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Nevada Road Trip: My 2-Week Itinerary from Las Vegas

Last Updated on March 7, 2024

For a power-packed Nevada road trip, check out this 2-week itinerary from Nevada expert, Michelle from Silvas Travel Tribe .

Welcome to Nevada! Bring a sense of adventure as we travel Nevada, from the flamboyant city of Las Vegas to the state’s adventure-packed northwest, along the loneliest highway in the US to the Great Basin. Nevada is as quirky as it is rugged, and its landscape and culture are tailor-made for cowboys, visionaries, dreamers and doers.

We’ve been coming to Nevada for decades, and have explored almost every inch of the Silver State. I’ve designed this Nevada road trip itinerary to show you the best of the state, and I’ve also included a Nevada road map to guide you along the way. A Nevada road trip explores the unexpected, the eclectic, and the beauty of the great outdoors. 

Table of Contents

Travel Insurance for Nevada

•  How to Get to Nevada

How to Get Around Nevada

Best time to visit nevada, explore off strip, where to stay in las vegas [on the strip], where to stay in las vegas [off the strip], hike in red rock canyon, visit the valley of fire, admire the seven magic mountains, day trip to hoover dam, explore the artistic wild side, see the hawthorn museum, where to stay in carson city, nevada itinerary day 6: explore carson city and carson valley, where to stay in lake tahoe, visit world class museums, where to stay in reno, visit petroglyphs, look for hidden gems, where to stay in ely or baker, lehman caves, hiking at great basin.

•  Nevada Itinerary Day 14: Drive Back to Las Vegas

Enjoy Your Nevada Road Trip!

About the author: michelle muncy-silva, nevada road trip itinerary & guide.

It’s important to have travel insurance, whether you’re traveling Nevada for 1 week or a few months. It will cover any mishap or incident that occurs during the road trip. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

  How to Get to Nevada

The main gateway to Nevada is the Las Vegas McCarran International Airport. You could also start this Nevada road trip by flying into Reno and reversing the itinerary.  

It’s cheap to fly to Las Vegas from most parts of the US. You can fly into Las Vegas from New York for around $150 round trip. Miami to Las Vegas can be as cheap as just under $200 for a round trip ticket.  

If you are flying in from Europe, you can find round trip tickets from London to Las Vegas for less than $650 if you book in advance.

To do this Nevada road trip, you need to rent a car. A 2-week car rental in Nevada costs around US$350 with unlimited mileage. I always book my car rental on Discover Cars as they’ve consistently given me the best rates and customer service.

McCarran International Airport has an easy-to-use shuttle system that will get you to your rental quickly. Shuttles run every 10 – 15 minutes. Just follow the signs from baggage claim.

Nevada is a year-round destination. I have traveled Nevada in all four seasons, and can safely say spring is the best time to travel Nevada . You can still see snow in the mountains and the heat hasn’t built up its strength in the dessert areas. The shoulder months found is spring can make your trip more affordable as well.  

The Valley of Fire and Red Rock hiking trails are open. The average daytime temperature in Las Vegas in spring is a comfortable 81°F (27°C), while in Reno it’s around 73 ° F (or 23°C).

Nevada Itinerary Days 1 – 2: Explore Las Vegas

Start your Nevada road trip in Las Vegas, as it is the biggest city and home to the international airport. Yes the city is kitsch and touristy, but there’s actually quite a lot to do in Las Vegas, and even more cool natural attractions around the city. Whether you prefer to get out into nature or bask in the evening glow of neon, you will never get bored.  

Explore the Strip

Give yourself a day to walk the strip and stop at each hotel that catches your eye. Enjoy the fountains at the Bellagio Las Vegas , ride a gondola at the Venetian , and don’t miss the roaring rollercoaster at the New York, New York Hotel .   Snap a photo at the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign” on 5100 Las Vegas Boulevard South.  Get a bird’s eye view of Fremont Street by taking a ride on the SlotZilla zip line !

Head to the Bone Yard, AKA the Neon Museum , where history is told in neon. Come at twilight to see the signs in their glory. Be sure to take a volunteer-led tour as the amazing stories the volunteers share make the experience.  

Not done with your craving of all things retro? Head out on East Tropicana Avenue to the Pinball Hall of Fame . Here you’ll enjoy a curated collection of meticulously restored pinball machines from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. Slide your bills into the change machine and indulge knowing all profits go to charity.  

I recommend staying just off the strip as you are still near enough to the action but can benefit from slightly lower prices than the major hotels that dominate the skyline. If you prefer to be in the heart of it all, I have included the best hotels in Las Vegas Strip below.

Budget: Excalibur 

Check for sweet deals on Booking.com and enjoy this budget opportunity with multiple pools, its own entertainment and on the strip access. Check rates here.

Midrange: Paris 

Upscale rooms at a midrange price, the Paris gives you a prime location and a European vibe. Plus the hotel itself is an iconic landmark of Las Vegas (pictured). There is a wide selection of restaurants on site as well as a pool. Check rates here.

Luxury: Waldorf Astoria 

This previous Mandarin Oriental hotel has been rebranded as the Waldorf and maintained the beautiful views from large rooms. Pools, restaurants, and amenities all fit the expectations set by the brand. Check rates here.

El Cortez Hotel (East Fremont)

This hotel has classic status. While there is no hotel pool, the Tower Premium rooms are affordable, plus they’re stylish and well designed. Great location on the historic Fremont Street! Check rates here.

Midrange: South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa

This midrange hotel has bowling lanes, a movie theater, restaurants, casino, spa, entertainment venues and an equestrian center all within the property you’ll never know you are off strip. This city unto itself will also provide you a free shuttle to the airport and downtown spots. Check rates here.

Luxury: Wynn Las Vegas

At the northern end of the strip you are a bit more removed from the action but you’ll get beautiful views and luxurious rooms. Upgrade to the Tower Suites for exclusive perks. Check rates here.

Nevada Itinerary Days 3 – 4: Get Out of Town and Into Nature

Using Las Vegas as your home base, you’ll travel less than 30 minutes from downtown to the Red Rock Canyon , the highlight of any Nevada road trip. Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Nevada, the conservation area lies in the Mojave Desert, and is best known for geological features such as towering red sandstone peaks and Native American petroglyphs. Panoramic viewing spots dot the 13-mile Scenic Drive.

Get up early and drive an hour outside of Vegas to visit the Valley Fire State Park . World-renowned for its 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops nestled in gray limestone, Valley of Fire contains ancient, petrified trees and petroglyphs dating back more than 2,000 years.  Check out my detailed guide to Valley Fire .

A relatively new art installation worth visiting, the Seven Magic Mountains is just 20-minute drive south of Las Vegas. Designed by internationally renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the large-scale public art installation is made up of seven towers of colorful, stacked boulders. A creative expression of human presence in the desert, this art piece punctuates the Mojave with a poetic burst of form and color.

If you’ve got some extra time, I recommend doing a day trip to Hoover Dam . Hoover Dam is a testimony to a country’s ability to construct monolithic projects during the Depression. It took less than five years, in a harsh and barren land, to build the largest dam of its time. This architectural icon is only 40 miles away and Get Your Guide has great package options for this trip. Check out this affordable walk-on-the-top tour with lunch included .

Nevada Itinerary Day 5: Drive to Carson City

Now it’s time to leave the big city behind to kick start your Nevada road trip for real! Today you’ll be experiencing some of Nevada’s complex history, visiting a quirky museum and admiring eccentric outdoor art installations via Highway 95. This is just over six hours of driving, but expect a day of driving with fun, quirky pitstops.

Drive to Beatty, Nevada and visit Goldwell Open Air Museum to experience this unique outdoor sculpture park. Then stop a little further up the road just beyond Goldfield, to see the International Car Forest of the Last Church . This distinctive display of over 40 cars, trucks and busses are artistically planted just off Hwy 95 south of Tonopah.

Just 90 minutes from Tonopah, take another break to enjoy the Hawthorn area. Stop by the picturesque Walker Lake for a stroll or picnic lunch.  You can explore the Hawthorn Ordnance Museum , one of the most interesting small military history museums in the country. From here you are less than 2 hours away from Carson City.  

Budget: Hardman House

This old-school hotel is walking distance to many downtown attractions and restaurants nearby. Rooms might be outdated, but it’s got everything you’ll need for a comfy stay. Check rates here.

Midrange: Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites

With nicely appointed rooms with proximity to the museums, this particular Holiday Inn is a good option in the midrange level. They have good customer service, a free breakfast, pool, and comfortable rooms. Check rates here.

Luxury: Staybridge Suites

Currently the most luxurious hotel in Carson City, this all-suite accommodation is brand new and has beautiful outdoor lounging space (pictured). Every suite has a kitchen and spacious living space. Check rates here.

While in Nevada’s state capital, Carson City, don’t miss the opportunity to gain a stronger understanding of Nevada’s complex relationship with Native Americans by visiting the Stewart Indian School Cultural Center and Museum.  

Itching to get back into nature, you can hike the Kings Canyon trail , a short quarter-mile trail which starts just west of downtown at the end of King Street. If you are traveling in the spring, you’re likely to have prime views of the beautiful Kings Canyon waterfall.  

Indulge in an experience that can only be had here in Carson Valley by driving to Genoa Bar and Saloon , a “thirst parlor” marking Nevada’s first settlement. After drinks, head over to the JT Basque Bar and Dining Room in Gardnerville for dinner. If you didn’t get your fill at the saloon don’t worry because JT has a Picon Punch waiting just for you.  

Nevada Itinerary Day 7 – 9: Get Active in Lake Tahoe

One of the best places to visit in Nevada, Lake Tahoe is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities to hike, mountain bike, ski and swim. Straddling the border of California and Nevada and it’s a popular stop on any California road trip . It’s an easy day trip from Carson City (just 30 minutes away) so there’s no need to change hotels.

Drive the loop around Lake Tahoe , stop at Emerald Bay viewpoint, and take in the best views at Inspiration Point. If you’re visiting Nevada in summer, there are lots of beaches and coves to swim in, with Kings Beach the most popular spot. And for those traveling in winter, Heavenly Resort and Squaw Valley are the most popular ski resorts in Lake Tahoe.

Culture vultures, be sure to check out the historic town of Truckee and  hike the Rubicon Trail to the highest elevation lighthouse in the United States. There are so many things to do in Lake Tahoe, you can easily spend an entire week here.

In case you prefer to stay in Lake Tahoe to Carson City, here are our recommendations for places to stay in Tahoe. The best area to stay is South Lake Tahoe, where you’ll find many good restaurants, hotels and attractions.

Budget: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

This three-star hotel with great deals offers a pool, fitness center and 5 restaurants on property. It’s a little outdated, but still has all the perks of a big chain hotel without the hefty price tag. Check rates here.

Midrange: Secrets Inn Lake Tahoe

With a central location in South Lake Tahoe, this low-key lodge has reasonably priced, romantic alpine-style rooms perfect for couples. The jacuzzi and fireplace are a hot favorite. Check rates here.

Luxury: The Hyatt Residence Club High Sierra Lodge

An all-suite accommodation in Incline Village (pictured), this beautiful ski lodge is close to pistes, has a kitchen in each room, private beach access and overlooks Lake Tahoe. Check rates here.

Nevada Itinerary Days 10 – 11: Enjoy Artsy Reno

Just an hour away from Lake Tahoe, Reno is not just neon and casinos. Take a Truckee Riverwalk tour to enjoy the pieces of Burning Man art donated to the city. Pick your patio for some outdoor dining, enjoying any one of the multitudes of delicious places to eat and drink. Alternatively, do a hike to a hidden waterfall on Hunter Creek Trail.  

Check out the Greater Nevada Field , home to the Triple A Reno Aces baseball team. If you’re traveling Nevada between November and February, take a spin around the ice-skating rink the city sets up in front of the park.  

Visit the Nevada Museum of Art , the only accredited art museum in all of Nevada. This status puts it on the same level as the Met in New York. Explore the four themed areas on your own or sign up for a tour at the museum.  

Housing more than 200 exceptional vehicles, the National Automobile Museum is another must see site. You can attend curator led talks or just explore the exhibits.  

Note: If you’re doing this Nevada road trip at the end of summer, check out the Burning Man schedule . You’ll have to reserve tickets far in advance, but if you can get them it is definitely a week long experience you will never forget.  

Reno is an easy drive from Carson City at just over 30 miles (48km), or 45 minutes north from Incline Village. But since you will be leaving from Reno to head over to Great Basin National Park, you may want to find a hotel here. Many of the casinos just blocks from Riverwalk District will host great deals for under $100 a night. 

Budget: Boutique Motel in the Heart of Midtown

This fun kitschy boutique motel gives a new spin on motels and provides a fun experience (pictured). Rooms are small, but have design finishes, are newly renovated and hip! Check the rates here.

Midrange: Courtyard by Marriott Reno 

A more affordable option also along the riverfront and within walking distance to the Riverwalk District, this Marriott hotel has plush beds, spacious rooms, and a covered pool area. Check the rates here.

Luxury: The Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa

If location is important to you, then this is the best option. This upscale hotel is located on the Truckee River and within walking distance to all the attractions mentioned in this Nevada itinerary. Check the rates here.

  Nevada Itinerary Day 12: Driving Day

Prepare for a long day of driving from Reno to the Great Basin National Park (just over 6 hours)! You’ll be traversing Highway 50, also known as the loneliest road in America. This portion of the highway crosses large desert valleys with few signs of civilization except for a few ghost towns. Enjoy the silence, the expansive blue sky, and the distant mountain views.

Get out of the car just outside of Fallon to stretch your legs at Grimes Point Archeological Site . Here you can see petroglyphs on many of the area’s boulders and gain a better sense of the area’s ancient past.  

Have lunch in Austin or grab snacks for a picnic at the Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area. Just beyond Austin is this amazing opportunity to see a glimpse into the early Native American life.  

Just outside of Ely, Garnet Hill is worth a stop if you’re interested in digging for ruby colored semi-precious gems. Ely District is an internationally known site for gem collectors, and Garnet Hill is the only designated rock hounding area. Garnet Hill is also an excellent location to view the excavations of the massive open pit copper mines near Ruth, Nevada.

Take your pick of places in Ely or drive a bit further to Baker. Both are just outside the entrance to Great Basin National Park.  

Budget: Stargazer Inn Nevada

This is a Baker roadside retreat with a seasonal restaurant. It’s basic but comfortable enough for easy access to the national park. It’s open late May to mid-October. Check rates here.

Midrange: Holiday Inn Express & Suites

This Holiday Inn in Ely is pretty standard, with good-sized rooms. It has a pool, free parking and wi-fi. Breakfast is also included. Check rates here.

Luxury: Hidden Canyon Retreat Bed & Breakfast

This cosy B&B is 30 minutes from the park entrance and has three types of rooms available – standard, deluxe or two room suites (pictured). The ranch’s interiors are outdated, but rooms are massive and very comfortable. Check rates here.

Nevada Itinerary Day 13: Hike in the Great Basin National Park

Those traveling Nevada in search of adventure in the great outdoors will love the Great Basin. This is one of the few national parks that lets you experience a diverse landscape without the crowds. Here you’ll find opportunities for star gazing, caving and hiking . This is also one of the national parks with no entrance fee.  

Guided tours through these amazing caves take you to the Lodge Room or the Grand Palace Room. A cave tour fee applies with discounts for seniors and youth. Since this is not an entrance fee the America the Beautiful pass will not apply to this cost.  

A range of trails from paved accessible pathways to full day backcountry adventures are available. Take the 4.6 mile Bristlecone – Glacier trail from the Wheeler Peak Campground to see breathtaking landscape on one of the park’s most popular trails.  

  Nevada Itinerary Day 14: Drive Back to Las Vegas

It’s a 4.5 hour drive back to Las Vegas from Great Basin so give yourself the time to drive back without rushing. You should have plenty of time if you have a late afternoon flight. If you have an early morning departure, you’ll want to spend the night at a hotel near the airport the evening before.

I recommend staying at Homewood Suites by Hilton as it’s the closest hotel to the airport and it has pretty high standards. A little further out is the more affordable Best Western McCarran Inn , which has equally comfortable rooms and a free shuttle to the airport.

There are so many cool places to visit in Nevada that it can be tough to put together an itinerary with everything you want to see. I’ve designed this Nevada itinerary to pack in a mixture of experiences: from hiking in national parks to visiting quirky museums and going on archaeological discoveries. Have a great time traveling Nevada!

If you’re interested in doing more road trips around the US, check out other articles I’ve written:

• 2-Week Route 66 Itinerary
• Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
• Utah Road Trip Itinerary
• California Road Trip Itinerary
• Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Here are some weekend itineraries for cities in the US:

• Weekend in Seattle
• Weekend in Los Angeles
• Weekend in San Francisco
• Weekend in Miami

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I make a small commission when you purchase something through my links, at NO extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Michelle Muncy-Silva is the founder of Silvas Travel Tribe . She and her husband are committed to raising their boys to become travelers who bring all the layers of their identity with them as they venture out into the world. They have a special interest in unpacking how travel can benefit local indigenous groups. Michelle’s work has appeared in numerous blogs around the world.

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 140 countries across 7 continents. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Her work has appeared in many major publications including BBC Travel, CNN and LonelyPlanet.com. Read more about her here and get more life updates from her on her Facebook and Instagram .

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Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

2 Week USA Road Trip Itinerary: California, Las Vegas & the Grand Canyon

Last updated: March 6, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 13 Comments

We’ve taken a lot of road trips in the USA, and it is our favorite country for taking road trips. From Route 66 to the Oregon Trail to the Pacific Coast Highway to the Deep South , we’ve had some amazing adventures by road across the states.

One of our most popular road trip itineraries for the USA is our two week California road trip itinerary . However, I’m often asked by readers how to adapt it to include some other popular destinations in the USA, specifically Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon .

In response to this request, I’ve put together this detailed two week USA road trip itinerary through parts of the southwest and western USA.

This itinerary includes highlights of California, such as Yosemite and Death Valley national parks, as well as the Pacific Coast Highway, San Francisco and Los Angeles. It also has you driving some iconic stretches of Route 66, spending time in Las Vegas, and taking a visit to the incredible Grand Canyon.

This is an extension to the popular “Golden Triangle” road trip, which usually features Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Our road trip itinerary takes you across three states – California, Arizona and Nevada, and would suit trips of two to three weeks.

Obviously, as you are trying to see a fair bit in this itinerary, it does require quite a bit of driving, and you won’t be able to see absolutely everything on offer. We’d suggest a minimum of two weeks for this trip, but if you have a little longer, then you could easily stretch it out to three weeks or more, and have a few more stops along the way.

For now though, let’s take a look at this itinerary on a day by day basis to see what it looks like. As always, please just use this itinerary as a guide, and feel free to adjust it to your particular interests!

USA Road Trip Itinerary

I’ve designed this itinerary to be circular, so you start and finish at the same place. This makes things like car hire easier, as often there’s a one-way fee if you rent a car in one place and leave it somewhere else. However, this isn’t always the case, for example, we’ve rented in Las Vegas and dropped off in San Francisco and not been charged a fee.

Of course, if you are wanting to avoid driving in the USA, then you can also take tours that follow a very similar route to this one, such as this one . You can check out a list of tour options later in the post.

A circular route also means that you can start and finish at any point on the route, and you can do it in either direction. If you’re flying to the start, cities with major airports include Las Vegas, San Francisco and Los Angeles. For now, we’ll assume you’re going to start in Las Vegas.

Days 1 & 2 – Las Vegas

We recommend starting your US road trip in Las Vegas. The city is world famous as basically an adults playground, with gambling, shows, restaurants and bars aplenty. It’s an easy place to spend a lot of money very quickly!

However, there is definitely a lot more to Las Vegas than the famous Las Vegas Strip, both in town, and in the nearby area. The stunning Valley of Fire state park is a short drive away, and you can also visit the impressive Hoover Dam very easily. So whether you are into natural wonders or man-made delights, you should find something to do.

Our recommendation would be to spend your two days in Las Vegas. There is a lot to do in the city, and if you arriving from a different time zone, these two days will give you time to adjust and acclimatize. However, if you do want to head out of the city, we have included a couple of suggested trips to popular nearby attractions as well.

Things to do in Las Vegas

With around two days to explore, depending on when you arrive in the city, you should be able to see a good amount in Las Vegas.

Some of our personal highlights we recommend include the views from the top of the Stratosphere Tower, visiting the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign for a photo opportunity, walking the Strip at night, watching the famous Bellagio fountains display and taking in the Mob Museum.

You will also likely want to take in one of the shows that are hosted every evening at venues across the city. There’s a huge number of shows to choose from, you can see the options and book them online in advance here . Other popular activities in Vegas include dining. The city is home to a number of truly world class restaurants, as well as quite spectacular buffets.

There’s also no shortage of shopping if you want to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We’d also suggest taking a bit of down time and relaxing by your hotel pool as part of your acclimatization strategy. There’s going to be a lot of driving and sight-seeing in the days ahead, so a bit time relaxing by the pool with a beer or cocktail will start your trip off on the right foot. Alternatively, there are also a number of fun rides you can take in the city, if you’re more of a thrill seeker.

Finally, you will probably want to take part in the pastime that Vegas is most well-known for – gambling. There’s a huge number of casinos to choose from, with many of the hotels also running huge casino operations. Even if you don’t wish to gamble, it is worth visiting a few of the casinos as the buildings themselves are so iconic.

In terms of getting around Las Vegas, the city has a lot of options. It’s also relatively spread out, so whilst you can walk, it will likely take you longer than you think to get around on foot. The temperatures in summer also make walking very uncomfortable.

Instead, you might consider one of the popular rideshare services, taxis, or the monorail, which connects many of the key points of the city together. We would advise against driving in the Las Vegas – parking fees are high, and the roads are busy.

If you’d prefer to head out of the city for either part of all of one of your days in the city, we’d recommend visiting either the Hoover Dam and taking the tour there or heading out to the Valley of Fire State Park . If you head out early and have your own vehicle you can fit both into one day out.

The Hoover Dam is an incredible feat of modern engineering and is regarded as one of the seven wonders of the industrial world .

The Valley of Fire State Park is home to spectacular landscapes, made up from wonderfully colored rocks which give the park its name

The Hoover Dam is a ticketed attraction, with different tours available. Some of these tours can be purchased in advance online, whilst others are only available in person. If you choose to take a tour that requires an in person ticket purchase you will want to arrive early as slots are limited and this is a popular attraction. See more on ticket types and prices on the official website here .

The Valley of Fire State Park also has a fee, which is charged per vehicle rather than per person, and you can see details of that here . There are a number of short hikes you can take to explore the park, or you can just drive to observation points and enjoy the views.

Note that if you are doing this road trip in the summer, hiking is generally not recommended as it gets very hot, often in excess of 100F / 37C. Visiting the Valley of Fire at this time of year is not as pleasant an experience as in the cooler months.

You can either take a tour to reach our suggested sites or you can drive yourself. If you don’t want to pick up your rental car yet, or would just prefer the convenience of a tour, here are some options to consider:

• A three hour mini tour of the Hoover Dam, where you will see the main exterior highlights but not the interior parts
• A 4-6 hour guided hiking tour of the Valley of Fire from Las Vegas, with varying levels of hike available depending on your fitness

Whether you decide to spend all your time in Las Vegas or take in some of the surrounding attractions, we’re sure you won’t run out of things to do here.

For more inspiration, see our guide to things to do in Las Vegas which has lots more ideas as well as tips on saving money.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Las Vegas. Our suggestion would be to try and stay on or near the Strip if possible, as this will make it easier to get to many of the sights. We’d also suggest staying in one of the casinos because that’s part of the Vegas experience! Here are some suggested options to get you started across a range of budgets.

• Travelodge by Wyndham Las Vegas Airport – if you’re looking for a budget hotel and don’t mind not being on the strip or having an on-site casino, this 2* Travelodge offers comfortable rooms, free parking and a breakfast bag.
• The D Las Vegas – found in the older part of Las Vegas, amongst the famous neon of Fremont Street, this hotel offers good value accommodation as well as on-site casino.
• Luxor – if you ever wanted to sleep in a pyramid, without the associated hassle of becoming an Egyptian pharaoh and dying, the Luxor is for you. This 3* hotel is famous for its iconic pyramid shape, and is handily located near the Welcome to Las Vegas sign. Naturally there’s a casino, range of dining options and usually some kind of show or entertainment to enjoy.
• New York, New York – another well known Vegas hotel, this property was constructed to resemble the New York skyline, complete with a 150 feet Statue of Liberty. There’s an on-site rollercoaster, casino, range of restaurants, and live shows.
• Flamingo Las Vegas – this is the oldest resort hotel on the Strip, although don’t let that put you off as it’s been refurbished a number of times. It offers colourful rooms, a huge on-site casino, and good prices for the central location. Another of our favourites in Vegas.
• Bellagio – found behind the famous fountains, this is one of the most iconic five star hotels in Las Vegas. Many rooms offer spectacular strip views, and there’s an on site casino, multiple dining options, and on site entertainment. A great option for those with a larger budget, or just looking to start the trip in style. We loved our stay here.

Day 3 – Grand Canyon

It’s time to start the real road trip part of your adventure! If you’re picking up your rental car, now is the time to do that if you haven’t already.

For your third day you’ll want to get an early start as you’ve got around 300 miles to go, or just under a five hour drive.

It’s worth it though, for what is arguably one of mother nature’s most spectacular sights in the world – the Grand Canyon.

You have a couple of options for your drive. First, you can drop down to Kingman, Arizona, and then take the I-40 all the way to Williams, Arizona, before turning north.

However, you might prefer to take the more scenic route along a stretch of the legendary Route 66 driving route . This runs from Kingman, Arizona, up to Peach Springs and back down to Seligman, where you join the I-40. This won’t add much to your journey (around 20 minutes extra driving time), but will give you the opportunity to follow just over 80 miles of Route 66.

There are a few notable highlights along this stretch of the route which are worth stopping at, even if just for a quick photo opportunity. These include Hackberry General Store, a Route 66 era gas station in Truxton, and the Grand Canyon Caverns . You can see more options for this stretch of the route in this part of our 2 week Route 66 guide .

Now, onto the main attraction of the day – the Grand Canyon! This is a National Park with entry fees, which are charged per vehicle. You can see information on prices, opening times and concessions here .

You are basically going to have most of the afternoon, the evening, and the following morning to visit the park. Obviously, more time would be best, but we’re on a schedule for this itinerary. If you do want to do more activities here though, including lengthier hikes, you will definitely want to extend your stay here.

Let’s assume you are following this itinerary though, and have around 1.5 days at the Grand Canyon. I would recommend spending this as follows.

Things to do at the Grand Canyon

First, I suggest visiting the main Grand Canyon Visitor Centre in Grand Canyon Village. This has detailed information on the park, with exhibits on a range of subjects including the geology, geography, and wildlife of the park. There’s also a 20 minute video you can watch to get acquainted with the park.

You can also talk to the rangers based here who can give you advice for everything related to your visit, from shuttle timetables through to great spots to watch the sunset and sunrise, and suggested short hikes that you can take to match your specific fitness.

From the visitor centre, it’s a short walk to Mather Point which offers incredible views across the Canyon. You can also walk along the trail which follows the rim in both directions, for more views (and fewer crowds).

At this point you’ll probably want to head to your accommodation and check-in, after which, depending on how much time you have, you may want to take the shuttle bus to one of the viewpoints along the rim. I’d definitely recommend ensuring you have a good spot to watch the sunset – I have a guide to the best places to watch the sunset and sunrise at the Grand Canyon here .

Finally, after a long day it’s time to turn in. On the morning of your fourth day I suggest taking another short hike if that interests you, or driving to some of the many viewpoints along the rim as you exit the park.

Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon

You have a few options for staying at the Grand Canyon. My recommendation is to stay on-site at the south rim in Grand Canyon Village. There are five hotels to choose from, plus two campgrounds. They cover a range of budgets, but be aware you do pay a bit of a premium for the location. You can see all the options available here .

If you want to stay at any of these, you will definitely need to book online in advance as they are all very popular and do sell out.

The hotels are all operated by Grand Canyon Lodges, and can be booked online here .

The two campgrounds are Mather Campground (no RV hookups) and Trailer Village (full hook-ups available).

Mather Campground is operated by the National Parks Service, and can be booked online here . Trailer Village is a concession, which can be booked online here .

Day 4 – Route 66 to Joshua Tree National Park

Your fourth day of this itinerary has you heading to California, with your destination being the Joshua Tree National Park .

You have a decent amount of driving today, and again we’re going to suggest you take the opportunity to take in stretches of iconic Route 66. Doing so will result in around a 6.5 hour drive, or around 375 miles of driving. If you would prefer a more direct route, it’s around 5.5 hours / 361 miles.

We think the scenic route is worth it though, as this drive across the wild and rugged back country of California and parts of Arizona Is truly spectacular, and one we always enjoy. Specifically, you will follow I-40 to Kingman, then take the 10 out to Oatman. This town maintains the feel of a former wild west frontier town, and burros still roam the streets. There are even regular “gunfights” here, staged for the benefit of visiting tourists.

Just note, the traffic around Oatman can be quite slow (and even stop sometimes) as a result of the daily shows. In addition, the road up to Oatman is quite curvy, so you will want to take your time.

From Oatman, you’ll head on to Needles, one of the hottest places in the USA, follow the I-40 for a short while longer, and then rejoin Route 66 to pass through Amboy. A photo stop and a purchase of Route 66 Route beer is essential at Roy’s Motel in Amboy!

From Amboy, it’s due south until you reach Twentynine Palms. This is where you can access the Joshua Tree National Park, which we suggest you leave until the following day.

Once you consider various stops for photo opportunities, dining and so on, you will likely have used up all your useful daylight by now, so we suggest stopping overnight in Twentynine Palms, and continuing your adventures tomorrow. Of course, if you’re a fan of astrophotography , you might want to pop into the park, which has some excellent star gazing and astrophotography opportunities. But it’s up to you.

Where to Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park

There are no hotels within the park grounds, although there are nine campgrounds to choose from if you plan on camping. You can book these campgrounds online here . I’ve camped at the Jumbo Rocks campground and it was an amazing experience.

Otherwise, we would suggest staying in a property in Twentynine Palms. There is a good choice of 2 and 3 star properties to choose from, such as:

• 9 Palms Inn – this budget 2* property gets good reviews, and rooms come with a coffee machine, microwave and refrigerator. There’s also free parking on site.
• El Rancho Dolores – this is a great value 3* property with a seasonal pool. Rooms have microwaves and refrigerator, and free parking is included.
• Sunnyvale Garden Suites – a very well rated 2* hotel offering a range of suites, each of which comes with a BBQ as well as a full kitchen. There’s a hot tub and gym on site, and free parking is available.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – this 3* chain hotel offers comfortable and well reviewed accommodation, with an outdoor heated pool and fitness centre. Rooms have coffee making facilities, microwave and small fridge, and there are BBQ facilities available for guest use.
• Flying Point Homestead – if you want something a little bit different, check out this property. It’s actually a holiday home rather than a hotel, but one of the options is a beautiful silver streak trailer!

If you want a higher end experience, you would need to head on to Palm Springs, where there are a number of spa resorts and high end 4* hotels to choose from, such as The Palm Springs Hotel or the Alcazar Palm Springs .

Day 5 – San Diego or Joshua Tree

You have a couple of options for your fifth day, depending on whether you prefer nature or cities. You can spend the day exploring the Joshua Tree National Park , where there are plentiful hiking and wilderness activities. Or, you can press on to San Diego, where there are plentiful city and cultural attractions to choose from.

If you choose to spend the day exploring and hiking at Joshua Tree National park, we’d suggest visiting the Oasis Visitor Centre in Twentynine Palms, where you can learn about the park and get advice and information on your visit. Conditions can vary in the park depending on the weather and time of year, so obtaining up to date information is useful.

There’s also an entry fee for the park, which covers one vehicle for a week.

If you decide to spend the day exploring Joshua tree, then we recommend spending another night near the park, and then heading to Los Angeles the next morning after breakfast, just under 3 hours drive away.

If you choose to spend the day exploring San Diego, it is about a 3 hour drive to San Diego from Twentynine Palms. If you wanted to, you could spend a few hours in the morning at Joshua Tree and then head into the city. We’d suggest you spend the afternoon of Day 5 and morning of Day 6 in San Diego, and you won’t run out of things to do.

Here are some ideas:

Things to do in San Diego for a Day

We can recommend visiting the excellent USS Midway Museum , which is a fantastic museum ship found on what was, for a long time, the largest ship in the world. Built just as the second world war ended, this aircraft carrier saw service in the Vietnam War as well as the first Gulf War.

You can easily spend your whole afternoon here, and lovers of military or aviation history will definitely want to come here. There’s also the nearby  San Diego Air and Space Museum .

There are lots of other sights to choose from in San Diego. Don’t miss a wander through the historical gaslamp district, and a visit to San Diego Zoo is a popular option especially with families. If you would prefer to visit the beach, Coronado Beach is well worth visiting.

See our complete guide to things to do in San Diego for more ideas!

Where to Stay in San Diego

San Diego is a major city and as such there is no shortage of excellent accommodation options to choose from. Of course, the flip side being that budget accommodations are a little harder to come by, although there are still some options. Here are our picks for your time in San Diego.

• HI San Diego Downtown Hostel – this is a great value centrally located hostel, although be aware you’ll have to pay for parking. Private and shared accommodation is available and guests can use an on-site kitchen.
• Berkshire Motor Hotel  – this budget 3* motel offers free parking, a little way north of the city centre. Rooms are en-suite and have a refrigerator. A good budget option.
• Coronado Inn – a well priced 3* inn on Coronado Island with free parking and breakfast included. All rooms are en-suite, and free bicycle hire is available.
• Moxy San Diego Gaslamp Quarter – a great value and very well reviewed 4* hotel in the Gaslamp quarter. All rooms are en-suite and breakfast is available. Note that parking in this area is expensive.
• The Westgate Hotel – another well reviewed and centrally located 4* San Diego hotel. There’s a rooftop pool, full spa, on-site gym and a full service restaurant. Paid parking is possible on site.
• 1906 Lodge – We loved our stay at this historic bed and breakfast just near Coronado Beach. Rooms are very comfortable and uniquely decorated, and each features a microwave and fridge.The included breakfast was excellent, and the free parking was appreciated.
• Pendry San Diego – if you want five star city centre luxury, this is a great option. You get an outdoor pool, beautiful rooms, and breakfast is available. On-site parking is also possible for a fee.

Days 6 & 7 – Los Angeles

From San Diego, it’s time to turn north, and visit the sprawling city of Los Angeles, the largest city in California and the second most populous city in the USA. From San Diego, it’s around a 2 hour drive up the coast to LA.

There is a huge amount to see and do in Los Angeles, and the city is quite spread out, so we feel you will want to spend a couple of days here to do it justice. Of course, if you aren’t a city person, you can adjust this itinerary to spend more time at the outdoor attractions along the route instead.

Based on our itinerary though, you’ll have one full day in Los Angeles (Day 7) and then half a day on Day 6, depending on what time you leave San Diego. Here are some ideas of how to fill that time.

Things to do in Los Angeles

There is a huge amount to do in Los Angeles, so you will need to pick and choose depending on your particular interests.

We think most visitors will enjoy visiting the Hollywood part of town, where you can see the Hollywood Walk of Fame. There’s also a good view of the famous Hollywood Sign from the north-east corner of the Hollywood & Highland retail centre. Other attractions in this area include Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and The Hollywood Museum.

Another popular activity is to get a behind the scenes tour of a movie studio. A couple of popular options are the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour , and Universal Studios . Both are active movie studios where you can take tours of the working movie lots, with Universal Studios also home to a number of rides and other attractions.

Art lovers will want to take the time to visit the Getty Center . This free art museum is famous for its spectacular views, lovely gardens, architecture, and of course, art collection! The latter focuses primarily on pre 20th century European art, as well as photographs and sculpture. Note that whilst the Getty Center is free, there is a fee to park here if you visit by car.

If you are planning on seeing a sporting event or concert, or for the famous LA nightlife, you might want to stay in the LA Live area, where there are many venues for entertainment.

If you love the beach, then you’ll want to head out to the coast and visit Venice Beach and Santa Monica, where a stroll along the pier is a must. Naturally there’s plenty more to see and do in Los Angeles, and we’re sure you won’t run out of things to do. Just be aware the city is vast, and sprawls across a large area, so you will want to carefully plan your time so as to see everything you want.

In terms of getting around LA, the most popular option is to drive, although the traffic is legendary. If you would prefer not to drive, you have other options. We’ve use the ridesharing options, but also found the Hop on Hop off bus was a great option, as it took us all around the main sights we wanted to see, and even went all the way out to the beach.

There are also public transport options in LA, including an extensive bus network and a metro.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

As the second largest city in the USA, there are a lot of places to stay in Los Angeles. One thing to bear in mind though is that the city sprawls across a vast area and is known for its heavy traffic. It can take a long time to get from one end of the city to the other, so do keep this in mind.

We’d suggest picking a hotel near the attractions you are most interested in. We tend to stay either in Santa Monica or the Hollywood area, both of which made for a good base for local exploration of those areas. Here are some of our recommended hotels in the city.

• Santa Monica Motel – this basic 2* motel offers a good location for Santa Monica and is around a 10 minute walk from Santa Monica Pier. There’s free morning coffee and free parking, and rooms come with coffee makers and in-room refrigerators. It’s definitely a good value location and we’ve stayed here. Just be aware there is no A/C, although we visited in the summer and the provided fan unit worked fine.
• Banana Bungalow – this hostel offers shared and private accommodation, around a mile from the downtown Hollywood area. There’s free parking on-site, and reviews are positive.
• Orange Drive Hostel – a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this is a well-reviewed hostel offering shared and private rooms, with on-site kitchen and laundry facilities. Breakfast is included, and parking is available for a good price.
• Magic Castle Hotel – this 3* hotel is a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and you get a pool, unlimited free snacks, free continental breakfast and reasonably priced parking. It’s also a short walk to the Hollywood Bowl, and only three miles from Universal Studios. We really enjoyed staying here, and it is particularly popular with families
• Best Western Plus Hollywood Hills – this 3* well rated hotel just a few minutes walk from the Hollywood walk of fame offers spacious rooms with microwaves and coffee makers, as well as on on-site diner. On-site parking is also available
• Villa Delle Stelle – this boutique hotel in central Hollywood gets excellent reviews and will make you feel like a celebrity. Each suite is designed after a specific old Hollywood Celebrity, and guests can avail of celebrity style services such as in-room massages, private chefs and a personal trainer. Free parking is also included.
• JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE – we’ve stayed at this 4* hotel in the LA Live area, which is perfect if you plan to take in a show in the nearby area. Rooms are luxurious and feature mini-fridges and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also a rooftop pool and six restaurants to choose from. Parking is available on-site for a fee.
• The Georgian Hotel – this beautiful 1933 4* Art Deco hotel is a short walk from Santa Monica pier, and offers ocean views and on-site dining. Breakfast is available, and parking is available on-site for a fee.

Days 8 & 9 – Pacific Coast Highway

Now it’s time to head north on one of the world’s most beautiful road trips – the Pacific Coast Highway . You’ll follow this coastal route from Los Angeles all the way to San Francisco. The total drive is around 450 miles, which would take you about 9 hours if you drove it straight in one go.

Of course, we’re not going to recommend you do it all in one go. We suggest you take two days and two nights to drive the route. We’d suggest stopping somewhere like San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay or Cambria for your first night on the route, and then in Monterey, Carmel, or Pacific Grove for your second night. You will then arrive into San Francisco in the morning of your 10th day.

There is a huge amount to see and do along the route, as well as just taking in the spectacular vistas as you do so. We have a complete guide to driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which should give you lots of ideas. However, some suggested stops along the route would be as follows, in order from south to north.

Highlights of the Pacific Coast Highway

Soon after you leave Los Angeles you’ll drive through Malibu, which is famous for its beach, and the home of many celebrities. There’s also a pier you can walk along. As you continue along the coast you’ll pass through numerous towns, many of which also have lovely beaches.

We can recommend visiting Santa Barbara and the Mission here. Founded in 1786, there’s a museum for those interested.

Onwards again, you may want to detour off the 101 and heading to Solvang. This town is famous for its Danish-style architecture, and there are numerous sights and attractions here, including a motorcycle museum, Christmas store, and early 19th century Franciscan church.

It’s also a lovely town to just wander around, and there are plenty of eateries here as well. You’ll also find Pea Soup Andersen’s in nearby Buellton, famous (as the name suggests) for their pea soup.

From Solvang, continue north to San Luis Obispo. You can choose to spend the night here, or you can head a little further along to Morro Bay or Cambria . All three make good stopping points.

On your second day on the Pacific Coast Highway, we’d suggest spending a little time exploring Cambria – we have a complete guide to things to do in Cambria for tips.

From Cambria, we suggest your next stop should be Hearst Castle . This sprawling hilltop castle estate was the home of William Randolph Hearst, an early 20th century media tycoon. The castle has an incredible location, offers amazing views up and down the coast, and is well worth a few hours of your time to visit.

Just be aware that visits are by guided tour only, and it’s best to book in advance to guarantee a time. See more on visiting in our complete guide to visiting Hearst Castle .

A little further north from Hearst Castle is the Elephant Seal vista point . Here, if you visit between November and March, you will see thousands of elephants seals on the beach, as they come to mate and give birth. If you visit outside these months, there will still likely be seals on the beach, but not in quite the same volumes.

You’ll now start to drive along some of the most rugged and beautiful parts of the route, as you drive through the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park . The views along this stretch of the route are really lovely, and there are plenty of pull outs so you can stop and enjoy the view.

Don’t miss stopping at McWay Cove, where you can see a waterfall plunging onto the beach below. Finally, you’ll finish your day at Carmel By the Sea or Monterey, where you can spend the night. If you have time, you might enjoy taking a drive along the famous 17 mile drive in Pebble Beach .

Where to Stay Along the Pacific Coast Highway

These recommendations are listed from south to north along your route, covering a number of locations we suggest you consider stopping. We love the smaller B&B style accommodation on this stretch of the route, and there are some really nice guesthouse style properties to choose from.

For your first night, we recommend one of the following:

• Apple Farm Inn , San Luis Obispo – we really enjoyed our stay here on one of our Pacific Coast Highway road trips. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, the breakfast was fantastic, and the on-site bakery has some delicious food. There are also two pools on site, and free parking.
• Madonna Inn , San Luis Obispo – this four star family-owned motel just to the south of SLO is a truly quirky destination, and a landmark of the central coast. Each of the 110 rooms is uniquely decorated, with pink being a key theme throughout. We didn’t stay here, but we did have dinner at the Gold Rush steak house on-site, which was fantastic.
• Seaside Inn , Morro Bay – this 2* budget inn is one block from the waterfront. Rooms have a microwave and refrigerator, and there’s free on site parking and coffee.
• Beach Bungalow Inn and Suites , Morro Bay – five minutes walk from the aquarium, this three star inn is very well reviewed. Comfortable rooms have fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee machines, and a hot breakfast is included as is parking.
• Estero Inn , Morro Bay – this exceptionally well reviewed property is found on the beachfront. Rooms all have microwaves, and breakfast is included. A popular option in Morro Bay.
• Cambria Palms Motel , Cambria – this 2* motel is a couple of blocks from downtown, and offers comfortable rooms at a good price. Rooms have refrigerator and coffee machine, and free parking is available on site.
• Bluebird Inn , Cambria -this well rated 2* inn is found on Cambria’s main street. Rooms have microwaves, refrigerators and coffee makers, and there’s free on-site parking
• El Colibri Hotel & Spa , Cambria – on one of our visit to Cambria we stayed here for a couple of nights and really enjoyed it. The rooms are lovely, with fireplaces, and some have spa tubs. There’s an on-site spa, outdoor hot tub, and breakfast is available. Free parking on-site.
• J Patrick House B&B , Cambria – this five star Irish themed inn was Cambria’s first B&B. There’s a a free wine hour, evening cookies and a full breakfast included with your stay. Each room is individually designed, and there’s free parking on site. A great pick in Cambria.

For your second night, we recommend one of the following:

• If you like to camp, then there are camping options in the national parks along the route here, including the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground . I’ve camped here and it’s lovely to be surrounded by the massive redwoods. Just be aware that it is popular, and booking in advance is a must.
• Sandpiper Inn , Carmel – we stayed here when we visited Carmel. We enjoyed the comfortable rooms, inclusive breakfast, and proximity to the beach. Free parking is available.
• Sea View Inn , Carmel – a quiet, 3* inn just moments from Carmel Beach. Rooms are individually decorated and free parking is available.
• Coachman’s Inn , Carmel – we’ve stayed at a number of the boutique hotels which are in the Four Sisters Inn collection, and they’ve all been excellent. This inn, found in the heart of Carmel Village, gets good reviews. Rooms include coffee makers and free popcorn, wine with hors d’oeuvres is served in the evenings, and breakfast is included.
• HI Monterey Hostel , Monterey – for budget travellers, or those who just prefer a hostel, this is a very centrally located option just minutes from Cannery Row. There’s free parking on site, and a selection of dormitory rooms to choose from.
• The Inn at 1252 , Monterey – a good value inn on the way into Monterey. Rooms feature coffee makers, and a heated pool is available year round. There’s also a fitness room, free parking and free coffee.
• The Jabberwock B&B , Monterey – just a few blocks from Cannery Row, this very well reviewed B&B offers seven lovely guest rooms, some of which have fireplaces and hot tubs. Free parking, and breakfast is included.

Days 10 & 11 – San Francisco

On your 10th and 11th days you’re going to head to San Francisco, where you will have one full day, and one partial day, depending on what time you arrive.

From Monterey it’s around a 2.5 hour drive along the coast to San Francisco. If you are not in a hurry, there are few sights to take in along the way. First, Monterey itself is home to the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium . This is an amazing attraction, but it is quite large and relatively expensive, so you will probably want to spend at least a few hours here to get value for money.

Next, Santa Cruz is well worth a stop. There’s a lovely pier and beach, the surf here is legendary, and there are nearby redwood forests for a nice hike. See our guide to things to do in Santa Cruz for some ideas.

Ok, let’s move on, and assume you’re going to arrive into San Francisco in the early afternoon. There’s a huge amount to see and do in the city, but here are some suggestions to fill your 1.5 days.

Things to do in San Francisco

First, on the afternoon you arrive we can recommend visiting Alcatraz. This island was home to one of the world’s most famous prisons, commonly referred to “The Rock”. For almost thirty years this was home to some of the most notorious criminals in the USA.

Today, Alcatraz is open for tours. These are very popular so you will want to be sure to book in advance as they often sell out. Make sure you only book from the official Alcatraz Cruises website , as these are the only ones that land on the island and let you tour the prison. Other sightseeing tours just take you around the island. For more on visiting Alcatraz, see our guide to visiting Alcatraz .

For your full day in San Francisco, we suggest starting off by taking in a view of one of the cities most iconic landmarks – the Golden Gate Bridge. Joining a bike tour  or hiring a bicycle to cycle out to and over the bridge is a popular option. Although you can get also good views of the bridge from the city, particularly around the Maritime Museum area.

You’ll also want to visit Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s spectacularly tacky, in a way that only seems to work in the USA.

You’ll find no shortage of dining options here – we can recommend the famous Clam Chowder filled sourdough bread bowls at the Boudin Bakery . You can also learn about their bread making process at the free museum, and watch the bakers making bread.

While you are at Fisherman’s Wharf, don’t forget to say hello to the sea lions who pass the time lazing in the sun on floats just by the pier.

Other unmissable highlights of the city include the famous curvy Lombard Street , said to be the most crooked street in the world. You should also try to ride the famous street cars, visit the Chinatown and Union Square area, wander around Golden Gate Park , and peer up at the Transamerica Pyramid.

There’s loads more to do in San Francisco of course, from museums to art exhibits to cultural attractions, but hopefully we’ve given you some ideas to get you started. We have a guide to some great photo spots in San Francisco if you are looking for inspiration.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco is another large city with a lot of accommodation options, however in our experience it’s also one of the more expensive cities for accommodation in the USA. Parking is also at a premium, and hotels with free parking are fairly rare.

We’ve stayed at a number of hotels in the city, and here are our recommendation for your time in San Francisco.

• HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel – found right on Fisherman’s Wharf, this budget hostel offers both dormitory and private accommodation options. There’s free breakfast and free parking, making this an excellent option for the location.
• Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel – found in the popular Union Square district, this great value 3-star hotel has a rooftop restaurant, library, and on-site theatre. Rooms have private bathrooms and coffee makers, and breakfast is included. A paid parking garage is available nearby.
• Parker Guest House – found in the old Mission district just behind the San Francisco mission building, this is a well reviewed and good value guesthouse offering private rooms. Free breakfast is available, and parking is available on site for a reasonable (by San Francisco standards) fee.
• Columbus Inn – Just a few hundred yards from Lombardy Street and Fisherman’s Wharf in the North Beach district,  this 3* inn offers great value for the location. Private rooms offer en-suite and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also free parking on site.
• Golden Gate Hotel – a very well reviewed 3* hotel just minutes from Union Square. Continental breakfast and afternoon tea are included. Rooms are definitely on the cosy side, and some have shared bathrooms, but the price is great for the location. Paid parking available nearby.
• Staypineapple Union Square – we stayed at this restored historic 4* 1913 hotel on a recent trip to San Francisco, and loved the mix of the old and the new. We loved the rooms, the colorful pineapple theme, and the free pineapple flavoured cupcakes certainly helped! Parking is available nearby for a fee.
• Four Seasons Hotel – if you are after five star luxury, then consider the Four Seasons hotel. Also found in Union Square, rooms are huge, there’s an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and many rooms have city views.

Days 12 & 13 – Yosemite National Park

You’re into the final few days of your US road trip now, and it’s time to visit some more of the spectacular scenery that the state is so well known for.

The plan is to spend your next couple of days visiting Yosemite National Park , which is home to some gorgeous natural scenery, including epic waterfalls and towering mountains.

From San Francisco it’s around a four hour drive to Yosemite. We’d suggest planning to arrive in the early afternoon, checking into your accommodation where you’ll stay for two nights, and then going sightseeing.

With a full afternoon on day 12, and all of day 13 to visit the park, you should be able to visit many of the highlights. On the afternoon you arrive, we would suggest visiting some of the highlights near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Centre to start with, including Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls.

A visit to the visitor centre itself is also recommended, as here you’ll be able to get up to date information on the park, as well as talk to the rangers about suggested walking routes.

For your full day in the park, you have a few options. First, you might want to take advantage of the free Yosemite shuttle , and visit the highlights that it goes to.

I would also consider a drive up to Tunnel View and then on to Glacier Point, where you’ll be able to get amazing views across the park. These can also be done as part of a tour offered by the park if you’d rather not drive.You then might consider a shorter afternoon hike, such as that up to Vernal Falls.

Alternatively, if you love hiking, you might consider tackling one of the longer or more strenuous day hikes. There are plenty of these, such as the Yosemite Falls hike .

Just note that some hikes, like the popular Half Dome Hike , do require an advance purchase permit. These are distributed via a lottery system as they are so popular so are difficult to obtain. If you plan to explore the backcountry areas of the park, you will also need a permit.

For more inspiration for your visit to Yosemite, see our guides to what to do in Yosemite for a day , as well as our guide to photography locations in Yosemite .

Important –  As of 2022, Yosemite has introduced a reservation system for park entry. If you are visiting between late May and the end of September and planning on driving into or through the park between 6am and 4pm you will need to have a reservation. You can find out more and make your reservations online here .

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

There are a range of accommodation options in Yosemite National Park, ranging from campsites to canvas-sided tent cabins, through to luxury hotels.

There are 13 campsites available in the park , with a number of these available for reservation, and the rest operated on a first come first serve basis. If you want to camp, we highly recommend booking well in advance, which you can do here .

There are also nine lodging options operated by Yosemite Hospitality inside the park, which are the only other accommodation options available in the park itself. These can be reserved up to a year in advance, and range from simple canvas cabins through to a high-end luxury hotel. These can all be reserved online in advance here .

We would definitely recommend staying in the park if possible, as this will put you close to the sights. However, if you struggle to find an option that works for you, some recommended lodging just outside the park is as follows. As a general rule, the closer to the park, the more expensive the property is likely to be.

• Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort – At just over 26 miles outside Yosemite, this property is quite far out compared to others, but the price reflects that. So if you are on a tighter budget this is a good option to consider. Think glamping and rustic style accommodation, with an on-site spa, restaurant, and kitchen for use. Dormitory accommodation is also available.
• Narrow Gauge Inn – found just four miles from Yosemite, this is a great value 3* motel offering comfortable en-suite rooms. All rooms feature coffe machines, and there’s a seasonal restaurant, a seasonal outdoor pool and a hot tub
• Yosemite View Lodge – Just under nine miles from Yosemite National Park, this 3* lodge has 4 pools, a hot tub and a restaurant. It has lovely views, gets positive reviews, and there’s free parking on-site. Breakfast is available.
• Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite – this 4* lodge is found just two miles from Yosemite National Park, and offers comfortable and well-reviewed lodging. There’s a on-site fitness centre and spa as well as two pools. Free parking is available, and breakfast is an option.

Day 14 – Death Valley & Las Vegas

It’s the final day of your road trip! Today you have a fair old drive ahead of you – around 6 hours in total. However, we’re going to break it up a bit with some sights.

Before we begin, it’s worth mentioning that this route has you exiting Yosemite on the east side of the park, which requires you to take Highway 120, also known as the Tioga Road. Due to its elevation and exposure to snow, this road is closed over winter, usually from November to late May. You can see the latest road conditions here .

If this road is closed, then you are looking at a significant detour to get to Death Valley, requiring you to exit the park to the south or west, and then to loop a long way south via Bakersfield to get around the Sierra Nevada Mountains. As such, you may prefer instead to skip Death Valley, or to visit it earlier in your trip as a day trip from Las Vegas (it’s a 4 hour round trip). In this case, instead of driving all the way back to Las Vegas, you might prefer just to return to San Francisco.

Assuming you visit when the Tioga Road is open though, you will leave Yosemite and come to California’s Highway 395, often referred to as California’s backbone. We suggest taking a left onto the 395, and driving to the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, a couple of miles up the road.

Mono Lake is a saline soda lake is home to many limestone columns, known as tufa towers, which are a popular visitor attraction. Definitely worth a photo stop.

You’ll now head south on Highway 395, driving parallel to the incredible Sierra Nevada mountain range. You’ll pass through lovely towns like Mammoth Lakes, and the views will definitely require you to stop for a few photos as you drive.

We suggest following Highway 395 until Lone Pine, and then heading on Highway 136 into the last National Park of the trip – the infamous Death Valley National Park .

This is home to over 3 million acres of desert and mountains, and was named during the California Gold Rush. During this time, a group of 100 wagons became lost in the valley, and though they eventually found their way out, it was only after they gave up their wagons and ate their oxen.

Today, Death Valley is a popular place for visitors to experience an extreme desert environment. There’s plenty to see and do here as you pass through. We’d suggest stopping at the visitor centre and visiting Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in the USA, at 279 feet below sea level.

One thing to note – if you visit California in the summer months, particularly late June to early September, it can be incredibly hot in Death Valley. Hiking is not recommended in these months due to the temperature, and you’ll want to be sure the A/C in your car is working well!

Finally, you’re going to arrive back in Las Vegas, complete the circuit, and finish your US road trip. We hope you had a great time! Now you can either fly home, or spend some more time in Vegas. Now, onto some practicalities for your trip.

2 Week USA Road Trip Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the route to help you visualise it. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

When Is The Best Time of Year to Road Trip the USA?

We would suggest that for this itinerary, the best time of year would be May through June, or September and October. At these times of year the weather will be warm but not too hot (although Las Vegas will definitely be hot in late May and June), and it won’t be as busy as the summer months.

You could also do this trip in winter of course, but it will be a lot cooler. In addition, some of the national parks, and especially Yosemite, can have restricted access in winter if there is a lot of snow. In particular, the east exit from Yosemite, the Tioga road, is usually closed from November through May. In this scenario you would be looking at a lengthy detour to travel to Death Valley, and might instead prefer to return to San Francisco.

If you choose to visit in the hotter summer months, such as July and August, then you’d definitely want to avoid any sort of longer hikes in places like the Valley of Fire and Death Valley. Instead, maybe plan more time along the coast, at higher altitudes, and exploring city attractions.

Western USA Tour Options

This is a road trip itinerary, and as such there’s quite a lot of driving involved. However, I appreciate not everyone will want to drive. The good news is that there are a number of tours which follow a fairly similar route to our itinerary. The advantage of a tour is that you can let someone else handle all the logistics, from booking hotels to handling the transport, and you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

Here are some tours which follow a fairly similar route to our itinerary for your consideration.

• This 11 day budget tour includes the Pacific Coast Highway, as well as Los Angeles, San Diego, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley and Yosemite. A good value option, aimed at the budget travellers wanting to see a lot in a fairly short amount of time
• If you’re on a tighter timescale, consider this 8 day express tour with G Adventures. It goes from LA to San Francisco, calling at Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley and Yosemite. You don’t get to see San Diego or the Pacific Coast Highway, but otherwise you will cover a lot and see plenty!
• If you would prefer to see more national parks, consider this 15 day G Adventures tour in partnership with National Geographic. As well as most of the national parks on our list, you will also visit such spectacular locations as Bryce Canyon and Zion. One for those of you who prefer nature to cities.
• This 11 day tour from Las Vegas to San Francisco includes Death Valley, Yosemite the Grand Canyon, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands and Bryce National Parks, as well as Monument Valley and time in San Francisco.

Practicalities for Planning a USA Road Trip

If you are visiting from outside the USA, we wanted to share some tips that should help make planning and preparing for you US road trip a little easier.

Driving in the USA

In the USA , you drive on the right hand side of the road, and the majority of vehicles are automatic. Compared to Europe, fuel prices are low.

If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll likely be renting a car. To do so, you will need a valid drivers license, and many rental car companies also have a minimum age for renters, which can start as high as 25. Some visitors may also need an International Drivers Permit from to drive in the USA, which needs to be arranged in advance from your home country.

We have a complete guide to driving in the USA , which you might want to read if this is your first time driving in the United States.

Renting a Car or Motorhome for your Trip

If you are coming from overseas, then you’ll need a vehicle in which to do this road trip. You have two main options – you can rent a car, or you can rent an RV/motorhome.

For this itinerary specifically we’d generally recommend a car as there are quite a few city stops which wouldn’t be practical for a motorhome. However, if you decide to skip the cities and focus on the great outdoors, then a motorhome might be more practical.

For car rental in the US, we usually use either Discover Cars or Enterprise . For one-way trips, we’ve found Enterprise often has the lowest one-way fees, but it is always worth comparing on a site like Discover Cars.

For RV rental, we recommend checking out Motorhome Republic . They compare prices across all the major suppliers so you can find the right rental for you. You can see their USA listings here .

We can also recommend checking out  RVShare , who offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental! Similar options include Outdoorsy and RVEzy .

Money in the USA

The USA uses the US dollar, with notes available in denominations ranging from 1 up to 100. Coins are also widely used, which range from a cent to a dollar. There are ATM machines available throughout the country.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, however it is worth keeping some bills to hand for tipping. In addition, the 25 cent coin, known as a quarter, is widely used for short stay parking meters, so you will want to have some of these handy as well.

If you’ve not visited the USA before, and in particular if you are from a country where tipping is not normal, you might find the tipping culture a bit of a shock. Tips are expected for a great many service based roles, from restaurant service through to valet parking.

The percentage you tip will obviously depend on your personal preference, but tips in the region of 10 – 20% for restaurant service is common, whilst one to three dollars for bar service or valet parking is also expected.

Electricity in the USA

The USA uses a 110v electrical system. If you are coming from a country that uses a 220v to 240v system, this means that some of your electrical items might not work.

In our experience, the majority of smaller electronics, like laptops and cell phone chargers, are compatible with 110v – 240v and will work in the USA. You can check on the charger, it should tell you.

However, higher powered devices like hair dryers, flat irons, and electric kettles are unlikely to work, unless you have a dual voltage model specifically designed for international travel or have a voltage converter.

In addition, if you are visiting from outside the USA, you will likely need a travel adaptor like this . See our comprehensive guide to travel adaptors for recommendations.

Accommodation in the USA

There is a huge range of accommodation options in the USA across a wide range of budgets. From budget motels near highway intersections to five star luxury hotels, to campsites and apartment rentals – we’re sure you’ll find something to suit.

For this itinerary we’ve suggested a few options for each stopping point, across a range of budgets. As this is a road trip, we can recommend trying to find places which include free parking where possible, although in the major cities you are likely going to have to pay for a parking service.

In terms of whether or not you need to book in advance, we’d suggest that this is a good idea for the most part to ensure you get your choice of accommodation. This is definitely the case in and around popular national parks like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, where even campsites can book out months in advance.

We generally use booking.com for our travel booking needs, they have a huge range of options, and most properties offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Safety in the USA

For the most part, the USA is a safe destination to travel in, and we have never had any problems travelling here.

Violent crime against tourists is quite unusual, and the most common types of crime are opportunistic ones like pickpocketing, theft, and auto break-ins.

Of course, every country has crime, and areas where you would be wiser to avoid, however if you practice basic safety precautions, keep your valuables out of sight, and behave with some caution, you should be fine!

Internet Access in the USA

Internet access is widely available across the USA in the form of WiFi, which can be found for free at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants. There are also a number of free WiFi hotspots in some of the cities on our list.

If your phone is unlocked you can pick up a pay as you go SIM in the USA. One of the better options is from  Straight Talk , which you can buy in Walmart stores.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options.

Water across the USA is safe to drink, unless otherwise indicated. There are drinking fountains in the majority of public locations, and we recommend you travel with a  re-usable water bottle  so you can just fill it up as you go.

One thing we always love about travelling in the USA is how drinking water is typically brought to your table at a restaurant – something we wish was standard around the world!

Further Reading

That’s it for our two week USA road trip itinerary, which features some of our favourite destinations in this part of the USA. Before you head off though, I just wanted to share some more resources we’ve put together to help you plan your trip.

• We have a two week California road trip itinerary , in case you wanted to cover a little less ground on your trip
• I’ve written a guide featuring some of my  top tips for driving in the USA  to help get you going on the road!
• We have a guide to things to do in Las Vegas to give you some ideas for your time in the city, as well as a guied to things to do in San Diego
• Wondering how much a California road trip will cost? Check out our  guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA  to help you plan your trip budget.
• Jess has a guide to  driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which will give you lots of ideas for that section of the road
• If you’re interested in California’s wine country, see our  guide to visiting Napa Valley
• Route 66 ends in California, so take a look at our  guide to planning a route 66 trip , as well as our detailed  2 week Route 66 itinerary  and  1 week Route 66 itinerary
• Fodor’s  Guide to California , which also includes details on a number of fantastic road trips
• The  Lonely Planet California Guide , which is great for finding things to do, places to eat and places to stay
• A  US road atlas , because sometimes you don’t want to rely on GPS!
• If you’re planning on hiring an RV or camping, this  guide to free and super cheap campgrounds  will quickly pay for itself
• The official  Visit California  page, which will give you more advice on what to see and when to visit
• My guide to  things to do in Redding California , if you decide to head to northern California
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• And if you’re looking for inspiration for the rest of the USA, check out our  USA section , which includes a  Deep south itinerary , tips for  New Orleans during Mardi Gras  – and lots more!

We hope you found this itinerary useful for your trip planning. As always, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have, just pop them in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 13 comments on this post

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akhilash says

13th March 2024 at 8:17 pm

I think this itinerary is a great starting point for planning your own 2-week road trip through the southwestern and western United States. With a little bit of planning and customization, you can create a trip that is perfect for you.

Laurence Norah says

19th March 2024 at 4:15 pm

Thanks very much Akhilash, have a great trip through the USA 🙂

Joanna Madej says

10th May 2023 at 7:41 pm

I am a mum from Poland planning a trip this August with 3 kids (16,13 and 10- just girls) starting/ending from LA for appr 3 weeks. I really like your plan and if there was a digital version I could paly with it would be great!

do you have any tips not to rush and also find time to spend in the beach?

11th May 2023 at 3:35 pm

So you can get a printable version of the post from the print button on the bottom of the page. Then you can edit it to suit you own needs 🙂 If you’d rather not rush then my recommendation is to have fewer stops and spend longer in each stop. For beaches, along the coast around Los Angeles will be your best bet, there are a lot of beaches in that area!

Have an amazing time and let me know if I can offer any more advice!

19th April 2023 at 9:07 am

Thank you for writing this itinerary. We are coming from Australia and will be spending close to 3 weeks following this itinerary give and take. We are planning to arrive on mid-Jan 2024. Do you know whether some parks will be closed during that time ?

19th April 2023 at 10:14 am

It’s my pleasure. So the main park that will likely pose difficulties in January is going to be Yosemite. It can occasionally close in Winter if there is a lot of snow which can block access road. Additionally, the road that links the east side of the valley to the road to Death Valley is normally closed in winter so you would have to backtrack and drive around. The other stretch of road to always check before setting out is the Pacific Coast Highway around Big Sur especially, as this can be affected by landslips.

Other than that I think you would be fine! Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions.

Norine says

3rd March 2022 at 1:51 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica!

Thank you for such a detailed itinerary! Most of the places you’ve listed are exactly where I’d like to visit during my trip in end May’22 – early Jun’22 (Total of 15 full days). But instead of Las Vegas, I’ll be flying to San Francisco and starting from there instead. Was thinking of doing this circular road trip in the other direction, meaning from SF > Pacific Coast > LA > LV > Grand Canyon > LV > Death Valley > Yosemite > SF. I’m pushing Yosemite to the end, hoping that Tioga pass will be open by early Jun.

Would you recommend this itinerary? Or do you have any other tips/suggestions?

Thanks a lot in advance! 🙂

4th March 2022 at 10:13 am

It’s our pleasure! Sounds like you have a great trip planned. Your trip is definitely do-able and it sounds like a good itinerary to me! The main thing is of course whether or not Tioga pass will be open. It should be open by early June but that’s not guaranteed. Other than that, it sounds like an awesome road trip! Let me know how it goes and do let me know if you have any specific questions we can help with 🙂

23rd March 2022 at 4:25 pm

I just wanted to quickly add to this that this year Yosemite are requiring visitors to make a reservation for park entry. The system is going online today. You can find out more and reserve online here:

https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm

I’ve updated the post but as you indicated you were visiting this year I wanted to be sure you were aware of this new requirement so you don’t miss out!

Have a great trip,

Janice says

8th February 2022 at 1:49 pm

I want to thank both of you for this awesome road trip circuit. I have a question, I would love to go to Sequoia National & Kings Canyon after Yosemite. Would you recommend that? Which route will be the best from Yosemite and how many extra days that will add to my trip? After that, I will go to Death Valley and then back to Vegas. Any suggestions?

10th February 2022 at 12:27 pm

Glad you found this guide useful! So you can definitely do this trip and add in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon to your trip. From Yosemite it’s around a 3 hour drive down, and then it’s another 5-6 hours after that on to Death Valley. How long you want to spend here will definitely depend on you, but personally I’d allocate at least two full days in the parks and a day for the driving, so three extra days onto the trip as a minimum. But there is always more to see and do!

I hope this was helpful, let me know if I can offer any more advice 🙂

Have a great trip!

7th May 2020 at 6:10 pm

Your pictures are always great, but the the one of the Grand Canyon with the sunlight streaming is spectacular!

7th May 2020 at 6:19 pm

Thanks so much Toni! That was quite a morning – I got up at 4am for the sunrise, which seemed like it was going to be a total washout. I persevered though, and it was all worth it. Truly a spectacular experience 😀

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21 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas

If you live in Las Vegas or visiting Sin City and want to explore beyond the Strip, there is a huge number of road trip options available.

Whether you want to explore the desert, see giant sequoias, spend time in California's biggest cities or relax on a beach, our list of the 21 best road trips from Las Vegas will have you covered.

The following list starts with the closest to Las Vegas and moves on to longer drives further down the list so scroll down depending on how far you're prepared to go! You can also can find a map highlighting the best road trips from Las Vegas below:

1. Nelson Ghost Town and Eldorado Canyon Gold Mine

45 minutes from Las Vegas (45 miles)

Just outside Las Vegas and only a 45 minute drive from the Strip is the ghost town of Nelson. To get here from Las Vegas, head southeast out of the city towards Henderson and keep on going past Boulder City along US-95 and Route 165.

The ghost town was a disused old mining town before the current owners moved in over 25 years ago. The ghost town elements were retained and a little enhanced to make it more interesting and today you can visit the ghost town to see what it's all about.

There's lots and lots of half-rusted old cars which is both really interesting and mighty frustrating if you're a big fan of cars like me. Other props include rattle snakes in a freezer and crashed airplanes. Not all of it is completely authentic...

But that doesn't really matter - you're here to walk around and take some amazing photos. Take a lot of care while walking around - rattle snakes are common so watch out and report any you see to the guides.

Tours down the gold mine take place at 9am, 12pm and 2pm as long as there's at least 4 adults (although they may take less in the off-season). The tours will take you through the richest mine in Nevada that operated for almost 80 years and closed as World War II broke out.

Bring another layer with you - the tour can take over an hour and it can feel a little cool inside the mine.

2. A short drive to the Valley of Fire State Park

50 minutes from Las Vegas (49 miles)

The Valley of Fire is a rocky part of the Mojave desert under an hour's drive out of Las Vegas.

If you're looking for a day road trip out and want to go into the desert but don't want to make the 2+ hour drive to Death Valley, the Valley of Fire is a great option.

Follow the I-15 north from Las Vegas for half an hour and follow the turning onto the Valley of Fire Highway which will take you into the park.

The unique mix of rocks, layered colors and amazing hiking routes is the oldest State Park in Nevada, being first designated back in 1935 after opening the year before.

The park was home to ancient Ancestral Puebloan tribes and you can find petroglyphs (wall drawings) that are thousands of years old in the park.

As with other deserts near Las Vegas, temperatures in the summer get very hot. Average daily highs from June to August are over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bring lots of water if you're planning to visit in the summer but March to April and October to November are much better when the weather is mild making it much more pleasant.

3. Visit Lake Mead and see the Hoover Dam

55 minutes from Las Vegas (39 miles)

For those who want to get out of Las Vegas but don't want to go far, the closest place to go is the Hoover Dam. It's in at #3 in the list because visiting the Dam and the nearby Lake Mead from Las Vegas requires some local driving but you won't have to go too far.

The Hoover Dam is a world famous installation that helps Vegas have water and electricity supplies despite the city being located in the middle of one of the driest deserts in the world.

Built during the Great Depression, Hoover Dam was much bigger than any dam ever built before it and Lake Mead continues to be the largest water reservoir in the United States today.

Talking of Lake Mead, it's not just there to turn the turbines of the dam. You can go on a cruise around the lake, hire a boat or relax on Boulder Beach.

In the afternoon, you can take a drive along Northshore Road - it starts just outside Henderson and goes for over 50 miles towards the Valley of Fire State Park (#2 above).

It's a great drive with scenic places to stop along the way and you can combine a visit to the Valley of Fire with Lake Mead for a great (although long) day road trip out of Las Vegas.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

4. A trip to the desert - Mojave National Preserve

1 hour from Las Vegas (59 miles)

Las Vegas sits in the middle of the Mojave desert with parts of the driest part of North America spanning corners of California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona.

The Death Valley National Park (#5 below) and Joshua Tree National Park (#8) are the two best known places to go and explore the hot and inhospitable Mojave desert, but the less known and less popular Mojave National Preserve is much close to Las Vegas.

Although a lot of the Mojave National Preserve is rocky desert, there's a few interesting parts to explore.

The Cima Dome and the Shadow Valley next to it are home to a forest of Joshua trees. The term forest is a little generous here as the trees are quite spread out and you won't find birds singing in the branches or creatures living in the undergrowth, but this is the most dense area for Joshua trees anywhere and you'll see more here than in the Joshua Tree National Park!

The Mojave Desert Lava Tube is further west and you'll need a reasonable SUV or car capable of going offroad to navigate several miles of dirt track to get here.

The Lava Tube is a series of rooms underneath the surface of the desert that feel like caves - they were created when molten lava made its way through the ground creating the unique space.

Make sure you stop at the Castle Mountains National Monument . Again - you'll need something with 4-wheel drive and decent tires to get here, but sitting right on the edge of the preserve, this is one of the prettiest parts with a little more in terms of plants and wildlife to see.

5. Feel the heat in Death Valley National Park

1 hour 55 minutes from Las Vegas (126 miles)

If spending a few days in the hottest place on Earth and some of the least hospitable environments anywhere on the planet sounds like fun, the Death Valley National Park is less than 2 hours away from Las Vegas .

If you thought Vegas was too hot in the summer, the average (yes... average) daily high is above 120 degrees from June through to August. I'd pick one of the other 20 entries on this list if you're looking for a road trip in the middle of the summer.

If you come from November to March, the weather is much milder and you'll have a much better trip exploring the varying landscapes that Death Valley has to offer. There are dried out salt flats from where lakes and seas once covered the valley, there's rocky sections with mountains and even sand dunes.

Death Valley is the largest National Park in the United States excluding Alaska and is a designated International Dark Sky Park. This means there's no artificial light anywhere within the park at night and if you're camping on a clear day, the view of the stars above is phenomenal.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas through Death Valley National Park

6. Go fishing on Lake Havasu, Arizona

2 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (153 miles)

Lake Havasu sits on the Arizona - California border south of Las Vegas. Like many lakes in Southwestern United States, the lake is an artificially created reservoir after the Colorado River flowing through the local valley was dammed by the Parker Dam in the 1930s.

Today the lake is a popular destination for 2 main reasons: the fishing and London Bridge.

Fishing is a hugely popular activity on the lake - there's an abundant population of bass in the lake and big fishing competitions happen frequently where people from across the United States come to compete.

London Bridge is a very unusual sight sitting across a canal in Lake Havasu City and connecting it to Thompson Bay. The name gives away where the bridge came from - in 1968 the local government won an auction for the sale of the original London Bridge that was being replaced in central London.

After a $2.5m winning bid for the bridge, each brick was meticulously taken apart and labeled so that the whole bridge could be shipped and reconstructed in Arizona.

It certainly looks very quirky and majorly out of place (in a weird good way) and well worth the visit to Lake Havasu!

7. Be at one with nature in Zion National Park, Utah

2 hours 40 minutes from Las Vegas (160 miles)

Zion National Park in southwestern Utah might just be one of the most scenic National Park in the entirety of the United States and it's less than 3 hours away from Las Vegas on a road trip !

To get to Zion National Park, follow the I-15 north out of Las Vegas and keep on going until you cross the border into Utah. From here, State Route 9 will take you right into the heart of the park.

The main part of the park centers around Zion Canyon. Although it sits in-between deserts, the canyon is surprisingly green with forests and hundreds of species of birds and animals.

Zion National Park has some of the best trails you're likely to find anywhere - there's well made overlooks, paths carved through the rock and hikes for all abilities.

The Weeping Rock and Canyon Overlook trails are reasonably easy and take less than an hour. For the more experienced hikers, the Narrows is 16 miles long and involves hiking through a narrow canyon and wading through a cold river.

Some will hike the Narrows starting at the bottom and turn around once the going gets more tough making it a little easier and doable in a day.

If you'd like to hike up to Angels Landing, you will need a permit and will need to make a reservation. Check the Zion National Park's website for more details.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park

8. See the amazing trees in Joshua Tree National Park

3 hours 10 minutes from Las Vegas (187 miles)

Joshua Tree National Park is just over 3 hours away from Las Vegas on a road trip , about halfway on the way to San Diego.

Follow the I-15 out of Vegas and when you get to the edge of the Mojave National Preserve, cut right through it passing through Cima and Kelso to save half an hour against the "faster" interstates that go the long way around.

In fact, the Mojave is also on this list at #4, so if you've got enough time, you might as well combine these into one desert exploring road trip.

Joshua Tree National Park is named after the unique trees that grow here that look like a person standing up with arms stretched upwards. You'll definitely see plenty of them on your way around as well as rocks and lots and lots of desert.

Joshua Tree is one of the hottest deserts in the United States with daily highs during the summer months averaging 100 degrees Fahrenheit which can make hiking and camping tough.

If you time your visit right and come in the spring, March and April is the bloom season for desert flowers (yes - that's a thing!) and the temperature only rises to a mild 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park

9. Explore the wilderness of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

3 hours 45 minutes from Las Vegas (245 miles)

The Grand Staircase-Escalante is a large wilderness that was declared a National Monument only in 1996.

The monument occupies a large swathe of southern Utah that was the last part of the United States to be mapped and remains one of the least explored parts of the country although the monument's size was reduced dramatically under President Trump in 2017 to allow for commercial exploration.

Despite this, there are some amazing places to see here. The Zebra Slot Canyon is a narrow gorge with striped rocks that you can hike through. Be careful though - the hike is very tough and requires squeezing through very narrow gaps and making your way through water going up to neck height!

The Devil's Garden is one of those postcard-type sights with large rock hoodoos eerily standing around in the middle of the desert.

Many of the sights in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument can be reached from the small town of Escalante in the north. The I-15 and Utah-20 will take you to Route 12 which is the road that winds its way through the wilderness and eventually reaches Escalante.

Zebra Slot Canyon and the Devil's Garden are both a short drive south from the town and further south are the Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and the Jacob Hamblin Arch from the picture above.

10. Bryce Canyon National Park

3 hours 50 minutes from Las Vegas (260 miles)

Bryce Canyon is a small National Park that is not a canyon, but a collection of unique rock formations that look like amphitheaters with people-shaped rock formations that look like an audience sitting watching the spectacle.

You won't need more than a day to explore the 56 square miles of the park. There are trails that lead around the perimeter of the most popular parts of the park but don't forget that amphitheaters are located 8,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level (2,400 to 2,700 meters) so bring an extra layer of clothing - it can feel much cooler up there than down in the desert.

Bryce Canyon is located right on the way to most of the main sights in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument so you might want to combine them into a single road trip. Zion National Park is also on the way in case you have a lot of time on your hands.

If you want to avoid the crowds and get some good photos, try to get to the park early - you might want to stay somewhere not too far and get here before sunrise for some epic views of the sun rays poking through the crowds of hoodoo rocks.

11. See the size of the Grand Canyon

4 hours 15 minutes from Las Vegas (275 miles)

Grand Canyon is the most popular destination for a road trip from Las Vegas . The 277-mile long canyon has some of the most spectacular scenery close to Las Vegas making it the most popular starting point for the 5 million visitors that come to the Grand Canyon every year.

It'll take you about as long to get to the North Rim as it will to the South - the South Rim is a more popular destination with better facilities and the Grand Canyon Village which is why you might want to opt for the route around the north of the canyon instead.

If you'd specifically would like to visit the South Rim, you can find our detailed road trip guide here .

There are lots of places you can stop to see the Grand Canyon. Most people will go straight to the Grand Canyon Village area of the National Park, but there are other spots that have far fewer people that are just as amazing - the Toroweap and Twin Point Overlooks along the north rim are both good options.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk on the south rim is much closer to Vegas - it'll take a little over 2 hours to get there, but you'll have to share the view with a lot of other people and other than a short walk to Guano Point, there's not much else to do here and no trails.

One of the best trails along the bottom of the canyon and along the Colorado River is the Havasu Falls Trail - it'll take you past the Little Navajo Falls, Havasu Falls, Tigabo Supai and Mooney Falls which area all amazing. For those who are happy to venture further, Beaver Falls and Beaver Canyon further downstream are worth the hike.

If you approach the Grand Canyon via the north and have time, add a stop in the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument - these beautiful rocks have distinctive layers of different shades of red and yellow and soft sweeping lines that are great for a quick break along the journey.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

12. Hike through the Red rocks of Sedona

4 hours 20 minutes from Las Vegas (280 miles)

If you haven't heard of the Red Rocks of Sedona, you most definitely have seen them on TV or in a movie.

The amazing rock formations include the towering Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Bell Rock, but there's a lot more to explore than just the big name options.

There are two state parks - the Red Rock State Park being the best known and the Slide Rock State Park to the north of Sedona. For those who want to do a drive through tour, you can drive along the Red Rock Scenic Byway (Route 179) to see many of the amazing sights without getting out of your car.

But if you've come this far, you really should get out and explore. There are amazing trails that will take you right up to the rocks, over stunning red rock arches and through canyons.

The drive from Las Vegas will take you to Kingman before hopping on the I-40 to Flagstaff. You can make a stop in the city before driving south to Sedona.

With so much to explore, you can easily spend a long weekend exploring the areas around Sedona and still not cover most of it.

It may not be as hot as the Mojave desert and Death Valley in particular, but summer temperatures still reach average daily highs of 95 degrees Fahrenheit so bring lots of water. If you have the luxury of choice, visiting in the spring and fall will be more comfortable.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Sedona

13. The Hollywood road trip: Los Angeles and Malibu

4 hours 45 minutes from Las Vegas (304 miles)

If you want to escape the desert and head to the City of Angels, then get on the I-15 and follow it until you cross the Angeles National Forest. Traffic around L.A. can be a big factor in whether it'll take you less than 4 hours to get into the city or something closer to 6 - leave early in the morning so that you are entering Los Angeles at around 1pm when the traffic shouldn't be too bad on the freeways.

Los Angeles has so much to see and do, you can spend a week or two and still feel like you've hardly seen it all! You've got to visit Hollywood and walk the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard no matter how cliche it might sound!

After measuring your hand and feet against the celebrity prints, head for the Sunset Strip and then down to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. I'm not the type to shop here, but the people watching is fascinating as they carefully park their Ferrari to go bag shopping.

Don't miss out on stops in Culver City, Santa Monica State Beach and Venice Beach as you make your way around the city. If you are coming with kids or like a day out at a theme park, Universal Studios in Hollywood and Disneyland in Anaheim are both amazing.

As you venture further west past the Pacific Palisades, you'll discover Malibu Beach which stretches for miles and miles along the coast with the Santa Monica Mountains to your right.

The beach can get busy at weekends and over the summer but you can still find great spots if you drive a little further towards El Matador Beach past Point Dume.

If you drive a few minutes inland, the Santa Monica Mountains have spectacular hiking trails with views of the Pacific Ocean down below which is perfect for an afternoon activity after spending the morning soaking up the sun.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

14. Relax by the seaside in San Diego

5 hours from Las Vegas (332 miles)

San Diego may be a solid 5 hours' drive from Las Vegas , but there's lots of options to stop along the way and it's a great city to visit and spend a few days in so it's got to be worth you considering for your road trip from Las Vegas.

The easiest way to get to San Diego is to follow the I-15 out of Las Vegas towards Los Angeles and keep on following the I-15 until you're in San Diego 5 hours later. You can save a few minutes by cutting through the I-215 to avoid getting closer to LA's notorious traffic jams.

However a few detours can add great places to stop and cut the journey up into shorter stints. If you head towards the California coast, the towns of San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente are great pit stop options as is Carlsbad's Legoland.

If you go the slower but more direct route, Joshua Tree National Park (#8 above), Salton Sea and Palm Springs are all great places to visit in and around the Coachella Valley.

San Diego itself is a city that almost always has perfect weather due to its unique position on the coast and the prevailing ocean currents.

You can roam through the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter or have a fish taco in La Jolla overlooking the resident seals relaxing in the cove.

Spend some time in the huge Balboa Park - not only is it perfect for a stroll, but you'll find museums, entertainment venues and the world-famous San Diego Zoo all within its grounds.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to San Diego

15. Go hiking in the Yosemite National Park

5 hours 20 minutes from Las Vegas (340 miles)

Yosemite is the most famous of the California National Parks and one of the best known in the country. Getting to Yosemite from Las Vegas is relatively easy - it's one of the few parts of the Sierra Nevada Mountains where you can drive across, although the Tioga Pass is closed when it gets snowy which means it's shut for the winter from some point in late October.

The majority of the visitors that come to Yosemite only go to the Yosemite Valley which only covers a tiny fraction of the whole park which stretches over 1,000 square miles.

You should still visit Yosemite Valley to see the Merced River flowing past the famous El Capitan rock but if you want to see more nature and walk the wild trails, head further out in the park.

Yosemite Valley gets busier later on in the day as some people from San Jose, the Silicon Valley and San Francisco come on day trips or for the weekend. Coming in the morning on a weekday will mean far fewer people although you'll still have to book ahead if you want to camp or hike the wilderness.

Death Valley National Park (#5 above) and Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Parks (#19 below) are good additional stops on the way to or back from Yosemite if you have enough time.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park

16. Visit the Mormon Capital in Salt Lake City, Utah

6 hours from Las Vegas (421 miles)

Salt Lake City is famous for its location, surrounded by mountains on 3 sides and the lake on the other. It's also known as the home of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the city is a fascinating visit.

The road trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City is over 400 miles long but these are about the easiest 400 miles you'll ever have to drive. Get on the I-15 headed north that runs exactly 1 block to the west of the Strip and stay there. 6 hours later you'll find yourself right in the middle of Salt Lake City which is where you should park up!

Although less than half of the population in Salt Lake City is Mormon, you can see the signs of the church's presence throughout the city. The Mormon Temple is the grandest and largest in the world and you can see it on Temple Square with the Reflecting Pool in front of it.

Unfortunately the temple is closed to visitors and those who are not members of the church as are most of the other significant Latter-Day Saints buildings around the city. The temple is also undergoing a major reconstruction so it's likely to not be as great a sight for a few years yet.

However you can visit the Tabernacle which puts on shows through the year and spend some time in the mountains surrounding the city. Literally minutes away from downtown you can find amazing hiking routes in the winter and big ski resorts in the winter!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City

17. See the saguaro cacti en route to Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson

6 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (434 miles)

Sitting a few miles from the border with Arizona, a road trip from Las Vegas to the Copper State is an obvious option.

This route covers a lot of desert with stops in Phoenix/Scottsdale and Tucson - if you want to cover more of Arizona, reroute via Sedona on the way to Phoenix and visit the Red Rock and Slide Rock State Parks (See #12 above).

You can also learn more about the road trip from Las Vegas to Phoenix on our detailed road trip guide .

As you make your way over Hoover Dam (worth the slight detour), you'll begin noticing how the Mojave desert gradually changes into the Sonoran. The elevation lowers a little, the rocks and sand become a little more red in color and Joshua trees make way for the saguaros.

If you don't know what a saguaro is, check the registration plates on the Arizona cars around you - those giant cactus plants with the thick green arms that can reach over 40 feet (12 m) in height.

These cacti (or is it cactuses?) grow to be 150 years old or even older and the ones with several arms are the oldest - it takes them 50 years to just get up to waist-height!

Phoenix and Scottsdale are a large metro area with an endless number of things to do - the art scene in particular is buzzing with the Heard Museum, art galleries and various pop up exhibitions to visit.

Scottsdale has a more relaxed small town vibe to the tall skyscrapers of Phoenix and if you want to go out for dinner or drinks after, Scottsdale is where you should head.

Tucson has an interesting mix of architecture with a colonial style that looks very European. You won't forget you're in the middle of a desert though - the city's main attraction is the Saguaro National Park on the outskirts that also houses the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Phoenix

18. Marvel at the natural wonders of Monument Valley

6 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (400 miles)

Monument Valley sits on the border between Utah and Arizona and you may be surprised to know that it is not a National Park or a National Monument.

In fact, it has no real designation because it is located on the land of the Navajo Nation Reservation and can therefore not be classified as Federal or State protected land.

Although you're spoiled for choice for road trips to see amazing nature from Las Vegas, Monument Valley has to be high on your list for the totally unbelievable view that will open up.

The giant red rocks are spread through the valley as though they fell out of the sky and landed here in an ancient time and some of them measure over 1,000 ft (300 m) from the ground which is a pretty impressive height.

You can drive north or south of the Grand Canyon to get here and although the northern route is 30 miles shorter, they will both take about the same amount of time.

Seeing as you're going right past it, you really should make a few stops along the Grand Canyon (#11 above) to see the amazing sights below and maybe take a hike depending on how much time you've got. The Horseshoe Bend further along the canyon near Page is a great spot for an amazing photo.

Parts of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are also on the way if you follow the north route and a small detour from the south route will take you to the Red Rock State Park near Sedona (#12 above).

In fact, if you extend your trip and add in the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in Utah and follow different routes to and from Monument Valley, you'll see most of the amazing nature sights in the region in one epic road trip!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Monument Valley

19. See giant sequoias in Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks

8 hours from Las Vegas (455 miles)

Kings Canyon and Sequoia are two neighboring National Parks that seamlessly merge into each other in California's Sierra Nevada.

The 8-hour drive might put you off, but the time it takes to get here depends a lot on where in the parks you want to get to. The most popular destinations are in the western parts of the parks - Route 180 runs deep into the park to Kanawyers and is only accessible from the west.

Some of the most popular hikes and General Sherman, the world's largest tree also require you to loop around Sierra Nevada.

However, if you want to walk among the giant sequoia trees and hike through the mountains without seeing the "must see" sights, you can drive along California Highway 395 and take one of the small roads that runs into the parks from there and hiking one of the trails from the east.

Kearsarge Pass and Mount Whitney Trailheads are both great options and will take you about 4 and a half hours to get to.

As you'll be passing right through the Death Valley National Park (#5 above), you may as well add it onto your itinerary. The combined road trip will take you through the world's hottest desert and one of the most incredible lush forests that are only 2 hours away from each other!

20. Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Utah

8 hours from Las Vegas (521 miles)

The two National Parks in eastern Utah sit either side of the town of Moab. As both of these parks are incredible for hiking and exploring the wilderness, Moab gets busy during the summer months as the tourist season hits its peak. If you can delay your road trip until after Labor Day, you'll likely get better value accommodation and there'll be less people about.

Canyonlands is the larger of the two parks and you can get close to most of the sights by driving - the main road that leads into the park is the Grand View Point Road and it has plenty of places to park for the trails and overlooks including the Grand View Point right at the end of the road.

White Rim Road goes around the perimeter of the park and comes off the Grand View Point Road before you get to the visitor center - this road is open to SUVs, 4x4 vehicles and off-road bikes, but it's a little more than a dirt track and progress can be slow so allow plenty of time to drive if you're planning to go that way.

Arches is a smaller park and is closer and quicker to get to from Los Angeles than Canyonlands which means a lot more people spend time here. Many of the amazing rock formations are an easy stroll from the nearest parking spot making it easy to see a lot of the sights without too much effort.

You might need to make a reservation for a timed-entry permit while visiting Arches National Park. Please check the national park's website for up-to-date information.

Each park costs $30 to enter although you can get the America the Beautiful National Parks pass for $80 which gives you unlimited access to National Parks across the country for one car including all passengers, so you really should get that and use it for a few more trips later on!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Arches National Park

21. A long road trip across the Sierra Nevada to San Francisco

11 hours from Las Vegas (650 miles)

San Francisco may be a long drive from Las Vegas , but if you're really wanting to go on a proper road trip and have time to hand, this might just be the ultimate destination.

When planning the route for your road trip from Las Vegas, ignore the navigator directions. The I-15 and I-5 are not the most exciting of roads and there's better things to see between Vegas and the Fog City than Barstow and Bakersfield.

Time permitting, I would first head up to Death Valley (#5 above) and spend a night or two stargazing in one of the best places in the world to see the stars without light pollution.

After that, head north along the east side of the Sierra Nevada to Mammoth Lakes and then go over the Tioga Pass along California Highway 120.

This road will take you right through the heart of Yosemite (#15 above) which is well worth some of your time and a stop in the Yosemite Valley towards the end of the drive.

If you're not driving in the summer, the likelihood is that this road will be closed due to heavy snow. In this case your options are to keep on driving north towards Lake Tahoe and then taking the Carson Pass Highway (usually open throughout the winter) or the Lincoln Highway to Sacramento.

When you finally do get to San Francisco, there's so much to do you won't get close to doing it all even if you stay a week. See our guide to the best things to do in San Francisco to get inspired!

On the way back, you can come down the west side of Sierra Nevada and drive the super scenic State Route 180 that splits the Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks (#19 above), see the world's largest tree and then drive down the (even more scenic) Route 198 south.

A stop in the mountains of the Mojave desert (#4 above) on the way back will complete what would be one seriously epic road trip from Las Vegas that seems to include half of all the other destinations I've mentioned for shorter routes!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco

Below is a shortlist of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas if you are looking for some last-minute inspiration!

Best road trips from Las Vegas

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A two-week southwest USA road trip itinerary

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Discover the perfect 14-day/two-week southwest USA road trip itinerary – featuring National Parks, scenic drives, stunning views, famous film locations and quirky roadside attractions.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

The USA is the spiritual home of the road trip. Think long straight roads disappearing over the horizon, roadside diners and quirky motels. And probably the most iconic US road trip destination is the southwest USA. Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Arches National Park, Route 66 – even if you’ve never visited the southwest before you’ll still feel like you already know it from films and TV shows, from Thelma and Louise to Tombstone .

So if you want to hit the road, here’s my perfect itinerary for a two-week southwest USA road trip, taking in the highlights across five states, six national parks and something like 2000 miles – with details of what to see and where to stay along the way.

Southwest USA road trip map

A note on driving times and distances

Driving times listed are based on Google Maps estimates and don’t include stops along the way. The road conditions in the southwest vary hugely so the same mileage can take totally different amounts of time. Daily driving distance/time figures cover getting from place to place and don’t include the drives within National Parks en route.

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Arrive into McCarran International Airport, which is only 15 minutes’ drive north of the city, and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel. There are a huge amount of things to see in Las Vegas and you only have a brief stop here, so choose a few of the highlights.

Don’t miss the Bellagio fountains which are illuminated at night, and catch a show on the Strip – there are usually a few different Cirque du Soleil shows as well as a mix of magic acts, music tributes and big-name artists. You will need to book ahead for really popular shows but you can bag other last-minute tickets from Tix4Tonight outlets.

Where to stay in Las Vegas: There are so many hotel options in Vegas , but as you only have one night, I’d recommend staying in the central Strip. That way you’re right at the heart of the action and don’t have to waste time in the city’s crazy traffic. Paris Las Vegas, Vdara, Caesar’s Palace, the Venetian and Flamingo are all really central – prices vary hugely though so it’s worth shopping around and being flexible about where you stay.

Day 2: Las Vegas to Zion

Spend the morning exploring Las Vegas. You can travel the world along the Strip – watch gondoliers at the Venetian, climb the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at New York New York, see the pyramids at the Luxor, visit the Bellagio’s botanical gardens and scream your head off on the rides on top of the Stratosphere.

Or you can head up to Fremont Street for a taste of Old Vegas. This historic district has retro casinos and a zipline running right down the street. You can also see vintage signs at the Neon Museum and find out about the city’s Mafia story at the Mob Museum.

After lunch, pick up a hire car (it’s worth comparing prices between picking up a car on the Strip or at the airport to find the cheapest deal) and start your southwest USA road trip. It’s a good idea to stock up on a few supplies before you leave – like water, drinks and snacks. There’s both a Walmart and a Whole Foods really close to the airport.

Then leave the city behind and take Highway 15 north for 153 miles/2.5 hours towards Zion National Park. Don’t forget when you’re planning your timings that Utah is in a different time zone to Nevada, so you will lose an hour along the way.

Total driving: 153 miles/246 kilometres – approx 2.5 hours

Where to stay in Zion: The nearest hotels to Zion are in Springdale, but for something a bit different you can camp out in style on the edge of the National Park at Under Canvas Zion *. These luxury glamping tents come with proper beds, a mix of private and shared bathrooms, and some have wood-burning stoves. The view of Zion’s red rocks are the main attraction, but there’s also a restaurant with a fire pit to toast marshmallows on.

Day 3: Zion National Park

From the camp it’s 20 miles/35 mins to the entrance of Zion National Park. Private vehicles aren’t allowed in the park from March to October, so you’ll need to leave your car at the visitor’s centre and catch the shuttle bus. If you’re reasonably fit and the weather is good, you can tackle one of Zion’s big hikes – Angels’ Landing or The Narrows .

The adventurous Angels’ Landing hike (5.4 miles/4 hours) takes you up vertigo-inducing chained paths bolted into the cliffs for spectacular views from the top. Or the Bottom Up section of the Narrows (4–10 miles) takes you along a narrow river slot canyon – you need to wade along the river bed though so it’s best done on a warm day.

For something gentler, catch the shuttle to the Emerald Pools Trail for an hour-long walk to the lower pool and another hour to the upper pool. Head back to Zion Lodge, where there’s a café and picnic area if you want to stop for lunch before catching the next shuttle.

Stop off at Weeping Rock for a short walk to the cascades, then get the shuttle to the end of the road for the two-mile-long Riverside Walk. Leave the park and make the 77-mile/1.5 hour drive to Tropic via Route 9 – the Zion–Mount Carmel scenic drive. It runs through the original 1920s tunnel and past the strange rock formations at Checkerboard Mesa.

Total driving: 97 miles/156 kilometres – approx 2 hours 5 mins

Where to stay in Tropic: Just off Scenic Byway 12, Bryce Country Cabins * in Tropic are one of the closest places to stay for Bryce Canyon. Ours was small but perfect formed, with two queen-sized beds, an en-suite bathroom and small kitchenette. With all that pine they look a bit Alpine, with heaters and blankets to keep you warm on a cold night.

If it’s sunny there are tables and chairs out the back and barbecues you can borrow if you want to cook for yourself – or The Pizza Place a few minutes away does takeaway pizzas.

Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

Tropic is only 10 miles from the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park, so you can get there early and spend a full day exploring . Follow the 18-mile-long scenic drive around the park, starting in the Bryce Amphitheater area. Park up at Sunset Point and follow the Rim Trail for a mile along to Sunrise Point, a good place to get down into the canyon.

Get up close to the hoodoos on one of the hiking trails. The Queen’s Garden Trail from Sunrise Point is the easiest at just under two miles, or there’s the steeper 1.5-mile Navajo Loop Trail from Sunset Point. You can also combine the two into a longer route.

After your hike, drive on around the edge of the amphitheatre to the viewpoints at Inspiration Point, Bryce Point and Paria View. Then leave the Bryce Amphitheater area and head out along the road to the furthest point at the Rainbow Point viewpoint.

There are plenty of places to stop for a picnic with a great view along the way – my favourites were the arch at Natural Bridge, the two towering hoodoos at Agua Canyon and the wide views from Rainbow Point. Then leave Bryce Canyon National Park and head south down Highway 89 towards the town of Kanab (77 miles/1.5 hours).

Total driving: 87 miles/140 kilometres – approx 1 hour 40 mins

Where to stay in Kanab: You can’t really do a US road trip without spending at least one night in a proper motel. Quail Park Lodge * in Kanab looks straight out of the 1950s from outside, but inside its 13 rooms have been refurbished and updated.

The motel comes with lots of nice extras – like vintage bikes you can borrow, a pool in summer, a glass of wine on arrival, morning pastries and fruit, and free international phone calls. It’s an easy walk into town for dinner – we liked Rocking V Cafe , an art-filled space that specialises in slow food with a good range of vegan and gluten-free options.

Day 5: Best Friends Animal Society

The southwest USA is all about the natural beauty, but for something a bit different, you can spend the morning volunteering with animals at Best Friends Animal Society . Their base at Angel Canyon is just 10 minutes outside of Kanab, and is the biggest no-kill animal sanctuary in the US with over 1600 cats, dogs, pigs, rabbits, horses and parrots on site.

You can choose which animals to spend time with. We spent our morning feeding and stroking cats but you can also socialise dogs, groom horses or even walk a potbellied pig.

After lunch at the centre, follow Highway 89 to the east on the 80 mile/1 hour 20 min drive to Page, across the border in Arizona. Just before you get there you’ll reach Lake Powell and the spectacular Glen Canyon Dam, where there’s a visitors centre and viewpoint.

You can then either take a sunset cruise around Lake Powell or head to Horseshoe Bend – a perfect meandering arc of the Colorado River that cut its way down through the sandstone over million of years. It’s 5 miles south of Page on Highway 89, between mileposts 544 and 545, with a short sandy walk to the canyon rim and a dramatic 1000-foot drop to the river.

Total driving: 97 miles/156 kilometres – approx 1 hour 50 mins

Where to stay in Page: The Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel * unsurprisingly has a great view of Lake Powell, and a pool and hot tub to relax in in summer. It’s fairly standard chain hotel in style but has a good location with spacious rooms and breakfast is included. Page gets busy so it’s a good idea to book well in advance. There are a few places to eat nearby – El Tapatio is recommended for its giant portions of Mexican food.

Day 6: Antelope Canyon & Monument Valley

Head 8 miles/15 mins out of Page to one of the southwest’s most recognisable spots – Antelope Canyon. This slot canyon is famous for its curving red rock walls with those super-photogenic beams of light filtering through. The only way you can visit the canyon is on a tour *, and they’re hugely popular so book as soon as you can.

There are two sections – the Upper and Lower Canyon. The Upper Canyon is where you’ll see the light beams, which are best in the mornings. But beware the canyon can get crowded, and the flood risk means that tours are often cancelled if it rains.

Carry on along Highway 98 then take the 160 north-east on the 116 mile/2 hour drive to another southwest icon – Monument Valley . North of Kayenta, huge rock buttes emerge out of miles of empty desert scrubland, coloured in vivid shades of gold, orange and pink.

They’re named after their shapes, so you can try and spot the Mittens, the Thumb and the Totem Pole. Inside the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park there’s a visitors centre and a 17-mile scenic drive which takes you through the rock formations. It’s unpaved and pretty rough, so it’s best done in a 4×4 and takes at least two hours with photo stops.

Total driving: 124 miles/200 kilometres – approx 2 hours 15 mins

Where to stay in Monument Valley: There’s not much around Monument Valley, but both The View and Goulding’s Lodge * have fantastic views of the rocks, and it’s well worth staying the night just to watch the amazing sunrises and sunsets. Both have a mix of hotel rooms and cabins, with balconies looking out over the valley, as well as camping spots and Navajo restaurants (but note that alcohol is prohibited on Navajo land).

Day 7: Arches National Park

Leave Monument Valley behind in the morning and head back into Utah, following Highway 191 to Arches National Park (151 miles/2 hours 40 mins). The park has the world’s largest concentration of rock arches, with over 2000 of all shapes and sizes.

Start your Arches exploration at Park Avenue Viewpoint, then drive to Balanced Rock, where a short circular path runs around a precariously perched rock. Then turn off towards the Windows Section of the park for the short walks to Double Arch (half a mile) and around the loop passing the North and South Windows and Turret Arch (one mile).

Drive back to the main road then take the turn off to the right towards Delicate Arch – famously pictured on Utah’s license plates. The route out to the arch is one of the best hikes in Arches National Park and covers three miles, with some steep sections along the way. It’s best done in late afternoon during the summer as there’s not a lot of shade.

Or if you’re short on time you can follow the lower one-mile path to Delicate Arch Viewpoint instead, where you get a great view of the arch across the canyon. Then drive 5 miles/20 mins to the town of Moab, where you’ll be spending the next two nights.

Total driving: 156 miles/251 kilometres – approx 3 hours

Where to stay in Moab: Moab’s a popular spot so book accommodation well in advance at weekends. The eco-friendly Moab Springs Ranch * is surrounded by trees and streams. They have two types of accommodation – studio bungalows and two/three-bedroom townhouses. And there’s a pool, hot tub and campfire. Moab’s quite sprawling though so you may have to drive to get to places to eat – the Moab Brewery is worth a visit.

Day 8: Canyonlands National Park

Take the 30 mile/35 minute drive to Moab’s other local (and less well-known) National Park – Canyonlands . The park is is divided into three sections, but if you want good views then concentrate on the Islands in the Sky district, which is the most accessible area. Stop off at the visitors centre first where there’s a short walk out to the Shafer Canyon Overlook.

Then drive on to Mesa Arch where there’s a half-mile walk out to an arch on the edge of a cliff. The road then splits – take the right fork to Upheaval Dome, where there’s one viewpoint after a mile’s walk out onto the dome and a second viewpoint a mile further on.

Then backtrack to the junction and take the left fork and follow the road out to the end at Grand View Point, stopping off at the Green River and Buck Canyon overlooks on your way for some of the park’s most spectacular views. On your way back to Moab, stop off at Dead Horse State Park, where one of the classic US road trip movies was filmed.

When Thelma and Louise drive off the edge of the Grand Canyon at the end of the film, it’s really Dead Horse Point State Park (supposedly named for a gory tale of horses being left to die of thirst on a corral above the river). Then head back to Moab for a second night.

Total driving: 70 miles/113 kilometres – approx 1.5 hours

Day 9: Mesa Verde National Park

Leave Moab behind and head south on Highway 191 – though it’s worth making a quick stop at the quirky Hole n’ the Rock along the way. About 20 mins out of town, this bizarre house has been carved out of a sold rock face. Then cross over into Colorado on the 491 and follow the road towards Mesa Verde National Park (145 miles/2 hours 50 mins).

This area was home to the Ancestral Puebloans 1000 years ago who built houses in the side of the cliffs. You can only visit most of the cliff houses on ranger-led tours. So stop off at the visitors’ centre to book an hour-long tour of either Cliff Palace, the largest cliff house, or Balcony House where you climb through tunnels and up ladders.

Then drive the winding road up to Mesa Verde’s plateau, stopping off at the overlooks on the way to take in the views. The park’s biggest concentration of sights is in the Chaplin Mesa area. Call in to the Chaplin Mesa Museum to learn about the Puebloans.

There’s also a lookout over Spruce Tree House, the best-preserved cliff house (closed to visitors after a rockfall). Then drive the six-mile Mesa Top Loop where there are stops at short walkways to pit houses, the Sun temple and great views of the cliff houses across the valley. Finally drive back to Highway 60 and 56 miles/1 hour 15 mins to Durango.

Total driving: 200 miles/322 kilometres – approx 4 hours

Where to stay in Durango: O-Bar-O Cabins was my favourite stay on this southwest USA road trip. These log cabins are 20 minutes outside of Durango in a lovely peaceful pine forest. There are nine different cabins, our Birdnest was the smallest but was beautifully designed, with a full kitchen, terrace and grill – plus a shared riverside hot tub. It’s a way from anywhere so stock up on food for the night, or head into Durango.

Day 10: Santa Fe

Head east out of Durango to Highway 160 and then travel south on the 84 along the edge of the Carson National Forest on your way to Santa Fe (212 miles/3 hours 45 mins). Then spend the afternoon exploring Santa Fe – it’s one of the oldest cities in the US which has a unique mix of Native American and Hispanic cultures.

Take a history and food walking tour * around the old town’s characteristic adobe buildings. Soak up the sunshine in the Plaza, shop for silver and turquoise Native American jewellery outside the Palace of the Governors, check out the miraculous staircase in the Gothic-style Loretto Chapel and call in at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Francis.

Santa Fe is a real hub for artists, and there are hundreds of studios and galleries running along the half-mile-long Canyon Road, as well as museums dedicated to folk art, Indian art and the painter Georgia O’Keefe. There’s also the trippy Meow Wolf, a immersive art experience that’s a bit like walking into a video game.

Take a walk to the city’s regenerated railroad district, where old warehouses have been converted into galleries and restaurants. And don’t miss the city’s Mexican food and margaritas – Santa Fe is justifiably famous for both.

Total driving: 212 miles/341 kilometres – approx 3 hours 45 mins

Where to stay in Santa Fe: The Old Santa Fe Inn * is classic New Mexico style with lots of dark wood, local art and big bunches of dried chilies hanging outside. We stayed in a traditional kiva room with a king-sized bed, sitting area, fireplace and jacuzzi bath.

There’s a free breakfast buffet every morning, Starbucks tea and coffee in the lobby all day, and free cookies or chips each afternoon. The hotel is a short walk from the plaza, where we headed up onto the terrace at the Rooftop Pizzeria for blue corn pizzas and local beers.

Day 11: Route 66

You can’t really have a US road trip without driving a stretch of The Mother Road – Route 66. The route’s longest driving day covers 412 miles on your way to Sedona in Arizona, where you spend the next two nights. First leave Santa Fe and head to Albuquerque where you join the I-40, the interstate which follows some of old Route 66.

There are a few good places to stop off along the way. Petrified Forest National Park is made up of fossilised trees dating back to the time of the dinosaurs. Or the Meteor Crater is the world’s best preserved meteor impact site, stretching nearly a mile across.

You can still see some of the vintage-style diners, motels and petrol stations which lined the old Route 66, like in Winslow Arizona (one for the Eagles fans). At Flagstaff, leave Route 66 and head south to Sedona on Highway 89A – the Red Rock Scenic Byway. It runs through Coconino National Forest then zig-zags down into Oak Creek Canyon with beautiful views.

Total driving: 412 miles/663 kilometres – approx 6 hours 15 mins

Where to stay in Sedona: The Sky Ranch Lodge * is a bit out of town on Airport Mesa but has spectacular panoramic views – it’s worth staying there just for the sunsets. Rooms are motel style with most having balconies and there’s a pool and jacuzzi in the gardens. There’s no restaurant at the hotel but the Mesa Grill is only a few minutes’ walk away (located inside Sedona tiny airport) and does tasty southwest dishes.

Day 12: Sedona

Spend the day exploring Sedona , a southwest town with a spiritual side. It’s said there are vortexes in the red rocks around town – sacred spots where energy flows radiate the Earth’s power. Whether you believe it or not, the rocks are spectacular to look at.

Take the seven-mile Red Rock Loop scenic drive to see the most famous vortexes: Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock. Don’t miss the unique Chapel of the Holy Cross too – a 1950s Catholic chapel that looks like a Bond villain’s lair. Or head out on a Sedona hike and visit Slide Rock State Park for swimming and sliding down an 80-metre rock chute.

There are also a few good half-day trips from Sedona, depending on what you’re interested in. There’s the ghost town of Jerome which is 28 miles away. This old copper and gold mining town was known as the ‘Wickedest Town in the West’ in the 1890s. The saloons and brothels have closed but you can still see a lot of the historic buildings.

Or the Verde Valley Wine Trail has nine different vineyards to visit. And if you don’t have time to get out to the wineries, you can also try local wines at Sedona’s Art of Wine .

Day 13: Grand Canyon

Leave Sedona and head back to Flagstaff and then travel north to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim (114 miles/2 hours 15 mins). Drive out to Desert View for that first breathtaking look down into the canyon and the watchtower observation deck. Then head on to the visitor centre where you can leave your car behind and catch the free shuttle.

There are a few different shuttle routes – the blue route takes you from the visitor centre to the village, and from there you can catch the red route, which is a loop stopping off at some of the most scenic lookout points along Hermit’s Rest Road.

There are walking trails along the rim, but it’s also worth heading down into the canyon to get a closer view of it from a different angle. There’s not enough time to make it all the way to the bottom in half a day, but you can do a shorter walk like the three-mile hike along the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Point or the hike along the Bright Angel Trail as far as 1.5 Mile Resthouse. Then head to one of the viewpoints for that perfect Grand Canyon sunset.

Total driving: 114 miles/183 kilometres – approx 2 hours 15 mins

Where to stay at the Grand Canyon: Flagstaff is the closest place to the Grand Canyon which has a decent selection of hotels, but it’s still 90 minutes away. So we spent the night at the Bright Angel Lodge , which is right inside the park. It’s a 1930s timber lodge with a mix of hotel rooms and cabins – the cheapest options have a shared bathroom. There’s a café and a steakhouse-style restaurant on site and those amazing views just outside.

Day 14: Depart Las Vegas

Catch sunrise over the Grand Canyon before making your way back to Las Vegas. It’s a 275-mile/4.5-hour drive, so if you have an evening flight you should have time to stop off at Lake Mead along the way to see the Hoover Dam.

The dam is a seriously impressive piece of engineering at 220 metres tall and up to 200 metres thick. There’s a visitor centre where you can find out how it was built as well as taking a look at the generators. Then from the dam it’s only 30 miles/40 mins back to the airport in Las Vegas and the end of your southwest USA road trip.

Total driving: 275 miles/426 kilometres – approx 4.5 hours

Save for later

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Tuesday 13th of February 2024

Hi, this is a great article! Do you think we could do this trip in August or would it be too hot? Thanks

Lucy Dodsworth

Wednesday 14th of February 2024

Thanks – it is very hot in some places on the route in August (e.g. Las Vegas is in the 40ºC/104ºF range) but other areas like Bryce Canyon are more reasonable (27ºC/78ºF) but may get some thunderstorms. It is also peak holiday season so book well ahead.

Wednesday 21st of December 2022

Wow, really amazing article. Thanks for putting this together! Would it be possible to skip Santa Fe and Albuquerque? It seems to be a very large chunk of the drive and I don't like driving that much. I'm also not very interested in Santa Fe and would rather spread out the other visits a bit. I checked and I could go from Durango to Sedona in ~6h (340 miles). Would this make sense or is there another route you would recommend? Thanks!

Wednesday 28th of December 2022

Yes of course you can definitely adapt the route – Durango to Sedona would work well.

Friday 26th of August 2022

Really fabulous read, would you know of any person who can do this trip for a solo female traveller from India I don’t want to join any Tours Groups but I’d rather do it on my own and like you I would also love to volunteer for the animals

Sunday 28th of August 2022

Hi, if you're happy driving then it shouldn't be a problem to do the trip solo.

dustin graves

Saturday 6th of August 2022

great trip however you missed the san juan skyway loop on the million dollar hwy in Colorado. its just north of your itinerary on hwy 550 heading from Durango up through Silverton and ouray on to Ridgway then around to telluride. I've been almost everywhere on that loop that you showed us but you simply missed the best part of Colorado. huge mountains and old mining towns. no point in getting that close to the san juan skyway loop and not taking it. anyways just my opinion

Monday 8th of August 2022

Hi Dustin – I didn't have time to fit it into this itinerary as there as a lot of ground to cover, but it is mentioned in my top southwest USA scenic drives post though! https://www.ontheluce.com/my-top-southwest-usa-scenic-drives/

Tuesday 26th of July 2022

I am in the middle of drafting our itinerary and this is so helpful, thank your very much! When it comes to car rental, would you say that a "normal small" car can do the job or is it best to rent a SUV? Thank you

Wednesday 27th of July 2022

Hi Delphine, we booked a normal car but ended up getting given a small SUV but think it would've been fine in a normal car other than the road around Monument Valley which we didn't want to even chance in the SUV as it was very rocky.

5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

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If you can find a free weekend or a few extra days, you can take a spectacular road trip from Las Vegas . Sin City has the convenience of being close to several top attractions, cities, and national parks, so don’t miss your chance to explore the great American West!

You can plan a road trip itinerary using our guides on national parks near Las Vegas and things to do outside Las Vegas . However, this article gives you the best Las Vegas road trips to maximize time and mileage. I’ll share 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10-day Las Vegas road trip itineraries so you can find the perfect one for your schedule.

In summary, these are the best road trips from Vegas :

• Grand Canyon , the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas
• Los Angeles , a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas
• San Francisco , one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California
• Monument Valley , one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona
• Arches National Park , the ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

Also, before setting off on your weekend getaway from Las Vegas , you’ll want reliable transportation. I suggest reading my guide on renting a car in Las Vegas or, for the ultimate experience, renting an RV in Las Vegas or campervan rentals in Las Vegas .

1. Grand Canyon, the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas

♦   576 miles, 9 hrs total driving – 2 days, 1 night – Out & back

Taking a road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas .

Right outside Las Vegas, you’ll pass the Hoover Dam , where you can spend a few hours. Take a tour of this significant landmark and check the attractions nearby.

Continue towards Grand Canyon Village , also known as the South Rim. While it’s a slower route, to get there I recommend taking historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman. Once in the Grand Canyon National Park you can check its famous viewpoints, restaurants, and beautiful hiking routes.

The park is open 24/7, and the entrance fee is $30 per vehicle. If you have more time, I have some ideas for extending your Las Vegas road trip to the Grand Canyon South Rim .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 300 miles, 5 hrs.

Get an early start, so you have time to visit Hoover Dam and Boulder City. Then, continue your road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon South Rim. The scenic route is via Route 66, between Kingman and Seligman. This way, you’ll see Angel & Vilma’s Gift Shop, famous restaurants like Mr. D’z 66 Diner, the Grand Canyon caverns near Peach Springs, and the Mohave Museum.

Once at Grand Canyon Village, you can take one of the shuttles to popular lookouts like Hopi Point (it has the perfect sunset views). The Rim Trail, which circles the South Rim, is a great hike to do as a family.

• Recommended accommodations: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn and The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon are great, or consult our guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon .

Day 2 – 280 miles, 4 hrs 15 mins

The best way to start your second day is with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour . It’s an amazing way to see the canyon, and we have an entire guide on the top 6 flight tours.

After your helicopter ride, take the free shuttle to one of the lookout points around the South Rim. You can also visit interesting places like the Yavapai Geology Museum and the Tusayan Ruins and Museum before heading back to Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Any of the best hotels in Las Vegas will be great for an overnight stay.

VEGAS ROAD TRIP ALTERNATIVES

One extra day.

Use your extra day in the Grand Canyon to visit the West Rim . Here, you can see the Skywalk, a glass balcony that hangs over the edge of the canyon. Visiting the West Rim adds 90 miles and 2 hrs 15 mins of driving.

Two extra days

A couple of extra days at the Grand Canyon means you can hike the Bright Angel Trail , one of the top hikes in the canyon. The path starts at Grand Canyon Village and descends over 4,360 feet into the canyon.

The route is 16 miles round-trip, so you’ll need 2 days to do it. It’s best to hike to the bottom. Camp there overnight, then make the ascent back to the South Rim.

Three extra days

If you have three more days in this area, you can make the trek to Havasu Falls. The falls are part of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, so you must make reservations in advance.

To get to the trailhead, take Route 66 toward Peach Spring. Continue for about 130 miles and turn right onto Indian Road 18. This road leads to the Hualapai Hilltop Parking Lot.

From there, you can hike the Havasupai Falls Trail to the waterfalls, which aren’t far from the Havasupai Campground .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

2. Hollywood, a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

♦ 350 miles, 6 hrs 15 mins total driving – 3 days, 2 nights – One-way

When planning a road trip from Las Vegas , consider California. This state is full of gorgeous landscapes, enjoyable cities, and, of course, beaches. My itinerary is for a 3-day road trip from Las Vegas to Hollywood, but you can add more days and take a Vegas road trip to San Diego too.

On this car trip to Los Angeles from Las Vegas , you’ll take a pitstop to 7 Magic Mountains before visiting Mojave National Preserve . The preserve has some of the best night skies in the country, so I highly recommend camping overnight.

Then, head to Joshua Tree National Park and see the wide range of desert flora there. Check out the Cholla Cactus Garden and stay overnight in the park before waking up early for day 3.

The last stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is Los Angeles , where you can find unlimited things to do. If you have more time, extend your stay in LA, or drive down to San Diego.

Keep in mind that the end point of this route is different from the starting point. So, when setting up your rental, consider any extra fees for returning the car in a different location and book two one-way flights.

3-day Las Vegas road trip itinerary

Day 1 – 97 miles, 2 hrs.

This  Las Vegas road trip to California  begins with a quick stop at  7 Magic Mountains . This colorful art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone is a nice photo op along the Las Vegas Freeway.

Then, drive the hour or so to  Mojave National Preserve , one of the most amazing destinations between Vegas and LA. Rather than drive through it, take time to appreciate the area, especially the Kelso Dunes and the ancient Mojave Lava Tube. The volcanic tunnel is over 1300 feet long and casts impressive light rays in the afternoon.

One of the most popular things to do here is to hike the Rings Loop Trail, which is a little over a mile long. You’ll see that Mojave National Preserve has lots of Joshua Trees; it actually has the highest density of these trees in the world, even more than Joshua Tree National Park!

• Recommended accommodation:  Hole-in-the-Wall Campground

Day 2 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 15 mins

The next day, make the short drive to  Joshua Tree National Park , which is also in the Mojave Desert. This park is known for its unique landscape of Joshua trees and gravity-defying rock formations.

That said, one of the best sights in Joshua Tree is the  Cholla Cactus Garden . You can take the circular walking trail through the garden of brittlebush, desert lavender, and several species of cacti.

• Recommended accommodations:  Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Yucca Valley  or  High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park

Day 3 – 130 miles, 2 hrs

The last stop on this  3-day road trip from Las Vegas  is  Los Angeles . Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of tours and activities, so check our guide on to  things to do in Los Angeles  for some ideas.

Everyone likes popular attractions like the  Hollywood Sign  and the  Walk of Fame . Perhaps you’d prefer one of the beaches, like  Santa Monica  or  Malibu . Film buffs can check out the famous  Hollywood studios and theaters , while shopaholics can hit  Rodeo Drive .

• Recommended accommodations:  InterContinental – Los Angeles Downtown  is nice, and we have a guide on  where to stay in Los Angeles

Vegas road trip alternatives

One day short.

If you must cut your trip short one day, skip Mojave and go straight to Joshua Tree. It’ll save you 25 miles and 45 minutes of driving.

An extra day means you can spend two days in LA, which is great because there are so many  things to do in Los Angeles  and Hollywood.

Add two more days to your itinerary, and you can take a  Vegas road trip to San Diego . It adds 120 miles and one hour of driving, and you can see fabulous beaches like La Jolla Cove.

3-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

3. San Francisco, one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California

♦ 630 miles, 12 hrs 30 mins total driving – 4 days, 3 nights – One-way

Note: This route can only be completed when Tioga Road is open; check dates.

This 4-day road trip from Las Vegas is action-packed and starts with a visit to Red Rock Canyon . Then, you’ll head to Death Valley , where you can see the famous Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, and other sights.

Then, you can witness the unique landscapes of Alabama Hills , Hot Creek , and Mono Lake before stopping at Yosemite National Park . This is a must-see on any road trip from Las Vegas to California since Yosemite is full of hiking routes, waterfalls, lookouts, and other landmarks.

The last stop is San Francisco , an amazing city by the bay with all kinds of attractions. Not only is the city surrounded by beautiful natural places, but San Fran itself is tons of fun. Check out iconic areas like Nob Hill, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. Besides that, there are museums, historic buildings, neighborhoods, and architectural monuments to behold.

With all of the stops along the way, this is the best road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco !

4-day road trip itinerary from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 130 miles, 2 hrs 30 mins.

The first stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is right outside Sin City. You’ll start by exploring Red Rock Canyon , known for its fiery rock formations and ancient pictographs. You can check out the sights along the Scenic Loop Drive or do one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock .

Then, you’ll make your way to Death Valley , California , one of the largest national parks in the country. Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of attractions and points of interest, like the Artist’s Palette and Badwater Basin , the lowest point in the U.S. There are also hiking trails to overlooks like Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at The Ranch at Death Valley or check out our guide on where to stay in Death Valley

Day 2 – 230 miles, 4 hrs

Outside Death Valley, there is the town of Lone Pine, a great intermediary between Death Valley and Mt. Whitney. Here, you must see the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you’ve ever seen a western film, you’ll recognize the landscape of Alabama Hills. Check out scenic Movie Road and the famous Mobius Arch , which perfectly frames the mountain range in the distance.

Later, make the drive to Hot Creek Geological Site , a gorge with bubbling turquoise hot springs. Magma mixes with the cool waters of Hot Creek to heat the thermal pools, which you can hike past for a closer look.

Day 2 of this 4-day road trip from La Vegas ends with a visit to nearby Mono Lake . This saline lake offers lovely views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, as well as hiking and kayaking.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend a restful night at Lake View Lodge near Mono Lake.

Day 3 – 80 miles, 2 hrs

Get an early start in the morning so you can make the long drive to Yosemite National Park . You can stop by Yosemite Village and the Visitor Center for trail maps and info, then decide what to do.

I will say that some of the best things to see here are El Capitan , which is over 7,500 feet tall, and the Half Dome , another granite formation that’s over 8,800 feet tall. The park also has the highest waterfall in the U.S., Yosemite Falls , which is 2,425 feet tall.

There are other waterfalls in the park, as well as lakes and overlooks. You can see some of these while traveling along Glacier Point Road . Also, it’s worth seeing Tuolumne Grove , a giant sequoia forest. Of course, there is lots more to see here, including wildlife and beautiful hiking trails, so check our guide!

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge or one of the places in our guide on where to stay in Yosemite

Day 4 – 190 miles, 4 hrs

Finally, this Las Vegas road trip ends in San Francisco , one of the most enjoyable cities in the country. There is a little bit of everything here, so it’s well worth the drive.

This bay city is known for its relaxed environment and landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman’s Wharf , and Nob Hill . One of the most iconic things to do here is to take a cable car past notable sights like Chinatown and Russian Hill .

San Francisco is full of museums, unique neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, and natural areas like forests, gardens, and beaches. So, be sure to read our guide so you can plan your perfect day in the city.

• Recommended accommodations: The Handlery Union Square Hotel is a nice downtown accommodation, or you can check our article on where to stay in San Francisco

Vegas car trip alternatives

If you can add more days to your  road trip from Las Vegas to California , you can see even more incredible things along the way. Here are some ideas to consider if you have more time.

If you have an extra day, you can spend more time in  Yosemite . You could easily spend three days in the park since there is so much to do there. The  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail  is a gorgeous 7-hour route, and  Tunnel View  is an iconic lookout point.  Mirror Lake  and  Mariposa Grove  are two other lovely spots, and the  Taft Point-Sentinel Dome  hike is a must-do if you have the time.

Another option if you have one more day is to spend more time in  San Francisco . You could even spend a week here and not get bored. So, it’s up to you if you want to see nearby natural attractions or explore the city.

With two extra days, you can spend more time in  Yosemite  or  San Francisco  and take a detour to  Lake Tahoe . A visit to the largest alpine lake in the U.S. adds 150 miles (2 hrs 45 mins) of driving.

Here, you can do different kinds of water sports or visit one of the ski resorts. Lake Tahoe also offers excellent hiking trails like the  Tahoe Rim Trail  and  Eagle Lake .

4-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

4. Monument Valley, one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona

♦ 900 miles, 16 hrs 20 mins total driving – 5 days, 4 nights – Loop

This 5-day road trip from Las Vegas has lots of interesting stops, so be prepared. As you leave Vegas, pay a visit to the Valley of Fire , and walk among the dazzling geological formations.

Then, spend a day exploring Zion National Park and some of the hiking routes and viewpoints there. Next, this road trip from Las Vegas goes to Arizona , where you’ll see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon . You’ll definitely want your camera for these two incredibly scenic places!

The next stop on this road trip from Las Vegas is Monument Valley , an area full of mesas, buttes, and stunning starry skies. Finally, you’ll head to the Grand Canyon , where you can hike along the canyon’s rim or even take a helicopter tour.

As you make your way back to Vegas, take historic Route 66 . It’s a bit longer, but it’s more scenic. As you get closer to Sin City, you can pass through Boulder City and check out the Hoover Dam , too.

5-DAY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 180, 3 hrs 30 mins.

This  road trip from Las Vegas  begins with a stop at the  Valley of Fire , one of the best hiking spots right outside Sin City. Some of the  most popular hikes in Valley of Fire  include the  Fire Wave Trail  and  Petroglyph Canyon Trail .

Besides hiking, you can do the  Scenic Drive  at Valley of Fire, which goes past some famous landmarks. While the park is known for its fiery rock formations, it also has colorful attractions like the  Rainbow Vista  and  Pink Canyon . Plus, this can be a  fun road trip from Las Vegas  to do with kids. They’ll love the  petroglyphs ,  Elephant Rock , and the  Fire Cave .

After spending some time at Valley of Fire, drive a few hours northeast to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations:  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  is comfortable and cheap, but we also have a guide on  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 120 miles, 2 hrs 20 mins

Day 2 of this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary  is dedicated to exploring  Zion National Park . We have an article about all the things to do in Zion, but I’ll tell you some of the most popular activities if you only have one day.

As I said, the hiking trails here are amazing, so check out  Angel’s Landing ,  The Narrows , or  The Subway . The family-friendly  Lower Emerald Pools  trail is also worth doing. Also, Zion has excellent starry skies, and you can get iconic views from the  Court of the Patriarchs  lookout point.

If you take the  Zion Scenic Drive , you’ll see the  Visitor Center and Museum ,  Court of the Patriarchs ,  The Grotto ,  Weeping Rock ,  Big Bend , and  Temple of Sinawava.

After Zion, head to Page, Arizona, and get some rest for another action-packed day.

• Recommended accommodations:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  is one of the best, or you can check out our guide on  where to stay in Page

Day 3 – 120 miles, 2 hrs

As you continue your  5-day road trip from Las Vegas , make a quick stop at  Horseshoe Bend . This horseshoe-shaped meander stands nearly 1,000 feet tall and has an imposing presence you have to see to believe. The view from Horseshoe Bend is incredible at sunrise or sunset, but even if you can’t visit then, it’s still beautiful.

Another great thing about Horseshoe Bend is that it’s a very short drive from  Antelope Canyon . We have an article about how to photograph the canyon and which part to visit. I will tell you that if you go to the Upper section in summer in the middle of the day, you can see the famous  light beams  coming through the canyon walls.

Also, be aware that since Antelope Canyon is within the  Navajo Indian Reservation , you must take a tour. A Navajo guide will take you through the canyon and tell you about the geological and cultural history of the area, and you’ll see the canyon’s undulating structure for yourself!

After spending time at Antelope Canyon, drive the two hours to  Monument Valley  and get some rest for Day 4 of this  road trip from Las Vegas .

• Recommended accommodations:  Goulding’s Lodge  is among the most popular, or you can book one of the places in our  where to stay in Monument Valley  guide

Day 4 – 180 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Get an early start in the morning and check out  Monument Valley . One of the best things to do here is to take the  Scenic Drive  past fascinating formations. You’ll see  Elephant Butte , the  Three Sisters ,  John Ford’s Point ,  The Thumb , and several other landmarks.

You can also hike the  Wildcat Trail  and capture superb photos at lookout points like  The Mittens and Merrick Butte  and  Artist’s Point .

Be sure to budget enough time to drive to the  Grand Canyon  from Monument Valley since it takes over 3 hours, and you’ll want to rest up for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations:  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Day 5 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Spend the last day of this  road trip from Las Vegas at the Grand Canyon . Start at  Grand Canyon Village , which is at the  South Rim . From there, you can take one of the shuttles to the  South Kaibab Trail  or  Hermit Road where you can find beautiful viewpoints like Yavapai and Yaki Point  on the Kaibab Rim Route or  Hopi Point  on the Hermit Road Route.

If you want to make your visit extra special, take a  helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon  and see this natural wonder from a birds-eye view.

When it’s time to head back to Sin City, take the return trip via  Route 66 . This way, you’ll pass the most iconic part of this famous highway, then you can stop at  Boulder City  and visit  Hoover Dam .

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS ROAD TRIP alternatives

If you’re short on time, you can skip Monument Valley and save 150 miles (about 2.5 hours) of driving.

If you have time, you can make this a  6-day road trip from Las Vegas . You could spend a day in  Bryce Canyon  or check out  Sedona and Red Rock Country .

Bryce Canyon National Park is a short drive from Zion and is known for its incredible hoodoos and rock formations. It adds 120 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Meanwhile, Red Rock Country is in the Oak Creek area of Sedona and has a distinct canyon landscape. Some of the most photographed sights here include  Oak Creek Canyon , Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and  Tuzigoot National Monument . It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

If you have two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway . Phoenix is home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

Alternatively, two extra days can give you the  best road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon . You’ll have enough time to hike the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camp at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Along with a lodge, you’ll find the  Havasu Falls Trailhead , which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

5-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

5. Arches, the best 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

♦ 1,545 miles, 31 hrs total driving – 10 days, 9 nights – Loop

This ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas begins with a stop at the Valley of Fire , where you can take the scenic drive (Mouse’s Tank) past the Rainbow Vista, Arch Rock, and other impressive formations.

The next day, you can visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks for amazing lookout points, hikes, and geological monuments. Speaking of which, this road trip from Las Vegas to Utah also includes the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . Spanning 1.8 million acres, this natural wonder sits between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef , another national park on this itinerary.

Capitol Reef offers excellent hiking and backpacking, and it’s about an hour from Goblin Valley State Park , an awesome place in Utah for wildlife viewing and stargazing.

Two other national parks you’ll see are Arches and Canyonlands , which have thousands of natural arches between them. The tail-end of this Las Vegas road trip includes stops at Monument Valley , Antelope Canyon , Horseshoe Bend , and the Grand Canyon , which I’ve mentioned earlier.

Finally, as you make your way back to Vegas, you can visit Boulder City and Hoover Dam .

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 185 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins.

The  distance from Vegas  to  Valley of Fire  is about 45 miles, so this state park is the first stop. It’s a great place to hike outside Sin City, especially since there are trails for all levels. Not only that, but each route takes you past some incredible sights, like the  Fire Wave ,  Pink Canyon , and  Balanced Rock .

After exploring this red sandstone playground, get back in the car and make your way to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  or check our guide to  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 85 miles, 2 hrs

As one of the top  road trip ideas from Las Vegas , you can’t miss  Zion National Park . That said, if you only have one day there, you must prioritize.

I recommend doing a hike, such as  Angel’s Landing , which takes about 4 hours and leads to an amazing 360° viewpoint. Other photographic spots in Zion include the  Three Patriarchs ,  The Narrows , and the  Emerald Pools .

After a day in Zion, continue this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah’s national parks  by heading to  Bryce Canyon .

• Recommended accommodations: Check out  Bryce Park Place  or our list of suggested  hotels and campsites in Bryce Canyon

Day 3 – 105 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Like Zion,  Bryce Canyon  is an excellent stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah . The defining characteristic of Bryce Canyon is the smattering of hoodoos, which are spire-like rock formations.

One of the best ways to see the hoodoos is by going to  Sunrise Point , where you can see them glow in the sunlight. Moreover, there are other intriguing natural sculptures in Bryce, like  Thor’s Hammer ,  Bryce Amphitheater , and  Two Bridges .

If you’d like to do a short hike, I recommend the  Navajo Loop  or  Queen’s Garden Trail . You can combine these routes and loop past  Queen Victoria  and  Wall Street , ending at Thor’s Hammer.

The next stop will be the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , so head to your hotel and get some rest.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at the  Cowboy Country Inn  or the  Canyon Country Lodge

Day 4 – 115 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Besides Zion and Bryce Canyon, there are lots of other cool  things to do in Utah . The next stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah  is the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , a remote region in southern Utah.

GSENM covers an expansive area, so you won’t be able to see everything during your trip. I recommend checking out the  Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Byway , a 55-mile road that winds around several attractions. It’s a good way to see the  Zebra and Tunnel Canyons , the  Devil’s Garden ,  Batty Pass Caves ,  Jacob Hamblin Arch, Coyote Natural Bridge , and more.

The arches in this place are out of this world, as are the  Spooky and Brimstone Gulches . After basking in the magnitude of this natural monument, do the short drive to  Capitol Reef  and rest up.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at the  Capitol Reef Resort  or  Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

Day 5 – 160 miles, 2 hrs 45 mins

This  Utah national park road trip from Las Vegas  continues with a visit to  Capitol Reef National Park . The area is known for its white sandstone cliffs and domes, which look like dried-up reefs. That said, it’s also in southern Utah’s red rock country, so the landscape is quite beautiful.

You can see lots of canyons, cliffs, gorges, and petroglyphs while traveling along the park’s  Scenic Drive . There are also several trailheads, so consider a short hike like the  Capitol Gorge ,  Goosenecks , or  Sunset Point Trail .

About an hour north of Capitol Reef, you’ll find  Goblin Valley State Park , another interesting  place to visit in Utah . Its desert landscape is characterized by giant hoodoos, which have been nicknamed “goblins.” The park offers excellent wildlife spotting and enjoyable hikes like the  Carmel Canyon Loop  and the  Three Sisters Trail , which leads to a natural monument by the same name.

Another great thing about Goblin Valley is that it’s about 1.5 hours from  Arches National Park , the next stop on this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary .

• Recommended accommodations:  Red Cliffs Lodge  or  River Canyon Lodge

Day 6 – 30 miles, 45 mins

As you might expect,  Arches National Park  is full of natural arches, bridges, and rock structures. It’s the perfect place to visit on any  Las Vegas road trip to Utah .

Some of the most iconic spots I suggest checking out include  Balanced Rock ,  The Windows , and  Turret Arch .  Double Arch  is one of the most famous landmarks in the park, as is  Delicate Arch , which you can reach via a 3.4-mile hike.

If you want, you can hang out in the town of  Moab  before heading to  Canyonlands National Park . Along with shops and restaurants, Moab is home to the popular strong>Corona Arch.

• Recommended accommodations: Consider  Moab Springs Ranch in Moab  or  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab

Day 7 – 200 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Day 7 begins at  Canyonlands National Park , home to exceptional natural landmarks like the  Mesa Arch . I recommend getting there at dawn so you can see the sunrise from the arch.

That said, there are other amazing sights to see here. For example, the  Washer Woman  stands 500 feet tall, and  Monster Tower  is even higher. One of the best viewpoints here is the  Green River Overlook , where you can gaze at an impressive landscape from 1,000 feet up.

The park offers wildlife spotting, hiking, and kayaking throughout its four regions, so I suggest checking beforehand and planning which section to visit during your day here.

Moreover, together with Arches and Canyonlands,  Dead Horse Point State Park  is also worth visiting. Known as the setting for the film  helma & Louise , the park has some family-friendly hikes to beautiful viewpoints. I recommend the  Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail  or the  Visitor Center Nature Trail . They’re short enough to give you time to drive to  Monument Valley  and rest for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Book a room at  Goulding’s Lodge  or check out our guide on  where to stay in Monument Valley

Day 8 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 10 mins

On Day 8, it’s time to bring this  Las Vegas road trip to Arizona . The first stop in this state is  Monument Valley , one of our personal favorites. With its striking landscape of red stone and green desert shrubs, it’s no wonder this place was a backdrop for movies like  Fort Apache  and  Back to the Future III .

If you can time it right, catch the sunrise at  Merrick Butte ; it’ll leave you breathless. Of course, there are other iconic views here, such as the one from  John Ford’s Point . A few other cool sights include  Camel Butte , the  Three Sisters , and  Elephant Butte . If you want to do a self-guided hike, do the  Wildcat Trail  around the  West Mitten Butte .

Monument Valley is the best introduction to Arizona, although as you drive to  Page, Arizona , you’ll see that there is more to come!

• Recommended accommodations: Sleep at  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  or one of the places in our  Page hotels  guide

Day 9 – 150 miles, 2 hrs 50 mins

Antelope Canyon  is an absolute dream to visit, so you must add it to your  Las Vegas road trip itinerary . It’s one thing to see photos of this place and another to walk through the slot canyon yourself.

We have a complete visitor’s guide with tips on how to photograph Antelope Canyon and which tour to take. I’ll tell you that both the  Upper and Lower canyons  are gorgeous, so there’s no wrong choice here!

What’s also great about Antelope Canyon is that it’s close to  Horseshoe Bend , another stop on this  Arizona road trip from Las Vegas . Be sure to make a quick stop here to see the view from nearly 1,000 feet high. You’ll want your camera with you because Horseshoe Bend offers the best images of the  Colorado River .

After an exciting day, drive to the  Grand Canyon  and get some sleep for a full day of exploring tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon , or consult our guide on  where to stay in the Grand Canyon

Day 10 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Last but not least, this  10-day road trip from Las Vegas  goes to the  Grand Canyon . The  South Rim  is where  Grand Canyon Village  is, so I recommend exploring this area. There are popular overlooks and trails here, such as the  South Kaibab Trail  or the  Rim Trail .

If your budget allows, I highly recommend taking a  helicopter tour  over the canyon. Not only is a helicopter ride a good use of your time, but you’ll be able to escape the crowds and see an entirely new view of the Grand Canyon.

Be sure to plan enough time to make the  drive to Las Vegas from Arizona . Right before you hit the city limits, you’ll pass through  Boulder City  and the  Hoover Dam . Consider checking out the  Visitor Center  or  Memorial Bridge  before heading into Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Recover from your road trip at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS car TRIP ALTERNATIVES

If you have an extra day, consider spending more time in  Zion  since there are so many things to see there.

You could also extend your time at the  Grand Canyon  and visit the  West Rim and Skywalk . It adds 90 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Yet another option is to check out  Red Rock Country in Sedona, Arizona . The distinct canyon landscape includes Oak Creek Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Tuzigoot National Monument. It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

With two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Salt Lake City . The city is full of impressive temples, parks, natural areas, and, of course, Great Salt Lake. It adds 355 miles (6 hrs 50 mins) of driving.

Another way you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  is by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway  in Sedona. Then go to Phoenix, home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

If you loved the  Grand Canyon , spend your extra time hiking the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camping at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the  Havasupai Indian Reservation . Along with a lodge, you’ll find the Havasu Falls Trailhead, which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

Those are the five  best road trips from Las Vegas ! I hope you found an itinerary that works for your schedule. Be sure to check out my map of each road trip so you can see the driving  distances from Vegas  and planned routes.

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

If you want more options, check my 10-day West Coast itinerary with Las Vegas as the starting point. It’s true that we didn’t optimize miles and time, but we got to see the main national parks and cities in Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and California.

Finally, feel free to tell me about your Las Vegas road trip below or ask any questions. I’ll be happy to help you out! Safe travels!

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2 replies on “ 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada ”

Good morning from Australia,

I will be visiting USA August & September 2024. I will be going to several cities and town, but would like to end up in Las Vegas.

I have been to Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon twice previously and was wondering if you would be able to tailor a road trip for me of approx 5 days, departing and returning from Vegas, or departing from Salt Lake City and returning to Vegas.

i would like to visit the large rock formations in the area.

Thank you and regards

Hi Peter, That sounds awesome. I would start by looking at our 10-day road trip from Las Vegas (which goes to Utah), and tailoring it to your interests. For example, skip Zion and Bryce Canyon, and instead check out the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which has some unique formations. There are lots of cool things to see in Utah , but I recommend the national parks at Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.

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2 Week Best of the Southwest Road Trip

You can hit the top destinations of the American Southwest in two weeks by driving in a loop of roughly 2,000 miles. The day-by-day route below begins in Las Vegas, but you can just as easily start in Albuquerque or Flagstaff if that works better for you. All mileage and driving times are approximate.

It’s easy to fill a day with fun in Las Vegas. Walk the Strip and get acclimated to this adult fantasy world, sip drinks by the pool at Harrah’s, or splurge on a room at the Bellagio. Catch a showing of Cirque du Soleil’s Beatles-themed LOVE in the evening and grab a late-night meal at Rose. Rabbit. Lie.

Zion and Bryce (165 miles, 3 hours)

Grab a coffee from The Egg & I to wake up for the drive to Zion National Park. Leave Las Vegas at 8am to reach Zion by 11am. The 165-mile drive to the Springdale entrance takes about three hours; however, traffic, especially in summer and on weekends, can make it much longer.

Explore Zion National Park to see iconic attractions like Court of the Patriarchs and the Emerald Pools. Make reservations ahead of time to spend the night in the comfort of the Zion Lodge or at the park’s South Campground or Watchman Campground.

Make the 70-mile, 1.5-hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park . Hike the Navajo Loop Trail or head to Fairyland Canyon, where worthwhile hikes include the Fairyland Loop Trail. Stay the night at the Lodge at Bryce Canyon (make reservations in advance) or camp at North Campground or Sunset Campground.

Capitol Reef National Park (120 miles, 2.5 hours)

Continue your Southwest road trip by waking up for the drive to Capitol Reef National Park , a scenic 120-mile, 2.5-hour drive from Bryce Canyon. Leave by 7:30am and arrive by 10am, and check in at the Capitol Reef Inn and Café in Torrey or the park’s Fruita Campground.

Take the park’s 21-mile round-trip scenic drive (1.5 hours) to Capitol Gorge. Leave your car in the parking area and take the two-mile round-trip hike into Capitol Gorge to see the petroglyphs, pioneer registry, and natural water tanks.

Arches and Canyonlands National Parks (145 miles, 2.5 hours)

Get an early start for the 145-mile, 2.5-hour drive to Moab, the gateway city to Arches and Canyonlands. Once you drop your bags off and get a bite to eat in town, head to Arches National Park , which is five miles (a 10-minute drive) away. Drive to The Windows trailhead and stroll around the easy paths leading to four arches.

It’s a 25-mile, 40-minute drive to Canyonlands National Park from Arches. Stop at Green River Overlook and the Grand View Point, and hike the short, easy Grand View Trail.

It’s a 30-mile, 45-minute drive back to Moab from Canyonlands. Stay at the Best Western Canyonlands Inn or the Gonzo Inn, and have dinner at the Desert Bistro.

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Monument valley, four corners, and mesa verde (150 miles, 3 hours).

It’s an almost three-hour drive of 150 miles from Moab to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park . Spend an hour or so driving the dirt road through the valley, stopping at the various pull-offs and viewpoints. Get a closer look at these huge natural sculptures along the short Wildcat Trail. Stay the night in Kayenta or Mexican Hat.

It’s 110 miles (two hours) to Four Corners Monument from Monument Valley. Stop for the requisite photo of yourself in four states at once, and peruse the creations of the Navajo vendors and artists.

From Four Corners, it’s 70 miles (nearly two hours) to the central part of Mesa Verde National Park (one hour to the entrance and about 40 minutes up the mesa). Head to the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum, tour Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House, and hike Petroglyph Point Trail. Stay the night at the park’s Far View Lodge, or at one of the hotels in nearby Cortez or Mancos.

Mesa Verde to Santa Fe (270 miles, 5.5 hours)

After a good night’s sleep, head out for Santa Fe. Including the road down the mesa, the 270-mile drive takes about 5.5 hours. Take US 160 to Pagosa Springs, where you can soak for a while in one of the 18 pools at The Springs Resort . From Pagosa Springs take US 84 to get to downtown Santa Fe.

Santa Fe and Taos

Walk around the central Santa Fe Plaza, shopping and chatting with the artists selling wares on the sidewalks. Tour the New Mexico Museum of Art and check out the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.

Have lunch at Tia Sophia’s, then head over to the Canyon Road art galleries. Have dinner at Café Pasqual’s and stay the night at La Fonda.

Grab a coffee from The French Pastry Shop to wake up for the drive along the High Road to Taos. Leave Santa Fe by 8am to reach Taos by 10:30am, but allow more time to visit the villages along the scenic route. The 80-mile drive to Taos takes at least 2.5 hours.

Tour Taos Pueblo, then make your way to the center of town and walk around Taos Plaza. Check out the Taos Art Museum and the Kit Carson Home and Museum. Eat at Abe’s Cantina y Cocina and return to Santa Fe on the Low Road to Taos (70 miles, 1.5 hours).

Route 66 to Williams (370 miles, hours)

It’s an hour’s drive (65 miles) on I-25 South to get to Albuquerque from Santa Fe. Once you get to town, check out Petroglyph National Monument and ride the Sandia Peak Tramway. Head out of town in the afternoon and drive Historic Route 66 for 140 miles (two hours) to Gallup, staying the night at the equally historic El Rancho Hotel.

The next morning, drive Historic Route 66/I-40 for 70 miles to Petrified Forest National Park . Leave Gallup by 8am to reach the park by 9am and spend a few hours driving south along the park road.

From the park road’s southern terminus, drive 50 miles (about one hour) west to Winslow and have lunch at La Posada’s Turquoise Room. Drive 60 miles (one hour) on I-40 to Flagstaff and wander around its historic downtown.

Continue 35 miles (just over 30 minutes) on I-40 to Williams. Check in to the Lodge on Route 66, walk the town’s Route 66-centric main strip, and have dinner at Pancho McGillicuddy’s.

Grand Canyon

Enjoy a break from your car by taking the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to Grand Canyon National Park . Take in the views from the Rim Trail or descend into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. Get an appetizer or a drink at the historic El Tovar Hotel before taking the train back to Williams. For dinner, indulge in a prime cut of meat from Rod’s Steak House.

Route 66 to Kingman; Return to Las Vegas (240 miles, 4 hours)

Have a big breakfast at the Pine Country Restaurant in Williams. Head west on I-40 for the 20-mile, 20-minute sprint to Ash Fork, the starting point for a 50-mile (one hour) section along Historic Route 66. Stop and tour Grand Canyon Caverns, peruse the gift shops in Seligman, and grab snacks at the Hackberry General Store, another 50 miles (one hour) west. Next, continue another 30 miles (45 minutes) along lonely Route 66 to Kingman.

In Kingman, tour the Historic Route 66 Museum. If you don’t want to end your trip just yet, stop along the 110-mile, two-hour drive between Kingman and Las Vegas for a tour of Hoover Dam.

Back in Las Vegas, check in to the Cosmopolitan or the Wynn and take a well-deserved rest from the road and relax by the pool before your flight home the next day.

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The Perfect 2-Week Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

The Grand Circle Road Trip is a loop that covers some of the best Southwest America has to offer. Six national parks plus several national monuments and landmarks that highlight the iconic red rocks and sandstone landforms that have been carved out and formed from erosion, mostly due to the serpentine Colorado River. This part of the country is rather remarkable to explore. If you have two weeks of vacation to spare, the Grand Circle Road Trip is just that…GRAND!

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Where to Begin the Grand Circle Road Trip

Las Vegas is the best place to start the Grand Circle Road Trip for many reasons. First, it is the largest city on the loop so flying in and out will be quicker and cheaper than smaller regional airports. Also, you can extend your vacation and stay extra days in Sin City before or after your trip. Since this drive is a loop, you can choose to do this loop clockwise or counterclockwise. I opted to go counterclockwise just because I wanted to do the longer drives first. However, you can choose either way you prefer.

Itinerary Summary and Where to Stay Each Night

Obviously, you can customize your itinerary and where you stay each night based on your preference. I personally try to plan my trips so that I reduce the number of hotels I stay in, so I can stay in one hotel multiple nights, if possible.

Best Time to Visit the Grand Circle Road Trip

If you can avoid it, I would not drive the Grand Circle Road Trip June, July, or August because the summer temperatures can be scorching hot and the summer crowds can be rough. However, Bryce Canyon sits at an elevation of 8,000 – 9,000 feet and experiences much cooler temperatures than its other park counterparts. Typically the best times to experience Bryce Canyon is from May to September when the weather is warmer, but the crowds will be at much higher levels. Therefore, the best time to complete the Grand Circle Road Trip is April to May and September to early November for weather and crowd concerns.

Zion National Park uses a shuttle system for the Scenic Drive.  This system is typically in place from mid-February through Thanksgiving and over the Christmas/New Year’s holidays.  The shuttle system is very quick and easy to use, so I would not let it deter you from visiting when the shuttle is in operation.

Entrance Fees for the Grand Circle Road Trip

You will need to purchase a park pass to enter each of the national parks as well as day passes for Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. It is imperative that you purchase an  America the Beautiful  park pass, which will allow you into all national parks for a year for one single fee.  If you paid for each park entrance fee separately, it would cost you $185.  The American the Beautiful Interagency pass is $80 plus a $9 shipping fee. Also, if you have a 4th grader in your household, you can get a family pass for free to the national parks that is good for a year. Find out more about that benefit  here . 

If you visit any state parks or participate in guided tours, these will be additional costs to the national park entry fees.

• Hoover Dam – Free to walk around, but a tour ranges from $10-$30 depending on the type of tour.
• Monument Valley – $8/person per day
• Horseshoe Bend – $10/vehicle parking fee
• Antelope Canyon – You must take a guided tour to see this canyon and ticket prices can vary. Click the link to see your options.
• Dead Horse Point State Park – $20/vehicle
• Valley of Fire State Park – $10/vehicle

What to Eat and Drink

As I do for many of my hiking vacations, I carry a  soft RTIC cooler  to keep sandwich stuff and drinks cold.  Most of this Grand Circle Road Trip is in the middle of nowhere, so we prepared by having sandwiches handy for lunch time.  Also, most of the restaurants are around are only open for breakfast and dinner.  I recommend stopping at a grocery store in Las Vegas before the region gets too remote.  Buy more water than you think you need if you are getting bottled water because it is hot and dry in the desert.

What to Pack for the Grand Circle Road Trip

• Water!! Whether you use a  hydration backpack  or carry  bottled water , make sure to pack plenty of water when outdoors!
• Sunscreen  – Protect your skin from the sun, and do not forget to reapply.
• Hat – More sun protection to block the sun from your face
• Hiking shoes /boots – Some of the hikes are on steep, slick rock, and people wearing regular tennis shoes struggled to keep their footing. Here are the  men ‘s version of the hiking shoes I love.
• Hiking socks  – The best way to prevent blisters is by keeping your feet dry. Moisture-wicking socks are the best way to do that.
• Water Shoes  – If you bring your own water shoes, you will not need to rent gear for The Narrows hike.
• Hiking Poles – Likewise, bring hiking poles for The Narrows hike to avoid having to rent gear.
• Backpack  – A backpack is a necessity when hiking to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. that you may need on your longer hikes.
• RTIC Soft-Sided Cooler  – Keep your drinks and sandwich stuff cool in this cooler.
• Packing Cubes  – Keep your stuff organized in your luggage with these packing cubes.
• Jacket – Even in warmer months, the temps can be cool so pack a light  men’s  or  women’s  jacket.
• Printed Maps/Directions – Cell service is spotty, so I recommend you print maps/directions or download offline maps to all hiking trails and parks you plan to visit.

Day 1: Las Vegas to Hoover Dam

Whether you arrive in Las Vegas the night before or in the morning of the first day of this Grand Circle road trip, you will need to rent a car. After you load your luggage in the car, start your journey towards Hoover Dam. You can walk across the dam at no cost (except a parking fee if you park in the garage), but there is a cost for any tours you choose to do. After you are finished touring Hoover Dam, drive to the Mike O’Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Walk to the center of the bridge over the Colorado River and get incredible views of Hoover Dam holding back Lake Mead.

Finish your day by driving towards the Grand Canyon. You can either stay the night in Williams, AZ or inside Grand Canyon National Park. If you make it to the Grand Canyon this evening, make sure to watch the sunset. The colors of the canyon are spectacular as the sun sets.

Day 2: Grand Canyon National Park

Spend the second day on the Grand Circle Road Trip exploring the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. From the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, walk along the South Rim Trail. Some notable viewpoints along this trail include Yavapai Point, Pipe Creek Vista, and Yaki Point. Once you have finished walking trails and shopping at gift shops, drive East on Desert View Road making stops at all the viewpoints until you exit the East Entrance. Finish the day by driving to Page, AZ.

Day 3: Page

Page, Arizona is full of natural wonders. Your first to see is Antelope Canyon. Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are slot canyons that have become increasingly popular. These canyons exist on the Navajo Reservation, and you must book a  tour  to gain access. Reservations sell out, so make sure you book ahead of time. Due to time constraints, we only visited the Upper Antelope Canyon which you enter at ground level. If you choose to visit Lower Antelope Canyon, you enter the canyon from the top and walk down stairs to get to the bottom.

Horseshoe Bend is yet another amazing view that can be discovered in Arizona. The hike from the parking lot is an easy 1.5-mile, roundtrip stroll. At the end of your walk, see views of the dark green Colorado River 1,000 feet below you where it carved a 270-degree bend in the red canyon resembling a horseshoe. Check the Horseshoe Bend  website  for up-to-date entry fees, which are paid by vehicle type.

We spent a couple hours exploring Glen Canyon Dam Overlook area. There is no official trail here, just climb the red rock formations as long as you like. Walk onto the sculpted rust-colored sandstone to the canyon’s edge. See the Colorado River below you and Glen Canyon Dam just up river. Glen Canyon Dam created Lake Powell, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S. In the summertime, Lake Powell offers various summer recreational activities.

If you have extra time (or an extra day), you can check out the nearby Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. There are several amazing hikes in this park including The Wave, which is a trail so elusive you must win a lottery to get a permit to hike here. If you are lucky enough to win the lottery, you should definitely add a day to your Grand Circle Road Trip, so you have time to hike this 6.9 mile trail.

Day 4: Monument Valley

On Day 4, you will be driving a large chunk of the Grand Circle Road Trip to get to Moab, Utah. A nice stop about halfway to Moab is Monument Valley . The landscape is speckled with tall red rock formations that can be marveled at from the 17-mile driving loop on Navajo Nation lands. Wind and water have eroded this land over the last 50 million years creating what you see today.

Day 5: Canyonlands and Dead Horse

Our first stop was the Grand View Point Trail, which is an easy 1.8-mile hike beside a canyon wall.  This hike offers views of the incredibly deep canyons below.  Unfortunately, the canyons were difficult to see due to haze from a nearby forest fire.

Our next stop was the Green River scenic overlook before continuing our to the iconic Mesa Arch.  The hike to this arch is a short, easy 0.5-mile loop.  This hike is very popular, so you may have to wait your turn for a picture opportunity. After you finish discovering Canyonlands, head to Dead Horse Point State Park for more views of amazing canyons.

Day 6: Arches National Park

On Day 6 of your Grand Circle Road Trip, you will be visiting Arches National Park which is full of…you guessed it…arches! This park gets extremely busy year round. I often get alerts that the park has closed the entrance by 9:00 am even during less busy seasons. If there is one day that you wake up earlier than normal, this is that day.

There are numerous hikes of varying degrees of difficulty and trail length in this park that you can choose from. We elected to hike Windows Loop and Turret Trail (1.2 miles), Double Arch Trail (0.6 miles), and Devil’s Garden to Landscape Arch (1.9 miles). If you are feeling like a bit longer hike, try the trail to Delicate Arch (3.2 miles). This is the arch that is featured on the Utah license plates. Spend the rest of the afternoon driving the scenic drive and making stops at the pullouts for formations like Balancing Rock and Roadside Arch.

Day 7: Capitol Reef National Park

When you leave your Moab hotel this morning, drive to Capitol Reef National Monument located right outside Torrey, Utah. Great hikes for your time in this park are Hickman Bridge Trail (1.8 miles) and Cassidy Arch Trail (3.1 miles). You can also check out Petroglyph Panel and the orchards inside the park. Make sure to be at Sunset Point or Goose’s Overlook when the sun sets for some amazing views.

Day 8: Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument

The next two days on your Grand Circle Road Trip will be spent exploring Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. This is one of the most remote parks in the United States. As such, there are not really any close lodging options. You could stay near Capitol Reef or Bryce Canyon, both of which are about an hour away from Grand Staircase – Escalante. I opted to stay in Torrey and make the drive each day, but do not worry, the drive is beautiful and the time will pass quickly while you are looking at the landscape.

Your only hike for the first day in this park is Lower Calf Creek Falls, which is a 6.7- mile fairly easy trail that leads to a giant waterfall. Be sure to bring your lunch, a swimsuit, and plenty of water. There is little to no tree cover on this hike, and I saw a lot of people suffering from heat exhaustion. So I cannot stress enough to bring lots of water! When you get to the falls, take a dip in the water so you can cool off before hiking back to the parking lot.

Day 9: Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument

The drive to Grand Staircase – Escalante will be a little longer this morning as you head to Hole in the Rock Road on the other side of the park.  The first stop on Hole in the Rock road is Devil’s Garden, which is a small area filled with natural bridges, arches, and hoodoos.  We spent about an hour walking around this area and crawling on the structures.

The second stop, which is about 30 miles down Hole in the Rock road, was the  Peek-a-boo and Spooky Slot Canyon  hike in the Dry Fork area.  This hike is a moderately strenuous 4.5-mile hike along a canyon rim, down steep slick rock, up a 12-foot rock wall, and through two slot canyons, with Spooky being barely wide enough to squeeze through.  If you get claustrophobic or cannot scale a 12-foot wall, do not attempt these slot canyons.

Both of today’s stops are along a rough, rutted, dirt road, so it is highly recommend to drive a 4×4 vehicle to access this road.  We did see regular vehicles driving it, but they were struggling and driving less than 10 mph.  After heavy rains, this road is completely impassable even with a 4×4. If you are not traveling with a 4×4 or you do not think you can physically or mentally hike the slot canyons, you can substitute these hikes with the Escalante Natural Bridge Trail, which is 4.4 miles.

Day 10: Bryce Canyon National Park

After loading up, we continued our Grand Circle Road Trip to Bryce Canyon National Park.  The hoodoos in this park are unbelievable.  I had seen pictures of the Bryce Canyon hoodoos before, but none of them did this park justice.

We began the drive at the furthest point, Rainbow Point, which is at an elevation of 9,115 feet.  We stopped at all the scenic pullouts before reaching the amphitheater.  The Natural Bridge pullout was my favorite until we got to the amphitheater.  The road past the amphitheater is closed during winter months and snowy conditions due dangerous road conditions, so make sure to plan your trip around the possible closures.

The amphitheater is the pinnacle of the scenic drive because it is where all the hoodoos are. It is worth stopping at all the stops, but the best view of the hoodoos is at Inspiration Point.

If there is one hike that you do this day, it has to be the 2.9 mile, moderately difficult, Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden. This trail takes you down into the canyon, and you can walk among the hoodoos. When you are finish your One Day in Bryce Canyon , continue the Grand Circle Road Trip to Springdale, Utah which is the gateway to Zion National Park.

Day 11: Zion National Park

Today’s big event in Zion is the Narrows, which is an epic hike in the Virgin River that carved a narrow canyon.  The walk through the ice-cold, flowing river over a bed of rocks makes this hike a strenuous one.  We hiked this in water shoes and with hiking poles.  If you do not have water shoes and hiking poles, it is highly recommended that you rent water boots and a walking stick from an outfitter.  This hike can be up to 9 miles long, depending on how far you go before you turn back.  We hiked approximately 5 miles total.  Even though this hike is difficult and requires special gear, it is an absolute must-do!  This was one of my favorite hikes of the entire Grand Circle Road Trip.

Day 12: Zion National Park

You have a couple options on your second day in Zion. The first is the ultra challenging Angel’s Landing Trail which finishes with plunging cliffs on both sides of the trail, but ends with amazing elevated views of the canyon. However, if this is not your cup of tea (which it is not mine), you can hike the 3-mile Emerald Pools Trails.

No matter which morning adventure you choose, spend the afternoon on the Mt. Carmel-Zion Scenic Drive. Stop at the Zion Canyon Overlook for a short but exciting trail with an overlook where you can see the hairpin turns of the road below.

Day 13: Valley of Fire State Park

On the Grand Circle Road Trip from Zion National Park to Las Vegas, stop at Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park for some really interesting and beautiful formations. This park is located just an hour outside of Las Vegas, so it can get crowded with people looking to escape the city. This park offers several short hikes that are perfect for all skill levels as well as beautiful scenic drives.

The most popular hike in the park is the Fire Wave which looks very similar to The Wave hike I previously mentioned. However, this hike does not require a lottery permit and is only 1.5 miles in total length making it is a great substitution for The Wave.

Other hikes you can enjoy include Elephant Rock (0.3 miles), White Domes (1.1 miles), Pastel or Pink Canyon (0.5 miles), Mouse’s Tank Trail (0.8 miles), and Rainbow Vista (1.1 miles). You can also see petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and climb on the Beehives located near the west entrance. For more about this state park, visit 13 Reasons You Should Visit Valley of Fire . After you get your fill of Valley of Fire, head to Las Vegas for the night.

Day 14: Las Vegas

You have completed the Grand Circle Road Trip! Depending on your travel plans, you can either fly out from Las Vegas today or spend the day (or extra days) exploring Sin City. Spend your time walking in and out of the perfectly themed hotels and casinos, eat at amazing restaurants, see a world-class show, or try your luck at gambling. These are just some of the ways you can spend your time in Las Vegas. For first timers, I recommend following this 2-Day Self-Guided Walking Tour of Las Vegas .

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Alley Keosheyan

Thank you so much for linking to our site, http://www.HorseshoeBend.com ! FYI, there’s a good alternative hike to The Wave located right in Page, AZ, known as the “New” Wave. No permit, no fees, easy family-friendly hike. Hope you get a chance to come back and try it!

Wow! I had no idea! I will definitely check it out! Thank you for commenting!

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7 Best Road Trips from Las Vegas: Ultimate Guide

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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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The Ultimate Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

• April 6, 2023

Las Vegas is a popular point of origin (or final destination) for a Grand Canyon road trip. What exactly makes Sin City such an ideal starting point?

• If you have enough time, its proximity to the Grand Canyon offers easy access to every spot on the Rim.
• It’s also within easy driving distance of a number of other nearby southwest hotspots —not to mention the smorgasbord of activities and attractions available in Sin City to any type of visitor.
• Flights to Las Vegas are usually reasonably priced compared to Phoenix (another popular point of origin for a Grand Canyon road trip).

Whether you’re planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas or you’re ending your southwest journey in Sin City, we’ve created a Las Vegas-Grand Canyon road trip itinerary to get you rolling.

Before we jump into places to visit on the way, you’ll need to decide what region(s) of the Grand Canyon you want to visit. Each tourist region can be reached fairly easily from Las Vegas by car, depending on how much time you have.

If you have five days or more, and are flexible with your route, you can easily hit all four regions by following our itinerary. If you have less time, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered, too.

Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Road Trip

Explore all four rims of the Grand Canyon—and beyond if you want to keep the fun rolling!

Route Summary

Las Vegas → Springs Preserve → Boulder City →  Hoover Dam & Lake Mead → Grand Canyon West → Route 66: Kingman and Seligman, AZ → Williams, AZ → Tusayan → South Rim National Park → Return to Las Vegas or continue east → Grand Canyon East and Page, AZ → Flagstaff, Sedona, and Jerome → Montezuma Castle → Phoenix

Total Miles Travelled: 823 miles (from Las Vegas to Phoenix); 784 miles (Las Vegas Loop) Total Driving Time: 14 hours 40 minutes; 13 hours 35 minutes Recommended Trip Duration: 5-7 days

To make it easier for road trippers who have less time to explore the southwest, we’ve broken up our itinerary into two segments:

From Las Vegas to the South Rim and everything in between, including Grand Canyon West, Route 66, and the Hoover Dam. Ideal for shorter timelines, loop routes, and those beginning their road trip in Las Vegas.

• If you only have one day for your Grand Canyon road trip, opt for the West Rim—you can easily make it there and back to Las Vegas in a single day. Save yourself the work of driving and hop on a guided tour instead—there are many guided tour options available, including airplane tours, helicopter floor landings, and leisurely Colorado River boat tours through the Grand Canyon.
• If you only have the time to visit one Rim, head to the South Rim—it has the greatest number of viewpoints, guided ranger programs, and hiking trails, as well as many of the most iconic sights and vistas. The best way to experience the South Rim as part of a Grand Canyon road trip is to spend the night—that way, you can break up the drive and check out the many other places to visit on the way to the Grand Canyon. More on that below.
• If you have more time, you can add the East Edge segment to your trip.

ROAD TRIP TIP: While it is possible to drive straight to the South Rim from Las Vegas and back in a single day, we don’t recommend it—you won’t have time to stop at the many other places to visit on the way to the Grand Canyon, and you may feel too rushed to truly enjoy the splendor of the South Rim. Instead, plan to spend the night somewhere so you can experience everything the region has to offer without feeling stressed or pressured to get back on the road, or hop on a guided South Rim tour and let someone else do the driving.

Explore the sights and attractions that lie beyond the borders of the South Rim, including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and Bryce Canyon, as well as cities like Flagstaff, Sedona, and Phoenix. Ideal for those journeying westward towards Las Vegas from Phoenix or other eastern points of origin, or for longer road trips. If you have lots of time to work with, you can also add the East Edge component of the Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary to the West Edge segment of our suggested route, or skip the West Edge altogether by heading straight to the South Rim from Las Vegas and continuing east.

The Ultimate Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Road Trip: West Edge route details

What can you see and do between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, and beyond? Let’s find out.

Las Vegas hosts nearly 43 million visitors every year. Its reputation for catering to visitors of every inclination—including kids—and its proximity to numerous Southwest locations make it an ideal spot to start your Grand Canyon road trip. Depending on your preferences, you can start your Grand Canyon road trip in Las Vegas or end your southwest adventure in Sin City.

If you have a few days to explore Las Vegas, check out our Ultimate Guide to Visiting Las Vegas for our tips for finding the right hotel, what to pack, where to eat, and what to see and do in the city limits and beyond.

The Ultimate Las Vegas Visitor Guide: Meet the Contributors

• November 10, 2021

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Springs Preserve

Located just 5 miles from the Strip, Springs Preserve is a 180-acre natural preserve featuring interactive exhibits about how to live sustainably in the desert, the history of Las Vegas, and its historic and current inhabitants.

It’s a great place to stop if you’re beginning your southwest adventure in Las Vegas for a quick primer on area history, geology, and wildlife. If you’re ending your Grand Canyon road trip in Las Vegas too, make sure you visit Springs Preserve either before you continue your journey or head home.

Boulder City

About 30 minutes southeast of Las Vegas and just a short hop from Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, Boulder City is the last place you can stop for major metropolitan conveniences before you hit the desert.

ROAD TRIP TIP:  Skip the busy and expensive breakfast in Sin City and stop in Boulder City instead. Pack a picnic to enjoy in Hemenway Park—you may even spot a bighorn sheep. They’re known to frequent the area.

Hoover Dam & Lake Mead

• The Hoover Dam created the nation’s largest reservoir—Lake Mead—covering 248 square miles and containing approximately 29 million acre-feet of water. One acre-foot is equivalent to about 325,000 gallons. As a result of a drought in the Colorado River Basin, Lake Mead has since dropped to its lowest water level since it was first filled in the 1930s.
• It took a total of 21,000 workers to build the Hoover Dam. Each worker was paid an hourly wage ranging from $0.50 to $1.25. There were officially 96 construction-related fatalities, but no workers were buried alive while the Dam was poured.
• The Dam consists of approximately 4.3 million cubic yards of concrete—that’s enough concrete to pave a 16-foot-wide, 8-inch-thick road from San Francisco to New York City.
• The Hoover Dam is not the world’s tallest dam—that title belongs to the 1,001 foot high Jinping-I Dam in Liangshan, Sichuan, China.
• Lake Mead is America’s most diverse recreation area, with 600,000 hectares of mountains, canyons, and wilderness, plus two lakes where you can fish, participate in watersports, and swim.

About 40 miles east of Las Vegas, this is a great place to stop and stretch your legs while you snap a pic of Lake Mead, the Hoover Dam, and the Bypass Bridge. If you have the time, hop on a Hoover Dam tour and journey deep inside the Dam for a look at the hydroelectric generators, a chance to navigate the interior tunnels, and to learn more about the Dam. Guided tours run daily and are about one hour in duration.

The Hoover Dam isn’t directly en route for road trips to the North Rim or Grand Canyon East, so if you’re heading in that direction, you might be better off making a separate trip or taking a guided Hoover Dam tour from Las Vegas so you can take your time to truly enjoy the visit.

After your visit to the Hoover Dam, cross the Bypass Bridge into Arizona.

ROAD TRIP TIP: Arizona does not observe daylight saving. After you cross the border, double check your timezones so you can adjust your clocks accordingly and stay on schedule.

• Grand Canyon West

Continue 100 miles from the Hoover Dam to Grand Canyon West. If you don’t have time to visit Grand Canyon West and the South Rim, stay on Highway 93 till you reach Kingman, AZ .

While you’re there, be sure to check out Eagle Point and Guano Point, as well as attractions like the Skywalk, Hualapai Ranch, and the new zipline.

Learn more about what you can do and see at Grand Canyon West:

These 3 Viewpoints Will Make You Want to Visit the Grand Canyon’s West Rim

• September 24, 2021

The Grand Canyon’s West Rim has no shortage of breathtaking vistas and experiences to offer.

How Did They Build the Skywalk?

• August 24, 2021

Learn how this 1.2 million pound steel and glass structure is able to extend straight out from the edge of Eagle Point, 4,000 feet above the Canyon floor.

8 Reasons Why You Should Visit the West Rim

• August 10, 2021

There are many advantages to visiting the West Rim. Here’s why you should make the short trip to the West Rim next time you’re in Las Vegas.

8 Questions We Know You Have About the Grand Canyon Skywalk

• August 9, 2021

How does the Skywalk stay up? How thick is the glass? Keep reading to get the answer to all your questions about the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

Route 66: Kingman and Seligman, AZ

After visiting Grand Canyon West, it’s time to get your kicks on Route 66. Hop on the Mother Road in Kingman, AZ and continue your journey along one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System.

ROUTE 66 FACT: Route 66 was established in 1926. Also known as the Main Street of America and the Mother Road, Route 66 originally stretched from Chicago through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before culminating in California. Because it crossed the majority of the country, it was one of the main routes for people migrating west during the 1930s Dust Bowl.

Kingman, AZ

Kingman, AZ, is a common stop on the road between the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas or Los Angeles, and it’s where you’ll catch Route 66 if you’re planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon. With over 60 restaurants to choose from, including the famous Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner (try their famous homemade root beer), it’s a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to spend the night after exploring Grand Canyon West—you can even hunker down in one of the last remaining pre-WWII tourist motor courts. Kingman, AZ

Be sure to check out:

• The Arizona Route 66 Museum: Located across from Mr. D’z Route 66 Dinner, this museum features photos of Dust Bowl survivors and stories of post-WWII America, as well as an exhibit featuring the famous Burma-Shave signs that used to line the route.
• The old town area —it’s a living tribute to the Mother Road.
• The world’s longest Route 66 map, painted onto the side of the El Trovatore Motel. Also check out El Trovatore’s restored 100-foot neon sign.

ROAD TRIP TIP: Take a short 30-mile detour off Route 66 from Kingman to visit Oatman, AZ. This abandoned ghost town was originally founded in 1908, and is now home to just 135 people. Stop in for some quick souvenir shopping before you continue your journey to the South Rim.

Seligman, AZ

About 87 miles from Kingman along Route 66, Seligman is a great place to stop and stretch your legs on your way to the South Rim. There are only 500 inhabitants and few tourists. Check out the Route 66 General Store and the Return of the 50s Museum, and stop in at the Roadkill Cafe to try one of their famous buffalo burgers.

ROUTE HACK: If you want to save some time, skip the drive down Route 66 and hop on the I-40 instead. You’ll shave 14 miles off your trip.

Williams, AZ

Williams, AZ is your last stop on Route 66 (signposted here as Route 161). Despite its small size, there’s lots to do in Williams before you head to Tusayan and onto the Grand Canyon:

• Bearizona Drive-thru Wildlife Park: See bears, wolves, buffalo, and more, from the comfort and safety of your own car.
• Grand Canyon Brewing Co: If you’re a fan of craft brews, jump on a brewery tour or stop for a bite.
• Kaibab National Forest: Explore the Kaibab National Forest and try some of the many hiking trails that originate in Williams.
• Grand Canyon Railway: Bypass Tusayan and hop on the Grand Canyon Railway for a leisurely ride through the Arizona forest right to the Grand Canyon Village, complete with a (staged) train heist.

Williams is also a convenient place to spend the night—it’s about an hour’s drive to the South Rim, and hotels are more plentiful and affordable than inside the National Park.

Tusayan, AZ

Las Vegas → Springs Preserve → Boulder City →  Hoover Dam & Lake Mead → Grand Canyon West → Route 66: Kingman and Seligman, AZ → Williams, AZ → Tusayan → South Rim National Park → Return to Las Vegas or continue east → Grand Canyon East and Page, AZ → Flagstaff, Sedona, and Jerome → Montezuma Castle → Phoenix

A short 1-hour drive from Williams, Tusayan, AZ is your last stop before the Grand Canyon. Like Williams, Tusayan is a prime spot to spend the night, but since it’s only about 15 minutes from the South Rim, hotels book up quick, so book as far in advance as possible. Stop in at the National Geographic Visitor Center and the IMAX theater to learn all about the hidden secrets of the Grand Canyon before you make your way to the South Rim.

Grand Canyon South Rim National Park

Make the most of your Grand Canyon road trip and stay overnight at (or near) the South Rim. Two days gives you the perfect amount of time to snap pics at the most iconic viewpoints, explore the Grand Canyon Village , and even check out some hiking trails.

ROAD TRIP TIP: If you want to stay overnight inside the National Park, book your accommodation as early as possible. Hotels on the Rim can be fully booked up to a year in advance.

If you’re not staying overnight in the National Park or only have one day to explore, park your car in the lots near the main entrances and take advantage of the shuttle bus. It’s the best way to get around and easily access every viewpoint and attraction, including:

• Mojave Point
• The Grand Canyon Village
• Mather Point

Discover 11 more South Rim viewpoints to visit, find out what to do in the Grand Canyon Village, and more with our South Rim resources:

6 Iconic Grand Canyon Buildings Designed by Mary Colter

• August 25, 2021

Exploring the Grand Canyon Village

• August 20, 2021

Located on the South Rim within the Grand Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon Village contains many of the Grand Canyon’s most iconic buildings and structures.

15 Breathtaking Grand Canyon South Rim Viewpoints [Updated in 2023]

• February 28, 2023

Some of the most recognizable Grand Canyon viewpoints can be found at the South Rim. Discover some of the most popular, from remote Yuma Point to Desert View Watchtower.

Should I Drive to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas or Take a Guided Tour?

• July 28, 2021

Las Vegas is one of the closest major cities to the Grand Canyon, so the question for Vegas visitors isn’t “should I visit the Grand Canyon?”, it’s “should I drive myself to the Canyon, or take a guided tour?”.

Return to Las Vegas or continue east

From the South Rim, you can return to Las Vegas and check out any spots you might have missed on your way to the Grand Canyon, or you can continue east to explore the east rim and beyond on the East Edge segment of the Ultimate Las Vegas-Grand Canyon road trip.

The Ultimate Las Vegas-Grand Canyon Road Trip: East Edge route details

Continuing eastward? Here’s where to stop on your journey.

Grand Canyon East and Page, AZ

Page, AZ is the perfect home base for exploring the Grand Canyon East region, including Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe Bend (one of the most photographed natural places in the world), Marble Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell.

Spend a day exploring viewpoints like Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, then trade your tent, camper, or hotel room and rent a houseboat on Lake Powell for a relaxing break from the road.

FACT: Lake Powell is the second largest manmade lake in the United States, with nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, more than 90 major canyons, and numerous sandy beaches.

Learn more about the Grand Canyon East region and find out what else you can do and see in our East Rim Guide.

From Page, you can head back west to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, or detour northeast to Monument Valley before continuing on to Flagstaff, Sedona, and Jerome.

Flagstaff, Sedona, and Jerome, AZ

Las Vegas → Springs Preserve → Boulder City →  Hoover Dam & Lake Mead → Grand Canyon West → Route 66: Kingman and Seligman, AZ → Williams, AZ → Tusayan → South Rim National Park → Return to Las Vegas or continue east → Grand Canyon East and Page, AZ → Flagstaff, Sedona, and Jerome  → Montezuma Castle → Phoenix

Flagstaff, Jerome, and Sedona, AZ are all very close to each other—only about 70 miles separate Flagstaff and Jerome, with Sedona sitting right in the middle. You can easily explore all three towns in 2 or 3 days.

If you’re arriving from the east rim of the Grand Canyon or Monument Valley, your first stop will be Flagstaff. If your Las Vegas-Grand Canyon road trip originated in Phoenix, you’ll reach Jerome first.

Flagstaff is home to Mount Humphreys, Arizona’s tallest mountain, as well as the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort. The resort is open year round, with summertime activities like tubing, bungee trampolining, ropes courses, and more. You can also hop on the scenic chairlift for a ride up the western side of the San Francisco Peaks to catch birds-eye views of Northern Arizona, including the red rocks of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. There are also numerous hiking trails leading up to the resort and in the surrounding area.

The Flagstaff Arboretum is also worth a visit—this 200-acre botanical garden is home to 2,500 plant species, and one of the largest collections of mountain plants and wildflowers in the world.

DETOUR: Fans of the Eagles (the band) might recognize another town near Flagstaff. You too can stand on the corner of Winslow, Arizona—it’s only about an hour’s drive from Flagstaff. After a quick stop in Winslow, continue another 60 miles east to Petrified Forest National Park. From here, you can return to Flagstaff or continue on to Phoenix.

Situated in the middle of Arizona’s red mountains and right between Flagstaff and Jerome, Sedona is an ideal spot to set up camp while you explore the area. There are plenty of upscale hotels, spas, and restaurants to enjoy, as well as dozens of hiking and biking trails, and other activities such as:

• Sedona Trolley: Hop on board this historic trolley for a 55 minute narrated tour of Sedona’s landmarks and scenic overlooks.
• Oak Creek Canyon: About 4 miles outside of Sedona, this 12-mile long river gorge is a lovely place to stop for a picnic lunch.
• Meteor Crater: Created more than 50,000 years ago when a meteor crashed into the earth, this giant crater stretches 1 mile across and is more than 550 feet deep. Bonus for Eagles fans: it’s located just outside Winslow, AZ.

Founded in the late 19th century, Jerome was once a booming mining town with a population of more than 10,000 people. Today, it’s home to less than 500 people, but there’s lots to explore, including numerous ghost and vampire tours, as well as historical and heritage sites.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Adventurous travelers might enjoy an overnight stay at the Grand Hotel—formerly an insane asylum, the Grand Hotel is now considered one of the most haunted hotels in the country. If you’re a fan of the band Tool, take a trip to Caduceus Cellars—Maynard James Keenan’s winery—for a tasting.

Montezuma Castle

If you’re heading to Phoenix from Flagstaff, Sedona, or Jerome, stop at Montezuma Castle, just 25 miles outside of Jerome, to see the well-preserved ruins of an early cliff dwelling built around 700 AD by the pre-Columbian Sinagua people.

Whether you start your journey in Phoenix and head westward towards the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas, or end your epic Grand Canyon road trip from Las Vegas in Arizona’s state capital, there’s lots to see and do in Phoenix.

Enjoy the sunshine (Arizona’s capital city sees 310 days of sunshine per year) while you check out these activities and attractions:

• Street art on Roosevelt Row: Get that perfect vacation selfie (besides your #CanyonSelfie, of course).
• Camelback Mountain: Hike to the top of Camelback Mountain for some of the best views of the area. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to start early to beat the heat. There are also several less intensive hikes in the area.
• First Friday: On the first Friday of every month, downtown Phoenix turns into a huge street festival, complete with food trucks, live music, street exhibitions, and more.
• Taliesin West: Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous home on the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s Night Lights tour.
• Tubing: Float down the salt river in Tonto National Forest.
• South Mountain Park and Preserve: Explore over 16,000 acres of land, with over 50 miles of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails.

If you’re planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas is a great place to kickstart or wrap up your journey. You can reach each of the four rims of the Grand Canyon by car, and there are numerous places to visit on the way. See them all on the Ultimate Las Vegas-Grand Canyon road trip itinerary:

The Ultimate Grand Canyon Road Trip Guide

Get more tips for your Grand Canyon road trip in our comprehensive guide:

Itineraries

• 7 Popular Grand Canyon Road Trip Routes
• Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park

Tips & Road Trip Hacks

• How To Plan a Road Trip

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Getting to the Grand Canyon

12 more national & state parks within driving distance of las vegas [updated in 2023].

Las Vegas is within easy driving distance of a number of iconic state and national monuments. Here are 12 of the most popular spots you can reach from Vegas.

• Grand Canyon South
• Grand Canyon North
• Grand Canyon East
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Top 10 Road Trip Destinations from Las Vegas (with Maps, Tolls & Tips)

Vegas baby! For many, a trip to Sin City is simply slot machines, video poker, and getting stuffed at all you can eat buffets. But if Lady Luck isn’t on your side, or you’re just looking for an adventure away from the strip, Las Vegas is a great starting point for a road trip. Whether it’s a quick day trip or a longer outing to San Diego or Arizona, Las Vegas is perfectly positioned to give you some amazing experiences. Ready to plan your route? Here are the 10 best Las Vegas road trips you can take.

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• The Hoover Dam
• Death Valley
• Grand Canyon
• Los Angeles
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Palm Springs
• Zion National Park
• Lake Havasu
• Other long road trips from Las Vegas

1. The Hoover Dam, NV

Considered one of the greatest engineering achievements in human history, the Hoover Dam still draws in thousands of tourists a day. Built in the 1930s, the dam towers of the Colorado River, offering spectacular views from a dizzying 900 feet.

Sixt Pro Tip:

It’s also worth checking out the nearby town of Boulder City, which caters to visitors with zip lining, four wheeling and brewery tours at Boulder Dam Brewing Co. Enjoy the ride even more in a Ford Mustang convertible.

Sixt Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 35 miles; a 45-minute drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

2. Lake Mead

Take a short drive east of Las Vegas to a “lake” that is actually a reservoir that was formed when the Hoover Dam was built. Lake Mead is the closest body of water to Vegas and a great place to go swimming, boating and jet skiing.

Entrance fees are $25 per vehicle and are valid for a week. But if you think you’ll be back again, it might make sense to get the annual pass for $40. If you need a rental, an SUV can carry all your outdoor gear.

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 31 miles; a 51-minute drive TOLLS: There are no tolls on the route.

3. Death Valley, CA

With the highest recorded temperature in history at 134 degrees, Death Valley deserves its ominous name. But if you can stand the heat, Death Valley offers some of the most spectacular and dramatic scenery in the southwest. Dunes, salt flats, mountains, ancient trails, prehistoric rock formations and the lowest-elevation lake in North America.

Surviving the heat doesn’t always look stylish. Wear a dorky expedition hat, and slather on the sunblock; you’ll thank us later. You may also want to consider a premium car with ice-cold air conditioning, like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 123 miles; a 2.5-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

4. Grand Canyon, AZ

You’ll go through a few playlists getting to the Grand Canyon, but we promise it lives up to the hype. Grand Canyon National Park is a hugely popular destination for hiking, donkey rides and whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities, and is well worth the tank of gas to get there and back.

The most epic views are found at the South Rim of the canyon, but if you’re feeling adventurous, drive to the west rim where the Hualapai Tribe operates the famous skywalk. And why not rent a Ford Mustang convertible to enjoy 360-degree views?

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 271 miles; a 4-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

5. Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking for a road trip with a variety of scenery, start driving southwest on Interstate 15 and don’t stop until you hit Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean. There’s something for everyone in LA, including too many amazing food trucks to try in just a day, so make a weekend of it.

Looking to heat things up? Make a pitstop in Baker and check out the world’s largest thermometer. And since you’re heading the stars’ way, you’ll need an all-star to blend in. Treat yourself to a Jaguar F-Type Convertible. You can also choose a one-way rental car from Vegas to LA from SIXT.

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS:  262 miles; a 4-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

6. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

See a different kind of desert landscape with a road trip to Joshua Tree on I-15 from Las Vegas. Many people head to the park for hiking through the rugged rock formations and distinctive Joshua trees. It’s also an excellent spot for stargazing, rock climbing and camping. Just be sure to be prepared for the weather, which can be very hot or cold depending on the time of year and day.

SIXT Pro Tip:

Make sure to come prepared for your visit to Joshua Tree. There is no drinkable water available in the park, so bring plenty with you. This is the desert after all! Also plan to come early to avoid crowds and snag a parking spot, especially if you are visiting in spring, fall or winter.

SIXT Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 187 miles; a 3 hr 15 min drive

TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

7. Phoenix, AZ

Go for a longer drive and spend some time in Phoenix. You can take US Highway 93 S all the way from Las Vegas to Phoenix, and pass through some interesting towns and desert landscape along the way.

You can drive on a stretch of the famous Route 66 as you pass through Kingman, Arizona. You can even visit the Route 66 Museum here. If you or your kids are into trains, there is the Kingman Railroad Museum and Locomotive Park, which are a nod to the city’s past as a railway hub.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS:  300 miles; a 5-hour drive

8. Palm Springs, CA

Make the 4-hour drive to the desert oasis of Palm Springs. The city is popular for its golf courses, spas and setting at the foot of rugged mountains. While you can fill your time with outdoor activities like hiking in the neighboring Coachella Valley, you can also just relax and shop in the many boutiques.

Architecture fans will delight in driving around the city and seeing all of the midcentury-modern houses and buildings. You can stay in a midcentury-modern hotel or resort, or just drive around the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood where more than 300 homes were built in this architectural style in the 1950s.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS:  233 miles; a 4-hour drive

9. Zion National Park, UT

In less than 3 hours you can be in one of the most popular national parks in the US. Take I-15 to the northeast and either do a straight drive or stop in other popular spots like the Grand Canyon along the way. Just be sure to fill up on gas before leaving Las Vegas because you won’t hit many towns until crossing into Utah.

Take a little side trip south on Highway 167 to Valley of Fire State Park. You can see the amazing rock formations that contribute to the park’s name, and just enjoy the scenery before continuing to Zion.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 158 miles; a 2 hr 45 min drive

TOLLS: When you get to Utah State Route 9, called the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, you will have to pay an entrance fee to Zion National Park. It costs $25.00 for a 7-day pass.

10. Lake Havasu, AZ

Drive south on Highway 95 to the California/Arizona border to relax at Lake Havasu. Like Lake Mead, Lake Havasu is also a reservoir formed by a dam on the Colorado River. It has beaches to relax on while you enjoy the mountain view.

You don’t need to go across the pond to see a landmark of England. The exterior part of London Bridge was relocated to Lake Havasu in the late 1960s and now spans the Colorado River rather than the River Thames, linking the mainland of Lake Havasu City to an island.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 153 miles; a 2 hr 30 min drive

11. Other long road trips from Las Vegas

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Best 2 week Tours from Las Vegas

Find the best 2 week adventures and trips starting from Las Vegas. Choose from 413 tours - we've found the most popular time to visit is in August with the most number of tour departures.

21 trips from Las Vegas with 413 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Zion to San Francisco Adventure

Utah, Nevada & California

This tour is everything I’ve ever dreamed for, road trips, the hikes, breathtaking scenery, great people, I’m able to do a lot of things i can’t if I travel on my own, highly recommended

• In-depth Cultural

Canyons, Cities & National Parks: 14-Day West Coast Adventure featuring Grand Canyon, LA, Yosemite & San Fran

I’ve just come back from the Coyote West Coast tour and it was brilliant! The itinerary covered everywhere we wanted to go (and a little bit more) and got the balance right between seeing enough different places without feeling too rushed. Equally, it was cool to have the opportunity to see a more rural and local side to the states as opposed to well known destinations. The accommodation at each stop was great and always central enough to wherever you were. Jessa, our tour guide, was great and recommending local restaurants and bars away from the tourist traps. She’s was also on hand at all hours if we needed any advice or help getting things booked. We had a really good group and all got on well together. Highlights were visiting the Grand Canyon (with Whisky tasting after), Santa Monica which is stunning and cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge. It was an added bonus not having to think about transport and activities as this was all organised for you. Epic trip, 100% recommend! Thanks Coyote!

Best of the West 11 Day National Parks Tour Camping from Las Vegas to San Francisco

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of the West 11 Day National Parks Tour Lodging Las Vegas to San Francisco

It was the best experience ever! Loved all the places and the guide was great. The only not so well recommended is the food kitty cause the lunches were not good. We had opportunities to stop at places that we could’ve bought our choice lunch ourselves.

Spectacular Canyons and National Parks (End Denver, 13 Days, Denver Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer) (19 destinations)

It was an enjoyable good for thw value tour. The first night accomodation in Circus Circus was very poor. Other accomations were fair to good. The transportation was good. A little more information about geography and history would be helpful and add to the total experience. All breakfasts and some dinners need to be included to make it hassel free.

• Coach / Bus

Spectacular Canyons and National Parks (End Rapid City, 13 Days, Keystone To Rapid City Airport Coach Drop)

• Sightseeing

Great Cities of the West

• Mountain Hikes

Grand Circle Experience

The seemingly infinite knowledge of Jason's awareness of tour industry sites and enthusiasm for detail.

• Walking Adventure

National Parks Walk

National Park Discovery - Starting in Las Vegas

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Enchanting Canyonlands

Vegas Stars & Canyon Skies

Private Tour- Best of the West 11 Day National Parks Tour Lodging Las Vegas to San Francisco

Yellowstone Rocky Mountain and California Desert 11 DAY Explorer Camping

We did a 7 day tour to Yellowstone from Las Vegas and a 4 day tour from Las Vegas to San Fran via Yosemite and they were both fantastic! Very good value for money and our tour guides were also really good and friendly. They were so helpful and knowledgeable on everything we were doing. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and will definitely be booking more tours!

Reviews of 2 week Tours from Las Vegas

I just returned from the 14-days West Coast Tour. It was a great trip!! I had such a good time, saw so many breathtaking, beautiful places and met so many kind people. Our guides were amazing too! They are so caring and will definitely make you feel good during your trip! I can only recommend this tour! :)

Fascinating tour of unique and amazing and colourful geography and geology and lots of informative commentary from the guides. Would definitely recommend to others. Value for money. We had two guides, on covered Colorado plateau, the other Yosemite and on to San Francisco. Modern, comfortable vehicles.The guides were perceptive to the needs and physical abilities of the group.

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6 of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas

A popular Las Vegas marketing slogan has successfully become a part of Sin City's identifying lexicon and culture: "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas."

The image the phrase conjures up is part illusion and part reality. But if what was going to happen in Vegas has already happened, what can you do now? Or, as Vegas' new marketing video implies, what if you need to find something new?

Fortunately, there's so much more to Vegas than just casinos , expensive concerts and fancy meals. For travelers who've already seen the main attractions, or locals who are ready to spread their wings, here are six of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

For the latest travel news, deals and points and miles tips please subscribe to The Points Guy daily email newsletter .

Mount Charleston

Driving time from Las Vegas: One hour

For a dramatic and totally unexpected escape from the bright city lights, get in your rental car and head up to Mount Charleston. It's visible from some Las Vegas hotels and is part of the Spring Mountains, behind which the sun sets each day. It doesn't look overly inviting or welcoming from Las Vegas Boulevard because the eastern front of the range appears mostly barren and dry. But that distant and somewhat hostile impression plays a big part in the surprise that awaits the first-time visitor.

What to do: Mount Charleston is a relaxed, outdoor playground perfect for a variety of outdoor experiences such as hiking, camping, skiing, horseback riding or even just a scenic drive. It's a clear contrast between Nevada's two worlds: man-made and natural. The man-made sits on the valley floor, the natural tops out at 11,900 feet. One has imported palm trees, the other has tall Ponderosa pines and aspens that glow gold in the fall.

If you find Las Vegas overwhelming, you'll love the fresh, crisp air here. The towering glass-and-steel hotels are replaced by cabins made of rough-hewn logs and in an instant, your blood pressure drops. You're only 50 miles from Vegas, but it feels like a thousand.

During the drive to Mount Charleston, be sure to stop at the Desert View Overlook. There you'll find a short and well-maintained path that leads to an expansive and panoramic vista of the Mojave Desert below. A series of informative panels provide information about what you're viewing and its history.

Part of what you'll see includes the Nevada Test Site, the scene of almost 1,000 nuclear detonations from the 1950s to the 1990s. About 100 of these were atmospheric tests that resulted in mushroom clouds that could be seen from Las Vegas.

Farther up the road, at the end of Lee Canyon, is the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort.

Yes, there's a real outdoor ski area within an easy drive from Las Vegas. Sure, it's small, but there's enough terrain and snow to provide for a great winter getaway. The area historically receives about 200 inches of snow each season, with temperatures about 30 to 40 degrees lower than those in the valley. At other times of the year, it's a still a beautiful backdrop for a picnic.

A few years ago, we skied at the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort, and I wouldn't hesitate to include it into another Vegas winter stay.

Where to eat: Be sure to fit the Mount Charleston Lodge and Restaurant into your day trip; it's a quintessential mountain experience.

The very popular restaurant has a rustic A-frame design with full windows on three sides that allow guests to enjoy the view while perusing the large menu. An expansive porch wraps around the exterior to allow for outdoor dining, and a central fireplace adds to the coziness. You will also likely find authentic Native American jewelry and goods crafted by local artisans for sale.

Where to stay: The Mount Charleston log cabins start at around $125 per night. Of course, since Mount Charleson is only an hour from Las Vegas, you could also head back to Las Vegas in time for your dinner reservation on the Strip.

Valley of Fire State Park

A second easily reachable destination outside Las Vegas is the Valley of Fire State Park . It's about an hour away from the city via I-15 N to Exit 75. The Valley of Fire is named for the color of the 150-million-year-old Aztec Red sandstone that comprises a lot of the park. We've also been there with the temperatures approaching 120 degrees, so maybe the heat also has something to do with the name.

What to do: A $10-per-car entrance fee is required and a stop at the visitor center is suggested. There you'll find a comprehensive study of the park and learn about how it was created. Also, there are restrooms and a small store selling snacks and souvenirs . Make sure you leave the visitor center with a map, a plan and water. Lots of water. It's very dry and has a very high ultraviolet and heat index.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Las Vegas

Valley of Fire State Park can be thoroughly enjoyed from the car using the excellent Scenic Loop Road that curves its way through the rock formations. But you'll be best served by at least an occasional stop at the many parking areas that provide access to some of the most distinctive features.

For instance, there's the Petroglyph Canyon that leads to Mouse's Tank. Here, rock etchings created by inhabitants from 2,500 years ago are visible on the sides of this short canyon. The canyon floor is covered with a loose, fine, deep sand that will easily make its way into your shoes and boots.

Another easy stop is Rainbow Vista, a colorful, panoramic landscape that seems to change hue with the movement of the sun. One of our favorites is the one-mile, round-trip hike to the Fire Wave. A relatively flat and easy trek leads you to undulating sandstone formations enhanced by swirling ribbons of contrasting color.

It is a small but very dramatic area you'll be glad to see — especially if you need a break from all the neon in Las Vegas. Just remember, there's little to no shade on this walk, and the heat can certainly be a risk.

White Domes is a crowd favorite. The mile-and-a-half-long trail leads you down past remnants of an old movie set and through a short but impressive slot canyon before looping back toward the parking area. The landscape is peppered with towering rock formations that look especially resplendent against the darker colors of the nearby desert rocks.

Related: The best national and state parks to visit with kids in the Southwest

Don't miss the petroglyph panel known as Atlatl Rock. You climb about four stories of metal stairs to get a close-up look of the carvings that are highlighted by images of the Atlatl — an ancient hunting weapon.

The Valley of Fire offers history and hills ablaze. There are petroglyphs and petrified logs; arches and ancient art; balanced rocks and bighorn sheep. Among the waves of red rock and snaking roads, you'll find the Valley of Fire is a destination on its own, but also a nice road trip from Las Vegas.

Where to stay: As with Mount Charleston, you could easily make a day trip from Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire State Park, but there are options if you want to spend the night. There is camping available within the state park. You can also choose among some budget hotels, such as the North Shore Inn at Lake Mead, about 12 miles away. But, if you want some luxury at the end of your day of hiking, you'll probably want to head back to Vegas.

Related: Review of the Bellagio Las Vegas

Death Valley

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

What to do: The things to do in Death Valley are to absorb the unusual, value the uniqueness, respect the environment and simply survive. Death Valley is different, beautiful in its own way and extreme.

One of the high points, if the lowest elevation in the U.S. can ever be defined using the word high, is Badwater Basiin, 282 feet below with sea-level starkness. Heatwaves dance and mirages come to life here during the heat of the day. The distance itself becomes an optical illusion.

Artists Palette on Artists Drive is also worth investigating as the rolling hills are splotched with multi-colored hues much like an artist's palette. The colors are usually best defined in the late afternoon light.

The road is one-way, well paved and narrow. And fun. It is a miniature roller coaster ride that you may want to take twice. It is at its best when you have the road to yourself.

Other popular and automobile-accessible locations for Vegas day-trippers are Zabriskie Point and Dante's Peak. Dante's sits about one mile above the valley floor and offers an expansive overlook of Badwater Basin and its surroundings. Zabriskie is likely the park's most popular viewing spot and offers a nice vantage for sunrise and sunsets.

Golden Canyon is just off Badwater Road and allows visitors to get an intimate feel for Death Valley without going too far from your car's air conditioning.

If time allows, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes near Stovepipe Wells is a good visit. The sand hills rise and flow, poetically delineated by the rippled ridges of the sand that are forever at the mercy of a thermal wind. This is another good locale for the photographer in you.

Stops at the Harmony Borax Worksite, the Park Information Center and at the Death Valley National Park sign are certain to be on most visitors' agendas. If you spend the night in the park, the skies in Death Valley can get dynamically dark, providing a brilliant celestial show. During the day, Navy fighter jets race across those same skies.

Related: What to expect as national parks reopen

Death Valley is best enjoyed when the temperature is an ally and not an enemy. Think October through April. Also, like most of the great and grand outdoors, optimum viewing is when the sun is lower in the sky and not directly overhead. We have been to Death Valley when the temperatures were 115+. It is doable ... but the land's ancestral natives did not call the area Tomesha ("Ground Afire") without cause.

Where to stay: You can stay within Death Valley at Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel in one of 83 rooms that start around $150 per night. There are also campsites and RV hookups available -- along with a general store, the Toll Road Restaurant and Badwater Saloon.

Other options can be found at the Oasis at Death Valley, the Ranch at Death Valley and the Inn at Death Valley, set along Highway 190 next to the National Park Service Visitor Center. Here you'll find lush date palms, spring-fed pools and even golf.

Related: The US welcomes 3 new dark sky parks

Grand Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours to the closest point, the Grand Canyon West Rim

What to do: The Grand Canyon lives up to its name. It is quite ... grand. The more popular North and South Rims are also reachable by car from Vegas, but you'll need to budget several additional hours in the car each direction, with the South Rim being the closer of those two. The West Rim is closer still, though each offers its own unique possibilities.

Should you decide to make an overnight road trip to the South Rim, you might consider a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway that begins in Williams, Arizona, and takes you on a two-hour (each way) nostalgic journey to the canyon. Several trains run daily, and there are multiple price ranges available. This is a very popular experience and one we highly recommend. While in Williams, you can enjoy another homage to the past while you cruise down part of the famous Route 66.

But, the West Rim, which is run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe, is a reasonable driving distance from Las Vegas and this is where you'll find the Skywalk Glass Bridge that extends out over the edge of the canyon so you can look down 4,000 feet.

Where to stay: If you go to the West Rim, the Hualapai Ranch offers rustic cabins for rent. Along with your cabin stay, you also get access to an animatronic "Shootin' Gallery" and free magic and gunfight shows. Horseback rides are available at the ranch starting at $40.

Another nearby option is the Grand Canyon Western Ranch, about 10 miles away. At this ranch, you'll find pine cabins and glamping tents with prices that start around $200-$300 per night. In addition to the tents and cabins, you'll find horseback rides, wagon rides and a gun range.

Related: The best time to visit the Grand Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

Antelope Canyon is one of the best places we've ever been. This is the longest of the road trips we've recommended from Las Vegas, but it's also our favorite. It's at least a full-day commitment from Las Vegas, 275 miles away in Page, Arizona . In fact, you'll probably want to at least spend the night in Page before making your way back to Vegas.

What to do: What you'll find at Antelope Canyon are two slot canyons that will deliver a physical and visual experience unlike anything else on Earth.

The upper and the lower canyons are located on land of the Navajo Nation and can only be toured with authorized guides. Reservations can be made online and do sell out. Both canyons deliver stunning plays of light on sandstone sculpted by rushing water from infrequent but powerful desert storms. The upper is on ground level, and the lower makes its way through a narrow and winding passageway about 50 feet below ground.

There's no pattern to these natural works of art, just a rhythm of wild and unscripted motion. The walls rise and fall like waves, curl and curve into themselves. There are dynamic photo opportunities throughout the canyons as the walls gather and distribute the light from above in a multi-hued light show.

The Antelope Canyons are a mecca for the greatest of artists and for the iPhone photographer alike, so be sure to bring something to capture the moment.

Individually purchased adult tour prices will range from about $50 for the Lower Canyon to $60 for the Upper Canyon. The fees for children are $10 less. Special tours are available at a higher fee that allows extra time in the canyons, emphasize photography or allow access during "peak" times. During normal times, multiple tour companies make day trips to Antelope Canyon with 6 a.m. departures. Basic transportation costs about $65 from Vegas if you aren't driving, and full tours start around $200.

Of course, if you have your own car, you're on your own schedule.

Where to stay : There are a number of budget-friendly properties in Page, about 10 miles from Antelope Canyon. If you want to use your hotel points or free-night certificates, you can pick from the Hyatt Place Page - Lake Powell (12,000 Hyatt points), Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell (36,000 - 50,000 Hilton points) or Days Inn, Comfort Inn and Best Western-type properties.

Related: Fun road trips in Arizona

Zion National Park

Driving time from Las Vegas: Three hours

What to do: Zion is like a natural cathedral. It is that inspiring. Just the definitions and spiritual applications of the word Zion should give you a real hint as to the grandeur there.

Zion surrounds you, engulfs you and embraces you. And, before COVID-19 hit, it gave a lot of hugs as it was attracting about four million visitors each year. Zion's main features, its most popular venues, are mostly accessed from a single road that parallels the Virgin River. Traffic in the park can be congested, so a huge fleet of shuttle buses are used to minimize traffic.

You can appreciate Zion from a distance and get a broad view of the wonders much like an image presented by a panoramic photo. But Zion is best experienced by zooming in on individual segments and becoming more of a participant than a spectator.

Hikes and explorations range from an easy, but rewarding, stroll on the Riverside Walk to an all-day strenuous trek through water to the see the famous Narrows. In between, there is the uncomplicated and straightforward trail to Weeping Rock, the moderately challenging path to the Emerald Pools and The Canyon Overlook and the formidable climb to the breathtaking Angel's Landing.

As with most popular destinations, the best time to visit is the off-season when attendance is down. But since most travelers don't always have that scheduling freedom, it is best to simply get out early in the day, ahead of the crowd.

As a personal aside, if time does not permit a true visit to Zion, the spectacular Highway 9 from Springdale to Mount Carmel Junction is worth the time, the effort and the National Park fee. The road bisects part of the park and offers scenery and sights that will have you looking for one of the many turnouts and overlooks to pull into for an even better view. The road has a series of long tunnels that cut through the core of the mountains and the drive through the tunnels and the vistas when you emerge are truly exhilarating. Utah State Highway 9, the Zion Park Scenic Byway, is a travel treasure. (Just watch out for deer crossings.)

Where to stay: Within Zion, your options are either camping in one of the three campgrounds or booking a stay at the Zion National Park Lodge, where rooms and cabins often start at $220+ per night and can book up well in advance. But there are points-friendly options in the area too.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park sits in the shadow of Zion, and is bookable for 40,000-60,000 Marriott points per night. (Or a free-night certificate available from the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card when the room prices at 50,000 points per night or less). The Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park prices around 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night and the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale is 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night.

Related: Where to stay near national parks using hotel points

Bottom line

We love Las Vegas . We love it for what it is and what it will be post-coronavirus pandemic , but if you are looking for a road trip out of Las Vegas, there's plenty nearby that can broaden and enhance the experience. Safe travels!

My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

2-Day Road Trip From Las Vegas for Getting Outdoors

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Las Vegas is a popular destination for entertainment, fine dining, luxury travel experiences and gambling. If you’re like me, after a day or two, I’m ready to be outdoors. That’s where plans for a road trip from Las Vegas come in handy.

While you could road trip to Death Valley National Park or national parks like Zion or the Grand Canyon, Debi Lander ( ByLanderSea ) says you don’t have to go that far from Las Vegas to find outdoor adventure. Follow her two-day Las Vegas road trip itinerary for a nature break that escapes the glitz and high energy of the Strip.

When I looked out the window as my flight neared Las Vegas, I got a surprise—an aerial view of the Hoover Dam. I quickly grabbed my iPhone and took a photo. The impressive sight of this American icon filled me with wonder.

Once I met up with my travel buddy, Ellen, we picked up the rental car and drove to our hotel near the Hoover Dam for the start of our 2-day road trip from Las Vegas. The ride takes just a little over 30 minutes and passes through Boulder City , a town built in the 1930s for construction workers who worked on the dam.

The Hoover Dam Lodge , as you might expect, is not only ideally located for touring the Dam, but it overlooks scenic Lake Mead. Plus, it offers numerous restaurants and casino games without stepping out of the hotel.

Table of Contents

The 2-day road trip from Las Vegas begins at Hoover Dam

During our visit, Hoover Dam Visitor Center ( website here ) was still closed because of the pandemic, as were tours inside the tunnels, but that didn’t stop us. Checking out this U.S. National Monument doesn’t require more than a half-day (even including a tunnel tour) and much less if you are in a hurry.

Ellen and I walked down the promenade toward Hoover Dam, reading the signage, and photographing as we went along. The Dam was built between 1930-1936 in a wasteland of a forbiddingly dry, rocky desert.

The dam’s goal was to help control flooding on the Colorado River and to divert water where needed. Most importantly, the Hoover Dam would provide hydroelectric power to millions of nearby residents.

As the 6.6 million yards of concrete were poured, 96 workers lost their lives in accidents, but no one was buried alive. The project required working in sweltering heat to bore into carbon monoxide-choked tunnels and dangling from heights of 800 feet to clear canyon walls.

Over the years, some 21,000 workers contributed to the overall construction.

The sight of the complex staggered my mind. Everything about the place feels supersized. I glanced up at tilted transmission towers supported by massive braces and down at the immense, rounded curtain of concrete.

The dam measures 726 feet tall and 1,244 feet long, almost a quarter of a mile. According to some online research, “At its base, the Dam is a whopping 660 feet thick, about two football fields stretched end-to-end. At its top, Hoover Dam is 45 feet thick.” That may seem thin compared to its massive base, but it’s still nearly as wide as a four-lane highway.”

All visitors spot the 30-foot high Art Deco statues, known as the “Winged Figures of the Republic.” The pair resemble seated humans with sharp, angular features and wings that soar straight toward the sky.

Sculptor Oskar Hansen created them with more than four tons of statuary bronze. The two are now weathered with a green patina, except where visitors follow the tradition of rubbing their feet for good luck.

A terrazzo floor with a celestial chart surrounds the monument area. The base marks the position of key stars on the day the Hoover Dam was dedicated by President Franklin Roosevelt, September 30, 1935.

The water backed up by the Dam created Lake Mead, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. As the water reaches the block, it falls 500 feet through pipes to a hydroelectric power plant at the base. The water turns 17 hydraulic turbines, which then rotate a series of electric generators.

The engineering miracle produces a power capacity of 2,080 megawatts. Nearly half of the generated electric power goes to Los Angeles and Southern California ; the rest goes to Nevada and Arizona .

Previously, Highway 93 traversed the Dam’s crest, but that is no longer the case. Visitors now exit Highway 93 at Nevada State Route 172 to reach Hoover Dam. If you are traveling from the Arizona side, you can still cross the dam on the roadway to access Arizona viewpoints, but you must retrace your tire tracks to continue on Highway 93 into Nevada.

After September 11, 2001, severe security restrictions were imposed. Therefore, a new concrete arch bridge with a 1,060-foot span. It’s the longest in North America for that type of bridge

The Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge honors a former governor and community leader (O’Callagahan). It also honors professional football player turned Afghanistan war hero (Tillman).

I climbed the stairs as I ascended Memorial Bridge, reading plaques and, to be honest, catching my breath. While taking photos, I was reminded of a chase scene from one of my favorite movies, The Fugitive, but, in fact, the movie wasn’t filmed here.

Boomer Travel Tip

Use our road trip planner to make the most of your next road trip adventure.

Las Vegas road trip Day One: A national recreation area, museum and a state park

Lake Mead Visitor Center ( website here ) was located nearby our hotel and was our first stop on the first, full day of this Las Vegas road trip. The dramatic views contrast the difference between the water and the dry land.

The center offers maps and guides, and the staff helped direct us to the scenic drive to Valley of Fire. The other choice means driving on a boring major highway.

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

PIcking up the Northshore Road below the Visitor Center, toward the lake, the road leads directly to Valley of Fire, about a 50-mile drive. Traffic ran sparse perhaps because it is a toll road — but it’s free with National Park pass. (Once again, that senior pass is the best bargain ever.)

The drive along Northshore Road teases with glimpses of the bold red rocks in Valley of Fire State Park. We couldn’t resist stopping for several photo ops, so expect the drive to take longer than an hour!

Valley of Fire State Park does not operate a restaurant, so head to lunch before entering the park.

We chose the small town of Overton as our overnight headquarters, about the only place to stay and eat except for a few campsites (not our style.) The Northshore Inn at Lake Mead , a Best Western, was nothing special but perfect for our needs

Be sure to walk across the street to La Fonda Mexican Restaurant , which we highly recommend. The Overton McDonald’s sufficed for breakfast.

Lost City Museum

On the way to Valley of Fire, we stopped into the Lost City Museum ( website here ) just off the road. The rocks in this area date back millions of years, but artifacts tell stories of the people who lived in Southern Nevada thousands of years ago. The Lost City Museum provides an opportunity to learn about them.

It’s a small museum and doesn’t require more than 45-minutes to an hour of your time. I recommend watching the video that speaks to the Puebloan culture.

The first people were hunters and gatherers who started building pit houses around 600 AD. They farmed the area and traveled and traded with northern tribes near the Grand Canyon .

An extended drought hit, and by AD 1150, they disappeared. When the Spanish explorers came through around 1800, they found some Paiute tribes.

In 1935 the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built this museum near an archeological site. The complex includes a reconstructed pithouse and pueblo dwellings. Look for basketwork and pottery on display inside.

Lost City Museum is worth a visit and makes a good mid-day break. (I must add, I frequently run into CCC projects, and their endurance speaks to the quality of the work.)

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire was the first state park in Nevada , and on most “lists,” it is ranked the best. To me, it offers a unique landscape like a National Park , just a small one.

Valley of Fire State Park contains  44,000 acres compared to Yosemite at 780,000 or Yellowstone over two million. The red rock formations glisten with a fiery punch, enough to make you squint your eyes.

The park’s sandstone was formed from ancient sand dune fields during the Jurassic Period. The ground was subsequently faulted and uplifted by tectonic forces and then eroded by water and wind. The current rocky landscape is so unusual and photographic that some movies filmed scenes here include:

• Transformers (2007)
• Casino (1995)
• Total Recall (1990)
• Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)
• Con Air (1997)
• Star Trek: Generations (1994)
• The Beastmaster (1982)
• Breathless (1983

We entered the East Entrance. Our plans allowed the entire afternoon and the next day to explore, so we mainly drove the park and scouted out possible photography spots.

Almost immediately, we encountered a steep hill where Elephant Rock looms on the right. The summit would be a fantastic lookout and photo op, but there is no place to park.

Continuing past the Seven Sisters (seven similar rock formations), we turned toward the Visitor/Ranger Station. Once again, much was closed except the restrooms and limited snack counter. Typically, an exhibit room displays information on the geology of the area.

The rangers, however, were on hand to answer questions and give out park maps. While exiting, I was almost blinded. The boulders behind the center were nearly neon. I swear I imagined myself on Mars- the red planet. 

We drove up to the White Domes area, passing signage for the famous Fire Wave trail (you can’t see it from the road.) I decided I’d hike that the next morning when it’s cooler.

Even in March, the rocks soak up the sun and radiate a lot of heat. I wouldn’t recommend a visit in July or August.

The roads through Valley of Fire State Park present vistas worthy of numerous Instagram or Facebook likes. We continued exploring until the journey ended up at the West Entrance.

Turning around, we headed toward Atlatl Rock (with petroglyphs) and Arch Rock (somewhat disappointing if you’ve been to Arches NP ) and then took the Scenic Loop Road. The 3-mile loop, a favorite of bikers, passes several natural attractions.

As you might have surmised, this park is relatively easy to cover; hence it makes a popular day trip from Las Vegas. 

Vegas road trip Day Two: More Valley of Fire State Park

We got an early start the next morning to capture the Seven Sisters as the sun was rising. We were surprised and delighted to pass a bighorn sheep, but of course, we missed the photo op! 

Rainbow Vista

At Rainbow Vista, the smooth sandstone looked like someone had poured thick batter and then let it solidify. The range of pink, reds, yellows, and oranges obviously gave the area the name. They were fun to climb around. 

We moved on toward the Fire Wave, which takes about an hour to hike. In my opinion, this is the star of the park, so don’t miss it. 

The 1.5-mile hike follows a reasonably easy trail; you just have to watch your footing in places. You first go through some rock tunnels and then pass the massive standing wall or ridge. When I arrived at the Wave, I encountered others already there. 

The sight resembles a red and white striped ribbon that loops around or a colorful flow of hardened lava. It rolls down the incline in a wave-like pattern creating a dreamy swirl of color.

Next, we explored the Beehive area, formations eroded by wind and water with indentations like honeycomb.

Elephant Rock

We saved Elephant Rock for the last of our morning tour, as it was near the exit. To get close, you must park and make a short but uphill hike. While I could envision the head and long trunk, you have to be standing and looking in just the right spot to call it a pachyderm.

We returned once more to Fire Canyon to photograph the sunset. The view is spectacular, but we were perhaps a few minutes late.

It was fun watching a photographer posing a lovely wedding couple. We drove back toward the East Gate, stopping one final time to capture the sunset’s afterglow.

If you are visiting Sin City and want to leave the glitz behind, rent a car and head to Valley of Fire, one of the best day trips from Las Vegas. If you have enough time and energy, add the Hoover Dam. Both are worth a visit. If you want more hiking or sunrise photos, plan for two days.

Check out the rest of our U.S. road trip ideas !

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Las Vegas to Zion National Park: A One Week Road Trip

A re you looking for a great family road trip? We’ve got the perfect itinerary that is full of natural beauty! Let’s travel from Las Vegas to Zion National Park, and explore the amazing destinations along the way. 

Las Vegas to Zion National Park – Southwest Road Trip

It is possible to take a day trip from Las Vegas to Zion. The drive is 2.5-hours each way, but why rush? You don’t want to breeze past the natural wonders and incredible memories that await you in the American Southwest. And you’ll want at least a couple of days exploring Zion. So we created an 8-day itinerary that showcases some of America’s most unique beauty, even if it means taking a few detours. 

So pack your bags and come along as we create the ultimate Las Vegas to Zion National Park itinerary. 

When is the best time for a Las Vegas to Zion National Park road trip?

Fall is an amazing time for a southwest road trip. The weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. Winter and even spring might include a rare snowfall, and summer can reach extremely high temperatures, especially in the desert. If you have the time, we choose fall, but spring is a good alternative.

Day 1: Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

Begin your journey at the Las Vegas airport (LAS), where you will hire a rental car and head to stop #1 – Grand Canyon National Park. It’s about a four-hour drive to the main park, so we recommend skipping any Vegas sightseeing for now. 

The sooner you arrive at the Grand Canyon, the better. You’ll likely want to allow enough time to check out the visitors center at the park entrance and use the free shuttles to access different viewpoints. Plus, you can stretch your legs along part of the Canyon Rim Trail, which has fantastic views of the canyon and the Colorado River. 

For the best sunset views, head to Hopi Point. After that, you’ll likely be ready to rest up for another exciting day tomorrow. 

Where to Stay

El Tovar Hotel is a historic hotel right on the rim of the Grand Canyon. There’s an onsite restaurant, a nice little gift shop, and free parking. 

Under Canvas Grand Canyon offers a unique glamping experience less than 30 minutes from the National Park. Luxe tents feature private bathrooms and comfortable beds. Plus, there’s a restaurant and fire pits onsite. 

Clear Sky Resorts is about 25 minutes from Grand Canyon Village. Here, you can stay in unique glamping domes with fantastic star-gazing opportunities. 

Day 2: Grand Canyon to Page

On the second day of your adventures, you’ll take your time heading to Page, Arizona. There’s no huge rush to begin this two-hour drive, so finish up any Grand Canyon sightseeing in the morning to make it to Page by early afternoon.

Just south of Page, you’ll want to stop at Horseshoe Bend, which features a ¾-mile hike out to the scenic overlook. This is a great place to see the Colorado River in action, and stretch your legs for a bit. 

The next stop is Glen Canyon Dam, a massive dam set among the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Arizona. This is an easy and quick stop with lots of nice scenery. 

Glen Canyon Dam created Lake Powell, the final stop on today’s journey. It’s stunning to see, as the lake reflects the desert scenery. It’s a popular destination for all kinds of watersports. 

Where to Stay in Page

Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell has a great location near Page’s best destinations, so you won’t have to drive far after seeing Glen Canyon Dam and Horseshoe Bend. There’s also onsite breakfast, a pool, and nice views. 

Shash Dine’ EcoRetreat is a unique opportunity for glamping in the Navajo Nation. The property features bell tents, covered wagons and a cabin, so families are sure to find an accommodation to suit their needs. Star gazing here is second to none and guests can enjoy cookouts and stories around the fire pit.

Day 3: Page, Upper Antelope Canyon, & Lake Powell

Get an early start on Day 3, as you’ve got a lot to see in and around Page, Arizona. One of the most memorable attractions nearby is Upper Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon located on Navajo land. You must book a tour to see the canyon – visit  the official Antelope Canyon site here  to see approved tour companies. Tours typically last about an hour and a half. 

Another great thing to do in the area is join a boat tour on Lake Powell . These guided journeys are the best ways to see the lake’s scenery without worrying about navigating the tricky waterscape. 

There are many great options, so consider choosing something that aligns with your tour of Upper Antelope Canyon. A Lake Powell day tour could include hiking stops, or you can opt for a simple (and scenic!) dinner cruise. 

You’ll stay put in Page tonight, so there’s no need to change hotels yet. 

Day 4: Page to Zion National Park

It will take a little under two hours to reach Zion National Park . We recommend leaving early, as there’s so much to do once you arrive. Begin your adventure at the Visitors Center, as it will help you get your bearings and allow you to learn about this unique place. 

After you get your bearings, hop back in the car and head to the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. This is a can’t-miss, and you may want to explore some of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive as well. 

Today is a great day for a couple of short hikes: Pa’rus Trail is 3.5 miles roundtrip and close to the Visitors Center. Or, for something even easier, consider the 1-mile Grotto Trail, which has excellent wildlife viewing. 

Plan to spend a little time exploring the nearby town of Springdale, Utah. It has a charming small downtown area and is close to Grafton Ghost Town, which kids of all ages will love to see. 

Where to Stay near Zion National Park

Zion Wildflower Resort has covered wagons that sleep up to six people – they’re a unique stay and are super Instagram-worthy. Or, opt for one of their private bungalows or glamping tents. 

Cliffrose Springdale is a riverfront hotel within walking distance of the Zion Visitor Center. There’s onsite breakfast, a seasonal pool, and a waterfall hot tub. 

Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites is in a quiet, scenic setting just outside the park. Enjoy free breakfast, a seasonal pool, and private balconies. 

Day 5: Zion National Park

Today is your full day in Zion National Park! You’ll get to see some of the best sights around the park and simply enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. 

The most popular hike in Zion is the Narrows, so if the weather is right, you should plan on including this. You’ll walk through the narrowest parts of the gorge, surrounded by thousand-foot walls.

It can be tricky since you have to wade through the river, but it’s a really fun adventure for kids who are old enough to enjoy it. Be sure to check in with a local outfitter to ensure you have the right gear.

If you’re lucky enough to get a permit to hike Angels Landing , it’s an incredible adventure. However, it is steep and strenuous, so make sure the entire family is up for it (or willing to sit it out while the rest of the group embarks). 

Have you ever heard of Zion’s Emerald Pools? Hiking the lower Emerald Pool will take you to a stunning waterfall. Upper and Middle Emerald Pool trails will take you to even more sweeping views. 

Beyond hiking, you can also swim in the Virgin River or bike along the Pa’rus Trail. Be sure to explore the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive if you didn’t get it in yesterday!

This will be your second night staying in Zion, so there’s no need to change hotels tonight.

Day 6: Zion to Las Vegas

It’s time to return to Vegas, but our adventure isn’t over yet! We’ll get to see Snow Canyon State Park , a true gem that’s just an hour west of Springdale. 

Here, you’ll be surrounded by sandstone cliffs, volcanic cinder cones, and petrified cliffs. There are 38 miles of hiking trails throughout the state park. We recommend Johnson’s Canyon and Lava Flow trails for their varied landscapes. 

To really get into the Western spirit, consider joining a horseback riding tour through Snow Canyon State Park – it’s a great way to enjoy the incredible scenery. 

If you have extra time, check out nearby St. George, Utah. Kids will love the Dinosaur Discovery Site, and its downtown area has cute shops and restaurants. 

St. George is less than two hours away from Las Vegas. You’ll spend the next day out on the town, so you can take your time getting there. 

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Feel free to opt for a family-friendly Vegas hotel tonight. For family vacations, we recommend the  Bellagio Hotel & Casino ,  Wynn Las Vegas , or  The Venetian Resort Las Vegas .

Day 7: Las Vegas

You’ve seen some of the best scenery in the American Southwest. Now it’s time to enjoy a short visit to Sin City. 

For family-friendly fun near the Las Vegas Strip, we recommend checking out Stratosphere Adventures, TopGolf, the Pinball Hall of Fame, and the Bellagio Fountains Nighttime Show.  If you need more ideas, you’ll want this list of the best family-friendly activities in Las Vegas or the best things to do in Las Vegas with teens .

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, consider checking out Red Rock Canyon or taking an off-roading tour of the desert . 

This will be your second night in your Las Vegas hotel. 

Day 8 – Las Vegas to Home

Your Las Vegas to Zion National Park road trip has come to an end. Now it’s time to return to the airport and fly back home. Some families plan for a later flight to pack in a little more Vegas excitement. Or, you might be ready to catch an early flight and rest up at home. 

What was your favorite day of your road trip? From the noisy streets of Las Vegas to the echoing walls of Zion, you’ve seen some of the best scenery in the United States. Now it’s time to plan for your next family road trip!

The post Las Vegas to Zion National Park: A One Week Road Trip appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

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Road trip loop: A unique Denver / Las Vegas itinerary

February 5, 2021 // By Aimee Heckel

By Aimee Heckel Travel Expert February 5, 2021

The road trip from Denver to Las Vegas is a classic road trip for Coloradans – a rite of passage, even. But a straight shot to Vegas isn’t the only way to do it. Find joy in the journey, when you turn the popular Mile High-to-Sin City drive into an adventurous loop.

On the way to Vegas, make a few fun stops at Breckenridge, Grand Junction and Cedar City. Then, after leaving the neon lights of Las Vegas, loop south so you can hit Lake Havasu, Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, Telluride, Crested Butte and the Buena Vista hot springs, before returning back to Denver.

This road trip will cover just under 2,000 miles, give or take, based on optional attractions along the way. It’s broken into 13 different days, although you will likely want to take more than two full weeks to do it right. An extra day in Cortez will allow more time in Mesa Verde. An extra day in Lake Havasu will mean more time on the water. Stretch it out based on your own interests and schedule.

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Drive time tops out above 33 hours on the road, but it won’t feel like it, because we’ve broken up the trip so you can drive a short distance every morning and have the full afternoon and evening to explore your destination. Of course, since this is a loop, you can hop on at any point on the map, but we’re starting and stopping in Denver.

Day 1: Denver to Breckenridge

2 hours, 80 miles on I-70

Start the trip with a drive up the mountain to visit a ski resort. Breckenridge, Colorado, is a favorite contender, although you can’t fail with any of the beautiful ski towns along the way: Keystone, Frisco, Copper Mountain, Vail, Beaver Creek.

Breck stands out for its high altitude (9,600 feet); it’s the highest-altitude ski town in the United States. In winter, this means a lot of snow (on average, more than 350 inches a year) and longer ski seasons. You can ski here over spring break.

Beyond skiing, Breckenridge is known for being more laid-back than other ski towns, for its colorful, historic downtown and for hosting many fun festivals.

Make sure you visit the Breckenridge Distillery , the world’s highest distillery. Stay in the middle of the action at Grand Lodge on Peak 7 .

Note: Although it’s only about 80 miles to Breckenridge, the drive time can vary between an hour and a half to more than two, depending on traffic and weather. The best time to drive on Interstate 70 is Monday through Thursday before or after rush hour.

Day 2: Breckenridge to Grand Junction

3 hours, 180 miles via I-70

The drive from Breck to Grand Junction, Colorado is gorgeous, spanning unique rock formations, former mines, canyons and mountain views. Grand Junction is an outdoor-lover’s heaven, in the heart of Colorado’s wine country – and apple orchards in the fall.

Do a cruiser bike wine tour of the more than 20 wineries in Grand Valley; go canyoneering in the Colorado National Monument; and go off-roading in Bangs Canyon. Nearly 75 percent of the land in this area is public, which means 1.8 million acres of endless exploration.

Grab food at the Devil’s Kitchen , a rooftop restaurant and bar with views as delicious as the charcuterie board. The best place to stay in town is the modern Hotel Maverick , located on the campus of the Colorado Mesa University. Request a garden patio room on the first floor, with your own large, private patio looking out onto the lawn.

Day 3: Grand Junction to Richfield

3 hours and 30 minutes, 225 miles on I-70

Follow the red rocks to Richfield, Utah, the largest city in this area. It’s a great hub to visit the Fishlake National Forest, a short drive away via the state highway 119. Fish Lake (the namesake of the forest) is the largest natural mountain lake in Utah, and it’s home to elk, deer, moose and more. It’s also a top place to go fishing, hiking, off-roading and bird-watching.

Stay at the Fish Lake Resorts , featuring a historic lodge built out of native spruce logs. Rent a fully equipped cabin and snuggle up next to the wood-burning stove after a day of fishing and exploring. The Fish Lake Lodge Restaurant is conveniently located on site.

Day 4: Richfield to to Cedar City

2 hours, 115 miles on I-70 and I-15

If you don’t mind a longer drive (just over four hours) and want to spend more time wandering the Strip, you could drive straight from Richfield to Vegas. It’s a simple and mostly direct drive down Interstate 15.

But if you time your trip right and stop in Cedar City, Utah, you might be able to catch the world-famous Utah Shakespeare Festival, taking place from June to October. You can even find charming, Shakespeare-inspired B&Bs, like the Bard’s Inn and Amid Summer’s Inn B&B.

Cedar City offers tons of outdoor excitement year-round, too. It’s considered the “gateway to Utah’s national parks” and makes an ideal home base to visit Zion National Park (one hour away), Bryce Canyon National Park (an hour and a half away), the Brian Head ski resort (40 minutes away) and the Cedar Breaks National Monument (45 minutes).

If you don’t want to make a day trip and are sick of driving, the Dixie National Forest, Utah’s biggest national forest, is just 15 minutes past town.

Day 5: Cedar City to Las Vegas

2 hours and 30 minutes, 171 miles on I-15

The last stretch to Vegas will fly by (although it’s less scenic than the Utah stretch), and before you know it, the open fields transform into flashing lights and a neon glow. While “Sin City” has a reputation for debauchery and gluttony, many people don’t realize Vegas also does health and wellness just as big.

Stay at the MGM Resorts in a Stay Well room, with features like air purification, vitamin C-infused showers, white room lighting, a dawn simulator alarm clock and in-room aromatherapy.

For a healthy Vegas vacay, do yoga at the LINQ on the world’s tallest observation wheel and then visit a spa. The Strip alone has 45 different spas, including some of the highest rated in the world. Try a warm salt stone ritual at the Four Seasons Spa to refresh after five days of driving, before you begin the loop back to Denver.

Skip the casinos and booze and see real costumes and props from the movies at the Marvel’s Avengers Station. Then enjoy a fresh dinner (as in, the herbs are literally growing on your table) at Harvest by Roy Ellamar at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino.

Day 6: Las Vegas to Lake Havasu

2 hours and 30 minutes, 153 miles on US 95

You’re leaving Las Vegas, but the fun has just begun. Instead of taking the same route home, loop south to Lake Havasu, “Arizona’s playground.” With 300 days of sun a year and 400 miles of coastline, this lake is hoppin’, with water sports and beaches with mountain views.

There’s so much to do here – hiking, biking, golfing, off-roading, fishing – so stay an extra few days and party if your schedule allows.

A popular way to immerse yourself in all of Havasu’s outdoor glory is to pop up a tent near the water and camp. You’ll find many campgrounds, but one right on the white sand shores is the Lake Havasu State Park. Dining is casual here, but there are more than 140 options in the city, including the ever-popular Juicy’s . Don’t miss the famed country sausage gravy with breakfast.

Before you leave, check off a bucket-list item and see the London Bridge. Yes, the bridge from the song was relocated to Havasu City.

Day 7: Lake Havasu to Flagstaff

3 hours and 30 minutes, 200 miles on I-40

On your way from Havasu to Flagstaff, Arizona, make a lunch stop in the tiny town of Seligman, Arizona, which claims to be a “birthplace” of historic Route 66. Grab a bite to eat at the 1950's-style Delgadillo’s Snow Cap diner.

Take a day to explore Flagstaff, home to the state’s tallest mountain. Flagstaff is called the City of Seven Wonders for its impressive location in the heart of (you guessed it) seven natural wonders: Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, Walnut Canyon, Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater National Monument, the San Francisco Peaks and the Coconino National Forest.

Get off the highway and into the forest, the most fitting way to experience Flagstaff; it has the largest contiguous forest of Ponderosa pines in the world. Keep with that forest feel and book a stay at the Little America Hotel , built in 1952 in a 500-acre private forest.

Day 8: Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon National Park

1 hour and 30 minutes, 75 miles via US 180 and Arizona Highway 64

The drive from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon is short, so you have plenty of time to explore the jaw-dropping, 10-mile wide canyon. Hike it, raft through it or even rent a mule to ride it. Refuel at the Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room, which serves fresh and regionally inspired food, like a bison burger, a “Cowboy Ribeye” with red wine demi glaze, or “Canyon Duck” (smoked and grilled, topped with prickly pear cactus drizzle).

Head to the South Rim to stay the night at the stunning, European-inspired El Tovar Hotel. Rooms come equipped with views of the canyon.

Day 9: Grand Canyon to Cortez

4 hours, 250 miles on US 160

It’s time to venture back to Colorado, but not without stopping at the Four Corners Monument first. This is the only place in the country where you can be in six places at one time: four different states and two tribal parks (it is owned by both the Navajo Nation and the Ute Mountain Ute).

When you get to Mesa County, station at the Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch in a private cabin in Cortez, Colorado. If you have time to extend your stay, request a tour by the on-site "rockologist" of the nearby Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. Then, visit the better-known Mesa Verde National Park – both contain artifacts and history of the region’s ancient Native Americans.

Great food is limited in this area, but the best place to eat in Cortez is the Loungin’ Lizard, with hip, comfort food options like smoked pork nachos, Frito pie, country fried chicken and French onion soup.

Day 10: Cortez to Telluride

1 hour and 30 minutes, 76 miles on Colorado Highway 145

Cortez to Telluride, Colorado, is a short but scenic mountain drive through the San Juan National Forest, and you’ll be glad to have the extra time to relax in one of Colorado’s most stunning towns. Telluride is a former mining community turned into a relaxed ski town. You can learn all about it at the Telluride Historical Museum, housed in a turn-of-the-century former miner’s hospital.

The Telluride Ski Resort is the claim to fame in the winter, and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a highlight in the summer. In fact, the town is an artsy paradise, with a popular film festival, as well as opera house and semiprofessional theater.

If you can splurge, Lumiere is a luxurious ski lodge that’s hard to beat, with top-notch service, spacious bathrooms, hydrotherapy pools and a European breakfast.

Allred’s is the place to dine in Telluride. This amazing restaurant, perched atop the mountain in a stone dining room, can only be accessed via the gondola.

Day 11: Telluride to Crested Butte

3 hours, 160 miles on US 50

It’s worth the winding, mountain roads from Telluride through Montrose and the Uncompahgre National Forest to get to Crested Butte, Colorado. This mountain town is beloved for its skiing in the winter, mountain biking in warmer weather and golden aspen leaves in the fall.

What you may not know about Crested Butte is it is also the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado” for its brilliant wildflowers that you'll see while hiking these hills. Kebler Pass is a favorite location and photographer’s dream.

For an unmatched experience, stay at the Columbine resort, built on the mountain higher than any other condo complex in Crested Butte with views that seem to go on for eternity. Locals love to dine at relaxed Secret Stash Pizza for the town’s tastiest pizza and wings.

Day 12: Crested Butte to Buena Vista

2 hours, 115 miles on US 50

The best way to wrap up a long, multi-state road trip is with a long soak in natural mineral waters. That’s why the last stop on this loop is Buena Vista, Colorado. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is the region’s best option (technically located in Nathrop, just minutes outside of Buena Vista). This hot springs dates way back to 1860, originally used by Native Americans. The hotel was built in 1879.

You can still stay at the hot springs today. The resort spans 70 acres and offers modern, creekside suites; cozy log cabins; cliffside rooms with panoramic views; hillside rooms near the pool; and the lodge. There’s not much around Nathrop, but luckily there’s a steakhouse on site.

Tip : It’s worth it to book VIP access to the spa and club.

Day 13: Buena Vista to Denver

2 hours and 30 minutes, 125 miles on US 285

Wrap up the trip with some more mountain driving that will eventually pass Morrison and bring you to Denver. Colorado’s capital is packed with lodging options, but one that rises to the top is the artsy and eclectic Maven Hotel . Even if you’ve spent time in Denver before, this part of the city provides a fresh take; the Maven’s located in the Dairy Block, a “micro-district” in downtown.

The coolest thing about the Maven (okay, other than the hanging chairs you can swing in while you wait for an elevator and the oversized wooden hand pointing at the entrance) is the fact that the Maven’s lobby opens up to The Alley, a block-long gathering place packed with local shops, cocktail crafters, chefs and artisans.

Dine at the Denver Milk Market, the nearby food hall. If you’re lucky, maybe you’ll be in town for drag queen bingo brunch.

About Aimee Heckel

Aimee Heckel is a Colorado native, road trip expert and author of "Colorado Day Trips By Theme."

Read more about Aimee Heckel here.

Connect with Aimee via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

Best time to visit Las Vegas

Apr 7, 2024 • 4 min read

Las Vegas is a year-round destination, but there are definitely some seasonal things to consider when planning your trip © LPETTET / Getty Images

Let’s be real here: Las Vegas is always on. Be it the international culinary pizzazz, 24/7 gambling euphoria or entertainment in every form humanly possible, you can get it year-round in Sin City. 

However, when you go to Las Vegas can make a world of difference on many fronts. For example, you’ll want to limit your outdoor jaunts – from strolls on the Strip to hikes to nearby Red Rock Canyon – during the periodic 110-degree day in August and pack your heaviest coat come January for nights that frequently dip into the 20s. 

In terms of landing a bargain trip, Las Vegas does have “high” and “low” seasons like most destinations. However, you’ll want to keep an eye on convention and mega-event calendars, as highly-trafficked events in seemingly random months (e.g. the annual National Finals Rodeo city-wide spectacle in January) can impact costs and hotel room availability big-time. For that, the city’s tourism entity – the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority – keeps a regularly updated and trusted slate .

While figuring out how to play a game of craps can be confusing, knowing the best times to visit Las Vegas is not. Let’s shuffle up and take a look at the deal.

June to August may bring high temperatures but is the best time for low prices

It’s a desert out there, literally. Amid the non-stop pumping of air conditioning within Las Vegas’ resorts, it’s easy to forget that the city is in the center of the Mojave Desert. Fun fact: it’s the driest North American desert and you can really, really, really feel the heat come summertime (June through August). 

It is oh-so-important to hydrate amid the summer elements, especially if you plan on indulging in the yard-long drinks you’ll inevitably buy and recreational cannabis (yes, it’s legal here). If the raucous Vegas pool parties are your speed – like Tao Beach or Wet Republic – wearing and reapplying sunscreen is vital so you don’t end up looking like a ripe tomato. By braving said elements, you’ll be treated with “low season” level flight and hotel costs. Do keep an eye out for big summer draws – like the Life is Beautiful festival , the Fourth of July and World Series of Poker – as prices can tick up.

One final note, June to mid-September is considered Las Vegas’ monsoon season. A quarter-of-an-inch of rain can equate to rushing water, flooded roads and major traffic in these parts, given the surrounding mountainous geography. 

The fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the best times for perfect weather and unique Vegas spectacles

Ah, there are two pockets of the year in Vegas when things are just right. March through May, you can count on daily highs in the 70 to 90-degree range. And, yes, depending on where you are from, 90 may sound hot, but it’s a dry heat. In September and October, the high temps carry the same spectrum. Nights can get cooler, in the 30 to 50 range, so pack accordingly.

As these are considered Vegas’ “high seasons,” lodging and travel costs are pricier as a whole. Within these months are some of the biggest annual events for the city, too. Among them are the Electric Daisy Carnival music festival (typically May), Pennzoil 400 and South Point 400 races at Las Vegas Motor Speedway (typically October) and – launched in 2023 – the Las Vegas Grand Prix (typically November).

If you’re interested in traveling for the Grand Prix, check out this article where we asked Formula 1 expert Nicky Handelby how to plan a trip to see a race.

An increasingly quintessential Las Vegas experience is catching a home game for its beloved National Hockey League franchise, the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena . In recent times, Las Vegas has become the hotspot for new professional sports teams – including the Raiders football team and Aces women’s basketball team. But no team has a local fan base and in-stadium experience like the Knights (a marching band, an on-ice pre-game show that involves a knight-infused duel and slot sounds aplenty, oh my!), a fervor further boosted by its 2023 Stanley Cup win. The team’s regular season typically runs from early October through early April.

December through February are the best times for quirky holiday happenings... and skiing, too

There is something so visually contrasting yet magical about a desert getting all holiday-ed out come wintertime. This is the time of year to ice skate on the roof of the Cosmopolitan , experience the 5 million-LED light holiday drive-thru that is Glittering Lights  at the Las Vegas Speedway, and, yes, ski Lee Canyon , just under an hour northwest of The Strip.

To many ill-prepared tourists’ surprise, Las Vegas does get cold, too, with daily highs touching 60 and lows in the 20s during this timeframe. While prices in town and to get to Las Vegas aren’t quite at the summer lows during this time, plenty of deals are to be had. Bargain hunters should avoid National Finals Rodeo Week (typically December) as seemingly every cowboy on Earth is in town. New Year’s Eve is a cluttered spectacle too, drawing more than 400,000 tourists to The Strip in recent times.

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