites in Moab, a good option is the Sun Outdoors campsite . This is where I stayed during my two nights camping in Moab. It’s a budget friendly option and is located relatively close to the town. 

There are plenty of hotels and motels to choose from in Moab. I’d suggest using booking.com to find the most suitable accommodation. If you’re travelling in the peak season, make sure to book well in advance.

Day two: Arches National Park and Dead Horse State Park

Start the next morning in Arches National Park , just down the road from Moab. This is my favourite of Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’. It’s such a diverse and unusual national park. The scenery is otherworldly and I’ve never seen anything quite like it.

Spending a whole day in Arches is a good amount of time to see the highlights of this park. There are some epic hikes and viewpoints.

Start the day by heading to Delicate Arch for sunrise. Delicate Arch is one of the best places in Arches National Park to catch the sunrise, so you certainly won’t be alone on the trails. The hike is a 5km (3.1 miles) round trip. Unfortunately, it was cloudy on the day I visited for sunrise. It was still worth-it, nonetheless.

After your hike to Delicate Arch, fill your day by exploring other areas of the park.  

Here are some of the top things to do in Arches National Park:

• Hike in Devil’s Garden : if there’s one place to visit in Arches National Park it’s Devil’s Garden. This has to be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. There’s a range of short hikes as well as longer hikes that allow you to explore this magnificent landscape. While in Devil’s Garden, be sure to hike to Double O Arch. The scenery on route is stunning. The Black Arch Overlook viewpoint is particularly spectacular. 
• Drive the Arches Scenic Drive : this popular route connects all the main areas of the park, and you’ll need to drive along it to get to most places. If you’re not a keen hiker, this drive will allow you to see some stunning scenery with zero effort. There are ample viewpoints along the drive. Be sure to check out “Balanced Rock” during the drive.

Note : the Visitor Center in Arches National Park has more information about the park and its history.

I’ve written a whole guide on how to spend a day in Arches National Park . 

Landscape Arch

Double O Arch

Before heading to your accommodation, consider stopping at Dead Horse Point State Park for sunset. It’s a 30-minute drive (or longer), so a little detour, but wow is it worth it. Dead Horse Point State Park is a huge canyon area overlooking the Colorado River. It gives Grand Canyon vibes and is a great alternative for those who aren’t visiting there.

Head to the Dead Horse Point overlook for the best views at sunset. The park is also an International Dark Sky Reserve. This means it’s an epic spot for stargazing. Stick around after the sun sets to make the most of the night sky.

It would also be possible to visit Dead Horse Point for sunrise on day 3 if this fits better.

Important note : Arches National Park operates on a timed entry system. This means between the months of April and October, all visitors entering the park in a vehicle will need to book their slot in advance. This can be booked on the official website .

Accommodation options for Arches National Park

Arches National Park is only a few miles from Moab. I’d suggest basing yourself in Moab on nights one and two as it will allow you to easily get between Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. It also means you won’t need to move accommodation after day one.  

If you’re keen to camp in Arches National Park , you will need to plan well in advance. There is only one campsite in the park. It’s open between March and October.

Day three: Drive to Capitol Reef National Park

Day three of your 5-day Utah National Parks road trip from Las Vegas is another packed one. Start your day early and make the 2-hour drive to Capitol Reef National Park .

Capitol Reef is famous for its unique geology, famous petroglyphs, and beautiful orchards. With only 5 days for this road trip, you won’t be able to see everything. However, even with just a few hours you’ll be able to see Capitol Reef’s highlights.

Spend the next few hours exploring this unique area. Here are some of the best things to do in Capitol Reef National Park : 

• Hike to Cassidy Arch : if there’s one thing you do in Capitol Reef National Park, make it this. This 3.1 mile (5km) hike takes you through the canyon to the beautiful Cassidy Arch. This is a distinctive feature in the park and you can walk right out onto the arch, making for a stunning photo.
• Visit the Gifford Homestead : don’t leave Capitol Reef without trying a pie from the Gifford Homestead. This famous café is known for its sweet and savoury treats, with the cinnamon rolls and pies a particular favourite. The farmhouse is near the famous orchards so grab a snack and take a stroll through the trees.
• Admire the petroglyphs : Capitol Reef is known for its fascinating red rocks and geology, but it’s also home to some incredible ancient petroglyphs . The rock carvings are thought to have been created between 600 and 1300 AD.
• Capitol Reef Scenic Drive: if you have the time, drive the famous Scenic Road through Capitol Reef. This 7.9mile (12.7km) drive boasts breathtaking scenery. There are several stops along the way including scenic viewpoints and unique rock formations. As of Nov 23, the cost to enter the road in a private vehicle is $20.

Once you’ve finished your day in Capitol Reef National Park, start the 2-hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park . The reason you’re driving there tonight? To catch the magnificent sunrise in Bryce Canyon the following the morning.

To get from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon, you have the option of driving the slightly longer scenic drive on Route 12 . This is known to be one of the most beautiful drives in America. The drive will take you about 2 hours and 30 minutes without stopping, but there are lots of scenic viewpoints on route. 

Route 12 is also home to Grand Staircase-Escalante, a National Monument in Utah. I’ve spoken more about this below, but it’s an epic place to stop if you have the time. Realistically, you’ll struggle to fit this into this itinerary without sacrificing something else, but I’ll leave that up to you!

Of course, you can opt to spend the night in the Capitol Reef area instead. However, with only 5 days to see Utah, I’d suggest you keep moving and make the drive to Bryce Canyon on day 3. If you do choose to stay in Capitol Reef, it’s home to some epic, and I mean EPIC , stargazing.

Accommodation options in Bryce Canyon

Seeing the sunrise in Bryce Canyon is a bucketlist activity, so I’d highly suggest staying as close to the park as possible.

For camping , there is the option to camp inside the park at either of the two campgrounds .

The only hotel inside Bryce Canyon National Park is Bryce Canyon Lodge . You’ll need to plan well in advance and it’s not exactly budget friendly, but you’ll be in a prime spot for the next day’s adventures.

Bryce Canyon City is the closest town to the national park and is just a few minutes from the park’s entrance and visitor center. The accommodation here is generally more affordable. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle also picks visitors up from here. There is a grocery store and other facilities.

Day four: Bryce Canyon National Park

Next up is the smallest of Utah’s National Parks – Bryce Canyon . Bryce Canyon is a spectacular spot in southern Utah. It’s known for its collection of hoodoos, tall and narrow rock spires which have been formed through erosion. Bryce Canyon is one of those places where you really have to “pinch yourself”. It’s beautiful beyond words can describe.

Some people only pass through Bryce Canyon on their road trip, but I suggest spending a full day in the park. It’s a truly wondrous place and you want to see as much as you can.

Bryce Canyon is particularly beautiful in the winter months. The viewpoints over the amphitheatre with a snow-covered landscape are breathtaking, especially at sunrise.

Begin your day in Bryce Canyon by catching sunrise over the Amphitheatre . The best spots are Sunrise Point and Sunset Point . There is a convenient parking lot meaning you won’t need to walk far, but get there early to ensure you get a space.

The sunrise I saw in Bryce Canyon is genuinely one of the best sunrises I have ever seen. There was something so magical about watching the sun rise above the horizon and the amphitheatre lighting up gold and red.

Bryce Canyon is a hiker’s paradise and after watching the sunrise, hit the trails to see more of this phenomenal destination.

Here are some of the best hikes in Bryce Canyon:

• Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden : this is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Utah. The Navajo Loop trail is a 1.5mile (2.4km) trail that takes you down the famous switchbacks known as Wall Street. To see more of the incredible Bryce Amphitheatre, continue your hike on the Queen’s Garden Trail. This will get you up close and personal with those iconic red hoodoos.
• Bryce Point and the Peekaboo Lookout : this 5.2 mile (8.3km) hike can also be linked with the Navajo Loop trail. It’s a great way to walk amongst the hoodoos.
• Rim Trail : if you’re not a keen hiker but want to see more of Bryce, consider a stroll along the Rim Trail. The trail is 5.5miles (9.8km) long but you can walk as much or as little as you like. I’d suggest parking your car in the Sunrise Point Parking Lot and having a stroll from there. It’s a relatively easy hike that all can enjoy.
• Inspiration Point : before leaving Bryce Canyon, make a quick stop at Inspiration Point for more incredible views. This is one of my favourite viewpoints in the park.

I’ve written all about how to spend a day in Bryce Canyon National Park to help you plan your trip.

Wall Street at the Navajo Loop

Sunrise in Bryce Canyon

After finishing your day in Bryce Canyon, drive to Zion National Park for the final day of your road trip through Utah’s National Parks. This drive should take you around 2 hours depending on traffic.

Note : you could always drive to Zion in the morning on day five. There’s lots to see in Zion however and if you’re keen to hit the trails, I’d suggest getting there this evening so you can spend a full day in the park.

Accommodation options in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the busiest parks in America, so finding accommodation can be a challenge.

If you want to stay inside Zion National Park, your only option is Zion Lodge . This highly rated hotel is a popular option as it’s conveniently located near several hiking trails.

Zion National Park also has three campsites . I stayed at the Watchman Campground which is very well located. You normally need to book at least six months ahead of time to get a space here.

The nearby towns of Springdale and Cedar City also have ample accommodation options. I recommend using Booking.com to find your accommodation.

Day five: Zion National Park

The final stop of your Utah National Parks road trip is the iconic Zion National Park in Southern Utah. Zion is known for its dramatic red rock landscapes, towering cliffs and narrow slot canyons. Start your day as early as you can as there are so many things to do and see in Zion.

One of the best things to do in Zion is the famous Angels Landing hike. This stunning hike is known to be one of the most dangerous hikes in the United States. With its narrow ridges and steep cliff faces, it’s not for the faint of heart. The hike requires you to ascend nearly 1,500 feet above the canyon floor up a series of switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles. Once at the top, start the nerve-wracking walk along the narrow ridge.

At the summit of Angels Landing, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Zion Canyon, the Virgin River and surrounding red rock landscape. This is without a doubt one of the best hikes in America. Due to its popularity, the National Parks Service recently introduced a permit system . You won’t be able to do this hike without a permit.

Another iconic hike in Zion National Park is ‘ The Narrows ’. This hike takes you through the Virgin River’s narrow slot canyons (hence the name). There really is no other hike like it and it’s an absolute must on your Zion itinerary.

The Narrows hike requires wading and, at times, swimming through the river itself. You can hire equipment for the hike right outside the park. 

Here are some other things to do in Zion National Park:

• Emerald Pools hike : the Emerald Pools hike starts at the famous Zion Lodge. There are three different pools: lower, middle and upper. You can walk to just one, or complete the full trail which is a total of 3.1miles (5km). The walk boasts stunning views including waterfalls, panoramic vistas and of course, the pools themselves.
• The Watchman Trail : this is a shorter hike (2.7 miles) but is stunning nonetheless. It’s located near the entrance of the park so is a great option for those with less time. The start of the hike is right by the Visitor Center and the Watchman Campground.
• Ride the shuttle bus : if you’re visiting Zion in the peak season, you’ll need to take the shuttle bus to get around the park. A ride on the shuttle bus is a great way to explore the park with minimal effort. There are incredible views around every corner.
• Stargazing : Zion is known for its epic stargazing. Grab a blanket and admire the night sky, or join a tour to learn more about this wondrous night sky. 

Discover more hikes in Zion National Park . 

Angels Landing Hike

Important note : private vehicles are not allowed into Zion National Park during the peak season (generally March to November). You’ll need to leave your car in a parking lot and catch the Zion shuttle bus to get around. 

After ending your day in Zion, you’ve finished your 5-day road trip through Utah’s National Parks. Head back to Las Vegas or stay an extra night in Zion.

Utah Road Trip: Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Itinerary

Planning a Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip? The above itinerary can be adapted to suit that.

Here’s what I would do if I were driving from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City.

Stop one: Zion National Park Start your road trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City by visiting Zion National Park.

Stop two: Bryce Canyon National Park Next up, spend a day exploring Bryce Canyon. Be sure to catch one of the iconic sunrises.

Stop three: Capitol Reef National Park Move on to the stunning Capitol Reef. If you have the time, take Route 12 and make a stop as Grand Staircase-Escalante.

Stop four: Moab The next stop is Moab. Spend a couple of days exploring Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.

Stop five: Salt Lake City Finish your epic road trip from Las Vegas in Utah’s capital, Salt Lake City. Consider visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats to see more of Utah’s diverse landscapes.

Other places to visit on a road trip from Las Vegas

If you have an extra day or some extra time for your road trip, consider one of these additional stops.

Bonneville Salt Flats (Utah)

The iconic Bonneville Salt Flats are one of Utah’s most iconic and surreal landscapes. The Salt Flats are about 110 miles from Utah’s capital, Salt Lake City. This unique destination features a vast expanse of salt crust, creating an almost otherworldly environment.

This 30,000 acre spot requires some planning to visit, but it’s well worth it.

Grand Staircase-Escalante (Utah)

The Grand Staircase-Escalante is a National Monument in Utah. Although not officially a national Park, a stop at the Grand Staircase-Escalante is a must if you have the time.

The area is home to some incredible hikes and scenery. With waterfalls, canyons, red rock cliffs and narrow slot canyons, Grand Staircase-Escalante is an epic spot on a Utah road trip.

While here, consider hiking to Lower Calf Creek Falls. The track is 6.2 miles (10km) round trip and takes you to a beautiful waterfall. It was one of my favourites hike in Utah. There is also information about the area on route.

The National Monument can easily be added to any Utah itinerary. The park is located on Route 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon.  

Red Canyon (Utah)

Southern Utah is home to Red Canyon, an incredible display of hoodoos, spires and cliffs. Red Canyon is often overlooked by the nearby Bryce Canyon, but it’s worth visiting if you have the time.

It’s right in the heart of Dixie National Forest with ample hiking trails. Red Canyon can be found between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks.

Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)

Less than an hour from Las Vegas is the Valley of Fire State Park. If seeing petroglyphs is high on your list, then you’re in luck. The petroglyphs here are estimated to be around 2000 years old. The park is also home to the iconic Fire Wave, a vibrant sandstone rock formation.

Thinking of visiting Valley of Fire State Park. Here’s everything you need to know .

Hoover Dam (Nevada)

The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel which spans the border between Arizona and Nevada. It’s a bit of a detour from Utah to reach here, but if you have the time I’d highly recommend it. The scale of the Hoover Dam is mind-boggling. You can walk across the Hoover Dam or opt to join a guided tour . 

The Grand Canyon (Arizona)

The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s most recognisable natural landmarks. This huge canyon is a whopping 1.217 million acres. It’s possible to visit the Grand Canyon as part of a Utah road trip. I’d add this in as your first stop out of Las Vegas (or last stop when returning).

Want to see more of Arizona including the famous Monument Valley or Horseshoe Bend? Consider a road trip through Arizona .

Did you find this 5-day itinerary for Utah’s National Parks from Las Vegas helpful? Share on social media below or save for later.

OTHER UTAH POSTS 

Have you checked out my other Utah themed posts to help you plan the ultimate road trip?

One Day in Arches National Park: The Perfect Itinerary

How to Spend One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park

Ultimate Packing List for Visiting Utah’s National Parks

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The Perfect 7-Day Grand Circle Road Trip (USA)

The Grand Circle road trip (USA) has always been a dream of mine. With spectacular road trip scenery and cool rocks that tell the story of the land’s history, this 1 week Grand Circle road trip itinerary is the best way to explore several national parks from Las Vegas .

My family was visiting from abroad and had only 7 days to explore the region around Las Vegas. The full Grand Circle road trip typically takes about 2 weeks, which we weren’t able to commit to at the time. We would rather create our own version of a smaller Grand Circle loop than to rush through it, and we found this version of our Grand Circle road trip itinerary to be perfect for 1 week.

This itinerary involves minimal driving yet connects as many attractions as possible so that you can spend more time inside the parks. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to go hiking and even go camping for one night in Grand Canyon National Park.

Are Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , Antelope Canyon , and the famous Horseshoe Bend on your bucket list? if you only have 1 week (7 days) here’s how to maximize time to experience national parks in Southwest Utah, the famous Grand Canyon in Arizona, and even enjoy Las Vegas in Nevada.

About this 1 week Grand Circle Road Trip itinerary

There are many versions of the Grand Circle road trip, depending on where you’re starting from. In our case, since we’re starting from Las Vegas, our version of the Grand Circle road trip is almost like a 7-day National Park tour from Las Vegas.

What are the Grand Circle National Parks?

• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Petrified Forest National Park

Other popular attractions:

Antelope Canyon

Horseshoe bend.

• Lake Powell
• Monument Valley

Some variations of the Grand Circle road trip can take up to 2 weeks to cover up to 8 National Parks. The ones bolded are the closest to each other as well as to Las Vegas, so we’re focusing on those for our 1 week Grand Circle road trip itinerary.

1 week Grand Circle Road Trip itinerary map

Here’s an overview of the places we will be visiting. It can also be considered a Grand Canyon road trip because it’s mostly focused on the national parks and attractions nearby. It covers a total of just over 800 miles for the loop.

Best time to do the Grand Circle Road Trip

The best time for a Grand Circle Road Trip is just outside summer – from March to May , or September to November. This is when the weather is mild, which we experienced when we visited in May.

At night, the temperatures were just above freezing, but it felt alright when we were out camping. During the day, it was sunny and we felt warm but not weighted down by the heat while hiking.

For example, you can check the monthly temperature ranges at different parts of the Grand Canyon here . If you’re there closer to winter time, you may even get to see some snow!

What type of vehicle to drive the Grand Circle road trip

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This is one the most popular road trips in the US because of the spectacular views and scenic drive. I am so thankful for the opportunity to do this with my family during spring. We rented an SUV for this trip, which was perfect for 4 of us.

Another cool thing to do would be renting an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy , a peer-to-peer camper rental community. That way, you can try out van life without committing to buying one, and it will already be built up for you. Check out the options near your location or Las Vegas and book in advance for the best prices and options !

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Las Vegas can be reached via a flight or drive. If you only have 7 days, I recommend resting from the jet lag, and choose to fly in to Vegas rather than drive. On this first night, have a good dinner and rest up before the hiking and exploration begins. Hit up any of the restaurants in Vegas, such as the Gordon Ramsay Burger place, or Sekushi Japanese Restaurant , etc. If you arrive early enough, consider having a sumptuous buffet, since many of them open till 9pm.

In terms of budgeting, I suggest going for a cheaper hotel at the start, and splurge at the end of the Grand Circle road trip loop. We stayed at Excalibur Hotel , a 3.5-star hotel in the heart of the Strip. Check latest prices on Booking.com or Agoda .

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Day 2: Zion National Park

The first hikes in our Grand Circle road trip will start today. Zion National Park is a short 2.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. You could easily do a day trip to Zion National Park if you want to do 1 short hike during the day. If you have time, I suggest making a 1-hour detour to drive through the Valley of Fire State Park , a route that promises breathtaking scenery and towering rock formations.

Lower Emerald Pools trail (2 hours) is perfect for a family, as it is easy enough but also exposes you to the spectacular landscape of Zion every way you turn. Other popular trails are the Angel’s Landing, and hiking the Narrows , which are more time consuming and spending more than 1 day in Zion might be a better idea for those who are up for the challenge.

If you’re looking for hotels near Zion National Park , here are some cool places to consider:

• Best for Luxury Glamping: Zion Glamping Adventures
• Best for Convenient Location : Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites

We opted to stay in Glendale, Utah for 2 nights, as it is conveniently situated between Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park . This way, it can be our base before and after we explore Bryce Canyon. It’s also more affordable compared to staying near the National Parks’ entrances.

Check out this tiny home – Apple Hollow Cabins !

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Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is a slightly smaller park, but there are many lookout points (sunrise point, sunset point, etc.) that are worth stopping by on the way to hiking trails. Hoodoos are the highlight of this park, pillar-like structures that have been brought about by various forms of erosion. Truly a geography lesson.

The most popular and doable trail is the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trail (2-3 hours), where you descend down into the canyon, allowing you to get up close and personal with the Hoodoos, and view them from a different perspective. The landscape is almost unearthly, but very interesting to explore.

Day 4: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend

The Antelope Canyons are split into the upper and lower section, with the upper being more expensive and crowded because of the light rays and the opportunities to photograph sand falling into the canyon. The lower section has fewer people (still crowded) and is generally cheaper, and the canyon itself descends deeper (more stairs).

In my opinion I think both would be great, and if you are not too picky, it would not make a huge difference as you will have a great time in either.

Do note that you will need to join a tour to enter the Antelope Canyons , you do not have access to them on your own. I booked my tour for $50 USD per pax with Ken’s Tours for 1-1.5 hours. One advantage of having a tour is that the guide might show you good photo spots and help you take pictures.

Book your Antelope Canyon tour for the best experience

You can also browse more Antelope Canyon tour options on platforms like GetYourGuide , such as:

• Lower Antelope Canyon tour
• Upper Antelope Canyon tour

Alternatively, consider this variation of the Grand Circle tour from Las Vegas : Antelope Canyon + Horeshoe Bend day trip from Las Vegas

Also consider the time of day you choose for the tour, as you want to have optimal sunlight shining into the canyon. Most sources say that mid-day is the best. If it is too late in the day, the canyon could look dark in pictures.

Overall a very fun place to explore and take pictures in, but the crowd makes it difficult to take good photos and you might feel rushed.

In between our mid-day tour to Antelope Canyons and sunset viewing at Horseshoe Bend , we bought frozen yoghurt in the nearby supermarket to cool off. Then, we headed to the Glen Canyon Dam nearby where The Chains hike starts. We chose to stay near the parking lot, exploring rock formations and taking pictures. It was unexpectedly fun, and you can even see people fishing and going really close to the water.

Last but not least, a beautiful sunset to end the day. Aim to arrive at the observation area about 1 hour before sunset so that you can enjoy golden hour. You can also watch the colours of the sky change if you stay a while after the sun sets.

On hindsight, I should have brought some picnic mats/towels to put on the rocks for a more comfortable sunset experience.

You can stay somewhere between Tuba City and Moenkopi in Arizona , such as Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites (check on booking.com for latest prices). This will be on the way to Grand Canyon.

Do note that in Arizona there is time difference in the Navajo Nation regions, which includes Tuba City. The rest of Arizona follows Pacific Time.

Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park

This is probably where you will find the ‘Grand’ in the Grand Circle road trip. Our family camped 1 night in Grand Canyon National Park ( Mather campground ), giving us plenty of opportunities to enjoy the park. After all, it is one of the wonders of the world, a geographical landform visible from space. We rented camping equipment from Airbnb and collected them in Cameron, AZ on our way to Grand Canyon.

Going hiking or camping soon? Check out some of my tips and gear recommendations:

Cold weather camping gear | Camping starter kit | Affordable hiking backpacks | Weekend camping trip planning + packing list | First-timer tent camping tips | Hiking boots for women | Rooftop tents for car camping

Best lookout points in Grand Canyon National Park

There are many lookout points in the park , and here are the ones I visited and recommend. You can also find a summary of these places, including sunrise and sunset spots color-coded in this map below.

1) Along east entrance, with views of the Colorado River:

• Desert View
• Lipan Point

2) Near the village and Mather campground

• Mather Point/Amphitheatre (sunrise views, closest to campsite and has seating area)
• Rim trail views

3) West of the village along Hermit Road (accessible only by shuttle bus from Mar-Nov)

• Hopi Point (sunset views, toilets available)
• Would have also gone to Mohave Point for sunset if we had more time

Most people also recommend hiking the South Kaibab trail (near the east side of the park). However, we chose another trail called the Bright Angel Trail , and hiked down to the Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse. The round trip hike takes 2-4 hours with 1,120 ft (340 m) elevation gain. This trail would be closest to Hermit Road where we will be going for sunset.

Where to go for sunset?

• Hopi Point (red route)
• Yavapai Point (drive, walk or orange route)
• Lipan Point (drive)
• Pima Point (red route)

Day 6: Grand Canyon, Las Vegas

As mentioned earlier, Mather Point is one of the best places to watch the sunrise (shown in the picture above). We also happened to meet 2 other Singaporeans and they were smart enough to bring coffee and breakfast along.

Where to go for sunrise?

• Yavapai Point (Walk, drive or orange route)
• Navajo Point (Drive)
• Mather Point (5 minute walk)

Sunrise tips: arrive at the lookout point about 30-45 min before sunrise to watch the light slowly creep in. The photo shows the sun after it has risen. We woke up at 4:45am and waited till about 6am before leaving. Sunrise time was about 5:30am.

Cook some ramen and drink some coffee before starting the day. Head out to explore the Rim Trail to see more viewpoints of the Grand Canyon before driving to Las Vegas.

We passed through several towns and dropped by Williams to return the camping equipment. There was some decent coffee at Brewed Awakenings Coffee.

To end the day, we pigged out at a buffet place. It was perfect after many days of hiking. You could choose to watch a live show after dinner too, or simply walk around exploring the many hotels/the Strip.

Day 7: Leave from Las Vegas

On our last night in Vegas, we and booked a room in Bellagio Hotel to reward ourselves.

If you can wake up early, spend some time in the hotel pool area to soak in the sun. Spend this last day shopping at the outlet stores too. We shopped at the South outlet stores since it was nearest to McCarran airport and the car return area.

The time of the year to go to these places could play a role in several decisions. For example, camping at freezing temperatures and deciding which trail to hike as some might be closed due to snow. However, many of these places look spectacular with snow sprinkled on them, and not everyone gets to enjoy such view. I would love to visit Capitol Reef National Park and Monument Valley if we had more time.

With that, the perfect Grand Circle road trip has concluded. I hope that this has helped you in planning and getting inspired to hike a little. You can also check out these tips on how to take great photos of yourself hiking . Now let’s get packing !

What to bring hiking during your Grand Circle road trip

To make the most of your adventure, it’s essential to come prepared. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need.

Hiking essentials and comfort items

• Hiking boots or shoes : Comfortable and supportive footwear is a must so you’ll have the best experience. Waterproof boots can be useful for muddy trails.
• Hiking day pack : It should have enough space to store snacks, water, and any extra clothing. Here are some affordable hiking backpacks below $100 to consider.
• Water : Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water reservoirs with up to 3-litre capacity are useful for longer hikes. In general, bring at least 0.5 litres for every hour of hiking.
• Map and navigation : Having a map adds an extra layer of security. Offline Google Maps also helps.
• Snacks : Pack energy-boosting snacks to keep you fueled throughout the hike. These could be energy bars, nuts, or some sweets.
• Sunscreen and cap : Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the open sections of the trail.
• Layered clothing : For example, bring a fleece sweater and wear a sweat-wicking base layer. Rain jackets can also act as a windbreaker.
• Phone tripod: If you’re hiking alone, having a phone tripod is great for filming shots of yourself.
• Trekking poles: Provide extra stability on uneven terrain and downhill sections.

Shop hiking gear

Gregory Jade 28L Backpack

A reliable hiking day pack for carrying essentials – even comes with a rain cover.

Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody

Lightweight and warm, perfect for staying cozy in chilly weather.

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

Keep dry and comfortable with a reliable waterproof jacket for unpredictable weather.

Cascade Mountain Tech Trekking Poles

Lightweight hiking poles that support you both uphill and downhill.

Columbia Benton Springs Full Zip Fleece

Insulating mid layer fleece that repels water and keeps you warm.

Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boots

Budget-friendly waterproof hiking boots for casual hikers.

Read more: 10 Reasons You Should Use Notion for Travel Planning with Friends DIY Finland Road-Trip: Lapland in Autumn For Best Northern Lights

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Janice, a California-based travel writer from Singapore, discovered her love for hiking and camping during her studies in Los Angeles. Through her blog, she now shares detailed itineraries for adventures in California, Asia, and beyond. She also talks about gear recommendations and tips for beginners, hoping to inspire them to explore the great outdoors with confidence.

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The Ultimate 10-Day National Park Itinerary From Las Vegas

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate 10-day national park itinerary from Las Vegas! If you’re looking to embark on an adventurous journey and explore some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States, this itinerary has got you covered. From the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas to the awe-inspiring wonders of Death Valley National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and more, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience.

Las Vegas serves as the perfect starting point for this epic adventure. Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas offers a vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and luxurious resorts. Once you’ve had your fill of the city’s excitement, get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Over the course of 10 days, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the most iconic national parks in the Southwest. Each park offers its own unique landscapes and experiences, from towering cliffs and slot canyons to breathtaking arches and mesmerizing rock formations.

It’s important to note that this itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences and time constraints. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this 10-day national park itinerary will leave you in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds Las Vegas.

So, throw on your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. Let’s dive into the details of each day’s exploration as we uncover the wonders that await!

Day 1: Las Vegas

Your incredible 10-day national park itinerary begins in the dazzling city of Las Vegas. Spend your first day exploring the vibrant energy and entertainment options that this city has to offer.

Start the day by taking a stroll down the famous Las Vegas Strip. Marvel at the iconic resorts and casinos that line the street, including the Bellagio with its stunning fountain show, the Venetian with its picturesque canals, and the Luxor with its Egyptian-themed architecture. Immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere as you take in the sights and sounds of this one-of-a-kind city.

For those interested in art and culture, be sure to visit the Neon Museum. This outdoor museum showcases vintage neon signs from the city’s rich history and provides a unique insight into the evolution of Las Vegas’ iconic signage.

In the evening, indulge in a world-class dining experience at one of the city’s renowned restaurants. Las Vegas is home to a plethora of fine dining options, with celebrity chefs and award-winning cuisines at every turn. Treat yourself to a memorable meal before venturing into the city’s famous nightlife scene.

Las Vegas truly comes alive at night, and there is no shortage of entertainment options to choose from. Catch a spectacular live show, enjoy a thrilling performance by world-class artists, or try your luck at one of the many casinos. Las Vegas offers something for everyone, ensuring that your first day in this vibrant city will be nothing short of unforgettable.

After a day of excitement and exploration, return to your hotel and recharge for the adventures that lie ahead. Tomorrow, you’ll be heading out of the city and venturing into the natural wonders of Death Valley National Park.

Day 2: Death Valley National Park

On day 2 of your national park itinerary, it’s time to leave the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas behind and embark on a journey to the captivating Death Valley National Park. Known for its extreme temperatures and breathtaking landscapes, Death Valley is a surreal destination that will leave you in awe.

Start your day early and make the scenic drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley. As you enter the park, you’ll immediately be greeted by vast expanses of desert, towering mountains, and unique geological formations.

Begin your exploration of Death Valley at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. These massive sand dunes create a picturesque scene and offer the perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning images of the desert landscape. Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense here.

Next, make your way to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Walk along the salt flats and marvel at the vast expanse of salt crystals glittering under the sun. It’s a surreal experience that reminds you of the immense beauty and diversity found in our natural world.

For a change of scenery, head to Zabriskie Point. This stunning viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the Badlands’ eroded and multi-colored formations, creating a truly striking landscape. It’s a great spot to capture breathtaking photos or simply sit back and soak in the awe-inspiring views.

To round out your day in Death Valley, visit the Artist’s Palette. This geological wonder displays a vibrant array of colors due to the different minerals present in the rock formations. Take a short walk or drive through the scenic loop and admire the mesmerizing hues that adorn the hills.

As the day winds down, bid farewell to Death Valley and make your way to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest. Reflect on the stunning landscapes you’ve witnessed and get ready for another day of adventure tomorrow as you venture to Zion National Park.

Day 3: Zion National Park

Day 3 of your national park itinerary takes you to the enchanting Zion National Park. Known for its dramatic red cliffs, deep canyons, and breathtaking hikes, Zion is a hiker’s paradise and a true natural wonder.

Begin your day by entering Zion National Park and take a shuttle to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Here, you can gather information about the park, trail conditions, and obtain any necessary permits or backcountry permits for your planned hikes.

One of the most iconic hikes in Zion is the Angel’s Landing Trail. This challenging trail offers breathtaking views of the Zion Canyon and rewards those who persevere with panoramic vistas at the summit. The trail involves some narrow sections with steep drop-offs, so ensure you are prepared and have proper hiking gear.

If you prefer a less strenuous hike, the Riverside Walk is a great option. This easy, paved trail follows the Virgin River and offers picturesque views of the towering cliffs and hanging gardens. It’s a tranquil and scenic walk that immerses you in the beauty of the park without the need for strenuous physical exertion.

For a unique experience, consider exploring the Narrows. This hike takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, where you’ll wade through the Virgin River amidst towering canyon walls. It’s an exhilarating adventure and a fantastic way to beat the heat during the summer months.

After a day of exploration and hiking, unwind and relax by visiting the charming town of Springdale, situated just outside the park’s entrance. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants or browse through the quaint shops that offer a variety of souvenirs and artisanal products.

As you end your day in Zion National Park, take a moment to witness the stunning golden hues of the sunset illuminating the canyon walls. It’s a magical sight that serves as a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Rest up for another adventurous day tomorrow as you make your way to Bryce Canyon National Park.

Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

As you continue your 10-day national park itinerary, day 4 brings you to the awe-inspiring Bryce Canyon National Park. Famous for its unique geological formations called hoodoos, Bryce Canyon offers a surreal and otherworldly landscape that will leave you speechless.

Start your day by driving into the park and making your way to the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center. Here, you can gather information about the park’s trails, viewpoints, and weather conditions to plan your day’s activities.

For panoramic views of the park, head to Bryce Point. This popular viewpoint offers a breathtaking vista of the amphitheater, showcasing a stunning display of orange, red, and white hoodoos. Take your time to marvel at the intricate formations and the vastness of the canyon.

Next, embark on a hike along the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail. This moderate hike takes you down into the canyon, allowing you to walk among the towering hoodoos. Witness the unique formations up close and marvel at their intricate details. As you hike, keep an eye out for Thor’s Hammer, a hoodoo resembling the hammer of the mighty Norse god.

For a different perspective, explore the park’s scenic drive and make a stop at Rainbow Point. This viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding area and showcases the stunning color variations in the hoodoos. It’s a great spot to capture beautiful photos and appreciate the enchanting beauty of Bryce Canyon.

As the day winds down, consider staying in the park for a mesmerizing experience. Bryce Canyon is known for its dark skies, perfect for stargazing. If you visit during a moonless night, you’ll be treated to a dazzling display of stars that truly showcases the beauty of the universe.

Reflect on the natural wonders you’ve witnessed throughout the day and get a good night’s rest. Tomorrow, you’ll continue your national park adventure as you make your way to Capitol Reef National Park.

Day 5: Capitol Reef National Park

On day 5 of your national park itinerary, you’ll be exploring the hidden gem of Capitol Reef National Park. Located in Utah, this lesser-known park offers stunning landscapes and ancient rock formations that rival those of its more famous counterparts.

Begin your day by driving to Capitol Reef National Park and stop by the Visitor Center to gather information about the park’s attractions and check current trail conditions.

One of the must-see features of Capitol Reef is the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geologic formation that stretches for nearly 100 miles. Take a scenic drive along the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive to witness the captivating cliffs and rock layers created by the fold. Be sure to stop at the Panorama Point and Goosenecks Overlook for panoramic views of the park.

For a more immersive experience, embark on a hike through the Grand Wash. This moderate trail takes you through a narrow winding canyon, providing a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering cliffs. The trail is especially beautiful during the fall when the leaves change color, creating a picturesque display.

Another highlight of Capitol Reef is the Hickman Bridge. This natural arch spans 133 feet and offers a fascinating geological formation to explore. Take the Hickman Bridge Trail, a short and relatively easy hike that leads you to this impressive natural wonder.

If you’re craving a taste of history, take a detour to the Fruita Historic District. This preserved settlement is dotted with orchards and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the lives of the early pioneers who once inhabited the area. Grab a fresh fruit pie from the Gifford House for a delicious and authentic treat.

As the day draws to a close, enjoy a peaceful sunset at Sunset Point. Take in the warm hues that wash over the landscape and marvel at the beauty of Capitol Reef National Park.

Rest up and get ready for another day of exploration tomorrow as you journey to the red rock wonderland of Arches National Park.

Day 6: Arches National Park

Welcome to day 6 of your national park itinerary! Today, you’ll be venturing into the mesmerizing red rock wonderland of Arches National Park. Known for its iconic natural arches and stunning geological formations, Arches National Park is a photographer’s dream and a true testament to the power of erosion.

Start your day early and make your way to the park entrance. Once inside, stop by the Visitor Center to gather information and get oriented with the park’s trails and points of interest.

One of the highlights of Arches National Park is Delicate Arch, the iconic symbol of Utah. Embark on the Delicate Arch Trail, a moderate hike that takes you up close to this magnificent natural arch. As you witness Delicate Arch against the backdrop of the majestic red rocks, you’ll understand why it’s a must-see attraction in the park.

For a unique and unforgettable experience, explore the Fiery Furnace. This maze-like area requires a permit or guided tour, but it’s well worth the effort. As you navigate through narrow passages and towering walls, you’ll be immersed in a surreal landscape that feels like another world.

Continue your adventure with a visit to the Devil’s Garden. This area is home to many of the park’s arches, including Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arches in the world. Take the Devil’s Garden Trail and marvel at the diverse collection of arches, rock formations, and stunning vistas that surround you.

If you’re up for more exploration, consider hiking to the Double O Arch. This strenuous trail will take you past other impressive arches, such as the Dark Angel and the Private Arch. The Double O Arch itself is a masterpiece of nature, formed by two arches stacked on top of each other.

As the day comes to a close, head to the Windows Section of the park, where you can witness the beauty of the sunset casting an ethereal glow on the massive arches. Bask in the peaceful ambience and take in the splendor of Arches National Park.

Rest up and prepare for the next leg of your journey tomorrow as you make your way to Canyonlands National Park, a land of grand canyons and dramatic vistas.

Day 7: Canyonlands National Park

Welcome to day 7 of your national park itinerary, where you’ll be exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Canyonlands National Park. Known for its expansive canyons, towering mesas, and rugged beauty, Canyonlands offers a true wilderness experience that will leave you in awe.

Start your day by driving to the park and making your way to the Island in the Sky district. This area is known for its awe-inspiring viewpoints and stunning panoramas.

Begin your exploration at the Mesa Arch, a famous landmark in Canyonlands. Take a short hike to this natural arch and witness the spectacular sunrise as it illuminates the expansive canyon below. The dramatic colors and breathtaking views make it a favorite spot for photographers.

For a more adventurous experience, venture along the Grand View Point Trail. This moderately challenging hike takes you to a viewpoint that offers a jaw-dropping panorama of the canyons stretching as far as the eye can see. Stand at the edge and feel the immensity of the landscape surround you.

As you continue your journey, make your way to the iconic Upheaval Dome. This unique geological feature is believed to have been caused by either a meteorite impact or salt dome uplift. Hike to the viewpoints and witness the fascinating rock layers and the contrasting colors that make Upheaval Dome a truly mystical place.

Experience the grandeur of the Green River and Colorado River as they converge at the confluence overlook. Marvel at the sheer power of the rivers as they have sculpted the magnificent canyons over millions of years.

For a change of scenery, venture into the Needles District. This section of Canyonlands National Park offers a more remote and rugged landscape with stunning rock formations and hidden arches. Embark on a hike along the Chesler Park Loop Trail to experience the unique beauty of this area.

As the day comes to a close, find a quiet spot to witness the incredible colors of the sunset casting a warm glow over the canyons. It’s a moment of tranquility and reflection, reminding you of the immense natural beauty that surrounds you in Canyonlands National Park.

Rest up and get ready for another day of adventure tomorrow as you make your way to the stunning Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Day 8: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Welcome to day 8 of your national park itinerary, where you’ll be exploring the vast and awe-inspiring landscapes of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This remote and rugged wilderness is known for its stunning slot canyons, towering cliffs, and pristine natural beauty.

Begin your day by driving to the visitor center at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Here, you can gather information about the park’s trails, current conditions, and any permits required for your planned activities.

One of the highlights of the monument is the famous slot canyon known as Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulches. These narrow and twisting canyons offer a thrilling and unique hiking experience. Be prepared for tight squeezes, scrambling, and maneuvering through the narrow passages as you immerse yourself in the striking beauty of the slot canyons.

After exploring the slot canyons, continue your adventure by visiting the scenic Devils Garden. Hike along the trail and marvel at the unique rock formations, including intriguing hoodoos and natural arches amidst the desert landscape. Keep an eye out for the impressive Metate Arch, a massive stone arch that stands as a testament to the power of erosion.

If you’re up for a longer hike, consider trekking to the famous and picturesque Calf Creek Falls. This trail takes you through a scenic desert canyon and rewards you with a refreshing oasis, complete with a beautiful cascading waterfall. Take a dip in the pool or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

As you explore Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, don’t forget to take in the vastness and solitude of this remote wilderness. Sit back, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the untouched beauty that surrounds you.

As the day winds down, find a quiet spot to witness the incredible colors of the sunset casting a warm glow on the rugged cliffs and mesas. It’s a moment of tranquility and appreciation for the beauty of nature in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Rest up and prepare for another day of adventure tomorrow as you make your way to the stunning Lake Mead National Recreation Area for some water-based activities.

Day 9: Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Welcome to day 9 of your national park itinerary, where you’ll be exploring the refreshing waters and stunning landscapes of Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Located near Las Vegas, this recreational paradise offers a perfect combination of water-based activities and natural beauty.

Start your day by driving to Lake Mead National Recreation Area and make your way to the visitor center. Here, you can gather information about the various recreational opportunities available, including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

For a day on the water, rent a kayak, paddleboard, or powerboat and explore the expansive lake. Glide through the clear turquoise waters, soak in the sun, and take in the stunning backdrop of the rugged desert landscape. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal on one of the secluded beaches.

If you prefer to explore on foot, there are several scenic hiking trails in the recreation area. The Historic Railroad Trail offers a unique opportunity to walk along the path of the historic Hoover Dam railroad. Enjoy panoramic views of the lake and learn about the fascinating history of the area as you traverse through tunnels and enjoy the scenic vistas.

Another popular hiking option is the Valley of Fire Overlook Trail. This trail takes you to an elevated viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of the vibrant red rock formations of the Valley of Fire State Park and the sparkling waters of Lake Mead. It’s a fantastic spot to capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.

After a day of adventure and exploration, take some time to relax and unwind at one of the designated swimming areas in the park. Find a sandy beach, plunge into the cool waters, and enjoy a refreshing swim, or simply lounge under the sun and soak up the peaceful ambiance.

As the day comes to a close, find a quiet spot to witness the sunset painting the sky with vibrant hues over Lake Mead. It’s a serene and picturesque moment that showcases the beauty of nature at its finest.

Rest up and prepare for the final day of your national park itinerary as you venture to the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Day 10: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Welcome to the final day of your national park itinerary! On day 10, you’ll be exploring the captivating beauty of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, located just outside of Las Vegas. This stunning desert landscape is renowned for its vibrant red rock formations, scenic drives, and ample outdoor recreational opportunities.

Start your day by driving to Red Rock Canyon and make your way to the visitor center. Here, you can gather information about the various trails, viewpoints, and attractions within the conservation area.

Begin your exploration with a scenic drive along the 13-mile Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop. This one-way loop provides panoramic views of the towering sandstone cliffs, unique rock formations, and desert flora. Don’t forget to make stops at the designated viewpoints to fully appreciate the breathtaking vistas.

After the drive, embark on a hike along one of the many trails in the conservation area. The Calico Tanks Trail is a popular choice, offering a moderate hike that leads to elevated pools with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon.

If you’re seeking more adventure, try your hand at rock climbing on the majestic sandstone cliffs. Red Rock Canyon is a renowned destination for climbers of all skill levels, with a variety of routes to choose from. Remember to bring proper climbing gear and follow safety guidelines.

For a more relaxed experience, consider having a picnic lunch at the Willow Springs Picnic Area. Enjoy your meal surrounded by the serene desert landscape and watch for wildlife that may make an appearance.

Complete your visit to Red Rock Canyon with a visit to the Red Rock Canyon Overlook. This viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic vista of the entire conservation area, allowing you to truly grasp the grandeur and beauty of the red rock landscape.

As your national park journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the incredible landscapes and memorable experiences you’ve had throughout the past 10 days. The natural wonders, the breathtaking vistas, and the sense of adventure will stay with you long after you leave.

Make your way back to Las Vegas, carrying with you memories of this incredible national park itinerary. Cherish the moments and savor the beauty of the natural world as you complete your journey.

Safe travels and until your next national park adventure!

As you wrap up your 10-day national park itinerary from Las Vegas, you can reflect on the incredible journey you’ve embarked upon. From the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas to the awe-inspiring wonders of Death Valley National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and beyond, this itinerary has taken you on a remarkable adventure through some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the United States.

Throughout the itinerary, you’ve witnessed the power of nature, from towering red cliffs and mesmerizing arches to deep canyons and picturesque sand dunes. You’ve experienced the thrill of hiking through slot canyons, basking in the beauty of vibrant sunsets, and exploring the vibrant underwater world of Lake Mead.

Not only have you discovered the magnificence of these national parks, but you’ve also immersed yourself in their unique histories and cultural elements, whether it’s the neon signs of Las Vegas, the ancient settlements of the Fruita Historic District, or the pioneer heritage of the Hoover Dam railroad.

Each day offered a new adventure and a chance to connect with the natural world. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking a break from the bustle of city life, this itinerary has provided a diverse range of activities and experiences to suit your preferences.

As you return to Las Vegas, let the memories of the stunning landscapes, the camaraderie of fellow adventurers, and the sense of awe experienced at each national park stay with you. The national park system of the United States is a treasure to be cherished, and through your exploration, you’ve gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for these remarkable ecosystems.

Remember to leave no trace, preserving the beauty and integrity of these natural wonders for future generations. Whether you’re planning your next national park adventure or reminiscing about the incredible journey you’ve just completed, the memories you’ve made will forever hold a special place in your heart.

Until your next national park adventure, embrace the experiences, embrace the beauty, and embrace the wonder of the natural world.

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20 Incredible National Parks Near Las Vegas

D id you know there are 20 national park units within six hours of Las Vegas? With so many national parks near Las Vegas, it makes sense to use this major vacation destination as a hub for exploring all these incredible places.

Fly into Las Vegas and then take several day or weekend trips to explore these national parks. Or better yet, rent a vehicle and embark on an epic road trip to see them all! Here is your guide to national parks near Las Vegas, with details regarding driving distance and plenty of things to do once you arrive in the parks.

Spending time in town? Here are 40 Fun Things to do in Las Vegas with kids .

20 National Parks Near Las Vegas

Zion national park.

Distance from Las Vegas : 2 hours, 40 minutes (160 miles)

Zion is one of our country’s most visited national parks, in part because it is within a day’s drive of several metropolitan areas, including Las Vegas (which also happens to be the closest). It is also an all-season destination, with the heaviest visitation coming during the scorching summer months.

For most of the year, visitors park in the town of Springdale or at the Zion Visitor Center and then take a free shuttle into Zion Canyon where the bulk of the major attractions are located.

Highlights include the Emerald Pools (which when combined with the Kayenta Trail make for a great day hike), Weeping Rock , Angels Landing (permit required), and the iconic Zion Narrows.

Hiking in the Zion Narrows involves walking (and sometimes even swimming) in the Virgin River as it winds through a dramatic canyon. Proper gear can be rented in town and weather conditions should always be confirmed with park rangers before heading out. Never hike in the Narrows when flash floods are a possibility.

Biking in Zion Canyon is a great option if you don’t want to deal with the often-crowded park shuttle. Zion Outfitters rents E-bikes, regular adult bikes, and children’s bikes. 

Tubing the Virgin River in the town of Springdale is an especially popular May through July. Canyoneering is another great thing to experience in Zion. Zion Outfitter has a special  Family Adventure  program designed for groups with kids younger than 12 .

Here are 15 epic things to do in Zion with kids and our guide to visiting Zion in the winter .

Spend the night : Cable Mountain Lodge  rooms feature full kitchens, large living areas, and plenty of space for large families in their suites.

Death Valley National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : Two hours (125 miles)

Death Valley is the closest of the 63 National Parks Service units with the official “national park” designation. Most of the park is located in California, but Las Vegas is the closest major city and many people visit Death Valley as a day trip.

What you need to know is that Death Valley is massive . It is 3,422,024 acres in size, making it the largest national park outside of Alaska. So if you want to truly explore the park, you are going to need it a multi-day trip.

The other thing you need to consider is the weather. In the summer, temperatures can reach over 120 degrees, so travel to this incredible national park is much more ideal in the winter and early spring when temperatures are much more pleasant.

Places you definitely don’t want to miss include Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level), Zabriski Point , Artist’s Drive , and the Devil’s Golf Course .

If you are looking to stretch your legs and go on a hike, Golden Canyon , Mosaic Canyon , and Sidewinder Canyon are all great options for families.

Definitely make time for the Mesquite Sand Dunes which are an absolute blast to explore. Bring a snowboard and you can ride down the dunes with ease! It also fun to roll down them, run down them, and make sand angels. Or simply just wander and enjoy their beauty.

Read our complete guide to visiting Death Valley with is filled with great tips for your adventure.

Spend the night : The Ranch at Death Valley is located in Furnace Creek near the park visitor center. It has recently undergone a massive, multi-million dollar renovation and has a spring-fed pool that is a constant 87 degrees, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, a playground, restaurant, and much more.

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : 18 miles (20 minutes)

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument joined the National Park System in 2014, and since it is within the Las Vegas City limits, it is considered to be an urban park.

This national monument preserves thousands of Pleistocene (Ice Age) fossils that were preserved by wetlands that were expanding and contracting in this location thousands of years ago. Much of this monument is located in the Upper Las Vegas Wash, a rather dry and unremarkable looking locale most of the year.

But what is remarkable is the number of fossils that have been found here- mammoths, bison, lions, horses, camels and sloths, all of whom lived in a wooded, riparian environment.

The best way to enjoy this monument is to sign up for a ranger-led hike which is typically 1.5 – 3 miles in length and a fun way to learn about the natural history of the park. They even offer dog-friendly Ranger-led hikes on select days!

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Distance from Las Vegas : 20 minutes (16 miles0

A mere 20 minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip, visitors can be swept into a world of hiking, rock climbing, and outdoor adventure at Red Rock National Conservation Area.

If you are visiting Red Rocks during the peak hiking season, October through May, you will need a timed reservation which must be booked in advance on the website. If you don’t have a reservation, you can still enter the park but it will need to be before 8am or after 5pm.

Take the 13-mile, one-way scenic drive from the visitor’s center and pull over at any spot that looks appealing. Just remember that if you decide you want to go back to someplace you passed, you will have to do the full loop around again to reach it.

Believe it or not, there is actually quite a bit of diversity packed into that 13-mile loop. There are areas that had towering red rock hillsides and sparse vegetation as well as canyons that are lush thanks to underground springs.

Calico Tanks is a popular, 2.2-mile trail near the beginning of the one-way loop that explores the red rock sandstone formations of the Calico Hills and leads to a hidden water pocket.

T he Willow Springs and Lost Creek area offers a mix of ecosystems, taking hikers from a creek bed up through red rocks and back down through the springs and a riparian area with a small waterfall. This area also has a large stone wall with pictographs.

The Willow Springs picnic area is a popular spot for rock climbing and bouldering. You will see amateurs learning to climb as well as more experienced climbers honing their skills.

Pine Creek Canyon is the place to head if you want hike among Ponderosa pines and towering canyon walls. This 2.4-mile trail is especially nice after a rain as it follows a creek.

Visiting Red Rock Canyon is one of our favorite outdoor activities in Las Vegas .

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Distance from Las Vegas : 40 minutes (31 miles)

Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the country , is a haven for boating enthusiasts and hikers, It is a truly great place to recreate just 30 minutes southeast of Las Vegas.

The lake has been in the news quite a bit lately, thanks to declining lake levels and the sudden appearance of sunken boats and even bodies dumped by the mob! But this lake, created by the construction of Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, still has over 290 square miles of water surface to explore and enjoy.

During the warm months, Lake Mead is a very popular place to enjoy boating, houseboating, jet skis, water skiing, tubing, swimming, and fishing.

One thing you might not known is that a B-29 Superfortress plane crashed into Lake Mead in 1948 and it has been at the bottom of the lake ever since. Dive companies do offer guided scuba diving trips to wreckage site.

Lake Mojave is also part of the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It is located south of the Hoover Dam and has great boating, water sports, and swimming opportunities as well.

Mojave National Preserve

Distance from Las Vegas : One hour (67 miles)

If you have ever made the drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas on Interstate 15 then you have driven along the northern edge of Mojave National Preserve in between Zzyzx Road and the state line. Lots of people look out at this seemingly never-ending expanse of desert and think it is a whole lot of nothing, but they wouldn’t be more wrong!

This national park preserve is home to Kelso Dunes , some of the largest sand dunes in the country which rise 600 feet above the desert floor. They are so fun to explore and it is easy to have a spot all to yourself while you hike the three-mile trail around the dunes.

These dunes are known to “sing”, making a deep sound that happens when your group heads to the top of the dunes and pushes as much sand off the top as possible. This mostly occurs during the summer, so you must be prepared for a very hot hike in order to experience it. Or, just watch the video below.

Another one of the big attractions at Mojave National Preserve is the lava tube . It was created by molten lava 27,000 years ago. There is a beam of light that shines into the lava tube at certain times of day (usually early afternoon in the summer) making it a beautiful spot for photos.

Here are 25 awesome caves in California to explore, including the lava tube .

If you are looking for a fun hike, try the 1.5-mile Hole-in-the-Wall Rings Trail . This trail takes you through Banshee Canyon and its swiss-cheese like holes in towering rock formations. The real fun is when you use rock-mounted ringbolts to climb into the rocky amphitheater at the bottom of Banshee Canyon.

Finally, if you love wildflowers as much as I do, you may want to add Mojave National Preserve to your flower-hunting list during a good rain year. The National Park Service has a great page highlighting what types of flowers you will see in different areas and the best time to see them (mostly March and April)

Spend the night : You are probably better off heading back to Las Vegas and making this a day trip since unless you are camping since there really isn’t anything close by.

Castle Mountains National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : One hour, 45 minutes (85 miles)

Castle Mountains National Monument was established in 2016, making it one of the newer parks in the system. It protects 21,000 acres of desert northwest of the Colorado River in between Interstates 15 and 40. This is a landscape filled with Joshua trees, rare desert grasslands, and precious desert wildflowers. There is even pinyon-juniper forest at the higher elevations!

The Castle Mountains are protected habitat for a variety of wildife including for desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, desert tortoise, gila monsters, and wild cats like bobcats and mountain lions.

This park is only accessible by dirt roads, so a four-wheel-drive, high clearance vehicle is recommended. There are no maintained trails; simply drive in and hike where you want. Here is a good article on visiting this remote national monument.

Spend the night : There is no lodging nearby. Las Vegas is your best bet.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : Four hours, 15 minutes (260 miles)

Bryce Canyon National Park  is known for its incredible hoodoos- tall sandstone spires that have been carved by erosion resulting in scenery that looks like it is from another planet.

The Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive is 18 miles in length and has several great spots to pull off and enjoy different views of the canyon with names like Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, and Sunrise Point. The road ends at Rainbow Point , the highest portion of the park at over 9,000 feet in elevation.

The Bristlecone Loop begins near Rainbow Point and this one-mile loop trail takes you past ancient bristlecone pines, some of which are over 2,000 years old! The views from this trail allow you to see eastward for over 100 miles.

Of course you will want to make your way down into the canyon to stand next to the mighty hoodoos and get a true feel for this special space.

Our favorite hike in Bryce Canyon is the 2.9-mile loop created by combining the Navajo Trail with the Queens Garden Trail . This loop allows families to walk down into the canyon and experience the narrow sandstone walls of “Wall Street”.

Bryce Canyon one of the best star viewing locations in the United States. The clear, dry air and remote location make for ideal conditions and the parks hosts around 100 night sky programs each year.

Read our full guide to visiting Bryce Canyon National Park .

Spend the night: Three miles from the Bryce Canyon National Park visitor center is  Ruby’s Inn  and  Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel . Both are under the Best Western Plus branding and great options for families.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : Three hours, 15 minutes (205 miles)

Cedar Breaks is a high elevation park, sitting at over 10,000 feet and protecting the hoodoo-filled Cedar Breaks amphitheater which looks much like a mini-Bryce Canyon. This amphitheater is much steeper than Bryce Canyon, so hiking down into the amphitheater is not allowed.

You can also enjoy ancient bristlecone pines, summer wildflowers, and crystal-clear night skies at Cedar Breaks. Since the park is largely covered in snow for half the year, it is mainly open from Memorial Day to mid-October, but we have visited the overlook during a ski trip to Brianhead and found the views of snow-covered Cedar Breaks quite magical.

The Sunset Trail is a great hike for enjoying the views of Cedar Breaks. It is two miles in length and takes you from the Point Supreme Overlook and Sunset View Overlook.

Spend the night : We love the Brainhead Lodge which has a fun indoor pool with a waterfall, nice rooms, and a great location for skiing or exploring the national monument.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Distance from Las Vegas : Four hours, 30 minutes (270 miles)

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is home to Lake Powell , 24 million acre-feet of water resulting from the Glen Canyon Dam holding back the waters of the mighty Colorado River. I like to describe it as the Grand Canyon if it was flooded with water. It truly is that scenic.

When full, this lake that straddles the Utah/Arizona border and stretches for over 175 miles, with dozens of coves and inlets to explore. The typically hot, dry summer weather make it ideal for houseboats and water sports.  Three million people visit Lake Powell each year but the lake is so vast, you will often feel like you have the entire lake to yourself.

Read our article on houseboating in Lake Powell .

Boat tours of Lake Powell are operated out of Waheap Marina that go to various locations within the lake. There is even a dinner cruise which allows you to enjoy the colors of the pastel sandstone bluffs as the sun goes down.

Float trips of the Colorado River below the Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry are also available. The float trip allows you to cruise around the famed Horseshoe Bend with sandstone walls towering around you. Children as young as four can enjoy these half-day trips.

Spend the night : Lake Powell Resort is located right at Waheap Marina, where all your boat tours will depart. You can also rent powerboats from this location and explore on your own.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : Four hours, 30 minutes (270 miles) plus boat ride to Rainbow Bridge.

If you are already planning at visit to Lake Powell, then you will want to make time to visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument which is located next to Lake Powell. It is the world’s largest natural bridge that towers 42 feet high and 234 feet wide. It is an impressive sight for sure!

Unfortunately, due to low lake levels, accessing the bridge is much more difficult than it was in years past. The water level is lower than where the boat docks and restroom were placed , so the only way to reach it now is by taking a small boat that can be beached. Then you must hike 1.5 miles to the bridge. Portions of the trail are very mucky because until recently, they were under water.

Read about current conditions on the National Park Service website before heading out.

Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : Three hours (187 miles)

With its towering boulders, diverse desert life, and Dr. Seuss trees, Joshua Tree is one of the national parks near Las Vegas you most certainly won’t want to miss. Here, the high desert (Mojave) and low desert (Colorado) meet, allowing visitors to see two enjoy desert environments.

Climbing around on the massive boulders that look like they have been left in piles by lumbering giants is definitely one of the park’s main attractions. You will see professional climbers scaling the boulders with their equipment, but amateurs will have just as much fun climbing around in spots like Hidden Valley and Jumbo Rocks .

Since the rocks (and everything else) can get very hot in the summer, we suggest visiting this park October through May. You may even get lucky enough to see the Joshua trees covered in a dusting of snow during the winter!

If you are looking for 360-degree views of the park, check out the hike to Ryan Mountain . It gains 1,000 feet in just 1.5 miles, but the views from the 5,461′ summit are worth all that huffing and puffing.

If you prefer a tamer hike, the trail to Barker Dam is for you! It is a 1.1-mile loop trail and there are plenty of boulders to climb around on along the way. Look but don’t touch the prehistoric rock art by the trail and keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep. They are most often spotted grabbing a drink of water around dawn or dusk.

Here is our complete guide to visiting Joshua Tree National Park .

Spend the night :  There is no lodging inside the national park except for camping. Try the  Joshua Tree Inn   or rent a funky VRBO in the artsy little hamlet of Joshua Tree.

Here are 15 of the best national parks in California .

Pipe Spring National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : Two hours, 50 minutes, (178 miles)

Pipe Spring National Monument protects a desert oasis where water has helped support life for generations. It has was originally an important water source for Native Americans, and then became a vital resource for Mormon pioneers in the 1860s as they set up a large cattle ranching operation in the area.

Today, this park serves as a living history museum with a nice visitor center, museum, and demonstrations of pioneer and Indian crafts as well as everyday life in the cooler hours of the summer months. There are also gardens and orchards, as well corrals with horses and longhorn cattle.

You will also want to take the 25-minute, ranger-led tour of Winsor Castle, a Mormon fort that served as protection from raiding parties in the area. It was built over the mainspring, creating a serious issue between Native American and Mormon pioneers who both wanted use of the water.

If you want to enjoy a nice view of the Arizona Strip, the piece of Arizona north of the Grand Canyon that is separated from the rest of the state, take the 1/2-mile Ridge Trail .

Spend the night : Kanab is the closest town with a choice of lodging in the area.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : Three hours, 20 minutes (215 miles)

If you love slot canyons, arches, and lots of open space to yourself then you will love Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. This 1.7-million acre park has been the subject of some controversy over the past several years as President Trump signed legislation to shrink the monument and President Biden signed legislation to restore it to its former size.

Why is protecting these lands so important? Well, it acts as an important outdoor laboratory for several different types of scientific discovery. Many new species of dinosaur have been discovered on this land, as well as the oldest known marsupial fossils and 600 different types of bees!

The monument has also been used to better understand the hydrology on Mars and protects archaeological sites that are sacred to Native American tribes.

Take a scenic drive along Utah’s Highway 12 to enjoy the beauty of this national monument. The drive along Highway 12 is amazing any time of year but is especially colorful in the fall. Here are  10 Great Places to See Utah Fall Colors .

Hike Peek-a-boo Gulch combined with Spooky Gulch for a fun, 3.5-mile loop through two slot canyons that get very narrow at points. At some points Spooky Gulch is only 12 inches wide and the start of Peek-a-boo Gulch includes a 12-foot climb up sandstone but once you are inside the slot canyon-wow!

Hole In The Rock Road to the trailhead is gravel but rough in spots. A higher clearance vehicle like and SUV or truck is recommended (though people take cars out here all the time) and this road should not be attempted after recent rains. But if you are up for the adventure this is a hike you will never forget!

Devils Garden is another fun place to stop on Hole in the Rock Road to enjoy hoodoos and unique rock formations. Zebra Canyon is another slot canyon hike to enjoy in the area as well.

If discovering a waterfall in the desert sounds like fun, take the six-mile (round trip) hike to  Lower Calf Creek Falls , where a 130-foot waterfall tumbles into an inviting swimming hole. This trail does get sun so it is best to attempt it in cooler weather or early in the morning. It is definitely one of the most popular trails in the monument.

The 4.4-mile trail to  Escalante Natural Bridge crosses the river multiple times but it is easy (minus during spring runoff) and great fun for families. There are petroglyphs to enjoy alog the way as well.

Spend the night : Escalante Yurts are great place to glamp. Some units have kitchens and private bathrooms and up to five beds!

Grand Canyon National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : North Rim is three hours, 30 minutes (225 miles) and South Rim is four hours, 15 minutes (280 miles).

There are few destinations in the USA more iconic than the Grand Canyon. Visiting this vast product of millions of years of tectonic uplift and water erosion is an American right of passage.

The national park is divided into two areas-the South Rim and the North Rim. The Grand Canyon South Rim is open for business 365 days a year.  It is by far the most visited rim of the Grand Canyon. There are full services, lots of lodging options, restaurants, museums, stores, and more.

The Rim Trail runs for 13 miles along the canyon’s edge. It is a great way to take in views of the canyon. Instead of walking the entire route, take advantage of the park’s shuttle bus which will drop you off at various viewpoints along the route.

The other major trail in the South Rim is the Bright Angel Trail . This trail is 10 miles long and descends 4,380 feet into the Grand Canyon. Most people hike it for a mile or two before huffing and puffing their way back up to the top. It is a strenuous trail and the weather only gets warmer the lower you go, so pack plenty of water with you!

Other ways to explore the Grand Canyon include mule trips (which must be booking way in advance), rafting trips on the Colorado River (which also book up way in advance), and helicopter tours.

Read our complete, comprehensive guide to visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim .

On the other hand, five million people visit the Grand Canyon every year but only 10% of those visitors come to the North Rim . The North Rim is higher in elevation and forested while the South Rim has more of a high desert vibe. The full-service season when lodging, restaurants, and other services are open on the North Rim is May 15 through October 15 each year.

The Bright Angel Point Trail  begins at the Grand Canyon Lodge and leads you 0.7 miles to a lookout point where the views are breathtaking. There are drop offs on either side of the trail but the trail is wide.

The scenic drive at the Grand Canyon North Rim is filled with viewpoints to stop and enjoy . Some of these viewpoints include short hikes like Cape Royal and Point Imperial . There is also the trail to Cape Final which is forested until it reaches what feels like the end of the Earth, with the ground dropping several thousand feet into the canyon below.

Here is our full guide to visiting the Grand Canyon North Rim .

Spend the night : On the South Rim I recommend staying in the Bright Angel Lodge area which is the hub of activity. On the North Rim, you will want to stay in the lodging surrounding the Grand Canyon Lodge .

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : Four hours (137 miles)

If you truly want to enjoy Grand Canyon views without another soul around, head to Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. Located in northwest Arizona along the Arizona Strip, this is a park where a high clearance, 4WD vehicle is a must.

Those who come properly prepared with extra water, gas, and a spare tire will be rewarded with plenty of adventure on miles of scenic off-road adventures. None of the road here are paved.

Mt. Trumbull Scenic Loop Drive is the most popular scenic drive in the monument. You will see the Grand Canyon, Native American petroglyphs, a historic schoolhouse, and lots of Wild West land. 

Other places to visit include the ruins of the Grand Gulch copper mine, Twin Point Grand Canyon Scenic Overlook, Tweeds Point on the rim of the northern Grand Wash Cliffs.

Spend the night : Camping in the monument is probably the easiest option but you can make this a day trip from St. Geroge, Utah and stay at one of the many hotels in town. We have always been happy at the Staybridge Suites .

Great Basin National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : Four hours, 30 minutes (296 miles)

Located on near the Utah/Nevada border about 300 miles north of Las Vegas (and basically out in the middle of nowhere) is Great Basin National Park.

The only official national park within the state of Nevada, Great Basin is a place to enjoy  100-mile views, ornately decorated caves, wondrous alpine scenery, trees older than Jesus, and some of the most magnificent night skies in the Lower 48 . And best of all, you won’t be sharing it with the crowds.

Great Basin National Park originally began as Lehman Caves National Monument in 1922. This marble and limestone cavern system is filled with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, and even cave bacon. These caves can only be seen by booking a tour  online . The Grand Palace Tour is the most popular and perfect for first-time visitors.

The other major destination within the park is Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive. The mountains of the Snake Range, which include Wheeler Peak, are like alpine islands in a sea of sagebrush. At road’s end which is about 10,000 feet in elevation, several different hikes await.

The Alpine Lakes Loop is a  2.7-mile, round-trip hike that winds through an alpine forest as well two little lakes with lovely views of Wheeler Peak. The other trail you don’t want to miss is the Bristlecone Trail which leads to a grove of ancient Bristlecone pines that can live for 5,000 years.

If you continue on up the mountain one mile past the Bristlecone grove, you will reach a rock glacier; the only glacier in Nevada and one of the most southernmost glaciers in the northern hemisphere.

Due to its remote location, high elevation, and dry desert air, Great Basin National Park has some of the darkest skies in the United States.  This is a premier destination for stargazing and many evening ranger programs are offered.

Read our full guide to Great Basin National Park .

Spend the night : The closest lodging can be found in the tiny town of Baker, Nevada at the  Border Inn . Rooms are very simple. There is also camping inside the park.

Capitol Reef National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : five hours (327 miles)

With less than a million visitors per year (compared to nearby Zion’s 3.6 million visitors),  Capitol Reef National Park is the least visited of Utah’s “Might 5” national parks.

The rewards for your drive from Las Vegas to Capitole Reef come in the form of striking red rock vistas, uncrowded trails, and orchards ripe for the picking.

Start your visit in the Fruita district where you can pick and eat in-season fruit from the historic orchards for free . Then, take the  Capitol Reef Scenic Drive , stopping at the  Grand Wash Trail which will lead you into a narrowing canyon with fun sandstone cliffs to climb.

If you are ready for a hike, take the 1.7 mile trail (one way) to  Cassidy Arch . The trail begins about a quarter mile from the entrance to Grand Wash and winds its way up the side of the mountain, rising 950 feet until you reach the arch named for Butch Cassidy.

The scenic drive ends at the  Capitol Gorge Trail,  where petroglyphs and pioneer graffiti line canyon walls.

Another great trail inside the park is two-mile round trip trail that gradually climbs in elevation until it reaches the 133-foot arch known as Hickman Bridge . The bridge is impressive and the area around the bridge offers lovely shade from the often-relentless desert heat.

Read our full guide to visiting Capitol Reef National Park .

Spend the night : Capitol Reef Resort  is a delightful surprise in the middle of the Utah high desert. Choose to stay in spacious traditional rooms with private patios, large teepees framed by the dramatic red rock of the Waterpocket Fold, and covered wagons circling a shared fire pit.

Navajo National Monument

Distance from Las Vegas : Six hours (360 miles)

Navajo National Monument is located about 10 miles off Hwy 160, the main highway crossing the Navajo Nation in Arizona. It protects three Ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings in the Tsegi Canyon area.

The cliff dwellings can only toured with a ranger on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day at 7am. The most popular is the Betatakin dwelling which is reached via a fairly strenuous, five-mile round-trip hike. These dwellings were last occupied in 1300AD.

Those with less time can visit the park museum and watch the park video before heading outside and looking at the dinosaur tracks imprinted in sandstone that are on display. Then stretch your legs but taking the 1.3-mile (round trip) Sandal Trail to an overlook with nice view of the Betatakin dwelling framed by a sandstone arch.

Spend the night : The town of Kayenta on the Navajo Nation is the closest option for lodging. There is also a campground inside the park.

Petrified Forest National Park

Distance from Las Vegas : Five hours, 35 minutes (370 miles)

Petrified Forest National Park is known for its color. The hues of color found in the petrified wood and sedimentary hillsides at this eastern Arizona park are truly unique. 200 million-year-old logs become sparkling rainbow rocks. The striated canyons of the Painted Desert and Blue Mesa testify of the beauty of the desert.

There are several short trails which are perfect introductions to the park’s highlights. There are two basic types of trails to experience within the park- those featuring the most colorful and extraordinary petrified wood logs and the other showcasing spectacular landscape views.

Walking on the short, 0.75-mile  Crystal Forest Trail,  expect to see lizards, birds and a small rabbits among the colorful petrified rock logs. On the one-mile  Blue Mesa Trail  loop you will descend into a canyon highlighted by deep shades of blue.

Spend the night : Stay in La Quinta Inn in Holbrook, Arizona which is close to the national park and has an indoor pool .

Check out this awesome Southwest National Parks road trip itinerary which includes a stop at Petrified Forest National Park.

The Best 7-day Road Trip from Las Vegas

This 7-day round trip takes you through stunning red rock desert landscapes, sandstone formations that will take your breath way, national parks that will impress you with their beautiful plant and wildlife, and iconic cities and monuments like the Grand Canyon, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Moab.

The best 7-day road trip from Las Vegas spans about 1900 miles and takes a total of 32 hours from start to finish. You'll make your way from Vegas to Flagstaff and Albuquerque, visiting the Grand Canyon and passing through several National Parks before looping back towards Sin City.

If you feel at home in the desert or surrounded by tall trees, and if you love long stretches of barren roads where you can blast your favourite tunes, this 7-day road trip is absolutely for you! Keep scrolling to find out more.

Your 7-day road trip from Las Vegas: the best day-by-day itinerary

What is the best 7-day road trip from las vegas and where will it take you to.

With an average daily drive time of about 3 hours, this 7-day road trip is an ideal combination of short driving stretches mixed with wonderful stopping points.

Apart from the Grand Canyon (a highlight of this journey) you'll also be stopping in several other parks and forests including the Apache National Forest, Cibola National Forest, Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park.

While this itinerary is definitely nature-focused, there'll be plenty of time to get some city fun in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Sedona.

Day 1: Driving from Las Vegas to Flagstaff

We're starting off this trip with a bang by including the Grand Canyon National Park on the first day. The first day's drive will take you 4 hours to drive, covering 250 miles.

Keep reading to discover what awaits you in your first few moments of travelling.

Road trip route from Las Vegas to Flagstaff

You'll start in Vegas where you'll take the US-93 and make your way to the Grand Canyon National Park. Once you've had your fill of this arid natural wonder, you can continue towards Flagstaff, where you'll be spending your first night.

Things to explore on the way to Flagstaff

One of the most impressive natural landscapes in the entirety of the United States, Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see and bucket-list location for anyone venturing through this part of the US. Boasting stunning canyons and red deserts, this unique national park is definitely worth exploring.

If you're looking for something else to discover on this stretch, we recommend stopping in the suburb of Henderson where you can check out the Clark County Museum, or taking a hike through Prescott National Forest, where you're sure to enjoy the stunning nature that surrounds you.

Where to stay in Flagstaff: small-town luxury

Flagstaff is known for its small-town charm and storied history, and it's a great spot to stay as it's right by the Grand Canyon. This means that you can spend the day exploring, spend the night in Flagstaff and then head out early without worrying about crowds.

One thing to keep in mind is that Flagstaff can get quite snowy due to its elevation, so be prepared for cold weather if travelling in the winter.

And if you're looking for a place to stay, we highly recommend the High Country Motor Lodge , which boasts some truly amazing amenities. You'll have access to their on-site restaurant, where you can catch an evening show, as well as their shared lounge, bar and garden.

The High Country Motor Lodge also boasts a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub, perfect for some well-deserved relaxation after a long drive. And to top it off, they've got free parking, so you won't have to worry about where to drop off your car when you arrive.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

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Day 2: Driving from Flagstaff to Winslow

After a great night's rest, you'll be primed for the second day of travelling and exploring some neat sites. It is a rather short drive from Flagstaff to Winslow, covering 120 miles in 2 hours and 20 minutes, so you can spend most of your day exploring Sedona and Coconino National Forest.

Road trip route from Flagstaff to Winslow

The driving stretch for day 2 is pretty short, about an hour in total and travelling just under 60 miles. You'll leave Flagstaff and head towards Sedona via the 89A.

Then, when you've finished exploring the many unique attractions within and surrounding Sedona, head back up towards Flagstaff, this time diverting right onto the I-40 and continuing until you've reached Winslow.

Things to explore on the way to Winslow

There are tons of things to explore along this relatively short stretch. Sedona (and the nearby Montezuma Castle National Monument) are absolutely worth a visit.

A town surrounded by the Arizona Desert, Sedona boasts tons of New Age shops, spas and art galleries; nearby Montezuma Castle is a historic palace carved directly into limestone cliffs.

You can also check out Coconino National Forest. Touted as one of the most diverse national forests in America, Coconino National Forest offers a variety of natural landscapes ranging from red rocks to alpine tundras.

Once you've finished exploring Sedona, we recommend you spend a little time exploring the over 1.8 million-acre forest of this celebrated park.

Where to stay in Winslow: explore the historic roots of Route 66

Winslow is a small city along your route, known mostly as being an important stop along the famous Route 66. It's also celebrated for its mention in the Eagle's “Take it Easy”, which features a verse about standing on a corner in Winslow (which is now a dedicated park).

Winslow is also a great base to explore some of the fascinating surrounding landmarks and attractions. You can easily reach Sedona and Coconino National Forest from the city. Make sure to visit the Meteor Crater as well!

While visiting this city, Homolovi State Park is a must-visit for all archaeology and history buffs. However, if you are a more outdoorsy person, you can visit McHood Park to enjoy kayaking and canoeing.

We've got a great hotel option for this small town: the La Posada Hotel and Gardens . This historic and frankly iconic hotel is known for having hosted some of history's greatest American personalities, including Amelia Earhart, James Cagney, Franklin D. Roosevelt and John Wayne. If the walls could talk!

Apart from its famous guests, La Posada boasts a garden and martini bar where you can enjoy a refreshing drink, as well as an old-school trading post and book store. The hotel also offers some delicious food at i's on-site restaurant, as well as room service.

Day 3: Driving from Winslow to Albuquerque

This third day of traveling takes you from Winslow to Albuquerque, with about 350 miles of travel covered in a 6-hour period. It's the longest travel day, but also packs in tons of cool natural attractions.

Road trip route from Winslow to Albuquerque

You'll leave Winslow via I-40 and continue along this interstate until you reach Holbrook, where you'll take Exit 285 and continue along US-180. Merge onto the US-191 and continue to Springerville, where you can make a stop to explore the nearby Apache National Forest.

Once you've had your fill of this celebrated forest, hop into your car and direct yourself towards US-60. From there, slowly make your way back towards I-40, which will take you all the way to Albuquerque as well as the nearby Cibola National Forest.

Things to explore on the way to Albuquerque

This third day combines exploration of natural spaces with the urban bustle of Albuquerque. Along the way, one spot we definitely suggest you explore is The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are most known for their many bodies of water; over thirty lakes and reservoirs, and more than 690 miles of river and streams. The park itself spans over two million acres of forest and encompasses some really diverse landscapes, including stunning mountainous country.

If you've got some time to spare, check out the nearby Cibola National Forest. Spanning across the width of New Mexico and including the grassy plains of Oklahoma and Texas, the Cibola National Forest spans over 1.9 million acres, offering tons of vistas and unique walking trails.

Where to stay in Albuquerque: unwind and re-energize

Known for being a technology and media company hub, Albuquerque also boasts tons of historic landmarks and celebrated festivals like the International Balloon Fiesta and the New Mexico State Fair.

This city is a great spot to stop on this road trip, offering great dining opportunities and a unique set of attractions. And if you're looking for a spot to stay while visiting, then Casas de Suenos Old Town Historic Inn offers a charming stay, packed with authenticity and great amenities.

This interesting accommodation, built in 1938, blends Southwestern décor style with contemporary design. The spacious casitas, have hidden courtyards and there are some hot tub suites, providing a peaceful retreat after a day exploring.

You can also make sure to start the day off right at the on-site restaurant, serving up hot breakfast options cooked to order. Make sure to try the green Chile burritos!

Day 4: Driving from Albuquerque to Taos

This day takes you from Albuquerque to the small city of Taos, which marks the turnaround point of this journey. The drive itself is about 2 hours 30 minutes and spans about 130 miles. Keep reading to discover what awaits you on Day 4.

Road trip route from Albuquerque to Taos

After a night in the stunning Crowne Plaza accommodations, we're sure you'll feel relaxed and ready to head back on the road. Exit Albuquerque via I-25, which takes you to the historic city of Santa Fe.

Nearby, you'll find the wonderful Santa Fe National Forest, which you can visit before getting onto the US-68 from Santa Fe and continuing to Taos.

Things to explore on the way to Taos

Due to the relatively short driving time on day 4, you'll have plenty of time to explore the surrounding sites.

We highly recommend spending some time exploring the beautiful and historic city of Santa Fe. Known as the artistic counterpart to the industrial center that is Albuquerque, Santa Fe boasts a really rich and booming classical music and arts scene.

The city also happens to be the oldest capital in the United States and is nationally celebrated for its wonderful Spanish colonial architecture and rich Native American culture.

If you've got some time left over after exploring Santa Fe, we suggest checking out the Bandelier National Monument, which boasts over 33,000 acres of canyon and mesa country housing evidence of human settlements, dating back over 11,000 years.

Where to stay in Taos: an immersive desert resort

We recommend staying at the El Monte Sagrado Resort & Spa while visiting the unique city of Taos. Boasting stunning outdoor landscapes and gardens, the El Monte Sagrado will have you feeling like you've been immersed in the desert jungle.

You'll also have plenty of opportunities to relax at this resort's full-service spa, which offers massages, facials, and tons of other therapeutic services. If that's not enough, you can always enjoy a workout or a dip at this hotel's indoor pool and fitness center.

If you're looking for a place to dine in the evening, check out El Monte Sagrado's two restaurants, De La Tierra and The Gardens. And for a drink afterwards, we recommend you check out the resort's Anaconda Bar.

Want to explore Taos? We highly recommend you check out The Taos Pueblo, a collection of adobe dwellings that have been inhabited for 1000 years and located just 10 minutes by car from the resort.

This happens to also be the only living Native American community with both the UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark designation. Overall, a great place to explore overnight.

Day 5: Driving from Taos to Canyonlands National Park

On day 5, you'll be driving from Taos to the iconic Canyonlands National Park. This stretch spans about 300 miles, which should take you about 5 hours 30 minutes to cross in total.

Road trip route from Taos to Canyonlands National Park

From Taos, take US-64; you'll have the option of stopping at Carson National Forest, which is located right along the route. This road should be pretty scenic, so make sure to have your passenger ready with a camera to snap some great shots.

Continue along the US-64, which will turn into the US-84; follow this road to Pagosa Springs. Here you can hop out and explore the Rio Grande National Forest, or continue along the US-160 passed Durango and until you've reached Monticello.

Things to explore on the way to Canyonlands National Park

There are a couple of unique forests to explore along this stretch, including the San Juan National Forest and the Rio Grande National Forest.

The Rio Grande National Forest spans 1.8 million acres and offers year-round opportunities for sightseeing throughout its many natural landscapes. This park also offers ample opportunities for recreational activities, so it's a great way to get a little active on this road trip.

If you've got some additional time on your hands, we recommend checking out the Hovenweep National Monument, a preserve that's home to over 2,500 people and which is comprised of six prehistoric villages, all built between 1200 and 1300 A.D.

You'll have to add about 30 minutes to your route to explore this monument, and we highly recommend you do as it's definitely worth it.

Where to stay in Monticello: get cozy in a charming town

Monticello, Utah is most known for being an early settlement area, settled by pioneers from the Mormon church in 1887. The city itself is quite small, offering a relaxed vibe that'll be much appreciated in the last few days of your road trip.

This is also the perfect place to base yourself in as you explore Canyonlands National Park. This stunning and unique national park is split into four districts and you will want to put aside a day or two to explore The Needles, Island in the Sky, The Maze, and the rivers.

While visiting Canyonlands National Park, make sure to marvel at Mesa Arch. This geological formation is possibly the most famous area in the park and stills majestically on a cliff.

You can take in some of the amazing scenery of the surroundings at Grand Viewpoint, Green River Overlook, Shafer Trail Viewpoint and Buck Canyon Overlook.

Looking for a spot to stay? We recommend the Inn at the Canyons, a small hotel that offers quaint décor and a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel boasts an expansive pool and hot tub, so you can relax and enjoy a dip after a day of trekking and hiking.

The Inn at the Canyons also boasts a daily continental breakfast, so you don't have to worry about where to grab the most important meal of the day.

Day 6: Driving from Canyonlands National Park to Richfield

This penultimate day of driving takes you from Canyonlands National Park to Richfield, crossing about 230 miles which should take you about 3 hours 30 minutes in total.

Road trip route from Canyonlands National Park to Richfield

On your way out of Monticello, we recommend making a stop in Canyonlands National Park to explore this arid desert paradise. Once you've had your fill, get onto the US-191 and follow this until you can turn left onto the I-70.

From there, continue on this road past Salina until you've reached the small town of Richfield, where you'll be spending the night.

Things to explore on the way to Richfield

Apart from the Canyonlands National Park, there are tons of other open and natural spaces that are ripe for exploration on your way to Richfield. One spot you should definitely check out is Arches National Park.

Arches National Park is a truly unique protected space, most celebrated for being home to over 2000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins and giant balanced rocks. It's the spot to check-out for those that are fans of red desert landscapes—you can even take a guided tour, or simply enjoy hiking this park solo.

If you've got some more time on your hands, try exploring Moab, UT. Moab is probably most celebrated for being located close to the Moab Desert, a stunning barren desert landscape.

That being said, the city itself also boasts lots of attractions, including some unique restaurants and cute shops that'll be a welcome urban experience after a few days of driving through the desert.

Where to stay in Richfield: a comfortable stop

More a stopover city than a destination, Richfield still manages to some really unique attractions, including the Richfield tabernacle (often visited by the Utah Symphony and Opera Company) as well as lots of shopping opportunities.

Our favourite accommodation out of the somewhat limited selection in this area is the Holiday Inn Express Richfield, a classic road trip hotel . Unfussy and highly reviewed, the Holiday Inn Express boasts an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as a fitness centre, where you can burn off some steam after a day of driving.

Best of all, this hotel offers a deluxe continental breakfast, serving cinnamon buns, eggs and baked goods – eat breakfast there, then pack yourself some food for the journey.

Day 7: Driving from Richfield to Las Vegas

On this last day, you'll be driving about 330 miles from Richfield all the way back home to Las Vegas. This drive should take you just over 5 hours and will get you back home in time for dinner.

Road trip route from Richfield to Las Vegas

The drive from Richfield to Las Vegas includes several stops at stunning protected spaces along the way, including Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park.

The route itself is pretty simple: follow the US-89 to Bryce Canyon and Dixie National Forest, where we definitely recommend you take some time to explore. Once you've had your fill of this arid paradise, hop back into the car and onto the I-15 which will take you to Zion National Park.

Explore this stunning green space before heading back on the road, once again hopping onto the I-15 which will take you straight back home to Las Vegas.

Things to explore on the way back to Las Vegas

One of Utah's most celebrated national parks, Zion National Park is probably best known for Zion Canyon, an expansive canyon that averages at 2000 feet deep and offers some unique hiking opportunities. There's also the nearby Virgin River, where you can go for a swim.

Though we could definitely spend a whole day exploring Zion National Park, nearby Dixie National Forest is also worth checking out. Known for sandstone formations, this park is also viewable view a scenic drive called Hell's Backbone.

Things to see on a 7-day road trip from Las Vegas

We've detailed some of the many attractions along your route above, but here are some additional museums, monuments and other attractions that will enrich your already wonderful trip.

• Lava River Cave – Discover this mile-long underground tunnel, created by a river of lava over 700,000 years ago and located about an hour from the Grand Canyon.
• Museum of Northern Arizona – This museum boasts tons of exhibits dating back to 15,000 BC and which explore the rich history of the state of Arizona.
• Petrified Forest National Park – The name says it all: this unique forest boasts the world's largest collection of petrified wood, some of which date back millions of years.
• National Museum of Nuclear Science & History – If you're curious about the history of nuclear power and the development of nuclear science, we recommend checking out this unique museum.
• National Scouting Museum – Check out this unique museum, featuring some artworks by American painter Norman Rockwell as well as hands-on exhibits and artifacts relating to the Boy Scouts of America.
• Pioneer Town – Located in Cedaredge Colorado, Pioneer Town spans five acres and is comprised of twenty buildings that are dedicated to recreating life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Adds about two hours driving to your route, but well worth it!
• Giant Soda Cans – This one's a quickie, but a must-see: the Giant Soda Cans are a favourite roadie attraction and are comprised of massive tanks painted to resemble some familiar soda drinks.
• Parowan Gap Petroglyphs – Discover these Native American Petroglyphs, which scientists believe are over 1000 years old!
• Temple of Sinawava – Located within Zion National Park, the Temple of Sinawava is a natural amphitheater complete with waterfalls and flower gardens.
• Moqui Cave – Check out Moqui Cave, once a speakeasy but now offering exhibits on natural history and boasting a great rock collection and gift shop.

Best time to go on a 7-day road trip from Las Vegas

While this area is certainly worth exploring any time of year, we recommend taking this road trip during the fall and spring months, when you'll be able to avoid the scorching hot desert temperatures or the significant snowfall in higher-altitude locations.

Traveling in winter

Winter is a great time to take this road trip if you're comfortable dealing with some snow, particularly in towns like Flagstaff which are known to see over 100 inches of snow a year. That being said, you might find that prices for lodging are slightly lower as a result.

You will be traveling through Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah. While the southern states tend to be warmer during the winter, with temperatures in Arizona reaching high 60 degrees Fahrenheit even in winter.

However, it is a good idea to bring some chain and winter tires with you, which will be especially helpful as you cross Colorado.

Traveling in summer

This collection of states—Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Nevada—are known to get quite hot during the summer, with temperatures in certain areas exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you're particularly sensitive to the heat we recommend avoiding traveling during the summer.

While it does get quite hot, you can still expect some traffic in the National Parks, and as a result, some of the accommodation prices may be higher.

Traveling in spring and fall

Spring and fall are both great times to take on this trip--you'll find that there are fewer tourists and more affordable accommodations, but the weather is still relatively warm, meaning you'll be able to enjoy the natural landscapes and deserts.

And if you're looking to experience some memorable events, try taking this road trip during one of the following events: The Grand Canyon Music Festival, Fiestas Santa Fe, the New Mexico State Fair, Moab Folk Festival and the Red Rocks Arts Festival.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Epic Nevada Road Trip: Las Vegas To Great Basin National Park

Cindy Barks

• Destinations
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• Types of Travel
• United States

Get ready for some extraordinary extremes when you set out on a road trip from Las Vegas to Great Basin National Park.

In 300 stunning miles, you will transition from the glow of the Neon Capital of the World to a national park known internationally for its dark skies; from the Las Vegas Valley’s triple-digit summertime temperatures to Great Basin’s summer days in the 70s and nights in the 50s; and from the 2,000-foot altitude of Las Vegas to a lofty 10,000 feet on Great Basin’s Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive.

It makes for one wild ride — in the best possible way.

Much of the road trip takes place on Nevada’s Highway 93 , also known as the Great Basin Highway. Be prepared for a lot of road on this road trip. For long stretches, I could have sworn I was the only person on the planet. In other areas, the beauty of the passing scenery took my breath away.

My advice is to take time to savor the route that, along with Vegas and Great Basin, takes in a handful of scenic state parks and a string of quirky towns packed with history.

While the 5.5-hour drive is certainly doable in a day, spending a night or two on the road will give you time to enjoy southeastern Nevada’s cool ambience.

Here are some great stops along the way.

With its world-class entertainment and sumptuous casino hotels, Las Vegas hardly needs an introduction. Still, it pays to do a little research before your arrival to decide which of the attractions fit your lifestyle.

I suggest staying at a hotel on or near the Las Vegas Strip to get a feel for the city and to be close to the action. On a recent visit, I chose to stay at the Vdara Hotel because of its location slightly off the Strip. It turned out to be a great choice because the hotel is smoke-free and does not have a casino of its own. But it’s still within easy walking distance of the Bellagio and the ARIA Resort & Casino.

To get oriented, a stroll down the Las Vegas Strip is hard to beat. If you’re visiting during hot weather, it’s best to make it an evening walk, combined with a dinner stop at one of the countless restaurants and buffets. The Las Vegas Monorail is also available to help navigate the long stretches between casinos.

I liked the atmosphere and the cuisine choices at New York New York , as well as the French cuisine and sidewalk view of the Strip at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas. Or for something more upscale, a number of renowned chefs offer stellar cuisine at venues such as Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill , Emeril Lagasse’s Delmonico Steakhouse , and Wolfgang Puck’s Spago .

With Las Vegas’s virtually endless variety of entertainment, everyone is sure to have their favorites. Mine were the Titanic : The Artifact Exhibition at the Luxor and the Neon Museum in downtown Las Vegas. Both offer an opportunity to travel back in time — the Titanic exhibit with its poignant look at the final moments of the ill-fated luxury liner, and the Neon Museum with its bright-lights insight into Las Vegas’s early casino scene.

I recommend spending a day or two soaking up the vibes in Las Vegas before heading north.

Valley Of Fire State Park

Before you get onto Highway 93, a short detour is in order to take in the Valley of Fire State Park — Nevada’s oldest, largest, and arguably most scenic state park.

The park is less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas via Interstate 15 and the Valley of Fire Highway. It’s best to get an early morning start to beat the heat and the crowds.

Once there, be sure to take in the 11-mile Scenic Byway as well as the Fire Wave Trail and the Elephant Rock formation. A rundown of the park’s other scenic areas is available here . Plan to spend at least 3 to 4 hours exploring the Valley of Fire.

Traveller70 / Shutterstock

Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge

After backtracking a bit to get onto Highway 93, you will soon arrive at the green, leafy oasis of the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge . If you’re ready for a night of camping, the refuge has 15 primitive lakeside campsites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The pretty lake also offers hiking, boating, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities, worthy of either a quick stop to stretch your legs or an overnight camping opportunity, depending on your interests.

Alamo, Ash Springs, And Crystal Springs

Over the next 30 miles or so, you will pass through several small communities that offer handy places to stock up on snacks and lunch supplies, as well as to fill up your gas tank.

Pro Tip: Because of the long distances and relatively remote roads, I recommend that you fill up whenever you can on Highway 93. In Alamo, a handy Sinclair gas station and well-stocked Great Basin Foods grocery store are conveniently located right along the highway. It’s a great place to make sure you have plenty of water, ice, beverages, and fuel for the coming drive.

Extraterrestrial Highway

If you’re up for an extraterrestrial experience, plan to take a detour west onto the Extraterrestrial Highway (Route 375), where you’ll run adjacent to the Nevada Test and Training Range, which includes the notorious Area 51.

The Travel Nevada website cautions that although spots along the highway are great for photo opportunities, Area 51 is not a tourist attraction. “As a part of an active military base, it is patrolled and guarded by some of the heaviest security on Earth or anywhere else,” says the description of Area 51. “Be sure to obey all posted signs and don’t even think about trespassing.”

Even if you don’t plan to take the 150-mile detour from Crystal Springs to Tonopah, you can still stop at the E.T. Fresh Jerky shop along Highway 93 in Crystal Springs before continuing north.

Upon driving into the small town of Caliente , your attention will immediately be drawn to the long white Spanish-style train depot that sits alongside the town’s railroad switching yard. It is a beautiful retro building and a great place for your first stop in this resort town that boasts hot springs, a quaint downtown, and a burgeoning mountain-biking scene.

The train depot is considered Caliente’s crown jewel, and the building once included a restaurant and 50-room hotel. Today, it serves as the town offices, and also features a Boxcar Museum.

Plan to spend a few hours exploring Caliente and lunching in a downtown eatery such as the cute Side Track restaurant and bar. If you are ready for an overnight stop, check out the Caliente Hot Springs Motel and Spa , which pipes 104-degree mineral water into the baths in six of the 18 rooms.

Cathedral Gorge State Park

Near the town of Panaca is a Nevada State Parks visitor center that features information about the five state parks located in close proximity. I suggest visiting at least one of the parks — my favorite was Cathedral Gorge State Park .

With its chalky-white hoodoos, cliffs, and slot canyons, the park offers an otherworldly sightseeing and hiking experience. Plan to spend a few hours wandering through the park. Check out the hike here .

Known as “Nevada’s liveliest ghost town,” Pioche offers a look back at the wild mining days that helped give Nevada its reputation as the Silver State. Dating back to the 1870s, Pioche had a reputation as a lawless mining town, and at one time, it was one of the largest silver districts in the United States.

Today, visitors can delve into the mining culture at the Lincoln County Historical Museum , the “Million-Dollar Courthouse,” and a row of rustic bars and restaurants. Pioche is a good stopping-off spot for lunch and a refreshing drink, as well as an hour or two of sightseeing.

With a population of fewer than 100 people, Baker is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it towns. Even so, it has a few wonderful features as the gateway to Great Basin National Park.

Not only will you find the informative national park visitor center in Baker, but the town also features a bustling little hotel/restaurant complex right on its main street. The town’s Stargazer Inn features spacious rooms and a rustic setting complete with a beautiful garden and courtyard. And right next door is Kerouac’s Restaurant , billed as a tribute to life on the American road. What could be a better stop on an epic road trip? I loved the Stargazer’s comfortable rooms and the ability to order food in the restaurant and dine at a courtyard table right outside my room — a very convenient option after a day of hiking the trails of Great Basin.

Great Basin National Park

With its gorgeous snow-tipped peaks, crystalline alpine lakes, and gnarly old bristlecone trees, it’s hard to understand why Great Basin National Park is one of the least-visited national parks in the country.

I can only chalk it up to the remote location — it’s certainly a haul to get to the park, which lies along Nevada’s eastern edge not far from the Utah border. The low visitation works in your favor, though, with relatively few crowds and traffic-jam-free driving.

Once you arrive at the park, the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is a not-to-be-missed experience. The park website’s poetic description of the road does not exaggerate: “A true mountain road, the scenic drive hugs the mountains of the South Snake Range, slowly winding you to a point above all others, where vistas reach the horizon, and one is met with a pristine view of the rugged, harsh, yet surprisingly beautiful Great Basin Desert.” Note that the upper portion of the scenic drive is open only from about June through October.

Many hikes are available — the best of which can be found at the trailhead near the Wheeler Peak Campground. For a good taste of the park, consider hiking the Alpine Lakes Loop Trail, the Bristlecone Trail (both moderate, with routes in the 2- to 3- mile range), and the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail, which is a strenuous hike of 8.6 miles and a 2,900-foot elevation gain. Another feature to check out is the Lehman Caves Tours .

Pro Tip: Great Basin has been designated an International Dark-Sky Park and is considered one of the best spots around for stargazing . In the park, the Mather Overlook is a great place to look skyward. In lower elevations, head to the Baker Archaeological Site near Baker.

Cindy Barks is an Arizona-based newspaper reporter, freelance travel writer, and travel blogger. Her blog, NearandFarAZ gives readers an insider's view of the wonders of the U.S. Southwest, and a traveler's take on far-off locales from Panama to Hong Kong to the Czech Republic. Regardless of the destination, her goal is to find the perfect scenic hike, city walk, beach stroll, or road-trip jaunt, and bring it to life in her blog. Cindy's articles about outdoor adventures have appeared in numerous regional and national publications.

7 Best Road Trips from Las Vegas: Ultimate Guide

| Filed in Arizona , Blog , Nevada , Road Trips , Utah | Disclaimer: I use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. | Leave a Comment

I’ve had the pleasure of road-tripping around the American Southwest six times now and cannot get enough of it. The red hues of the canyons, the unique rock formations, and the ideal weather when its cold everywhere else, has me coming back over and over. Here are some of the Best Road Trips from Las Vegas that I’ve done. These can be done as single destinations spots, but I did these in one road trip.

If you choose to do these destinations in one road trip, here is the route that I took. Flying into Las Vegas is always a great option, as it is cheaper than most airports. And Las Vegas is very close to SO many destinations. I have rented SUV’s and built out vans to travel in for these southwest trips.

Vehicle Recommendation: for this road trip, most spots do not require any special clearance or vehicle capabilities – except for Yant Flat. I recommend at least an AWD vehicle with SUV clearance.

I will also be listing several other detailed road trip itineraries that can be based out of Las Vegas at the bottom of this post.

Video Itinerary: Best Road Trips from Las Vegas –

The Best Road Trips from Las Vegas:

1. Snow Canyon, Utah

Despite the name, it does not snow here. Snow Canyon has over 16 miles of hiking, biking and climbing! And the camping there is some of the best I have ever experienced at a State Park. 

Views to Expect: Lava flows mixed with sandstone cliffs and vibrant oranges and reds. And I never thought I’d see a petrified sand dune until visiting here!  

Snow Canyon State Park is truly an underrated gem that I highly recommend checking out on your next Utah Trip.

Hike Required: 1.2 miles round trip, 216 ft elevation gain

Favorite View: Petrified Dunes Trail

Distance from Las Vegas: 2 hours

2. Zion National Park, Utah

The scale alone of this place is absolutely wild and it feels so Jurassic. Even if you only have time to drive through part of this park, it will give you a sense of the scale and beauty of this place. You could easily spend one day here or a whole week.

Views to Expect: Beautiful layered sandstone, towering red cliffs, emerald pools and rivers!

This is the most visited National Park in Utah, and for good reason. Read my guide to know the best times to go and what sights to see.

Favorite View: Canyon Overlook Trail

Hiking Required: 1 mile roundtrip, 187 ft elevation gain

Distance from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

3. Yant Flat, Utah

Yant Flat, also known as the Candy Cliffs is short hike with high reward and definitely a lesser known area than the popular Utah National Parks nearby like Zion National Park. This is maybe the most “hidden gem” location of all of the road trips from Las Vegas.

Views to Expect: Swirls of orange and white sandstone makes it apparent why it was named ‘Candy Cliffs’. As well as many different textures and layers of rock in unique formations.

The road to get there does turn into a dirt/sand road with some areas where higher clearance is helpful. This depends on the weather conditions of course. Read more about this hike on my full guide linked below.

Hike Required: 3.4 miles, 337 ft elevation gain to main view point

Distance from Las Vegas: 2 hours and 45 minutes

4. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

There’s a reason this place is the most instagrammed spot in Arizona. An easy walk to an impressive view of the bend in the Colorado river with an impressive rock formation! This place is beautiful rain or shine and is an easy add on to any adventure.

Views to Expect: Expansive overlook of the horseshoe shaped bend in the Colorado River. There is an impressive rock formation that protrudes from the canyon.

Hike Required: 1.5 miles

Distance from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

5. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

A stunning sandstone slot canyon in the Navajo Nation. This slot canyon has incredible textures, angles, and movement of light. You must be accompanied by a Navajo Guide to visit. It gets crowded, but it is truly a beautiful experience.

Views to Expect: the guides are great about letting you get photos of the incredible narrow passage of red-orange stone. The light will change depending on the time of day you go, but I truly think it’s beautiful any time of day.

Book in Advance!

6. Lone Rock, Utah

Lone Rock in Utah is In Lake Powell in Glen Canyon Recreation Area on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Land. There is camping that looks out at the solitary rock that scales over 250 feet. And depending on the season and rainfall, there can be water surrounding the rock. People often camp here and paddle board this area!

Views to Expect : A scenic monolithic rock protruding from Lake Powell in a very scenic lakeside camping area.

Distance from Las Vegas: 4 hours, 20 minutes

7. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park is a Road Trips from Vegas MUST. It absolutely lives up to the dreamy photos you’ve probably seen already of this place on social media. The Valley of Fire Hikes absolutely blew me away with the views of miles and miles of red sandstone rock, interesting rock formations and incredibly scenic hiking and camping. All still with WAY less crowds than the Utah Big 5 National Parks.

Views to Expect: Swirling sandstone patterns and unique red and orange rock formations and canyons.

Favorite Hike: Fire Wave Trail

Distance from Las Vegas: 1 hour

My biggest regret is not spending more time here! The campground was incredibly scenic (and is first come first served). Find out all the hikes, views and camping information in my guide:

Other Nearby Road Trips from Las Vegas:

This itinerary was one I did in March with some friends. It includes some of the best of the California desert destinations as well as some underrated gems along the way to the Grand Canyon and Sedona!

This itinerary is heavy on the California hot springs and packed full of incredible photo locations!

One of my first road trips to the Southwest was pretty spontaneous when our permits to Havasupai got cancelled due to flash floods. This itinerary really made me fall in love with the desert.

Shop my Gear: Road Trips from Las Vegas Outfits/Camera Gear

I loved having a fleece jacket that looks cute, but keeps me warm on those chilly desert mornings and evenings.

And these Blundstone Boots are so easy to hike shorter distances, keep my feet warm and look cute on the trail and in town!

Shop my favorite backpack for hiking and adventures!

Southwest Road Trip YouTube Video:

Conclusion: Road Trips from Las Vegas

The American Southwest clearly has endless places to adventure. It keeps pulling me back time and time again as soon as the weather in the PNW starts to turn dark. A quick summary of this road trip:

• Snow Canyon, Utah
• Zion National Park
• Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon
• Valley of Fire

Let me know in the comments if you’re saving this for your next Southwest Road Trip!!

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I loved this collection. Heading to Vegas this summer and want to use it as a base to explore the area. I’ll likely add the Grand Canyon to the list.

Oh absolutely! Grand Canyon is a fantastic add on to this. Enjoy!!

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Western USA National Parks Loop

5 days | explore the national parks of the usa’s wild west.

Deserts, canyons, lakes and valleys await on a five-day adventure through western USA’s most spectacular national parks. Hike through the diverse scenery of Zion National Park, marvel at sandstone spires in Bryce Canyon National Park, join a Navajo guide to learn about the history of Monument Valley and take in one of the natural wonders of the world at Grand Canyon National Park. Let an expert local guide share stories of the landscape and discover there’s more to each destination than what meets the eye.

Trip overview

• Hike through the varied landscapes of Zion National Park, taking in views of massive canyon walls and red sandstone cliffs as you go.
• Learn about the culture and history of Monument Valley during a Navajo guided tour, followed by a traditional homecooked, family-style Navajo lunch.
• Stroll along the canyon rim in Bryce Canyon National Park to admire the out-of-this-world sandstone spires known as hoodoos.
• Kayak across the waters of Lake Powell, weaving your way past fascinating rock formations as your leader shares stories of the lake’s history.
• Marvel at one of the nation’s greatest national parks, The Grand Canyon, and walk along the rim, hike into the canyon or take in an epic sunset or sunrise (depending on season)
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, the Grand Canyon Conservancy. Donations help them protect Grand Canyon National Park and support trail restoration, conservation of native plants and wildlife, and educational programs. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
• This is a fast-paced trip that covers a lot of ground in a short time. You'll be travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
• The trip involves a lot of walking through Zion National Park and Bryce National park, so be prepared with hiking shoes, a water bottle and day pack.
• Lunches will be simple picnic style so perhaps bring some of your own snacks if you think you’ll get hungry between meals.
• We will be travelling to the desert, which means it is often very warm during the day but cold at night, so make sure you pack the appropriate clothing for all weather.
• You may also want to check out our Best of Western USA if you have a longer time to explore the region:
• https://www.intrepidtravel.com/united-states/best-western-usa-152105

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Welcome to Las Vegas! The real wild west is home to some of the USA’s most incredible scenery. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8 am. Then, you’ll hop aboard a private van. Get to know each other over a picnic lunch, then venture into the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park. Join your leader for a guided hike, then spend the night in Springdale – known as the gateway to the park.

• Hotel (1 night)
• Zion National Park - Walks

Please make your own way to the hotel lobby to meet your leader at 8 am this morning. It’s recommended you append an extra day or two in Vegas so you have plenty of time to get there.

Your total travel time today is approximately 3 hours.

The exact trail we hike in Zion will depend on the group's interest and ability, and will typically be either the Emerald Pools trail, or the Watchman trail. The hiking is easy to moderate with a distance of approximately 3 miles/4.8 km with 350 ft/107 mt of elevation gain.

After breakfast this morning, it’s time to make tracks for Bryce Canyon National Park – make sure your camera is ready to go, as some of the views you’ll come across today are truly out of this world! Take a short drive in your private vehicle, then spend the morning hiking through the epic landscapes of the park. Walk along the canyon rim and marvel at hundreds of unique sandstone towers, known as hoodoos, that jut out from the natural amphitheatre. Relax while you enjoy a picnic lunch and take in your magnificent surroundings, then hike down into the canyon for a closer look at the fascinating hoodoos. Then, drive on to the town of Page, where you’ll spend the night.

• Bryce Canyon - Leader-led Walk

Your total travel time today is approximately 5 hours.

Today's hiking distance is 3 miles (4.8 km) with 450 feet (137 m) of elevation gain.

Bryce Canyon is situated at 8000 ft (2440 m) above sea level. You can expect cooler temperatures, thinner and dryer air than elsewhere on this trip. Make sure you stay hydrated while hiking in the park.

Journey south this morning, driving through more spectacular scenery before arriving at Lake Powell. This gorgeous reservoir is certainly a sight to behold from the shore but to really appreciate it, you’ve got to get on the water. Jump in a kayak and paddle across the water’s surface, weaving your way through remarkable rock formations while your leader regales you with stories of the lake’s history. Back on dry land, set out for a gentle walk along Horseshoe Bend, taking in beautiful views with every step. This afternoon there is an option to visit Antelope Canyon before returning to Page for the evening.

• Horseshoe Bend Visit
• Lake Powell - Kayaking
• Page - Antelope Canyon Tour - USD70

You will get wet during the kayaking excursion, therefore we recommend wearing a swimsuit and water shoes/sandals, or bring a change of clothes and shoes with you on this day.

During November and December, you may be unable to kayak on Lake Powell. There will be a local slot canyon walk included when kayaking is not possible. This hike does involve soft sand, stairs and ramps, so it’s best to wear closed-toe shoes.

ANTELOPE CANYON: Since this tour is very popular and tends to sell out, we recommend you pre-book your space. You can book any time slot 2pm or later. Please book the Lower Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour here: https://www.antelopelowercanyon.com/tours/

Start the day with a drive to Monument Valley – one of the world’s most iconic sights. If this landscape dotted with towering sandstone buttes looks familiar to you, it’s no surprise – Monument Valley has been the filming location for many famous Western films. More importantly, this is the native land of the Navajo. When you arrive, you’ll transfer from your vehicle to a 4WD and enjoy a Navajo-guided tour of Monument Valley, where you’ll have the chance to learn more about their rich culture and history in the area before sitting down to a traditional homecooked, family-style Navajo lunch. Continue your journey onto the iconic Grand Canyon for some awe-inspiring walks along the rim.

• Monument Valley - Navajo guided 4x4 Jeep tour including traditional lunch

We aim to experience either sunset or sunrise at the Grand Canyon rim, depending on season. During spring and fall when the sun sets earlier and rises later we typically visit for sunrise on Day 5. During the summer months we visit for sunset on Day 4.

This morning it's time to return to Las Vegas, but first we'll make a stop along Historic Route 66. You’ll arrive back in Las Vegas at approximately 4 pm where your adventure will come to an end.

• Grand Canyon National Park - Entrance

Your total travel time today is approximately 4.5 hours.

There is no accommodation included in Las Vegas on the last day.  We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Speak to an Intrepid booking agent for more information.

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches

Private vehicle

Hotel (4 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8 am on Day 1 in Las Vegas. Please make your own way to the Joining Point listed in the Essential Trip Information for this itinerary.

2. On the final day, this trip finishes at approximately 4 pm on arrival in Las Vegas. You will be dropped at the same location as the joining point. If departing this day, please do not book any flights before 8 pm.

3. There is no accommodation included in Las Vegas on this trip. If you wish to spend more time in Las Vegas, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Speak to an Intrepid booking agent for more information.

4. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

5. During the months of November and December we are often unable to kayak on Lake Powell. Instead we will explore Peekaboo Canyon or Antelope Canyon by foot instead.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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National Parks Summer Tour (3 Days)

• Departs Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, April-October
• Duration 3 days/2 nights
• Transportation Comfortable transport aboard a mini-coach (small groups; average 14 guests)

Las Vegas – Zion – Bryce – Lake Powell – Monument Valley – Antelope Canyon – Grand Canyon – Las Vegas

This action-packed tour is perfect for the traveler that’s on a tight schedule but still wants to see the best of the USA’s Southwest! 

Make your way through some of the country’s most unique and iconic landscapes, and feel as though you’re transported back in time. With so much to see and do, this ultimate express road trip will give you a taste of it all.

Immerse yourself in the amazing Utah landscapes of Zion and Bryce National Parks, then head even further into the Wild West to experience the mystifying Antelope Canyon and overnight in the iconic Monument Valley in Navajo Nation. Spend your last day staring into the abyss at Grand Canyon National Park and opt to take in a bird’s eye view of the canyon on a helicopter ride before heading back to the bright lights!

Perfect for all fitness levels, this immersive 3-day tour will leave you in awe of Mother Nature and perhaps entice you back for even more!

Weather permitting. Some activities are not accessible in extreme weather or due to road closures. Every attempt will be made to find comparable activities if these options are not available during your trip.

If you wish to travel between Nov 1st and mid April please see our  winter version  of this  tour here.

7:15am pickup from the Palms Casino coach loading curb located at 4321 W Flamingo Road

• Enjoy walks and hikes in Zion, Bryce & Grand Canyon National Parks
• See the birthplace of Route 66
• Take a Navajo-guided 4×4 jeep tour of Monument Valley
• Explore photogenic Antelope Canyon
• Hike to the Emerald Pools in Zion National Park
• Get a bird’s eye view of the Grand Canyon with a helicopter ride (optional)

Price Includes

• Complimentary pick up/drop off from the Mirage Hotel
• Experienced and knowledgeable tour guide
• Transportation in a modern 14 passenger tour bus minivan
• 2 breakfasts & 3 deli style lunches one breakfast also included with the lodging option.)
• Park admissions
• Navajo Guided Jeep tour of Monument Valley ($75 value)
• Camping equipment– use of a two person tent, foam sleeping pad and sleeping bag if camping option selected.

Price Excludes

• Optional Helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon (30-55 mins $220 -$350). Book with your tour guide.
• Optional Antelope Canyon Navajo Guided tour ($90-$110 per person 1.5 hours) Book with your tour guide.
• Optional evening meals $20-$25.
• Guide Gratuity (customary 15-20% of tour cost as per TripAdvisor tipping guide)

Why We Love This Tour

“I’ll admit, the first time I guided this tour I thought, ‘there’s no way we can fit all of this in.’ Having done the loop dozens of time now, I can honestly say that it’s by far one of the best values out there. It’s full on, yet the timing just works out perfectly to get to know all of the amazing places we visit, just enough to want to come back for more!”

Sample Itineraries: Please note that due to rapidly-changing conditions (weather, crowds, traffic) and our small-group size, we allow our guides the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to best suit the needs of the group. While we guarantee to provide the highlights & inclusions within this itinerary, we do not guarantee them in this specific order.

Day 1 - Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Cut by the Virgin River, Zion Canyon is an impressive mix of white, pink and red Navajo sandstone cliffs. Ancient petrified sand dunes towering over 2000 feet above the canyon floor make for an impressive landscape and a photographer’s paradise. Zion National Park offers enchanting walks & hikes for every fitness level. Stroll around the Emerald Pools trail, enjoy the Temple of Sinawava, the Great White Throne, Weeping Rock and visit the interpretive Human History museum where you can enjoy an entertaining rangers talk on the patio.

After a full afternoon in Zion we head to Bryce Canyon, A giant natural amphitheater created by erosion along the eastern side of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, Bryce is distinctive due to geological structures called hoodoos. These red, orange, and white spires provide spectacular views for park visitors. Bryce Canyon is considered by many to be the most scenically diverse place in the world.

Camping –all equipment provided, including a sleeping bag.

Lodging – Best Western Ruby’s Inn or similar 3 star hotel.

Day 2 - Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley

Headed past Lake Powell with a visit to Antelope Canyon, we wind our out way through more of USA Southwest’s spectacular scenery to one of the most iconic locations on the planet. The backdrop for many famous western movies and home to the Navajo Indians you are in for a real treat today. Hop onboard a 4X4 jeep and enjoy an included Navajo guided tour of Monument Valley.

Camping –Camp right along the rim and get ready to gaze up at the amazing starry skies, bag your front row seat to a magnificent sun rise.

Lodging – Goulding’s Historic Lodge.

*Sunrise may not be available with lodging option based on availability and location of the hotel at the time of booking.

Day 3 - The Grand Canyon

Saving the best for last! After a brief visit to a traditional Navajo trading post we follow the mighty Colorado River through the Painted Desert to one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Take in a bird’s eye view on an optional helicopter ride, stroll along the rim, take a hike into the one of the deepest and most diverse canyons on earth or simply relax in one the rim cafes and admire the magnificent view before heading back to the bright city lights of Las Vegas!

IMPORTANT DETAILS: Unless you have paid for lodging accommodations you have booked a camping tour. (Yes this means tents!) You will be expected to put them up and take them down with the help of your tour leader.

The following items are included with your tour cost: Use of a sleeping bag, foam sleeping mat, use of a two person tent (if you are a solo traveler you will be paired with a tent partner of the same gender).

We do not include evening meals- your tour guide will suggest local economical restaurants and usually clients opt to eat as a group and enjoy the social aspect of the tour.

We do provide sandwich style lunches – (you make your own from our pre-shopped fresh ingredients and vegetarians are catered for)

We suggest you bring the following items if you are camping: Cotton sleeping bag liner , travel pillow, travel towel, flashlight, waterproof jacket. Warm sweater if traveling in April or Oct.

We do not provide water on this tour, as a member of the International Eco Tourism Society we encourage our guests to bring a refillable container. This may be as simple as a plastic 1 liter bottle purchased from any convenience store. You may refill this every time we make a comfort stop and we will happily recycle it for you at the end of you tour if you wish.

There are many opportunities for walks and hikes on this tour. Not all walks are guided. Your Tour Leader will advise and make recommendations for walks to suit your ability and interest.

Due to varying hours of sunlight throughout the year you may be offered a sunrise jeep tour in Monument Valley- for most this is the highlight of their tour. Your tour leader will advise you if this is a possibility on your tour.

Book our National Parks 3 day as a private tour

We understand how important quality time with your friends and family is. We also understand the hesitation some customers may have in sharing a vehicle with people they don’t know. While we love the ease of travel & new friendships that shared tours provide, we have adapted to bring our customers more options when it comes to booking a tour.

This tour is now available to book as a private excursion for 5 – 13 travelers. You’ll receive the same itinerary and inclusions that our typical tour would provide, plus personal one-on-one attention from your guide and the ability to choose exactly who you’ll bring with you.

Feeling like making some changes or additions to the itinerary? Contact us and we can create a quote for any custom experience you’d like to partake in anywhere in the 50 states.

Reserve your National Parks 3 Day Tour as a private excursion now!

Our rates are based on group size. After clicking below and choosing an available date, elect how many travelers will be in your group. The below rates are based on the minimum number of travelers.

Private camping tour for 8 guests: $830 per person Private hotel tour for 8 guests: $1,125 per person

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SF & International: (415) 642-7378 US & Canada toll free: 1 (800) 777-8464 [email protected]

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Southwest Highlights Tour (6 Days)

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A National Park Adventure Around The Las Vegas Loop

Looking for a quarantine escape? As we get closer to the end of the worst of the pandemic, the itch to explore every marvel this world has to offer may be creeping up on you. When you hear about the Las Vegas Loop, do not let the glitz, glamour, and glow from the bustling Sin City’s neon signs, wild shows, and 24-hour entertainment fool you. Instead, this epic road trip, takes you to new heights, back in time, and across three states while touring some of the best national parks in the United States.

For this journey, we recommend reserving at least seven days to ensure you take in all the sights and stops along the almost 19-hour trip around this loop. Witnessing the wonder of the Grand Canyon as well as hitting five of the area’s major national parks makes this a trip you won’t want to miss.

General Itinerary

• Start: Las Vegas, NV 
• Park 1: Grand Canyon, AZ (South Rim) (1-2 days)
• Park 2: Monument Valley, AZ (1 day)
• Park 3: Arches National Park, UT (1-2 days)
• Park 4: Bryce Canyon National Park, UT (1 day)
• Park 5: Zion National Park, UT (1-2 days)
• End: Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas, NV to Grand Canyon 

To get to Grand Canyon National Par k, it takes between four and five hours (approximately 280 miles). As you leave the Las Vegas city limits, you will eventually pass by Lake Mead . Some of the best viewpoints are along this first leg of the trip to the Grand Canyon, so if you have some spare time or want to stop and stretch your legs for a few minutes, this is a great area to watch the scenery. Checking out the Hoover Dam also makes for a great detour, time permitting of course!

Passing through the Arizona desert on I-40 for a few hours takes you to the city of Williams, where you are presented with the option of driving the rest of the way to the park or taking a break from the driving. When you choose to drive, you get off at AZ-64, a 50-mile stretch of empty, open road that takes you directly to the Grand Canyon South Rim National Park. 

However, if you want a cool way to experience the Arizona landscape without missing anything, you may opt for boarding the Grand Canyon Railway (assuming you are there in the morning before the train departs). Boarding this train allows you to enjoy sights that you would not have the chance to catch on the desert-heavy, barren AZ-64. You will arrive at the Grand Canyon just before noon and have the freedom to explore at your leisure until the end of the afternoon. 

Both options offer different perks and treats, but they both lead to the same destination: The Grand Canyon South Rim National Park. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of the colorful gorge, shop at the few gift shops available, white water raft in the Colorado River, or hike along the valley floor.

Grand Canyon to Monument Valley

The journey from the Grand Canyon to Monument Valley takes you through time itself! Well, not exactly. The state of Arizona actually does not, in general, observe Daylight Savings Time; however, when you head to the valley, you pass through the Navajo Indian Reservation, which does. Essentially, you will be losing an hour as you pass through, so just keep that in mind!

Along your way, there are several stopping points available to you. Grab that camera or stretch those legs, and consider visiting these spots if time is on your side: Grandview Point (the best for watching the sunrise) Zuni Point, and Desert View Watchtower.

When you finally arrive, head over to the Tribal Park Visitor’s Center. Here, you will be able to catch the best views of Merrick Butte and the Mittens! For those of you crammed in rental cars, we highly recommend you consider using the guided tour. Most of the roads here are considered off-roads, meaning your rental company will likely not be too happy should you acquire a good collection of dings along the way. Not only will you protect your car by choosing the guided tour, but the Navajo guides are also able to immerse you with the best information about what it is you’re seeing.

Monument Valley to Arches National Park & Moab

It is during this leg of the loop where you should plan for more time than a week, we encourage you to explore! It’s a small detour with big rewards! The Bears Ears National Monument area offers some of the best camping, hiking, and outdoor adventures in this part of the country.

If you arrive at Arches National Par k in the morning and the early parts of the afternoon and the crowds are too much for you, check out Canyon Islands in The Sky, which is about 45 minutes away. Exploring Arches in the late afternoon honestly opens up the prettiest views, is the quietest, and typically has the least amount of crowds. Delicate Arch is the most popular one in the park, but this trek requires a 3-mile hike with, at one point, a steep incline. 

Other hike options here are abundant. If the quantity is your top priority, then venture down the Devil’s Garden. But it is not all hiking! The 18-mile-long main road winds through most of the park. You may miss the most popular sights, but you won’t feel like you have missed out, either.

Arches National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park  

For the approximate 244 miles to Bryce Canyon National Park, you can pass right through many scenic places: Capitol Reef National Park and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument if you have some extra time. When you arrive, head to Inspiration Point, a hill hike that leads to three viewpoints. From there, Sunrise and Sunset Point are also great options—each with its own hikes. Both the Rim Trail and the Under-the-Rim Trail are perfect for more advanced hikers or enthusiasts.

Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National Park 

Drive for about an hour and a half, and you will be at Zion National Park . Of all the places we have mentioned, we recommend you consider spending the extra day in this 7-day itinerary here! When you’re incoming from Bryce, you are greeted at the park by the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. The destination? Smack-dab in the middle of the canyon! That is certainly not a bad entrance. 

We consider Zion National Park to be a playground for sightseers, hikers, adventurers/explorers, and campers of all expertise and skill levels. Here, The Narrows is a big focal feature of the park. Starting from the Riverside Walk, you will eventually get onto the From the Bottom Up Trail, which is a 10-mile trek leading to Big Springs. Beyond that, you can enjoy tubing in the Virgin River as well as scenic horseback riding.

Because of its popularity, be prepared for crowds here, unless you start your adventure here early. The visitor’s center does offer both an internal shuttle service as well as one that goes to Springdale (this one is free).

Zion National Park to Las Vegas 

The 172-mile trip back to Sin City has surprising adventures, too! From a ghost town to a dinosaur discovery site, this leg is perfect for the whole family, especially if you are tuckered out from all that hiking.

The Grafton Ghost Town’s last residents packed up and left in 1944. While it is the closest stop to Zion, it can be tricky to find. The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site  is a den of dino-impressed sandstone. From skin impressions to footpads and claws, you are bound to enjoy this timeless, geologic spot of fun. 

While you head back into the city, you will be able to enjoy the splendor of the Virgin River Gorge, a canyon shaped by the Virgin River. It is here where you will find the best photo ops. And if you happen to pass through here at night, try hopping out of your car and staring up at the stars! Not a ton of people live out there, so there is no better place to stargaze. Before you roll back into Las Vegas, assuming you have the time, we recommend you also check out the Valley of Fire State Park, which is lush with bold outcrops of red Aztec sandstone.

The Las Vegas Loop offers some of the most majestic geologic landmarks on this side of the world. While the color palette skews more toward a kaleidoscopic display the color of some of the more lackluster colors for most of the way, visiting or hiking through these natural wonders developed over millions of years allows you rare glimpses through time to a place detached from most of the modern world. 

You will also want to plan ahead as much as possible. Some of these locations are so remote that the typical gas station or rest stop may not be available to you for miles and miles. To make the most out of this trip, spare a few more days for the week-long adventure, so you can fit in a few of the extra things we mentioned or simply spend more time exploring one or two places that stick out to you. Overall, there is no way you will want to miss out on the Las Vegas Loop.

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These 5 road trips from Las Vegas will take you far beyond casinos and glitz

Apr 10, 2024 • 5 min read

Not far from the glitz of the Strip, the open road offers desert adventures © JacobH / Getty Images

In a city filled with the atypical, it’s easy to fall into the typical tourist routine in Las Vegas .

The generationally accepted Sin City mantra is to gamble, catch a show, gamble some more, have a few drinks, enjoy a little entertainment…and repeat as many times as humanly possible until you have to stagger back to the airport and catch your flight home. Vegas’ two tourist zones, the Strip or Downtown/ Fremont Street , are within a 15-minute drive of one another; if you stay in one, perhaps you’ll make an excursion to the other. And that’s the extent of a “day trip” for most.

Yet far too many visit Las Vegas without exploring the top-notch historical, geographical and cultural attractions nearby, many of which are within a three-hour drive. By renting a car, you can coast through the likes of Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire of State Park within 45 minutes (though we recommend taking more time, to explore the orange rock formations in both by hiking).

It’s pretty easy to navigate Las Vegas and surrounding areas via generally well-kept and well-paved roadways, with Interstate 15 (running north-south), Clark County Rte 215 (a beltway encircling the city) and a US Rte 95 (a northwest-southeast diagonal) the key roads to know.

It’s true that Las Vegas is surrounded by desert, and this arid region doesn’t abound with notable road-trip stops. But quality makes up for quantity, and you’ll find a world of wonder awaits within reach of Sin City: think the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, quirky hotels, national parks…and so much more.

Here are three true day trips – plus two additional multi-day options – that will help expand your Las Vegas horizons.

1. Grand Canyon West

Best road trip to do via bus Las Vegas–Grand Canyon West Skywalk; 125 miles (201km); allow one (long) day

The Western Rim of the Grand Canyon (known as Grand Canyon West ) is within a two-and-a-half-hour bus ride of Las Vegas. Tour operators like Grand Canyon Destinations , Gray Line and GC Tours pack it all in one day, making early morning pick-ups, allowing three-or-so hours of free time and stopping for optional meals. The “must” at Grand Canyon West is a tip-toe along the cantilevered, glass-bottomed  Skywalk .

Planning tip: Grand Canyon West is operated by the Hualapai Nation (whereas Grand Canyon National Park is under the purview of the National Park Service). From Las Vegas, a trip to the national park will take substantially more time, and should be a multi-day affair. 

2. Boulder City

Best road trip for history lovers Las Vegas–Boulder City; 26 miles (42km); allow one day  

While this city is only a 30-minute drive southwest of Las Vegas, it feels a world apart. Whereas the Strip is all about creative destruction and ever-bigger resorts, Boulder City has more than 500 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, most of which were constructed in the 1930s and ’40s. The city came into being in the ’30s, when workers from across the USA converged to build nearby Hoover Dam ; you can learn all about the key figures at the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum . En route to the majestic dam – just 15 minutes northeast of Boulder City – stop at Hemenway Park , which offers panoramic vistas of the often bright-blue Lake Mead . 

Detour: Henderson is Nevada ’s second-largest city, and its Water St artery regularly hosts car shows, parades and farmers markets.

3. Laughlin

Best road trip for a river reprieve Las Vegas–Laughlin; 97 miles (156km); allow one day  

On the southern tip of Nevada on the Colorado River, you’ll find this cozy, casino-filled town. Along north-south main drag Casino Dr, you’ll see a handful of gambling names that you’ll also find in Las Vegas, including Golden Nugget , Harrah’s and Tropicana . So why Laughlin ? Its appeal boils down to cheaper table games, less swank and river adventures aplenty.

Water excursions come in all forms here, including guided kayaking journeys with Desert River Outfitters , Jet Ski rentals with Watercraft Adventures or hikes along the Colorado River Heritage Greenway Trail , which runs adjacent to the river.

Best road trip for seeing another side of the Silver State Las Vegas–Reno; 438 miles (705km); allow 4–5 days  

With its vast green landscapes, a slower pace and small-town vibes, northern Nevada is a different world from Las Vegas. Its anchor is Reno – aka the “Biggest Little City in the World,” a nickname proudly proclaimed by an arched sign in the city’s Commercial Row core. Reno is a nearly 7-hour drive from Vegas following US Rte 95.

En route, stop at the Goldfield Hotel , the 1902 hallmark of an eerily quiet town and regarded as one of the most haunted structures in the US. Keep that haunted streak going with a visit to the Clown Motel in Tonopah , which also has a free clown museum in its lobby. Tonopah is also stargazing heaven, hosting  a biweekly “Star Party”  after dark every April through October. Telescopes and binoculars are provided to get up close and personal with the constellations.

Once you arrive in Reno, hit the Reno Brewery District , which has more than 15 craft spots. Nevada’s first meadery, the Black Rabbit Mead Company uses locally sourced honey in its brews.

5. Zion National Park

Best road trip for outdoors enthusiasts Las Vegas–Springdale, Utah; 159 miles (256km); allow 4–5 days  

Within a two-hour drive of Sin City, a world of emerald pools, soaring pine-lined trails and the Angels Landing bucket-list hike await. And for all the wonder you’ll find within Zion National Park , getting there from Las Vegas is half the fun. Along the way – generally a straight-north shot on I-15 – stop at Valley of Fire State Park to see mounds of sandstone with red patterns reminiscent of a cinnamon bun, as well as 2000-year-old petroglyphs etched in caves. Continue north to the city of St George, just over the Utah border. Red mountains loom in the distance over its historic downtown and art district; pop in the St George Art Museum for rotating exhibits that showcase the Western USA ’s rocky and rugged beauty.

As you approach Zion, Springdale, the quaint town at the park’s southern gate, has southwest-inspired souvenir shops, hotel-chain outposts and the five-star LaFave Luxury Resort , which has villas that sleep up to 10. If want to camp in the park, Watchman Campground is open year-round, with reservations accepted up to six months ahead of booking. 

Detour: Tucked off Interstate 15, Mesquite is a golfer’s paradise, with nine public courses – including the Jack Nicklaus–designed Coyote Springs Golf Club – within a 10-minute radius of town.

This article was first published Apr 5, 2024 and updated Apr 10, 2024.

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