desert southwest road trip guide

19 Stunning Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

There may be no other region in the USA quite as otherworldly as the American Southwest. And there is absolutely no better way to appreciate that magnificent beauty than via an epic Southwest road trip itinerary!

Unfortunately, for most of us, there’s no way to encapsulate the full magnificence of the region on a single Southwest US road trip (and trust us, we’ve tried to, many times).

Because of that, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to craft this complete guide to the best road trips in the Southwest USA, from iconic classics in Utah to offbeat highlights in Nevada to focused Southwest national parks road trips.

We’ve decided to work with a pretty generous definition of the Southwestern US for this guide, covering road trips in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, as well as parts of Southern California and West Texas.

Whether you only have a weekend to spare or are planning the Southwest road trip of a lifetime, here are the best Southwest USA road trip routes to consider!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

Utah road trip itinerary ideas, arizona + new mexico southwest road trips, southwest road trip itineraries in colorado, cool nevada road trip ideas, west texas road trip itineraries, multi-state southwest itineraries, read more about visiting the southwest usa.

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Before diving into the best Southwest road trip itineraries below, there are a few tips to be aware of, especially if this is your first time in the region!

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

If you’re planning a Southwest USA road trip itinerary, odds are very high that you’re planning to visit several national parks!

If so, consider picking up an  America the Beautiful Pass , also known as the USA’s annual national parks pass.

For only $80–less for certain groups like seniors and military personnel–the park covers day-use fees to over 2,000 federally managed lands, including all 62 national parks, for an entire year.

It’s one of the best travel deals around and will pay for itself within 3-4 visits to popular US national parks (for example, as of the time of writing, many popular Southwest national parks such as Arches and Bryce Canyon cost between $25-35 per vehicle to visit).

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

Everyone talks about it, but it really can’t be overstated: the heat in the American Southwest in summer can be life-threatening and is not to be trifled with.

Water, sun protection, and keeping an eye on the weather need to be at the forefront of your mind as you work your way through the region.

If you’re planning a trip during the (long) summer, consider optimizing your schedule so that the bulk of your hiking takes place in the mornings and evenings, too, rather than in the middle of the day.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Southwest USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

You’ll also want to note whether or not to return the car empty or full of fuel.

On the off chance that you’re planning on extending your road trip beyond the US Southwest into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check the requirements for crossing the border as well.

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from  Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big road trip in the American Southwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

Anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better to be safe than sorry.

You can check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing  for road trips in the Southwest USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the American Southwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your Southwest US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Considering the long driving distances between some of the most iconic places in the Southwest, it’s easy to over-plan!

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

Many of the best national parks in the USA are located in the Southwest–and they are incredibly popular.

Be sure to research individual parks in advance to make the most of your time, as accessing the most iconic attractions often is not as simple as showing up.

Hotels tend to get booked up quickly, some parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park are now requiring most visitors to book timed entry permits in advance.

Other restrictions can pop up too–for example, Zion National Park requires visitors to use a shuttle rather than private cars to access popular hikes (unless you’re planning a winter trip, that is).

None of this detracts from the beauty of the parks–but it does mean that your experience will be much better if you plan ahead!

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

The Kanab, UT to Escalante, UT road trip gives way to some of Southern Utah’s most beautiful hidden gems.

These rural areas are filled with some of the most dramatic rock formations that you can find on an itinerary for the Southwest USA. 

Starting in Kanab, use this small town as a home base for visiting several nearby destinations.

Buckskin Gulch, just East of Kanab, is one of the longest slot canyons in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah.

For an incredible day trip from Kanab, hike into this slot canyon from Wirepass Trailhead. Be on the lookout for ancient petroglyphs as you descend into the canyon.

Just north of Kanab are the Moqui Caves. These caves are great to explore for a couple of hours, especially in the afternoon light.

Only 30 minutes outside of Kanab, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes. These dunes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. 

On the two-hour drive from Kanab to Escalante, make sure to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park to see the natural hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater and check out a few of the coolest things to see in Bryce Canyon NP .

Use Escalante as a second home base to visit more hidden gems in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Some of the most incredible landscapes can be found down Hole in the Rock Road, just south of Escalante.

Make sure to visit Zebra Slot Canyon, a very narrow slot canyon with natural striped rock, along with Devils Garden just a few miles down the road.

Further down Hole in the Rock Road are the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons which are a fun loop hike through two beautiful slot canyons.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip could be done in a long weekend, but there are enough places to visit that we recommend 1-2 weeks to fully experience all of the stops along the way.

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

Northern New Mexico doesn’t get the attention that the rest of the state does, but travelers willing to take an extra drive will find incredible beauty along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Starting from Taos and going clockwise, you’ll visit the smaller towns of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.

This part of New Mexico sits high in the mountains and the route takes you through ever-changing scenery.

Many parts are verdant green, thick with evergreens and aspens.

As the road winds, you’ll also see alpine valleys and lakes, plus the impressive Mt. Wheeler (the highest in the state).

As you drive, you’ll be reminded more of Colorado than the stereotypical desert road trips that are so iconic in the Southwest.

Perhaps as you’d expect in a beautiful destination like this, the primary activities involve the outdoors.

One of the highlights is Eagle Rock Lake, not only beautiful but home to playful otters that you might spot if you’re lucky. The picnic tables make a perfect vantage spot.

Hiking is plentiful: head out into the Columbine Hondo Wilderness for wildflowers in spring or look for waterfalls in Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even skiing in the winter.

It’s not all about the outdoors, though. Visitors can also watch artisans in Questa, pay their respects at the Vietnam Memorial near Angel Fire, brewery hop along the trail, or explore Taos’ history.

Best of all, this New Mexico road trip is wonderful year-round.

Although the driving route is short enough that you can complete it in a day, the area is deserving of a weekend.

Allow plenty of time to stop and explore the parks and mountains along the way and consider even longer if you’re an avid hiker.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the best weekend trips you can make from Phoenix. 

The  drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon  is only 4 hours and there are several stops along the way.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved Native American Ruins located 94 miles from Phoenix.

It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

Another great stop is Sedona, which is famous for its red rocks and great hiking trails.

You could easily spend a weekend in Sedona but it is also a great place to stop for some lunch and get out and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park you will enter from the east and one of the first viewpoints is the Desert View Point and Watchtower.

This is one of the most popular viewpoints in the east and it is your first view of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. 

You can continue heading West to the main visitors center where you can walk the Trail of Time. 

The Grand Canyon Trail of Time is an interpretive walking timeline trail focusing on the highlights of the Grand Canyon so tourists can experience and appreciate the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes. 

We recommend three days as a minimum for this road trip.  Some people do this in a day but it is very rushed. 

Spending a weekend there gives you time to make stops along the way and experience the Grand Canyon.

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

The southwestern state is one of the best places in the United States for a culturally immersive trip, incredible food, and beautiful desert landscapes. 

Most New Mexico road trips start and end in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state.

There are so many things to do in New Mexico with kids , or without, and you’ll find many of them in Albuquerque!

Give yourself a couple of days to explore Old Town and visit some of the great museums, like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Be sure to take the tram up to Sandia Peak. The 2.7-mile aerial tramway is the longest in the United States! 

From Albuquerque, head north to New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe. Known for its adobe-style architecture, this historical city founded as a Spanish colony in the 1600s is as lovely as it is enchanting! 

Just northwest of Santa Fe, outside the town of Los Alamos, Bandelier National Monument is a fascinating look back in time.

In this national monument, you’ll find petroglyphs and cliff dwellings left behind by the Pueblo Indians, the indigenous tribe who originally settled the area. 

For a look at how the Pueblo live today, head to the Taos Pueblo next.

The pueblos one mile north of the town of Taos, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.

People have lived in this multi-story adobe building for more than 1,000 years! You can tour the pueblo, which is open to visitors except when tribal rituals take place.

300+ miles.

Ideally, give yourself about a week for this road trip through Northern New Mexico.

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

The state of Colorado was made for epic road trips.  The scenery is just amazing and pretty non-stop.

Colorado’s many mountain towns are fun and welcoming places to explore and are packed with so many outdoor activities to enjoy.  

There are many great options for planning a loop from Denver.  Some can be done on a day trip, and others are more fun spread over a few days. 

For the most variety and activities in a shorter drive time consider going south to Colorado Springs, loop over to Salida then make your way north through Independence Pass. 

Take some time enjoying Aspen then stop by Glenwood Springs for fun activities before going back to Denver.

Summer or early fall is the best time for this trip before some of the roads are closed due to snow.

First, stop in Colorado Springs, where popular activities include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Incline, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Olympic training center, and the Broadmore.

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

On the way to Salida stop by the Royal Gorge.  This amazing viewpoint is not great for those with a fear of heights but it’s beautiful.

The area has a train, a suspension bridge, and several other activities including a Skycoaster. 

After enjoying a night in Salida, head north toward Leadville.

Leadville can make a nice little stop to explore an old mountain town and get some lunch but the main attraction of the day will be Independence Pass just south of Leadville.  

Driving Independence Pass in the fall  is likely one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

As a mountain road, it is closed in the winter and no large vehicles are allowed.

Independence Pass ends in beautiful Aspen. A stop to Aspen is not complete without seeing the Maroon Bells.

To make your way back to Denver, head north toward I-70 and stop for lunch and activities in Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs has a fabulous hot spring as well as a mountaintop adventure center. 

At minimum plan to stay a night in Salida and one night in Aspen. 

If you only have a weekend then consider cutting the trip in half and making a smaller loop. 

The full loop would be most enjoyable with planning a night in Colorado Springs, 1-2 nights in Salida, and at least 2 nights in Aspen.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

For a one-of-a-kind southwest road trip that you won’t soon forget,  drive Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

Located in south-central Nevada and spanning a total of 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs, State Route 375 is considered a bit of a pilgrimage for those who believe in alien life!

But even if you’re not a believer, this is still a fun road trip worth doing.

The Extraterrestrial Highway is punctuated by desert landscapes, lonely roads, and some rather unusual attractions.

Some places not to miss include ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks including bottles of Martian soda, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign which is plastered with stickers from intrepid adventurers who have completed the drive, and the Alien Research Center where you can hear stories of paranormal desert activity.

You should also visit the Black Mailbox where people leave all sorts of mementos and letters to aliens, and the Little A’le’inn Motel featuring a pick-up truck towing a UFO and a green alien welcoming all earthlings.

It’s important to note that although Area 51 is also located in the area, it is strictly off-limits.

There are numerous signs to remind you that no video, no photography, and no droning are permitted, so save yourself the trouble.

Though this road trip can be completed in a day, you can break it up with a stay at the infamous Little A’le’inn Motel, home to all things extraterrestrial.

You may also want to consider driving the ET Highway as part of a bigger Nevada road trip with a small detour through Valley of Fire State Park.

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a natural wonder located in Central Nevada near Utah’s border that makes you feel like you landed on Mars. 

The park is located about 3.5 hours by car away from Las Vegas , the nearest big city, and the remote location of this place and lack of facilities, coupled with the lonely drive in the desert make for an incredible experience.

Cathedral Gorge State Park remains an undiscovered gem full of otherworldly views, amazing hiking trails, and great opportunities for photography.

It’s one of those hidden gem Southwest road trips from Las Vegas that no one talks about, and if you want to see it before it gets discovered, you need to do it now. 

Visiting Cathedral Gorge is pure magic at any time of the year.

Unlike many other popular places in the southwest USA, this state park is uncrowded and offers an amazing quiet space with fantastic landscapes.

With no big stores, chain hotels, or restaurants in the area, this is the ultimate getaway for adventure lovers.  

I recommend spending at least one day at the park and camping under the clear dark skies.

However, if you would rather stay at a hotel, the nearby town of Panaca has a couple of accommodations.

Big Bend Country Road Trip

While all of Texas may not culturally fall into the Southwest, the western part of the state does–and a Big Bend Country road trip is among the best road trips in the Southwest USA.

Make your way to the rugged, isolated, and utterly beautiful Big Bend National Park to kick off your trip.

While you’re there, hike the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, ascend into the Chisos Mountains via the Lost Mine Trail , and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

From there, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park to experience one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

Head a couple of hours north, and some of Texas’ most beloved small towns are waiting for you, including Alpine, Fort Davis (where you can experience some of the best stargazing in Texas at the McDonald Observatory), Marathon, and Marfa.

With wild beauty, a huge variety of landscapes, great food, and even excellent art installations, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Texas’ Big Bend Country–just be prepared for long driving distances along the way.

About 1000 miles round trip, starting and ending in El Paso.

We recommend setting aside at least one week for this Southwest road trip route.

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

One of the best road trips in the Southwest USA is a loop from Page, Arizona that takes in a variety of natural and cultural icons.

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

Stop off at the Navajo National Monument, where you can walk on the easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail to the Batatkin Cliff Dwelling overlook for views of your first cliff dwelling on the trip.

After arriving in Monument Valley around noon, head down the Monument Valley road for a self-driving tour. 

The 17-mile scenic drive loops through the valley past many of the major buttes and mesas that make this area so famous.

In the late afternoon, if you still have some energy, hike the Wildcat Trail around West Mitten.

The next day, take a Navajo-led guided tour back into the valley, where you can visit the backcountry and learn more about the Navajo people and culture.

After you leave Monument Valley, take a couple of hours to drive through the beautiful Valley of the Gods before arriving in Moab in the late afternoon. 

Moab is the adventure capital of the world, and you can arrange to go canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, or white-water rafting. Then head to nearby Arches National Park and do all the major hikes in the park.

Next up is a  visit to Mesa Verde National Park , where you will want to spend a couple of days visiting the cliff dwellings, hiking to petroglyphs, and exploring the area. 

After you leave Mesa Verde, stop for a photo at Four Corners, where you can have your limbs in four states at once!

Drive on to Canyon de Chelly, where you will want to spend a full day enjoying the views and hiking down into the canyon.

On the drive from there back to Page, you will pass through the Hopi reservation.

It is worth spending half a day on a tour with a Hopi guide to see more of the area and learn about Hopi culture.

Back in Page, don’t miss the mind-blowing Antelope Canyon and stunning Horseshoe Bend !

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

This will give you time to explore each of the parks/ areas and learn more about the cultural and natural environment along the way.

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

One of the most unique road trips in the Southwest is the  Trail of the Ancients  through Southeast Utah and Southwest Colorado.

It passes tons of amazing scenery but really features ancient Anasazi ruins throughout the Four Corners Area.

This is a particularly great Southwest road trip itinerary for history buffs and hikers!

Start your road trip in Cortez, where you can start making your way through some of the best places to visit in the Southwest.

Some of the highlights are Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, and Valley of the Gods, but there are tons of smaller stops along the way, too. 

Some of those include Natural Bridges National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Upper Sand Island Petroglyphs, House on Fire Ruin, Butler Wash Ruin, Goosenecks State Park, Four Corners National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and more.

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

I would recommend spending about 7-10 days on the Trail of the Ancients.

If you have a full 2 weeks to explore, that’s even better.

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

If you’re looking for a quick Southwestern road trip that packs a whole lot into a relatively short drive, head from Zion National Park in Utah to Sedona, Arizona.

Although Zion is the start of your road trip, it’s actually hard to leave this magical place.

From the epic Angel’s Landing hike to The Narrows slot canyon, if you’re up for adventure, you will have an amazing time here.

Don’t worry, when it’s time to hit the road, your next stop of Kanab has plenty to offer.

If you’re lucky enough to score permits, hike to the incredible swooping sandstone of The Wave.

Or, take some time to explore the beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Then head east on Highway 89 to Lake Powell, where you can take a rest day or two. Chill in the lake before heading south.

Stop at the photogenic Horseshoe Bend , then make your way to the Grand Canyon .

Bask in the breathtaking views from the rim, or challenge yourself to hike to the bottom – just know that means you also have to hike back out!

Next, make your way to Flagstaff, and enjoy the Southwestern city life in the lively downtown area. Finish your road trip in the red rock paradise of Sedona.

You can hit the trails again on some of the awesome hikes in Sedona , take an off-road Jeep tour, or pamper yourself at a spa.

You’ll definitely be ready for some relaxation by the end of this road trip through the Southwest USA!

With all the incredible outdoor places to explore along the way, you should plan at least a week for this adventurous road trip.

You could easily make it longer if you wanted to spend more time hiking around Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona.

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

Absorb the extraterrestrial beauty of the southwest with a road trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Phoenix, AZ.

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

Explore Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the Great Salt Lake itself. A scenic mountain backdrop is always included.

Skiing and other snow sports are possible in nearby Park City.

Drive south to Moab and hike your way to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Camp under the Milky Way in Monument Valley situated on protected Navajo land.

Ride a horse among the red rocks and buttes and pretend to be in the Wild West. Visit Forrest Gump Point at the crack of dawn to avoid the rush of cars.

From here head to Zion National Park and then Page, AZ.

Check the infamous Angels Landing off your list, kayak in Lake Powell, and hike to Horseshoe Bend.

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

At last, you arrive at the Grand Canyon. It’s magnificent. The Bright Angel trail will guide you right into the Canyon.

Sedona is still to come. It’s the most beautiful city you’ll lay eyes on. Hot air balloons illuminate against the sun’s glow. Devils Bridge and Doe Mountain offer spectacular views.

Phoenix will eventually bring a calm end to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Its mellow, laidback atmosphere will help relax after your breathtaking journey through the southwest.

Road Trip Length

We recommend at least 2 weeks to explore various cities, do activities and make stops along the way.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

For a point-to-point overview of some of the most popular Southwest road trip stops, drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley!

Your first stop outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This impressive man-made damn along the Colorado River marks the border between Nevada and Arizona.  

Head southeast along Hwy-93 towards Kingman, and be sure to visit the Historic Route 66 Museum.  

If you have time, take a detour and visit Oatman, an old mining town where wild burros (donkeys) roam free throughout the town.

The next leg of the road trip takes you along a small section of Historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman.

Enjoy the kitsch rest stop at Hackberry and eat lunch at the Road Kill Café .  The replica Wild West town in Seligman is a fun attraction for families too.

Continue to head east along the I-40 and then up to the Grand Canyon.  There are Grand Canyon hikes to suit many levels, educational talks, and unparalleled views.

Stay overnight at one of the rim-side cabins and witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

The final leg of your journey will take you through some of the most captivating  desert landscapes in Arizona , onwards north towards Monument Valley.  

The land becomes more arid and sparsely populated, and you will get picture-postcard views.  

Your final stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a Navajo Nation Tribal Park.  This valley of red rock formations is a soul-shaking place to end your road trip.  

Three to five days is a good length of time for this road trip between Las Vegas and Monument Valley.  

You can do the journey in 3 days minimum, but 5 days would offer you more time to explore the by-ways and scenic stops along the way.

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

An  LA to Las Vegas road trip  can be done along several different routes, but you can’t go wrong with a route that includes some of the choicest scenery in the Sierra Nevada as well as the spectacular Death Valley National Park in California.

Admittedly, this is a longer route that involves a little bit of a detour, but for travelers with enough time on their hands, this Southwest national parks road trip itinerary cannot be beaten.

Highlights of the itinerary include the scenic Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, and Mount Whitney, and the spectacular sights in Death Valley National Park.

The Alabama Hills consist of beautiful rock formations nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The national scenic area is popular for hiking, dirt road driving, photography, camping, and night sky viewing.

At Lone Pine, you can also drive the road that goes part way up Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States.

The road is open in the summer and fall until snow accumulations close it.

Of course, you can also hike to the peak, either as a grueling day hike or as an overnighter, with a permit.

In Death Valley National Park, the main sights can be found along the road that runs through the park, the one you will be taking to get to Vegas.

If you do the road trip in the cooler months of the year, you can hike. When it’s hot, you can drive through the park and stop briefly at viewpoints for photos.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are fun for kids and adults.

At Badwater Basin, you can have your photo taken by the sign for the lowest point in North America. Spectacular views await at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

Once you are done exploring the park, it’s a quick drive to Vegas!

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

With more than three days, you can spend more time hiking, and also explore the northern part of Death Valley National Park.

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

One of the best road trips in the Southwestern USA takes you from the snow-capped mountains of Denver, Colorado to the red canyons of Moab, Utah. 

During this epic  road trip from Denver to Moab , you’ll be able to see some of the best scenery the United States has to offer.

As you travel, you’ll pass through many charming small towns, complete with great hiking, hot springs, and of course panoramic views.

Start your trip in Denver, the capital of Colorado, and make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here you’ll find some stunning mountain views and world-class hiking.

Continue your trip through the renowned ski towns of Breckenridge and Vail, exploring the quaint city centers and everything they have to offer, from skiing to mountain roller coasters and free gondola rides.

The next stop is Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs as well as the beautiful hike to Hanging Lake.

If you have the time, you can also detour down to Aspen to check out the popular Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

From there, make your way through Colorado wine country in Palisade, CO to the Colorado National Monument.

This is the last stop before crossing into Utah and making your way into Moab.

Moab is the perfect end destination for a road trip as you can spend days exploring the local sights that bring droves of tourists to the area, like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

While the drive itself can easily be done in just one day, you’d miss a lot of the fun stops along the way.

It’s best to plan about a week for this road trip to have plenty of time to explore Denver, the stops in between, and Moab.

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Los Angeles to Bryce Canyon National Park— a red rock road trip experience — is a beautiful and classic Southwest USA itinerary for those wanting to escape and indulge in the unique rock formations found in Utah.

It’s a serene drive that takes about 8 hours from LA to Bryce Canyon. Add an extra two hours for a detour to Zion National Park

Here’s how to make the best of your time when road tripping from LA to Bryce Canyon and Zion .

Starting in Los Angeles, California hop on the freeway heading north toward Las Vegas. On route, you’ll find Death Valley about an hour or so off the freeway for a quick day trip.

Take another quick pitstop, right off the freeway at Eddie’s World for clean bathrooms and exquisite snacks.

Once you reach Nevada, stay the night in Las Vegas to explore the famous strip where the downtown lights, lit up the midnight sky.

It’s about four hours from LA (depending on traffic), and marks the halfway point to Bryce Canyon.

Continue toward Utah for another 160 miles to reach the first destination: Zion National Park.

Hike the beautiful trails such as Angels Landing (5.4 miles out and back) and Watchman Trail (3.3 miles out and back).

Hop back in the car for another 80 miles to reach the second destination: Bryce Canyon.

Explore the picturesque hoodoos by taking the Rim Hiking Trail (1-11 miles; it’s not a loop so hike the distance you choose) or Fairyland Loop (8 miles out and back).

Pick your route by deciding which park you’d like to visit first, then enjoy!

About 530 miles — this includes the stop in Zion National Park.

While the drive from California to Utah can be done in one day, there are several fun pit stops along this route.

It takes about seven hours to drive from Los Angeles to Zion, and then about two hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon.

To fully explore these natural wonders 6-8 days would be ideal, and allows you to split your time equally between both parks.

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

One of the best itineraries to explore by car in the states is through Arizona and New Mexico.

If you are doing a winter  ski road trip itinerary , this can also be done in reverse starting in Taos.

Fly into Phoenix and rent a car (or RV for even more fun)! Then head south and stop by Saguaro National Park to view the iconic cactus after which the park is named.

From there head to White Sands National Park in New Mexico and sled down some sand dunes.

This park is vast and can be explored for the day or for multiple days if you would like to hike amongst the sand dunes.

Then head to the city to check out Albuquerque’s bustling nightlife.

In contrast, the next stop on the itinerary is Santa Fe, a beautiful historic city that looks like it is stuck in the past.

Stroll the streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Visit the delicious restaurants in town or get your culture on at the numerous art galleries.

Your final stop is Taos where you can view the historic Pueblan village, enjoy the delicious restaurants in town, and hang out in the historic town square.

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

We suggest a minimum of one week to enjoy the beautiful destinations on this road trip itinerary. 

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to the east to Los Angeles and Santa Monica in the west, Route 66 is the Great American Road Trip of your dreams.

Of course, when people think of driving Route 66, or the Mother Road as it’s commonly called, they think of diners and motels in the Midwest, but by the time the route crosses the border from Oklahoma into Texas, you’re officially in the part of the drive where southwestern scenery and magnificent landscapes take over.

There’s nothing more iconic than a Route 66 sign in front of a tiny Arizona town or the eye-catching Cadillac Ranch installation in Amarillo.

There are so many  things to see on Route 66 , but in this part of the country make sure to visit Petrified National Forest National Park, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, and even venture up to Monument Valley.

The total distance of Route 66 is just under 2,500 miles, but you can easily visit only a portion on a Southwest USA road trip.

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

With a week or less, we recommend picking 1-2 states to explore.

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

The road trip from San Jose to Escalate is an excellent way to get out into nature and have a fun outdoor vacation, and features plenty of of classic Southwestern landscapes along the way.

The drive is about 12 hours plus additional time for stops.

Along the route, you’ll find many parks, camps, Mojave National Preserve, and Las Vegas. 

The little town of Escalante is surrounded by five great national parks of Utah and many recreational areas and national monuments.

You could do day trips to national parks but there are many incredible hikes around Escalante to slot canyons, waterfall trails, and natural formations .

You could easily spend 10 days in Escalante and still have many hikes remaining to be explored.

You would definitely want to do day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park , Burr Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Dixie Forest, and Arches National Park . 

1640 miles.

10 days will be a reasonable amount of time for this round trip.

Planning a Southwest road trip soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse all of our USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need
• 3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary
• 9 Best Things to Do in Page, AZ (+ Nearby!)

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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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

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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.

22 Mind-Blowing Things to See on an American Southwest Road Trip

04/08/2021 by Kristin Addis 56 Comments

The American Southwest is hands-down one of the best road trips in the world. The baby blue waters, deep canyons, curious rock formations, and deep oranges make it feel otherworldly at times.

This road trip itinerary is based on the famed Grand Circle trip with a few variations on the theme thrown in. You can pick and choose and do this in a week and a half, or spend months and see everything on this list. Choose your own adventure.

Gear up, because this is one of the finest adventures in the wild west!

Table of Contents

Getting Started

This itinerary begins in Los Angeles, California. You can start it in Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Salt Lake City if you prefer. This is a ‘choose your own adventure’ type of itinerary.

I went with a camper van from JUCY ( you can compare options incl. Jucy here ) which had a sink with a water tank, a comfortable bed, a full kitchen, and a solar panel to keep me charged when I was otherwise off the grid. It was a convenient way to do this since I never had to set up a tent, could pack up and drive easily every morning, and could cook and eat anywhere and everywhere. I also encountered some rain on my trip and rain in a camper van is a non-issue but in a tent it can be most uncomfortable.

Much of the land in Utah, Arizona, and even parts of California is BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land which means it’s public and free to camp as long as you’re not visible from the road and you leave no trace. That’s what makes a camper van such a good deal and one of the best ways to see the American Southwest! You’ll see me reference this throughout the article.

Here’s a video with some of the best adventures:

By the way, I did most of this trip alone, so don’t despair if you don’t have anyone to go with. The solo aspect of this trip made it all the more magical. Without further ado, here’s the fabulous itinerary:

Nevada is typically synonymous with the booming nightclubs, dazzling lights, and poker tables of Sin City. While I’m a big fan of the strip for a girl’s trip, I also know that there’s much more to Nevada than just Las Vegas. The surroundings can be beautiful as well, and if on a trip where your aim is to appreciate the natural beauty, you’re still in luck in gorgeous Nevada.

1. Seven Magic Mountains

Seven Magic Mountains is an art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone off of Highway 15 just before Vegas if coming from Los Angeles. It’s a series of, you guessed it, seven stacks of brightly painted rocks meant to symbolize the midway between the natural and the artificial which are the mountains and the highway. It’s meant to stay only through the end of 2021, so stop by while you can!

It’s only a slight detour off of the 15 and it probably only cost me 20 minutes total to pull off and see them. If driving on the 15 from Los Angeles you’ll see the sign for the turnoff about 15 miles before reaching Las Vegas and can navigate there using Google maps as well .

2. Helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon

Since I only had about a week to get through my whole itinerary, I figured the best way to finally see the famed Grand Canyon would be to skip the crazy long drive and crowds and to fly right into it at sunset. Fast, easy, and in style! But if you’re starting in Arizona, don’t worry, we’ll talk about driving to it as well later in the post.

After the Magic Mountains I got a quick bite to eat and headed to Maverick Helicopters for their Wind Dancer sunset tour which departs from the strip during golden hour, lands in the Grand Canyon for champagne, and flies back to the strip at sunset, just as everything on the strip is lighting up.

I had always expected that the Grand Canyon would be quite grand (and it was) but what really surprised and impressed me was how beautiful the scenery we flew over to get there was. It’s an incredible way to get a glimpse of some remote and desolate areas that you wouldn’t otherwise see, plus it packs a lot of great experiences into just a few hours. It’s one of those splurge experiences that’s oh so worth it.

Here are some other helicopter tours available:

• Grand Canyon Dancer Helicopter Tour from South Rim
• From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour

3. Valley of Fire

Valley of Fire is a state park in Nevada and my first overnight of the trip. After the helicopter ride, I continued the additional hour to the first come, first serve campgrounds within the park boundary and settled in for the night, waking for sunrise the next morning.

The park entrance is regulated with an honesty box to collect the $10 park fees and $20+ camping fees if you arrive after dark like I did. It was also totally empty around sunrise, so it felt like I had the park more or less to myself in the early morning hours. That was pretty cool! That being said, you might prefer a guided hiking tour .

• Recommended sights:  Seven Sisters, Elephant Rock, Beehives, and Fire Wave Trail (if you have more time).
• Camp:  Check space at campsites within state park or alternatively camp on BLM land just outside of the east park entrance.

– Read More –

Want to see northern Nevada too? Check out the Weirdest Road Trip in the USA

Our complete Nevada Guide

Southern Utah is simply one of the best areas in the American Southwest with its canyons, bright orange rock, and unique formations.

In Utah, you’ll see an overwhelming amount of options for camping, hiking, biking, canyoning, kayaking, etc. Unless you can spend months here, you’ll have to make some heart-breaking decisions between which parks to see and which to skip. Some, like Zion and Bryce are mega famous and will be packed with people, and others, like Grand Staircase-Escalante, you just might get all to yourself.

4. Zion National Park

Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the United States and a must-do on your southwestern road trip.

The main park is accessed by park shuttles that start running around sunrise and end around sunset. They change depending on time of year so check here before making plans. I stayed near Zion for two nights and hiked the Watchman Trail, Observation Point, and Upper Emerald Falls and enjoyed all of them. Sadly, The Narrows was closed due to too much water, but that is one of Zion’s most popular hikes and I was sad to miss it.

I had visited Zion 10 years prior and did the Angels Landing Hike. Even back then, with far fewer visitors, it was a hectic trail with the narrow drop-offs and hand chains, though the ending view is breathtaking. As an alternative, Observation Point instead is an 8-mile trail that looks down on Angels Landing and provides an epic view. More on that here .

• Recommended sights:  Observation Point, Overlook Trail, Emerald Pools, The Narrows, Angels Landing
• Camp:  Campgrounds book out months in advance around Zion, and first come, first serve spots are usually snatched up too. There is BLM camping in the eastern part, or you can camp at the Zion Canyon Campground and RV Resort owned by Ferber Resorts which is walking distance to the park, has some riverside spots, and costs $44/night (plus tax) with showers, Wi-Fi, and toilets.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce is known for its famous hoodoos, the natural amphitheater, and the sunrise and sunset viewpoints. It’s also quite a bit higher in elevation than Zion, so bundle up!

If you’re squeezed for time, you could do one hike in Zion and head out to Bryce the following day to do one hike and catch a sunset/sunrise. On the other hand, if you want to take it all in, consider this 3-hour sightseeing tour that includes stops at Thor’s Hammer, the Cathedral, and the Natural Bridge.

• Recommended sights:  Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Queen’s Garden, Bryce Amphitheater.
• Camp:  There are several first come, first serve campgrounds in Bryce which you can get information on when entering the park.
• Click here to find it on the map.

6. Scenic Highways 12 and 25

From Zion, take the road through the tunnel and out of the park onto scenic Highway 12 for one of the best drives of your life – seriously! Leave some time to stop at the scenic overlooks and parks like Bryce and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument because they are more than worth stopping off at.

If national park crowds are not your thing, hiking and camping around this area is a great alternative, and it’s one of my favorites of the whole trip.

7. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

I can’t say enough good things about the Grand Staircase-Escalante. It’s an area of over 1 million acres of protected land that has so many adventures inside of it that it would take a lifetime to scratch the surface.

The biggest differences between this area and the national parks is most of the trails in the Grand Staircase-Escalante will be accessed via dirt roads, some of which will be 4×4 only. There will rarely be services, like running water, paved trails, bathrooms, and electric hookups. The benefit is almost no crowds, free camping in the wilderness, and natural areas that are no less impressive.

I did the Coyote Gulch trail in one day via the sneaker route, which does involve using a rope to climb down a 250-foot vertical rock and navigating by GPS, but it was also one of the best camping and hiking experiences of my life. More on that here.

• Recommended sights: Zebra Slot Canyon, Peek-a-boo Canyon, Spooky Slot Canyon, Coyote Gulch, Devil’s Garden. Here’s a guided Slot Canyon tour if you are interested!
• Camp: Find BLM camping off of dirt road offshoots and drive for long enough that you’re not visible from the road. This is what I always did in Grand Staircase-Escalante as it’s free and legal.
• Click here to find it on the map .

Utah’s Secret Places, the Perfect Off the Beaten Path Itinerary

The Perfect Utah National Parks Itinerary

8. Capitol Reef National Park

After Coyote Gulch, Capitol Reef is a fantastic stop. There’s a popular scenic drive, but to head off the beaten path, I highly suggest going out to the Temples of the Sun and the Moon. If you have a 4×4 high clearance vehicle then the Caineville Wash Road should be no problem for you as long as it hasn’t rained recently. If in a sedan, ask at the National Park office to see what the road conditions are.

• Recommended sights: Temples of the Sun and the Moon, Queen Bee rock formation, Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook.
• Camp:  There’s first come, first serve camping at Cathedral Valley Campground which, at least when I visited, was free.

9. Goblin Valley State Park

This will be a detour off of Highway 24 though it needn’t be a super long one. Once you enter the state park ($15 fee) you’ll see it’s not particularly large, though giving yourself time to walk among the goblins from the overlook would be wise. There’s also camping available in the state park and it’s worth noting they have nice bathrooms!

10. Sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park

Just outside of Moab, Utah, Dead Horse was one of the most impressive views I saw on this trip and I can’t believe it’s not more popular. The cost to get in is $15 and it’s a pretty small park, but the views at sunset are incredible!

While the main viewpoint at Dead Horse Point will have a few people around in the summer months, in the winter as pictured above, you could get it all to yourself. The majority of the view was totally open and there are plenty of spots where one could enjoy it in privacy. In the photo above, I’m perched on a rock above the cliffs over the viewpoint. Wowzers!

To see more of the last three places mentioned, check out my Utah’s Hidden Places video:

• Recommended sights: Dead Horse Point and if you have time, walk to it from the Visitor Center.
• Camp: Find BLM camping off of dirt road offshoots and make sure you’re not visible from the road. You’ll have to find a spot outside of the state park. Since I was already in the area, I decided to camp on BLM land between Dead Horse and Canyonlands National Park. You will see some ‘no camping’ signs, but most of them will say ‘no camping for the next 1/3 mile.’ After that, you’re free to camp. Just watch out for potholes in the dirt tracks.

11. Sunrise at Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park

Mesa Arch is easily the most famous feature of Canyonlands National Park, particularly at sunrise. Everyone wants to get a shot of that sun lighting up the arch and the sweeping view of the canyon below. I recommend getting there an hour or more before the sunrise if you want an optimal spot for photos. This one was taken from the right side of the arch.

12. Arches National Park

After my Mesa Arch sunrise, I drove to Arches National Park to check out some arches quickly before continuing on. This park is crazy popular. It’s also home to the Delicate Arch which you see on the Utah state license plate.

The photo above is of The Windows, which is an easy offshoot within the park where you can see several arches at once.

• Recommended sights: The Windows, Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace (must register for this the day prior at the visitor center), Devil’s Garden. You can read more about the best hikes in Arches here. 
• Camp: Find BLM camping off of the 313 towards Canyonlands.

13. Needles Overlook

Since you’ll be passing by, the Needles Overlook on the way to Valley of the Gods is vast and gorgeous. It’s an easy drive-up viewpoint that will take about an hour roundtrip. I would only do this if you have the time to and wouldn’t have to cut something else that’s important to you, since there are a lot of epic views on this trip!

14. Valley of the Gods

The Valley of the Gods was an impromptu discovery for me when I saw it off the side of the road and elected to check it out. I’m glad that I did, because this sparsely-visited valley has RED rock formations, in layers of color reaching up towards the sky.

This is a great spot to see the sunset and camp for the night, as it’s BLM land and there’s plenty of free, leave-no-trace campsites to choose from.

Take the Valley of the Gods road offshoot and connect with the 261 to come back to the 163.

First Name:

Next you’ll make your way to Arizona, which is just as impressive as Utah with it’s deep canyons and impressive rock formations.

15. Canyon de Chelly

This national monument is a reasonably big detour if you’re short on time ( check if it’s open first ). However if you can spare an extra afternoon, I’d suggest taking a look because you won’t see as many people as you will in the other spots on this list, and it has some ancient cave drawings you can take a short hike to as well as several beautiful overlooks like this one, Spider Rock.

16. Lake Powell

Lake Powell is such a lovely lake and the perfect jumping off point for some of the most famous things to see in Arizona.

• Camp : There’s a BLM spot outside of Paige. Just be careful not to go into the deep sand, as I saw two cars get towed out of there!

17. Horseshoe Bend

I wondered if Horseshoe Bend could look as amazing in person as it does in photos – but it does!

It’s a quick walk from the parking lot to the overlook. I did it in flip flops.

Be sure to get there early if you want to stake out a good spot for the sunset. There are plenty of boulders on the cliff edge that you can perch on until the sun sets, and I can’t think of many better places to hang out, either!

18. Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon

Like Horseshoe Bend, the Antelope Canyon is worth it to see in person. Those swirling red rocks are so unique.

They are also popular. I still can’t decide if I loved or loathed the experience because it’s so crowded in there! You’ll have a hard time if you’re claustrophobic, which I am!

I did both the upper and lower and both are worth seeing (I have a comparison written here ), as the lower tends to have more colors and the upper has those famous light beams, but only at certain times of day. Gear up and prepare for the crowds, do your breathing exercises, and don’t forget to look up.

Check here to see if the canyon is open or not at the moment.

19. The Wave or White Pocket

The next most famous stop in Arizona is usually The Wave, famous for the wave-like shape and color of the rock. Only 20 people get permits to see The Wave each day, and you’ll need to apply at 9am the day before in Kanab, Utah. Since I was in Page, I opted to see White Pocket instead which almost nobody else was visiting.

While the wave would be amazing to see one day, White Pocket will blow your mind, too. I suggest booking with Kanab Western Adventures  to experience this hike, which is accessed via a sandy 4×4 road. More on the experience here.

20. Grand Canyon

You can’t say you saw the American Southwest without seeing the grandest canyon of them all. The southern entrance is even more impressive than the northern IMHO, with dozens of drive-up overlooks. I loved going for sunset!

On your way, you’ll see roadside stalls offering hand-made Navajo jewelry for sale. I highly recommend pulling off and checking one out!

21. Havasu Falls

If you’re up for an overnight backpacking trip and can secure the permits (which you must do in February, more on that here ), this bucket list item is SO worth seeing. There are several waterfalls to hike to, along with canyon hikes, and more.

I love Sedona so dang much! If you’re into energy healing, the whole of Sedona is considered a vortex. There are hundreds of hiking trails, impressive rock formations, and healing modalities on offer.

You can read all you need to know about the best things to do in Sedona here .

Check out my recent solo trip there:

There’s so much more to Arizona than we’ve listed here, including the Petrified Forest, Phoenix, and more. Read our full Arizona Itinerary here .

Over one week, over two thousand miles, lots of sunrises and sunsets, nights full of stars, and sore legs, this was my American Southwest itinerary. It’s one of the greatest adventures I’ve had, and I’m sure it will be for you, too.

With some experiences you can get to yourself, and some you’ll have to share, this is the perfect mix of solitude while still experiencing the popular must-sees.

– Want to add more states on? –

The Perfect New Mexico Itinerary

The Ultimate Colorado Itinerary

Happy road tripping!

What Does an American Southwest Road Trip Cost?

Southern utah’s secret places.

*Some of the companies mentioned here are partners who helped make this article possible, and some links are affiliate links. Anything you purchase through these links helps keep this site running at no extra cost to you!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Ijana Loss says

05/31/2017 at 7:19 am

This sounds like an awesome trip, I would love to do a trip like this sometime! Aside from having to book a couple places ahead that are really popular, like Zion, it seems like it would be possible to wing the whole thing too. I hate structuring hiking based trips, I like being able to hike random places on a whim. What season did you do this in? Obviously a winter trip wouldn’t be recommended unless you know how to drive in the snow, but I wouldn’t care for summer because of crowds and heat. Spring or fall would work, yes?

Kristin says

05/31/2017 at 2:59 pm

I totally winged the whole thing actually, and it was OK! I think May is a very popular month as well (I just finished the trip, I’m current with my blog now 😉 but the locals all say that the fall is the best time of year.

Ylvalie says

06/01/2017 at 7:38 am

Your pictures are fantastic!

Jeric Danao says

06/01/2017 at 8:23 pm

Wow this content is admirable. You already had me with the off-the-grid solar panel source, lol. Just giving up some of that freedom vibe as you relax and appreciate every destination’s hotspot. Thank you for sharing this!

Rebecca says

06/02/2017 at 11:24 am

Now sooooo much more excited – we’re heading to Utah tomorrow! Great pics and thanks for these tips.

Shannon says

06/02/2017 at 11:46 am

This trip looks awesome Kristin. Thanks for sharing. I have a SW itinerary on my list: Havasupai – Sedona – Antelope Canyon. You definitely saw and did a lot in one week! Those pics though?! Really amazing.

06/02/2017 at 1:43 pm

I totally missed Havasupai and Sedona and it broke my heart! So many hard decisions to make there!

06/03/2017 at 8:05 pm

Wow! Those photos are amazing!

I’m totally adding the American Southwest to my list. Just wondering, any idea/thoughts/knowledge on dog friendly or not? I’d love to bring my boys but not sure if it would be worth it for them.

Rough numbers, what would you recommend for money to do a trip as you did?

06/04/2017 at 7:49 am

I think it depends on which parks you visit if you’d want to bring a dog along. A lot of the trails I did would not be appropriate for dogs either but you can probably find options!

My main cost was gas since I free camped almost everywhere. I’ll do a budget post soon!

Maggie says

06/11/2017 at 3:33 am

Great post! It’s amazing how beautiful the American Southwest is. I grew up in Arizona and it’s embarrassing how little I’ve seen of it compared to what I’ve seen of the rest of the world! Given me some serious wanderlust for my own backyard!

Next time you’re in the area, you should definitely check out Sedona. I lived there for a little bit and it is absolutely beautiful. The Tonto Natural Bridge in central AZ is also really worth visiting and I don’t think it gets enough credit compared to the everything else AZ has to offer.

06/11/2017 at 6:36 am

It broke my heart that I didn’t have time for Sedona. I drove right by it! Had to make some tough choices but I do want to go back.

Lindsay says

07/12/2017 at 8:01 am

Hi Kristen – I’d like to learn more about this since my boyfriend and I are planning on following your itinerary in September. Jucy RV isn’t available out of Las Vegas during our dates, which we’re planning on doing and my boyfriend isn’t into the whole hiking & sweating everyday, & then not showering …so we might end up going with a suped up RV for $300ish/day which I’d prefer not to if we can shower at campsites. Can you let me know which campsites you stopped at and the amenities they have? He would like to shower daily but I’d be fine w every other day. Also, is it cool at night for sleeping? I’m assuming the campervan has AC but don’t want to leave it running all night. Also, would you recommend purchasing the unlimited miles option?

Thanks! Lindsay

07/13/2017 at 2:31 am

In most campsites you can find hookups and be fine. I just didn’t use campsites and free camped instead. It’s cold at night usually! Yes I’d do unlimited miles for this particular itinerary.

Anonymous says

07/31/2017 at 7:42 am

Thanks! We did unlimited miles with Escape campervans and we’re going to get one of those bag showers!

Nichole says

07/12/2017 at 9:19 am

My husband and I just decided this weekend to fly out to Utah in October and rent a camper van. I can’t wait and the more I read I just keep getting more excited. Is it easy to know when you’re on public lands to camp? This will be my first trip west so I don’t really know what to expect.

07/13/2017 at 2:30 am

You can look up maps before you go but yeah, it’s usually pretty clear, at least it was to me.

10/16/2017 at 5:46 pm

Don’t be sad about missing Havasupai. A permit is required to go there. Permits for all of 2017 became available on Feb 1, 2017 and were gone in days. It isn’t a drive by destination. It’s a 10 mile hike in, an overnight and a 10 mile hike out.

Your helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon didn’t take you to the national park which is 5 hours by car from Las Vegas. Helicopters don’t have that kind of range. You went to what is called the west rim and it isn’t even inside the national park boundaries. Cebe

10/17/2017 at 12:16 am

I wouldn’t mind the hike in, to the falls or the actual Grand Canyon!

10/21/2017 at 6:09 pm

Try 70 in Utah as well. My husband drives a truck and we came in through Salt Lake and leaving went on 70 past 4 or 5 of the canyons. To say breathtaking is an understatement. I was in years from the beauty. Have never seen so much in one day. Simply amazing!!! I’ve been home almosy a month and still havent gone through my pictures.

10/22/2017 at 6:10 am

Thanks for the tip!

11/21/2017 at 2:47 pm

Great write-up and pictures. A map would be most helpful.

11/22/2017 at 1:01 am

Under each place I’ve linked a map 🙂

Harish K says

12/02/2017 at 1:57 pm

Hi Kristin,

I am a big fan. I am following the above itinerary, but landing in Las Vegas and starting from Zion. I plan on going the Christmas week. I see weather not too bad, but would you suggest it?

Also, keep doing what you are doing, you are a great inspiration for people like me!

Thanks Harish

12/03/2017 at 5:13 am

If there is snow in Zion and the narrows are iced over that will be magical. Just be prepared for road conditions to potentially be icy.

Jenifer De Figueiredo says

01/02/2018 at 6:38 pm

This is amazing! I’ve been wanting to do this trip with the family for a few years now. My parents took my sister and I when we were 8 and 10. Looking forward to it this summer! How many on foot miles would you say you were doing a day during this trip? We have four girls, ages 11-17. Not all of them are that athletic. Trying to gauge how much time we should give the trip while avoiding whining. I know they will love it, but I don’t want to kill them! 😉 We will also probably take the dog and RV it. Thank you so much for this post! It’s so helpful! 🙂

01/03/2018 at 2:22 am

You can do shorter hikes in Zion than observation point, like the emerald pool, which is very nice. If you are RVing then you would probably skip Coyote Gulch as well, which were my two longest days. Dead Horse is one you drive up to, and if you do White Pocket with Mike that’s not much walking either, plus it’s so engaging and beautiful since the rock formations are all so unique and different, they won’t even notice how far they’ve gone!

Giovanni says

03/28/2018 at 8:44 am

Thanks for sharing this comprehensive and handy resource 🙂 By the way, what do you think are the best places to fly a drone for this trip? Thanks

03/30/2018 at 8:23 pm

It’s getting stricter with time, but definitely not in the national parks, and for State Parks like Dead Horse, only at certain times of year.

Ronald says

05/15/2018 at 9:14 pm

Hello, I love your post! I’m thinking of doing almost the same roadtrip as you very soon; however it was frustrating because my friend dropped out last minute. Did you feel lonely at all going solo on the road? I just want to get your thoughts bc I’m a little hesitant to just do this roadtrip with no company. I feel like it’s just a different dynamic than solo backpacking and staying at hostels, which I’ve done in the past and you always meet people. Thank you!

05/16/2018 at 1:50 am

I actually LOVED it and still think of it as one of my best trips ever. I met people sometimes at the free BLM campsites, as well as just randomly on trails and once in a parking lot of a campsite where I was showering. I got to talking to that guy, invited him to watch the sunset at Horseshoe bend with me, then we even met up again when I was in Chiang Mai in January. I was surprised by how many people I met. I also spent a lot of time alone and I loved that too. Being alone in the desert is profound. Go for it!

05/20/2018 at 11:03 am

Hi Kirsten,

I’m so glad I found your post after typing “solo road trip USA” in Google. ?

Will be solo tripping for my last 5D4N from LAX – am planning to drive from Las Vegas to antelope canyons & Horseshoe bend, spend a night then go onto Moab for the arches & another night before driving onto SLC for one more night then fly back into LAX for my flight back home. (LAX – LV – Page – Moab – SLC – LAX)

Just slightly worried for the 4+ to 5 hour drive each leg… (Friends say I’m crazy & told me to just join the tours to Antelope canyons & forgot abt the rest) but your post is very assuring! I wasn’t planning on getting an RV though, just a compact car & stay at the town motels etc.

Were there any instances where you were too knackered to drive after doing the hikes? Just worried that the heat might zap me out – will be going in a mths time (June!)

Thanks in advance for your sharing.

05/20/2018 at 11:23 am

I had a camper van which was convenient since it allowed me to stay out near the entrances to the parks but motels would be fine too! You’ll spend all morning getting from point A to B, that’s the main thing. I feel like you’d have so little time in each place it might be better to pick either Page or Moab and give yourself one full day without driving in one of them. I’d pick Moab, personally. I also had breaks here and there when I didn’t have a super long drive, and that made it enjoyable for me. However if you really want to see it all, then do it girl! Antelope Canyon and horseshoe bend aren’t really hikes, and you can see a lot in Arches without hiking either.

06/24/2018 at 3:06 pm

We’re planning a similar trip this fall, so your post will come in really handy as we really start to plan. Thanks so much for the wonderful ideas!

06/24/2018 at 11:55 pm

Sabhay says

08/21/2018 at 5:38 pm

Which drone do you use for photography? Would you be able to tell me the model number?

08/21/2018 at 9:42 pm

It’s a DJI Mavic Pro 🙂

Emily Wethington says

11/12/2018 at 6:13 pm

My family and I live in Cincinnati, Ohio. Which airport do you recommend to fly into that is close enough to one of these parks besides LAX?

11/12/2018 at 11:58 pm

You could also do Salt Lake City or Las Vegas.

02/12/2019 at 7:37 am

My family is flying into Las Vegas for the first week of April. We are planning on driving to the Grand Canyon first for an overnight stay then onto Zion for a couple days before ending up in Park City. Do you have any suggestions for hikes and sight seeing for this short trip that would maximize the time?

02/12/2019 at 10:18 am

I really like Observation Point in Zion: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/zion-observation-point/

02/26/2019 at 11:04 pm

Oh wow this looks AMAZING. Bookmarking this post so I can use as reference for when the day finally comes and I visit all these places! Goblin Valley looks awesome!

Sylvia Koss says

04/07/2019 at 2:54 pm

Beautiful. We are planning visiting south Utah in July. Flying to Salt Lake City and renting a car not camper. We don’t have much time only 5 days, what’s your recommendation? Thanks in advance

04/07/2019 at 4:03 pm

Check out Moab!

Keith Miller says

05/24/2020 at 2:21 pm

I read your adventures you wrote about and must say it brings back memories. I travel the whole US for one year. Been just about everywhere there is to go, especially the west and up to Canada. Based out of Aspen. I want to take my girlfriend to these places. She’s been in Europe and other places but not our beautiful USA. Your trip and story was awesome. Thank you for sharing. We just did a 6 day New England’s fall colors experience last October 12-18th from Boston thru Mass. NH. Vt. Me. and it was perfect timing. AirB&B each fantastic place. It was the most color I’ve ever experienced, every scenic highway throughout Certainly a must do!!! Again, loved your share.

05/25/2020 at 9:29 am

thanks Keith! I agree there’s soooo much to see in the US. I hope you guys get to explore soon.

Melissa Hardy says

09/12/2020 at 7:32 pm

This is so well organized!! Thank you for sharing all of this! My family did a seven day adventure around the Grand Canyon ending the Southern rim and went to many of these stops. We are planning another trip after all the Covid craziness passes. We wanted more time everywhere we went. Vegas was a whirl wind, we landed at 9 PM, got our rental car, checked into the Luxor and quickly drove over to the fountains before their last showing at midnight! I packed a lot in our itinerary but did a lot of research prior to going. We didn’t want to miss anything!! I will also share my blog in case you are interested or anyone else 🙂

10/10/2020 at 10:39 am

I love this part of the world and keep revisiting it too!

Yung Chen says

09/13/2020 at 12:10 pm

Dear Kristin:

Wonderful writing and many useful information. Please update your Google map links. Most of your writing’s map links are not working!

Keep up the good work!

They’re all working for me! LMK if there’s anything specific that isn’t working for you 🙂

Tiffany Carr says

10/04/2021 at 9:12 am

Hello, My plans to take my seniors on one last big trip before college got detailed last year so attempting to plan something more nature, simple, budget friendly and full of one time life experiences. Just started to follow your blog that I found. Our daughter is headed to Thailand in August of 2022 to teach English, so buying your book for her birthday. Debating between flying into Utah or Colorado. Want to rent a camper/van for the 3 of us. No agenda, just drive from airport for 3-5 days and back to airport.

What would be your best recommendation as to where to fly into, drive around/camp for 3-4 days? Hiking, swimming in natural springs and viewing God’s creation being the goal.

Ps. Should I get kitchen equipment with the van or place to grab at least one meal a day? We can improvise the other 2:) Thank you!!

10/11/2021 at 1:25 pm

Hmm it probably depends on where you can actually rent the van. I’d look into that first and plan from there!

Lynn Kirkland says

01/14/2022 at 5:47 am

Love your blog. So much information and secret little places to visit Love it. Great pictures and video.

We are planning a trip in April and we will include several of your adventures in our trip. The free camping information was great.

01/14/2022 at 1:36 pm

Yay glad you found it helpful! It’s my favorite place in the world. Enjoy.

Earnest Bijen says

05/11/2023 at 2:48 am

This American Southwest road trip itinerary is absolutely incredible! From the iconic landscapes of Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon to the charming towns of Sedona and Santa Fe, this itinerary is packed with some of the most beautiful and fascinating places in the region. I especially love the idea of hiking in the Narrows of Zion National Park and exploring the unique geology of Bryce Canyon. Road trips are such a wonderful way to explore a new destination, and this itinerary provides a great mix of nature, culture, and adventure. Thank you for sharing this comprehensive guide to exploring the American Southwest!

05/13/2023 at 6:21 am

glad you like it!

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The Perfect 10-Day American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary (14+ Gorgeous Desert Stops!)

Post Summary: Everything you would ever want to know about planning and executing an epic Southwest road trip itinerary.

The American Southwest.

This classic American road trip is packed full of iconic Southwest locations, Instagram-worthy stops , and incredible natural wonders.

We’d even go far enough to say that it’s a must-do for all Americans at least once in their lifetime!

Planning a route this large and complex can get a little crazy and overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate American Southwest road trip itinerary to help set your plans in motion.

We’re sharing the best route to take and even breaking it down into smaller bite-sized trips.

No matter how many days you have for your Southwest US road trip itinerary, we’re sharing how you can still have the maximum amount of fun!

The Ultimate American Southwest Road Trip

This post is a compilation of many trips we’ve taken to some of our American Southwest bucket list destinations . We’re constantly updating this post as we explore more, so keep coming back for more Southwest USA inspiration in the future!

Where Is The American Southwest?

The American Southwest area is a broad term with borders that depend on the person you are talking to!

In a large, encompassing stroke, it would cover Southern California, Southern Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and sometimes even Western Colorado.

It’s a unique area of the United States that showcases vast deserts, red rocks, cool ecological formations, and so many unique and natural landscapes.

Covering all these areas on an American Southwest road trip would require weeks off of work and tons of planning. Stay tuned as we tell you how you can break up your trip into smaller loops for a more manageable trip!

What’s The Best Way To Get Around On My Southwest Road Trip?

The best way to plan and execute a Southwest Road Trip itinerary is certainly by car. Traveling around the Southwest by car will give you the most freedom, and the ability to change plans on a whim if you feel like it! Being one of the most famous west coast road trips , you’ll want to have the freedom to change plans on a whim and drive were you wish.

Our favorite way to get around the Southwest is by renting a campervan. If you are wanting to try our van life, we recommend renting a campervan through Outdoorsy , because it’s kind of like Airbnb but for campervans! You can pick anything from Airstreams to Sprinter Vans to Vintage VW Westfalias. There are so many to choose from, and they come fully insured so you can worry less and explore more!

Finding Camping Spots In The American Southwest

Are you planning to go camping on your Southwest road trip route? Make sure you download the #1 camping app, The Dyrt ! The Dyrt is one of the best road trip planner tools , with tons of features to help you find the perfect camping spots on your trip!

The pro membership unlocks essential tools like their Road Trip Planner (to find the best campsites along your route) and the offline search features to find camping spots without cell service. Try the pro membership for 30 days free!   Click here and use the code  Mandagies  to unlock your 30-day free trial .

Where Do I Start My Southwest Road Trip?

There are many potential starting points for a southwest road trip , and we’ve created ours to be in an enormous loop so you can really start wherever is most convenient for YOU!

However, you may not have time for a mega trip like this one. That’s why we’ve split our route into many smaller routes, to target more specific areas of the American Southwest if you choose to do so.

Here are a few options below to help you pick the best southwest road trip that’s right for you!

The Utah National Parks Trip

Starting Point:  Las Vegas, Nevada.

Total Driving Time:  19 Hours there and back – 1,082 miles

Highlights include locations like Temple of the Sun and Moon, Delicate Arch , Angeles Landing hike (Zion National Park), and more!

This trip includes five US National Parks , lots of hiking, and red rock landscape.

Don’t want to drive back the way you came? Make it a loop and make your way south through Monument Valley and Page, Arizona. This way you can see Horseshoe Bend and even Antelope Canyon!

Click here to see our full detailed road trip route to all five Utah National Parks.  

The Southern California Loop

Starting Point: Los Angeles or San Diego, California

Total Driving Time:  35 hours in a loop drive – 1,200 miles total

This Southern California road trip route includes driving parts of the iconic Highway 395 route , visiting at least two US National Parks (Death Valley and Joshua Tree).

There is also a potential extension to three more (Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park)!

This trip will bring you through major cities, scorching deserts, and incredible views of the Eastern Sierras. Best driven in the springtime to avoid super-hot days, it’s an iconic area to explore in the Southwest USA.

If you are hoping to begin your southwest road trip from Los Angeles, this route is a great place to start!

The Grand Canyon / Desert Loop

Starting Point: Las Vegas, Nevada

Total Driving Time:  18 hours 30 minutes hours in a loop, 1,100 miles total

This route is perfect for lovers of the red landscape of the American Southwest.  Some of the most popular adventures in this area are road trips to the Grand Canyon, so you’re in good company if you like this southwest road trip route!

The red rocks of Valley of Fire State Park, the deep crevasses of the Grand Canyon , and amazing hikes in Sedona are any outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Driving the Grand Canyon and Desert Loop will have you spending a lot of time outside.

Make sure to know some camping essentials like where to find free camping spots , how to sleep in your car , and easy meals to make on the road !

The Mega American Southwest Road Trip

Total Driving Time:  37 hours in a loop, 2,144 miles total

***This is what we’ll be covering below. Keep reading!***

In this post, we’re going to cover a Southwest road trip route that covers every ‘major’ stop. (Note: We really can’t cover EVERY SINGLE STOP, so we’re trying out best to cover the highlights! 

Every major desert, national park, and hidden place we can think of will be included!

If you spent one day in each of these included locations, this Southwest USA trip would take you a little over two weeks.

We’re sharing the largest itinerary so that you can see all your options, and custom fit your route to however long and far you’d like to travel!

All The Best Stops On A Mega Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

Again, this American Southwest road trip guide below includes ALL the stops.

If you are hoping to break it down into a more in-depth trip around just one area, scroll back up to see examples of our bite-sized itineraries!

1. Alabama Hills

Alabama Hills Recreational Area is an area east of the Sierra Mountains in Southern California. It’s managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and its sole purpose is to be for the enjoyment of the people. Yay!

This place is chock-full of amazing rock climbing, desert hikes, interesting natural arches, and so much more. There are even free camping spots pretty much anywhere and everywhere, so you can sleep and play all in one place.

Alabama Hills is also the site for over 150 movie filming locations including American Westerns like Round-Up and The Long Rangers, and more recent films like Django Unchained and Iron Man.

Note: Alabama Hills is mainly dirt roads, so 4-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for travel.

Movie Flat Road is generally in acceptable condition for all vehicles, but take caution after heavy rainfall. The rain may cause ruts in the road or even wash it away completely. Check the weather before you venture out!

Read More: Exactly How To Find Movie Road – (That Famous Instagram Spot In Alabama Hills)

2. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is not only the largest national park in the US , but it’s also the hottest, driest, and lowest elevation one too!

Despite its morbid name, Death Valley is actually home to many species of wildflowers, desert animals, and plants that can withstand the harsh environment. The Death Valley NPS Website even has a calendar for blooming wildflowers and the best times to visit to see them.

We recommend spending a night or two in the park. You can reserve traditional camping spots at Recreation.Gov or pop into the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and ask for free backcountry roads for camping.

Highlights of Death Valley National Park:

• Badwater Basin  – The lowest point in North America.
• Zabriskie Point – Colorful hills in all directions.
• Devil’s Golf Course – Rough, rocky terrain as far as the eye can see.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – The quintessential view people expect at Death Valley. A vast area of sand dunes as tall as 100 feet, perfect for wandering in the evening.
• The Racetrack – Death Valley’s most peculiar site. Stones seem to move and make tracks in the dirt.

Read More: 24 Hours in Death Valley – How To See Death Valley in One Day

3. Valley of Fire State Park

You thought Nevada was just casinos and bright lights? Think again!

Directly around Nevada (in all directions!) are incredible desert landscapes and opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature.

This part of the Southwest is particularly popular for rock climbers, so if you fancy that you should plan more time in your trip to hang around Las Vegas. Las Vegas actually has a large rock climbing community, so if you wanted to train for rock climbing in a controlled environment, this would be the place to try it!

Have a little bit more time? Consider spending a few extra days in Sin City! There are tons of adventurous  things to do in Las Vegas for couples , including romantic hot air balloon rides, attending shows, and experiencing some fine dining! You deserve it after all that time hanging out in the desert dirt!

One of these amazing state parks near Las Vegas is Valley of Fire State Park – an outcrop of fiery red Aztec sandstone jetting out of the earth. The park covers over 40,000 acres of land and is at its best and brightest during sunrise and sunset.

Some of the best attractions at Valley of Fire State Park include:

• Rainbow Vista – color-streaked rocks with a great view
• Atlatl Rock – ancient petroglyphs
• Elephant Rock – natural arch shaped like said animal
• Mouse Tank Road – epic road with surrounding red rocks (that road you see all over social media!)
• White Domes Trail – beautiful view, best at sunrise
• Fire Canyon/Silica Dome – great sunset views
• Arch Rock – natural arch, conveniently on the side of the road
• Fire Wave – beautiful streaks of color on a short, easy trail

If you find yourself driving through Las Vegas on your Southwest road trip, we highly recommend visiting Valley of Fire State Park! The entry fee per day is $10.00 per vehicle, and $20.00 for overnight camping.

4. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most popular Utah national parks to visit on any Southwest road trip.

This is because it’s usually the closest to any starting point you may have (especially if you’re starting in Las Vegas, Phoenix, or California).

With over 4.5 million visitors per year, there are tons of activities to do like biking, hiking, cave exploring, and camping!

Planning out your days in Zion National Park are of the utmost importance. Because cars aren’t allowed in the park, you’ll be riding around on scheduled shuttles with all the other crowds in the park.

If you are visiting during a busy season or busy time of day, it’s important to arrive early and avoid long queues for the buses.

Zion National Park HACK: If you want to hike in a location before the shuttle begins for the day, we know of friends who have rented bikes for the week in Zion.

Bikes will give you more freedom to come and go from trailheads without waiting for the busy shuttle times and dealing with crowds. You can easily rent bikes at Zion Outfitter.

Travelers Tip: Stay outside of the park at hotels in Hurricane, UT for a budget-friendly stay. You’ll need to drive into the park every day, but it’s not too far of a drive, and the views are great!

If you really want to stay closer to the park, we highly recommend booking accommodations in Springdale, Utah  at least 6 months in advance or booking your camping spots very early. Accommodations near the park fill up FAST in high season!

Best Hikes and Attractions In Zion National Park:

• Angels Landing Hike (Difficult To Challenging)
• The Narrows (Canyon hike)
• Emerald Pools Trail
• Canyon Overlook Trail
• Kolob Canyons
• Weeping Rock
• Riverside Walk
• West Rim Trail

Best (And Scariest) Hike in Zion National Park: Angels Landing

5. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is located in Utah, one of the “Mighty Five” Utah National Parks . It’s often paired with Zion National Park because of their proximity to one another.

This park is unique for its bright orange hoodoos,  which are tall skinny spires that form at the bottom of a dried up basin after thousands of years of erosion.

There are many opportunities to hike down in the basin and next to these towering hoodoos. Some of the most iconic hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park include:

• Queen’s Garden Loop  (most iconic Bryce features) – 2.6-mile loop
• Rim Trail (Best for sunrise and sunset) – entire length is 5.5-miles with multiple stopping points
• Mossy Cave Trail  – 0.9 miles out-and-back trail
• Navajo Trail  – 1.3-mile loop
• Swamp Canyon Loop – 4.1-mile loop
• Tower Bridge Trail – 3.4-mile out and back trail
• Fairyland Loop Trail – 8.0-mile loop
• Riggs Springs Loop Trail – 8.5-mile loop
• Peek-A-Boo Loop Trail – 5.5-mile loop

Because of its high elevation (8,000 to 9,000 feet depending on your location), Bryce Canyon stays cold nearly year round.

In January, temperatures barely rise above freezing at 15-37 degrees Fahrenheit, and its hottest month (July) sits between 53-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

That being said, we suggested earlier that the best time to make a southwest road trip itinerary would be between March/April or October/November. We still think this is true, but you should definitely add warm clothes to your southwest USA packing list.

If you’re packing light, here’s what we suggest you bring for warm clothes at the very minimum for visiting Bryce Canyon:

• Lightweight Down Jacket
• Thin, e-tip gloves (trust us, these are a lifesaver)
• Down-filled throw blanket

6. Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem on any adventurous southwest road trip. Located in central Utah, this park’s unique feature is a wrinkle in the earth called the “ Waterpocket Fold “, which runs north to south for nearly 100 miles.

This formation has created some interesting details in the area. Deep canyons, monoliths, and rocky reefs are waiting to be explored here!

To take your trip to the next level , we suggest reading our post about getting to Cathedral Valley to visit the Temple of The Sun And Moon . It’s a journey you won’t soon forget.

These towering twin rock monoliths are a two-hour drive down a dirt road – but well worth the detour! Just make sure to have a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, and/or very confident driving skills.

It also doesn’t hurt to stop by the ranger’s office before heading out –  the rangers can tell you about the current road conditions.

Around Cathedral Valley is also a great place to camp. BLM land surrounds most of the park, so you can find a free camping spot just outside the national park borders and wake up in the valley!

(Just remember that camping IN the park is not permitted unless you have a backcountry permit or are in a designated camping spot!)

Here are some iconic things to do in Cathedral Valley:

• Hike The Grand Wash
• Drive The Backroads to Cathedral Valley
• See The View At Gooseneck Overlook

In Capitol Reef National Park, you’ll get a good perspective of the landscape of the American Southwest!

READ MORE: What To Expect On Your Trip To Capitol Reef National Park

7. Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is the sister park to Arches National Park . Canyonlands and Arches are right next to one another, so travelers usually come to the Moab area and visit both parks in one trip.

This park is divided up into three sections: The Island In the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze areas. Island In The Sky is the most accessible for all cars, has amenities like bathrooms and water, and has some of the park’s best overlooks.

If you’re hoping to spend one day in Canyonlands, we suggest coming to the Island In The Sky and leaving the other sections for a longer trip. There is plenty to see in this section, with tons of overlooks, short hikes, and attractions.

This part also includes the famous Mesa Arch , which looks incredible during sunrise!

It’s also important to note that there is little if any cell service in the park. Make sure to pick up a park map, or download an offline map from Google to help you get around.

Camping? Moab can be a good home base if you’re searching for an Airbnb or a hotel. However, if you want to rough it a little bit, there is tons of BLM land around the area where you can camp for free!

Read our complete guide to finding the perfect free camping spot in the USA . We’re sharing researching tips, best practices and so much more!

Highlights of Canyonlands (Must-See Spots In The Park):

• Candlestick Tower
• Grand View Point
• Green River Overlook
• Shafer Canyon Overlook
• Upheaval Dome
• Buck Canyon Overlook
• Dead Horse Point (Outside of the park but accessible from the same main road!)

Click here to find the best spot to watch the sunset in Canyonlands National Park!

8. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most visited of the “Mighty Five” Utah national parks. We also think it’s an essential stop on your Southwest road trip itinerary!

Here, you can experience iconic American landmarks like Delicate Arch, Double Arch, and the Windows Loop.

It’s possible to experience this park’s main attractions in a day, and the highway is set up to show you all the highlights. We wrote a post about the 10 best hikes to take in Arches National Park, and they are easily accessible and doable in 24 hours!

We suggest coming to this park early – the entrance line can get extremely long starting at 9:00 am!

Best Hikes In Arches National Park (See here for the complete list!) :

• Delicate Arch (least crowded during sunrise)
• Fiery Furnace (permit required)
• Double Arch
• Windows Loop
• Devil’s Garden Loop

Read More: How To Spend One Day In Arches National Park

9. Monument Valley

Monument Valley will be nearly everyone’s iconic assumption of what the landscape of the American Southwest looks like.

Want to reach that famous Forrest Gump Road? It’s a bit outside the official Oljato-Monument Valley area.

Starting from the town of Mexican Hat, drive west on Highway 163 towards Monument Valley to catch a glimpse of the towering pinnacles in the distance.

There are a few spots to pull over and snap a few pics of the road. Just be sure to look out for traffic both ways!

Camping Tip: There is BLM land all around Monument Valley, but do your research before heading out to search for your next spot. Read up on any specific rules for Native American reservation land, and what is allowed in these specific areas.

Read More:  Exactly How To Find Free Camping In The USA

10. Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are often coupled together because of how close they are to one another!

The town of Page was just a quick stop on our Southwest Road trip itinerary, but if you’re looking to spend more time here, check out these amazing things to do in Page, Arizona !

It’s important to note the time zone change from Page, Arizona. It’s very confusing – especially if you have tours reserved in the area.

Be sure to confirm any scheduled events or reservations you may have. As a last resort, consider arriving an hour early (rather than being an hour late!).

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon in Page, Arizona. It’s split into two sections: “Upper Antelope Canyon” and “Lower Antelope Canyon”.

This place is growing in popularity, so it’s important to book Antelope Canyon tours online and reserve your spot in advance.

You can take a sightseeing tour, or spend a little more time in the canyon on a Photographer’s tour. The route is the same, the only difference is that the photography tour is longer.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is an extremely picturesque bend in the Colorado River, located just outside of the city of Page, Arizona.

There is lots of grief about the Horseshoe Bend area being overcrowded. Yes, in recent years this place has received a lot of social media attention, thus creating a large and fast influx of visitors before the state could build proper infrastructure.

Regardless, we still think it’s an incredible place to see with your own eyes.

We recommend coming during sunset, even though this is by far the most popular and crowded time.

Just know that you will be sharing it with a lot of other people, and arm yourself with patience and grace. And remember, they are coming to experience its beauty just like you!

11. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is the quintessential activity for any adventurous southwest road trip.

Spanning 277 miles long and 18 miles wide at some points, the Colorado River has been carving this canyon for thousands of years!

If you are looking to see the highlights of the Grand Canyon, we recommend visiting the South Rim. This area is the most accessible to all vehicles and includes campgrounds, visitors centers, and more accommodations nearby.

Here are some of the best viewpoints in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon:

• Mather Point
• Mohave Viewpoint
• Moran Point
• Desert View Point
• Yavapai Point

Want to stay longer in this amazing part of the southwest? Try planning an unforgettable trip to Havasu Falls ! This incredible backcountry area in the southwest requires permits and quite the hike in, but in the end you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful waterfall views on earth!

Read More: Experience a Grand Canyon National Park Sunset

12. Sedona, Arizona

Love hiking in the desert? This eclectic town in the middle of Red Rock State Park is a perfect place to reconnect with your mind, body, and soul.

We’ve written an incredibly in-depth guide to hikes in Sedona and what to expect on these beautiful trails!

Soldier’s Pass Trail : This hike features lots of interesting attractions. Some highlights include the Seven Sacred Pools, Devil’s Kitchen sinkhole, and cave entrances.

Cathedral Rock Hike : One of the most popular hikes in Sedona, Cathedral Rock trail is a popular location to watch the sunset. Towering spires, sharp cliff edges, and a little climbing will bring you to some of the most incredible desert views!

Devil’s Bridge Trail : Devil’s Bridge is a natural sandstone arch that’s accessible by a 4.2-mile hike. The best time to visit is during sunrise and sunset when the red landscape glows!

The Birthing Cave Trail : This short hike leads you to one of Sedona’s beautiful caves on the side of a mesa!

Trail Tip: These southwest hikes can get really hot in the middle of the day! We recommend taking on these trails in the early morning, or during sunset/late evening for some cooler weather. See our Sedona packing list for seasonal tips and tricks!

Read More: 5+ Incredible Hikes In Sedona, Arizona You Need To Experience

13. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park has it all – desert vibes, interesting landscape, beautiful cholla gardens, and so much more.

It’s located east of Los Angeles, neighboring with the resort town of Palm Springs.

It’s most well known for its namesake, the Joshua Tree , which cover much of the park’s landscape. Unique boulder piles like Skull Rock (see photo below) combined with the high desert shrub make this place a unique part of any southwest road trip.

There are several types of accommodations near Joshua Tree National Park.

You can find tons of free camping spots around the park, wilderness areas within the park (with the proper permits) and campgrounds to be as close as possible to the attractions.

If you are into glamping, you’ve got to check out the insta-famous Joshua Tree House by Sara and Rich. Their picture-perfect home is close to the park, with all the luxurious amenities of a desert oasis. (Also, get $40 off your first booking with this code!)

Read More: Gorgeous Places To See In The American Southwest

14. San Diego, California

Oh, the options are endless in San Diego! This is where we began our Southwest road trip itinerary, but this is not where we ended it. However, if you want to drive all the way up the coast on a California Coast road trip , this is a great place to start that journey.

With the endless cafes, ice cream shops and restaurants to discover, there’s also a ton of amazing natural beauty to explore around San Diego .

Here are a couple of spots we were lucky to see on our latest trips:

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (La Jolla, California)

With over 8-miles of trails in this park by the ocean, you can explore as much or as little as you’d like. Torrey Pines is a preserved site with rugged cliffs, rare pine trees, and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.

You can come to join a 1-hour ranger-guided tour of the park on weekdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Visitors Center. Spaces are limited to 10 people per day!

California State Beaches

What’s a trip to sunny California without visiting the Pacific Ocean? Below are some of our favorite beaches to explore. Call it a last hurrah or celebration on finishing your epic Southwest road trip! Congratulations, you!

• Moonlight State Beach
• Cardiff State Beach
• Torrey Pines State Beach (North and South Shore)
• South Carlsbad Beach
• Coronado Beach and Dog Park

Nearby: How To Spend A Fun Weekend In West Hollywood, California

Our 10-Day Southwest Road Trip Route

Looking for a day-by-day itinerary through the southwestern region of the US? Here’s what our exact southwest road trip itinerary looked like during our last journey around this corner of the USA.

Again, driving around the southwest US can be as short or as long as you want it to be! There are endless things to explore, so if your time is limited here’s a 10-day southwest road trip itinerary we suggest you follow.

This way, you can dip your toes in a ton of different areas, and then return to your favorites on a future trip!

Day 1: Alabama Hills, California

Day 2: Death Valley National Park (See our 24 Hours In Death Valley Itinerary !)

Day 3: Valley of Fire, Nevada

Day 4: Zion National Park

Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 6-8: Sedona, Arizona

Day 9: Joshua Tree National Park

Day 10: Torrey Pines, San Diego, California

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Around The Southwest USA

Still have questions about your upcoming road trip? Here are some of the most common questions around planning a southwest road trip itinerary:

How Do I Get Around On A Trip In The American Southwest?

Unfortunately, we don’t live in any of those Southwest cities listed above. If you’re like us, you’ll probably be flying into the cheapest airport you can find, which will depend on the type of route you want to take!

If you need help finding cheap flight deals, you can track destinations with Skyscanner and buy when tickets are the cheapest!

We suggest flying into large airports to get the best deals on flights. Large airports mean there are more flights coming in per day, which means more people can book and they won’t be in such high demand.

Here are the major cities this mega Southwest itinerary will pass through – all are great starting points for your road trip around the American Southwest.

• Phoenix, Arizona (Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport – PHX)
• Las Vegas, Nevada (McCarran International Airport – LAS)
• Los Angeles, California (Los Angeles International Airport – LAX)
• San Diego, California (San Diego International Airport – SAN)

RENTAL CARS:

Looking to go camping during your Southwest road trip? We did too! There are TONS of areas in the southwest perfect for free camping , so you can have an epic trip on an epic(ly cheap) budget!

To make your car camping adventure as cozy as possible, we’d suggest renting a car that can fold the backseats down completely flat.

That way, you can pack your sleeping bag and sleeping pad and snuggle up in the back for a cozy (and free) place to sleep on your southwest road trip.

Looking For A Camper Van or RV?

One of our favorite places to look for RVs for rent is a place called Outdoorsy . It’s kind of like Airbnb for recreational vehicles. People will lend their camper vans, mobile homes, and more for travelers like you!

It’s fully insured, and an awesome way to save money on the road and get the full road trip experience. Click here to browse their huge selection!

What’s The Best Time Of Year For A Southwest Road Trip?

In our opinion, we think the best time of year for a perfect Southwest road trip would be between the months of March and April.

This is when most of the snow has melted in the spring (except for in Bryce Canyon !) but the desert weather is not yet too hot.

We also think that between October and November is a good time to plan your southwest road trip itinerary.

The weather is getting cooler from the summer, and most families have children back in school, so crowds are less than the peak summer season.

This Isn’t The End…

Didn’t see your favorite American southwest destination in this blog post? That’s because we haven’t explored there yet!

We can’t wait to do some more driving around the Southwest US. As we explore more destinations, we’ll be updating this post with more information. Keep coming back!

Are you planning your own amazing Southwest road trip? Tell us about the stop you are looking forward to the most!

10 Amazing Destinations in the American Southwest

The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip

How To Spend One Day In Death Valley National Park

5 Amazing Hikes In Sedona, Arizona You Need To Explore

How To Find Movie Road In Alabama Hills, California

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary

How To See Big Sur, California In One Day

After way too many years of working and raising children I have the opportunity to do something I love and travel the country. All back roads and amazing places. Just found your blog and most of my planning is very similar to what you do. After reading about your adventures, my biggest concern is being shut out of places I want to see because my trip will be fluid and I really don’t want to rush to a place. There is no way I can set something up six months in advance. Maybe a month would work do me. I plan on going for two years. Entire country except for the heartland. Any advice? Below you ask for a website. I’m just getting to it.

Hi Eric! Thanks for the comment! What do you meaning being shut out of places?

We are planning on doing part of this in September. So so excited! One thing we did notice is a lot of campsites close from mid/late September for the winter.

Hi Nicola! I hope you have the best time! And depending on the parks, the campsites are generally open through October, especially in the warmer southwest climates. You could also try apps like iOverlander that show you forest roads to camp for free, year-round if the road conditions permit!

Wandering Wenzels

Adventure Guides & Itineraries for 9-5ers

• wanderingwenzels
• Jun 7, 2022

The Ultimate 6 Day Southwest Road Trip Guide & Itinerary - Visit Nevada, Utah, and Arizona

Updated: Jun 22, 2022

"It looks like we landed on Mars!" The expansive skies and undeveloped desert land of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona make you feel as if you've transported into the old, wild west.

After dreaming for months, we decided it was time to hit the road and see all the beauty of the American southwest with our own eyes. We flew into in Las Vegas, rented a car, and made our way through Valley of Fire State Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend, and Grand Canyon National Park. Are you planning a trip to the wild southwest? Check out where to go, eat, and stay in just 6 adventure-filled days.

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Trip Duration: 6 Days (Including Travel Time)

Best Time to Visit: March - May, September - October

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Valley of Fire State Park

Zion national park, bryce canyon national park, horseshoe bend, grand canyon national park, where to eat, where to stay, what to wear, what to pack.

Other Places to See

This state park is located just one hour outside of downtown Las Vegas, and can easily hold a candle to the surrounding national parks. With just a $10 entry fee, Valley of Fire features diverse and unique landscapes that will leave you saying "wow!" While we only had about 3 hours to explore the park, we did our best to make the most of it. Here are a few highlights:

Drive through the park from the Visitor Center to the end of Mouse Trap Road - The red rocks and formation are incredible, and you might even see a Bighorn Sheep on the side of the road!

Hike the Fire Wave Trail - This easy, 1.5 mile out-and-back trail leads to the famous Fire Wave rock. Be careful as you climb to the top and overlook the view! The trail has barely any shade, so make sure to wear sunscreen and pack lots of water, no matter what time of day or year, to prevent dehydration.

White Domes Trail - Explore this 1.1 mile loop trail that features diverse terrain, a slot canyon, and a marker where a movie set once took place in the park. We watched the sunset from the top of some of the domes, and it felt magical!

Zion was the 10th most visited national park in 2021 according to the National Park Service , and we can see why! From easy overlooks to trails along sheer-cliff drop offs, the park features numerous types of hikes that are great for all interests and skill levels.

Your $35 entry fee gives you access to the park, Visitor Center Parking Lot, and shuttle system. We recommend getting to the park no later than 8:30 am to ensure you get a parking spot and can take enjoy the morning sun rising through the park. If you can't find parking in the park itself, the town of Springdale offers parking and a shuttle that will take you into the park.

While we were not able to secure a permit to hike the famous Angel's Landing, we spent 2 amazing days exploring the park, and here's what we did:

The Watchman Trail – This moderately rated, 3.1 mile out-and-back trail is accessible from the Visitor Center parking lot. We started this hike around 7:30am as the rising sunlight filled the park, and we're so glad we did. The trail offers little shade, so hiking in the middle of the day would be harsh and difficult.

Walk along the Virgin river between Temple of Sinawava and Big Bend Shuttle Stops - While waiting for some of friends to join us, we decided to take the shuttle up to the last stop, #9 - Temple of Sinawava, and walk along the Virgin River to the #8 - Big Bend stop. The trail follows the road and river, and offers a less-crowded way to experience the heart of the park.

Emerald Pool Falls (Upper, Middle, and Lower) - Although the water levels were low so the waterfalls weren't running in their full glory while we were there, the Emerald Pool Falls trail features stunning views of the park all the way. This is a great, late afternoon hike as the sun is less harsh.

The Narrows – Hands-down our favorite hike to date. Since it was April and the water was about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, we rented the dry bib package from Zion Outfitters . While you could walk a little ways in the frigid waters, having the dry suit in spring allowed us to go much farther and enjoy more of the journey.

Bryce Canyon is a relatively small National Park, and can be done in 1/2 to 3/4s of a day. The hoodoo rock formations are incredible to look at and wander around. Make sure to get the iconic photos of The Queen and Thor's Hammer!

Sunrise Point and Sunset Point - Both are the prime overlooks for the canyon, and are right off of the parking lot, so they are easily accessible. The parking lots tend to fill up, so make sure to get there in the morning.

Navajo to Queens Garden Loop - This 3 mile loop hike is the most popular in the park, and features diverse and breathtaking views. They allow you to walk deep into the canyon and experience it from a whole new perspective.

Overlooks - Jump in your car and drive up to overlooks along the way such as Natural Bridge Point and Rainbow Point/Yuka Point.

Bristlecone Loop - This 1 mile loop takes you along the rim at the end of the canyon, and is much less crowded than the rest of the park.

Located just off the highway near Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is an iconic landmark in the southwest. Your $10 entry fee allows you to park in the visitor center parking lot and take the quarter mile paved trail to the overlook point.

Catching the sunrise or sunset offers the best views and the most vibrant colors...along with crowds. However! There is plenty of rim to walk around and find your spot to watch the sunset. Believe it or not, this photo was taken several hundred feet from the "main" viewing point.

Warning: there is NO SHADE on the trail, so take this into account when visiting in the middle of the day. Always bring water and sun protection!

Bright Angel Trail - This trail takes you down into the canyon, which is super cool! The full trail is about 8 miles, but the recommend hiking length is 1.2 miles down to the first lookout point. We recommend making this hike before 10am or after 5pm to avoid direct sun exposure. Remember that as you hike down, the hike up will be more difficult and take a lot more time. BRING WATER--we saw so many families beet red from dehydration and sun exposure, with little to no water. We even offered water to some people who came unprepared. For perspective, Jairus and I both drank at least a liter of water each.

Hopi Point to Mohave Point - Take the shuttle up to Hopi Point and walk the rim trail to Mohave Point. You'll be able to catch a view of the Colorado River, and the area is much less crowded.

Watch the Sunset - Seeing the sun set over the Grand Canyon is an incredible experience! We brought our dinner with us and watched it (along with many others) at Yavapai Point. It was a little chilly in April, but an incredible way to end our week of adventure!

While near Zion National Park

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co .

Cafe Soleil

While near Bryce Canyon National Park

Cowboy Ranch House Bar & Restaurant

Ruby's Inn Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room

While in Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona Steakhouse

Maswik Food Court - We picked up food from here and took it to eat while watching the sunset!

Zion Motel - Despite it's dated appearance, it was really clean with super friendly service!

Bryce View Lodge - Simple accommodations, but comes with a great free breakfast at Ruby's Buffet!

While near Horseshoe Bend

Comfort Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell - Spacious room and great breakfast, located 5 minutes from Horseshoe Bend.

In Between Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas

Kingman KOA Journey - Located just off Route 66, this adorable town is great to explore or just pass through!

What to wear specifically changes seasonally, but in general, here are some items to bring...

Layers! - We started off the day in long sleeves and puff jackets, and by midday were in shorts and t-shirts.

Sun protection - Hats, t-shirts, etc. to keep the beating sun off.

Solid hiking shoes - Jess loves her Columbia Newton Ridge boots, while Jairus rocks his Salomon X Ultra 3 GTX hiking shoes .

LOTS of water , reusable water bottles, and water bladders - We got this two pack of bladders from Amazon for $22, and they were great!

Hydration Additives and Electrolyte Beverages - they'll keep you from/help you recover from dehydration.

Advil and motion sickness patches: These will decrease the effects of altitude change pressure and windy roads if you're prone to motion sickness. I specifically recommend these , they are miracle workers!

Annual Park Pass - It's $80 for an all-inclusive Annual Parks Pass, or $35/park. Visit 3 parks (like we did) and you've already saved money!

Sunscreen - The desert sun is intense!

Other Places to See Along the Way

We could only pack so much into our 6 days, but there were dozens of other places we wanted to stop! If you have time, check out...

Arches National Park

Belly of the Dragon

Coral Sands State Park

Capitol Reef National Monument

Monument Valley

Full 8 Day Itinerary

Fly to Vegas

Pick up rental car, go shopping for food and snacks

Drive to Valley of Fire State Park

Spend 3 Hours Guide to Valley of Fire State Park

Drive to Zion Motel

Hike the Watchman in Zion NP

Get lunch at the Zion Lodge Café

Hike Emerald Falls

Hike the Narrows in Zion NP

Get lunch at Café Soleil

Drive to Bryce Canyon Lodge

Get dinner at Cowboy Ranch House Bar & Restaurant in Bryce Canyon

Explore Bryce Canyon NP

Drive to Page, AZ

Stay at Comfort Inn & Suites

Watch the sunset at Horseshoe Bend

Drive to Grand Canyon

Explore the Grand Canyon

Drive to Kingman, AZ

Stay at Kingman KOA Journey in a Deluxe Cabin

Drive to Las Vegas

Well, here you are at the end of our full 6 day southwest adventure! We could have spent months in Nevada, Utah, and Arizona, and still not have seen everything. The southwest is truly an incredible place to explore--and easier to get to than Mars!

Are you planning a trip to the Southwest soon? Tag us on Instagram @wanderingwenzels so we can see your adventures!

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American Southwest Road Trip Guide: 8 Day Itinerary

Use this American southwest road trip guide that’s an 8 day itinerary for visiting New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado. There are so many US southwest vacation ideas to see unique deserts, mountains, and canyons carved by rivers.

You US Southwest adventure will introduce you to a land of stark contrasts, captivating landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, a road trip through the Southwest will undoubtedly present an unforgettable journey of discovery and awe.

Planning a Southwest USA road trip is by far the best way to see and experience everything this region has to offer.

This 8-day road trip guide includes things to do, what to pack, and where to stay as you travel through the southwest region of the US!

Be sure to grab the Road Trip Packing List that includes items for comfort, organization, eating, and first aid to make the family vacation a success. You’ll also receive a Road Trip Itinerary to plan the day-to-day schedule of the trip!

This site contains affiliate links which means WE may receive commissions for purchases made through these links. We only provide links to products we actually use and/or wholeheartedly recommend! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read the full Disclosure Policy.

Planning your southwest road trip.

This article was written by Jennifer Wolff, one of our contributing writers:

“As a school teacher from Southwest Michigan, I look forward to summer road trips exploring the US with my wonderful daughter! I’m drawn to geological features and the American Southwest has so many to admire! Here’s the 8-Day Southwest Itinerary that my daughter and I took in July.”

National Parks Pass

Our Southwest road trip itinerary has you visiting 6+ national parks, all of which charge a per-car entrance fee. The best way to save money is to buy a National Parks Pass.

You can  buy the pass through REI  before you go (they will donate 10% of sales to the National Park Foundation), or you can get it when you arrive at the first National Park.

The pass is good for one year at any site managed by the National Park Service. The US National Park pass is a good deal and will save you $50+ just on this road trip.

Water, Water, Water!

Carry plenty of water with you when traveling around the Southwest US. Dehydration is serious, especially during the summer. Keep extra water in a cooler in your car (we like the Koolatron that doubles as a fridge in our hotel room too). Use a hydration pack when hiking. Fill it every chance you get – most national parks will have water bottle filling stations.

What to Pack for a Southwest US Trip

You must be prepared for a road trip around the American Southwest. There are long stretches of road with no services for gas, food or lodging. There are sporadic small towns that may not offer services or they aren’t open at ‘normal’ hours to the public.

Cell service is random to non-existent in more remote areas around the Southwest. There are many National Parks that also don’t have cell service, gas, food or lodging.

What you pack for a Southwest road trip will depend on the time of year, the locations you visit, and the activities you will do – use our National Parks Packing Lists as a guide.

Here’s a small list of the items you really must have when driving around the Southwest US. Check out the full list of family road trip items to pack .

• Maps – download a map beforehand – cell service may not be available for long stretches of road (we use a road atlas as a backup as well)
• Water – reusable water bottles
• Food – healthy road trip snacks
• Roadside Emergency Kit
• Sunscreen & Hat
• Clothing – layers for variations of temperature and weather

USA AUDIO TOURS (GuideAlong)

“Download the app to your phone – no cell or wifi service needed. Based on your GPS location, the app takes you on a guided tour of the area and points out all the interesting features and stops. It’s like having a guide in the car with you.”

• American Southwest Road Trip Guide

You’ll find must-see Southwest National Parks and state parks to visit on this detailed vacation itinerary.

DAY 1: Albuquerque to Flagstaff

Stops along the way:

• Petrified National Park
• Winslow, Arizona

Albuquerque, NM to Petrified Forest National Park, AZ – 3 hours drive time

We decided to start and end our Southwest Road Trip in Albuquerque, New Mexico since my brother lives there.

Before arriving at Petrified Forest National Park , I had been missing the landscape of the Badlands from last summer’s vacation. The first stop at Petrified Forest reminded me of the landscape of Badlands National Park and brought the biggest smile to my face!

I had also been quite tense flying from Michigan to New Mexico and then driving from Albuquerque to Petrified National Park. Seeing the beautiful landscape of the American Southwest relaxed me immediately.

The layers of different colors making up the landscape of Petrified Forest National Park (and Painted Desert) were just beautiful. The deposited layers are quite diverse with some areas a more orange color and other areas are a more blueish color.

We spent about 3 hours exploring the park, and could’ve stayed longer, but the weather took a wicked turn so we left in an attempt to beat the oncoming monsoon. If I ever go back to Petrified Forest, I would get there earlier, hope for good weather, and hike more trails.

SOUTHWEST US ROAD TRIP TIP: Be aware of the weather during the summer monsoon season in the southwestern region of the US.

Petrified Forest to Winslow, Arizona – 1 hour drive time

One of the best parts of a road trip is stopping at fun and quirky places. When you drive through Winslow, you must take a photo on the corner. You know, for the song “Standing on the Corner in Winslow Arizona” by the Eagles.

Winslow to Flagstaff, AZ – 1 hour drive time

Our Southwest US itinerary included a stop at the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark on our way from Winslow to Flagstaff, but the monsoon storm prevented us from going.

ROAD TRIP TIP: Be flexible and prepared to make adjustments due to unexpected weather, construction, etc.

• Hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona
• Things to do in Flagstaff, Arizona

DAY 2: Flagstaff to Page, AZ

• Grand Canyon South Rim
• Grand Canyon Desert View Drive
• Little Colorado Overlook

Flagstaff, AZ to Grand Canyon National Park, AZ – 2 hour drive time

Since we were still on Michigan time, it was easy to get up early each day. We highly recommend starting out early to avoid the crowds and heat that are inevitable on an American Southwest road trip in the summer.

Our first stop today was the South Rim of  Grand Canyon National Park . The South Rim is open all year. The easiest and fastest way to get around and see the Grand Canyon is to take the scenic Kaibab Rim Shuttle Bus. It’s the only way to access the South Kaibab Trailhead and Yaki Point.

There is a Hermit Road Shuttle bus that operates most of the year. It stops at 9 canyon overlooks along the scenic 7 mile Hermit Road. We decided to spend a bit of time in the Village area to explore Mather Point and hike the rim trail for a bit.

Our itinerary for the day had us driving to Page, Arizona so we set out along Desert View Drive headed toward the Watchtower.

Mather Point to Desert View Watchtower – 35 minute drive time (with NO stops!)

Each viewpoint along Desert View Drive offers something just a bit different from all the others. It’s definitely worth the time to stop at each viewing point on Desert View Drive along the way! The watchtower is really neat inside. Be sure to climb to the top.

Desert View Watchtower to Page, AZ – 2 hour drive time

On our way to Page we stopped at the Little Colorado Overlook. It was a nice place to get out of the car to stretch our legs and enjoy the scenery.

SOUTHWEST ROAD TRIP TIP: Dehydration is serious in the summer months. Make a point to drink water at all the stops you make on your Southwest road trip. Keep water in a cooler in the trunk!

• Hotels in Page, Arizona
• Things to do in Page, Arizona

Day 3: Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon

Page, az to horseshoe bend – 10 minute drive time.

Nothing says American Southwest like a photo of Horseshoe Bend .

We got up EARLY to hike to Horseshoe Bend, arriving at the trailhead at 7 am to avoid the crowds and heat.

CARRY WATER with you on the hike since there is no shade along the 1.25 mile roundtrip hike that takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour.

Since we had a scheduled tour at Antelope Canyon the same morning, we didn’t stay long at Horseshoe Bend.

Horseshoe Bend to Antelope Canyon, AZ – 30 minute drive time

Visiting Antelope Canyon was a must on our Southwest Road Trip itinerary. We participated in the regular Dixie Ellis tour of Antelope Canyon  (they offer a teacher discount.) Even though we had made an online reservation, we still had to wait in line to check in and then again before our tour time was called.

Once our tour was called we walked over to another waiting area. The tour guides are quite knowledgeable about camera phones and gave advice on how to take the best photos. Our guide also took our photos and made sure no one was in it.

Plan on shuffling through the canyon because it is packed with people!

Be sure to LOOK UP! The canyon is so spectacular, but it’s also amazing to look up and see the height of the canyon.

I think Antelope Canyon is incredible, but be sure to pack your patience and plan on your tour time running much later than expected. It doesn’t matter which tour company you book with because they both enter from the same location.

ROAD TRIP TIP: Always be aware of the TIME ZONE as you travel. The time zone in Page, Arizona is NOT THE SAME as Antelope Canyon only 5 minutes away. 

BOOK ANTELOPE CANYON TOURS

Day 4 – Bryce Canyon National Park

Page, az to bryce canyon national park, ut- 2.5 hour drive time.

Bryce Canyon National Park , Utah was everything I thought it would be… and then some! I absolutely love the hoodoos and colors!

We arrived early and hiked the Queen’s Garden – Navajo Loop trail , starting from Sunrise Point. The trails goes past Queen’s Garden and connects with the Navajo Loop. 

Hiking UP the Wall Street switchbacks to the top of the canyon is a workout. We were pretty tired by the time we were done, but it was worth every single step!

Again…BRING LOTS OF WATER and start EARLY. It gets very hot in the summer, there is not much shade, and the end of the trail climbing those switchbacks is a workout! 

Our horseback riding experience through Bryce Canyon was the BEST horseback riding experience ever! Riding into the canyon on horseback was quite intimidating, but once I put all my confidence in that horse, I felt like I could enjoy the ride so much more!

I was surprised how different the canyon looked once we got to the bottom because it was full of trees!

WHAT I WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY: There are so many things to do at Bryce Canyon National Park  – next time, I would get to Bryce earlier and plan to spend two days to hike more trails.

I would also stay at a hotel closer to Bryce Canyon so I wasn’t driving to and from Page, Arizona. We left Bryce and went back to our hotel in Page because I wanted to drive through Monument Valley on our way to Moab, Utah.

• Bryce Canyon Places to Stay
• Bryce Canyon Hotels
• Bryce Canyon National Park Camping

BOOK BRYCE CANYON TOURS

Day 5 – Page, AZ to Moab, UT

• Monument Valley
• Goosenecks State Park
• Wilson Arch
• Hole N” The Rock

Page, AZ to Monument Valley, UT – 2 hour drive time

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is located in a remote area on the Utah/Arizona border. This destination was another must-see on our American Southwest road trip.

I am so glad I rented a Jeep because the drive through Monument Valley was rough! It’s a 14-mile graded dirt road that takes you past scenic spots like The Mittens, Three Sisters, John Ford’s Point, Totem Pole, and more.

There are also tours where Navajo guides can take you deeper into the Valley that you can’t do on your own.

We enjoyed stopping at all of the scenic spots as we drove along the road, and even ate fry bread and purchased jewelry at one location.

It took about 2 hours to drive though Monument Valley and stop at all of the scenic pullouts.

If I were to return, I would go horseback riding through Monument Valley .

BOOK MONUMENT VALLEY TOURS

After leaving Monument Valley we drove through the iconic Forrest Gump spot. I was shocked at how many people were standing in the road trying to the perfect picture.

Monument Valley to Goosenecks State Park, UT – 35 minutes drive time

Goosenecks State Park, Utah was a quick stop on our way to Moab. Driving along the road to get to Goosenecks made me wonder if I was still on Earth because it looked so different and I hardly passed a car for miles! I was happy to see a dozen cars in the parking lot when we arrived – it was nice to see people!

Take the time for the short drive to Goosenecks. It’s unlike any other stop along your road trip in the Southwest. The area is so much larger than I expected! It’s really neat to see how erosion creates incredible winding rivers.

We discovered on this trip that Utah State Parks are fun to explore and photograph.

Goosenecks State Park, UT to Moab, UT – 2+ hour drive time (with 2 stops)

When you travel around the American Southwest by car, you find gems along the way. We came across two on our drive toward the adventure town of Moab, Utah .

Wilson Arch is a fun place to stop, stretch your legs and hike around the arch. Remember to stay hydrated!

You’ll pass by Hole N” The Rock , a 5,000 square foot home home carved out of a huge rock. There’s a gift shop, trading post and small petting zoo.

It was nice to spend some down time in Moab. We really enjoyed the Buffalo Bleu Cheese pizza at Zax! BEST pizza!!

There are all types of lodging in and near Moab from budget-friendly hotels to higher-prices resorts. You’ll also find vacation rentals, a hostel, campgrounds and RV parks.

• Moab hotels
• Moab Camping
• Glamping in Moab

Day 6 – Moab, Utah

Places we visited:

• Arches National Park
• Dead Horse Point State Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Moab Giants

Moab, UT to Arches National Park, UT – 10 minute drive time

Arches National Park  has over 2,000 natural stone arches and cool rock fins and large balanced rocks.

Out of all the  Arches National Park hiking trails , we really wanted to hike to Delicate Arch. We got up early and made it to the trailhead at 7 am.

It’s best to hike to Delicate Arch in the morning so you get a parking spot and avoid the full sun and heat as much as you can. The hike is 3.2 miles roundtrip. It took us about 1.5 hours. I think they say 1 hour per mile to hike out west due to the increase in elevation. 

Since the hike to Delicate Arch took most of our energy for the day, we didn’t attempt any more trials. Instead we drove to all the lookout points to enjoy the unique landscape of the park.

WHAT I WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY: I would plan on spending at least 2 days at Arches next time, especially to focus on the Arches National Park photography !

• Arches National Park Travel Guide
• Arches Packing List

BOOK ARCHES NATIONAL PARK TOURS

Arches National Park to Dead Horse Point State Park, UT – 35 minute drive time

Dead Horse Point State Park , Utah is located at the end of a mesa 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, on the edge of Canyonlands National Park. You can see endless views of the river and surrounding canyons.

I loved Dead Horse Point! It’s amazing to see the way water erodes at a canyon over time and creates a horseshoe-type shape.

We enjoyed walking the trails, climbing the rocks and taking photos at Dead Horse Point.

Dead Horse Point State Park to Canyonlands (Island in the Sky), UT – 15 minute drive time

Canyonlands National Park , Utah is actually comprised of three Districts. The closest one to Moab, and the one we chose to visit, is called Island in the Sky.  Needles Canyonlands is about 55 miles south of Moab.

The landscape at each viewpoint along the Island in the Sky scenic drive is different. Take the time to stop, hike and explore as many as you can.

• Grand View Point
• Green River Overlook
• Buckhorn Overlook

The trail to Mesa Arch is a quick, easy hike (.5 miles roundtrip). The arch is right on the edge of a 500-foot cliff and it’s one of the most iconic views in Canyonlands.

There are many things to do, see and photograph at Canyonlands Island in the Sky . It’s hard to narrow down your itinerary when you only have a short amount of time to explore.

BOOK CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK TOURS

Canyonlands to Moab Giants near Moab, UT – 30 minute drive time

We LOVE dinosaurs and spent about an hour at Moab Giants just outside town in the middle of a 100 degree day!

We packed lots of water, but Moab Giants clearly cares for their visitors because they have misting stations, drinking fountains, and canopies set up to give you a break from the sun . There is also a vending machine about halfway through the trail.

It’s a half mile loop trail with so much to see and learn along the way. The life-size dinosaurs and footprint castings are impressive and help you understand the incredible size of these magnificent creatures!

BOOK MOAB UTAH TOURS

Day 7 – Moab, UT to Albuquerque, NM

• Mesa Verde National Park
• Four Corners Monument

Moab, UT to Mesa Verde, CO – 2 hour drive time

One of the most amazing stops on our Southwest US road trip was visiting  Mesa Verde National Park.  The park was developed to preserve and interpret the archeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

Mesa Verde is quite cool! I found it interesting that people decided to live at the top of the mountain.

We spent 2-3 hours at Mesa Verde stopping at all of the scenic spots. Next time I would plan to be there longer and take a guided tour of the Cliff Palace . 

• Mesa Verde Lodging and Camping

BOOK MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK TOURS

Mesa Verde, CO to Four Corners – 1 hour drive time

If you’re road trip across the US Southwest takes you close to the Four Corners Monument area, you probably should stop.

With that being said, everyone else thinks the same thing which made for a LONG line.

The line moved somewhat slow because people want to get lots of poses in all four states. We skipped the line and took a photo from one of the elevated platforms.

Four Corners to Albuquerque, NM – 4 hour drive time

We drove to Albuquerque to spend the night.

• Hotels in Albuquerque, NM

BOOK ALBUQUERUQUE TOURS

Day 8 – Albuquerque, NM Area

Places we stopped:

• Bandelier National Monument
• El Santuario De Chimayo Historic Site

Albuquerque, NM to Bandelier National Monument – 2 hour drive time

The next morning we visited Bandelier National Monument and explored the area for about 3 hours. It’s relatively small but packed with history.

I was so impressed with the landscape and wilderness in Bandelier. We loved climbing all of the ladders and looking at early civilization sites.

Half way through the Main Loop Trail, you must either turn back toward the visitor center or continue another half mile to Alcove House. We decided to walk the additional distance. In order to get to the Alcove House we had to climb 4 separate ladders 140 ft to the top.

One thing to consider when visiting Bandelier is that you can only get to it by a Shuttle bus during the summer months.

Bandelier National Monument to El Santuario De Chimayo Historic Site, NM – 1 hour drive time

After Bandelier, we drove over to El Santuario De Chimayo Historic Site .

I wanted to see the church while I was close to it since I probably won’t be in the area again any time soon.

CLICK TO SHOP FOR US NATIONAL PARK GUIDES & MAPS

Plan a Southwest US Vacation

• US Southwest Vacation Ideas
• Southwest USA Road Trip Ideas
• Summer Vacations in the Southwest

National Parks Packing Lists

Use our US National Park Packing List   to make sure you have the right clothing and gear for visiting any time of year! Grab your free printable packing checklist by clicking the image below!

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36 comments.

Is it worth doing this type of trip if you can do very little hiking?

Yes! Many of the National Parks and State Parks in the southwest provide “scenic drives” to see the landscape from the car, parking lot, or a short walk to the overlook.

Amazing trip, I love visiting parks.

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This trip looks amazing! Visiting from the imparting grace link up.

Oh wow! My brother lives in Albequerque and we had thought of going in spring break but with a family of 6 plane tickets right now and renting a car are too high. But seeing this, we may want to plan a road trip like this. This is amazing and my family would love it! http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com

Road trips are the perfect way to travel right now for sure! And spring is the perfect time to visit the Southwest! Enjoy your trip!

Could I make a suggestion: Your trips are super and really helps us know where and what we want to see on our trip next year. I wish you would add a map of each trip in the beginning so we can visualize the trip and see where we might make deviations. Thank you for your great work.

That’s a great idea, thank you. We’ll work on adding that!

Thank you for great trip plans.

What a perfect post at a perfect time for me to find it. We will be starting in Albuquerque for the International Balloon Festival in October and then to the Grand Canyon, to Moab and back to Albuquerque. We will not be able to hit all the spots on your trip due to time constraints but since I didn’t know anything when starting my planning-this about plans my whole trip for me. Thank you for your details, hints and tips.

Now I need to compare your recommendations to Geocaches along the way to narrow our itinerary down. Thank you-I’m so excited that October seems forever away..

You will have so much fun on this trip, and yes, October seems far away, but will be here before you know it! Let us know if you have any questions, although we aren’t geocaching experts. We appreciate you taking the time to comment.

Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon has been on my list for awhile, but I never knew about Bryce Canyon National Park. Wow it looks so beautiful. Almost reminds me of Jordan. The US has some truly fascinating sceneries

The US has such diverse landscapes to see. Hope you can make it to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend soon!

Your photos look stunning, the landscapes are really incredible! The horse riding trip looked fun too, something I’ve never tried. I’d love to do this roadtrip – as you can imagine, being from the UK, there aren’t too many long roadtrips we can do before we reach the end of the country! Teehee!

Road trips from the UK sound so exciting because you get to visit so many countries!

Your horseback ride has me totally dreaming over here!! What an awesome trip you put together!

Horseback riding among the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon is a MUST do if you ever visit this National Park!

Wow I would love to take this road trip I am obsessed with the Southwest ! So much that we are planning to move to Las Vegas soon!]

Great post and have a fabulous year of travels!

You will have so many places to explore living in Vegas – how exciting!

I could not have read this post at the most perfect time. I am doing a road trip to these same areas in 2 weeks. Thank you!

Your experience in 2 weeks might be a bit different. It won’t be hot like it is in the summer. Be prepared for cold and even snow. Have fun!

This is so helpful, thank you! My friend lives in the States and we want to go on a road trip together at some point so I will definitely be sending her this! So much great practicality advice! I love the sound of the Desert View Watchtower and Antelope Canyon looks absolutely stunning! Those rock formations! It reminds me a little bit of road tripping through Outback Australia (although very different types of rock)!

Let us know if you have any questions. We would love to take a trip to the Outback one day.

The American Southwest is easily one of my favorite places on the globe. Such rich geography and well-preserved remains of the first nations. It is such a wonderful dreamland. And how awesome that the author gets to take a roadtrip like this with her daughter.

It’s one of our favorite locations as well. Seeing the native american ruins is so amazing!

Nice post. It is very useful and informative. Thanks a lot for sharing this blog.

What a trip stunning scenery and lovely photosgraphs.

I’ve been to almost all of these places, but seeing the photos makes me ache to return to each and every one….there’s something so special about the Southwest. I was actually at the Meteor Crater this week – it’s less spectacular than other places on your list, but worth a stop if you are already passing by!

We always try to see the things near our road trip travels, and were a bit sad not to see Meteor Crater, but knew it wasn’t a deal breaker 🙂

Thank you so much for linking to our site, HorseshoeBend.com! You did exactly the right thing by going early for cooler temperatures and minimal crowds. Hope you get a chance to return to the area when you can spend more time and explore some of the area’s beautiful “alternate” slot canyons and perhaps enjoy a boat tour to Rainbow Bridge! Take care and happy travels 🙂

We hope to return to do more for sure!

Amazing! Would love to do the horse back riding tour.

Horseback riding is always a fun way to see these destinations.

Hi Jamie, what an awesome road trip! It brings back beautiful memories of our trips through Grand Canyon and many amazing parks in Utah and Arizona – Zion NP, Bryce NP, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Flagstaff, Sedona… but there a few we still need to visit. This is a great post for me to keep handy for later. Thanks for putting it together.

There is always so much to see in these states for sure! We have more to visit as well.

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5 Day Southwest Road Trip: Complete Desert Destination Guide

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Every Winter it’s inevitable that I head on a desert road trip to escape the cold and overcast days of the Pacific Northwest. I have gone on multiple desert road trips now over the years and this was a favorite with my girlfriends. Read on for a guide for an adventurous 5 day southwest road trip!

Best Southwest Road Trip

This desert road trip was a car camping trip that started in South. We slept in our cars for the entire duration of the trip. Each destination will be linked to a blog post breaking down all the details of the trip including camping and lodging options! If you would like additional information on finding free camping check out my blog below.

1. Remington Hot Springs in California

This hot spring took me by surprise. I had never heard of Remington Hot Springs, but I am still relatively new to California. The Children of the Earth or Remington Hot Springs are a pleasant spot to stop at if you’re passing through. Here is everything you need to know to reach these springs and have a good time!

2. Red Rock Canyon in California

Red Rock Canyon State Park is seriously one of the most underrated State Parks in Southern California . Scenic desert cliffs, stunning red hues, buttes, I had no idea it existed until last year and have gone twice now! It is the perfect add on or stand alone destination to have one of the best road trip in the Southwest.

3. Trona Pinnacles in California

This place felt like I had landed in a different country or honestly a different planet. Camping at Trona Pinnacles was a top highlight of my 5 day Southwest road trip . Free camping, 140 foot spires, and a ridiculous amount of stars, camping at Trona Pinnacles should definitely be on your list.

4. Death Valley National Park

I’ve been to Death Valley twice in one year now. If you’ve never thought about Death Valley as a destination, PLEASE let me convince you. This park really took me by surprise and has incredible variety of landscapes from dunes, to salt flats, to mountain viewpoints . You seriously don’t want to miss this California gem.

5. Tecopa Hot Springs

If you can’t tell, I’m mildly obsessed with hot springs. Delight’s Hot Springs is a “rustic” resort in Tecopa, California. And it was by far one of the most eccentric experiences I have had traveling. Going for one night on your way in or way out of Death Valley would be the perfect way to experience this area and the healing mineral waters of Tecopa and a delightful add on to your southwest road trip.

6. Mojave Desert Lava Tube

Mojave Desert Lava Tube in California is something really special. The road to get here is a bit rough, but if you’re up for an adventure – this is for you! If you browse the Instagram tag for this place, you’ll see LOADS of photos showing off  incredible light beams  here. I mean come on, a desert lava tube is the perfect stop on a desert road trip.

7. Grand Canyon South Rim

Grand Canyon National Park is wonderful in that you don’t have to put in much effort to see incredible views. Enjoy incredible views from Mather Point and Ooh Ahh Point at the South Rim. Road trips in the southwest are never complete without the Grand Canyon!!

8. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is known for its red rocks of course, but also some rather interesting sacred history and talk of an energy vortex – if you’re into that. The views here are incredible even if you are just driving through. I promise, it’s worth any detour you need to take on your road trips in the southwest.

Desert Road Trip Route : 5 Day Southwest Road Trip

If you are flying in and renting a vehicle, it would make sense to start at one end and fly back home from the other! I personally looped back around after to make my way back home to Northern California.

Best Time of Year for a Desert Road Trip

I completed this road trip in December and then again in March . Both times the weather was pretty mild, but noticeably warmer in March. The nights were chilly for almost all destinations, so bring extra clothing and layers for sleeping!

Death Valley was the warmest destination and the Grand Canyon was the coldest on this Southwest road trip. Check the weather of those two locations before deciding on dates for your trip!

I hope this inspires you to get out on your own 5 Day Southwest Road Trip this Winter season. All of these locations are lovely in different ways. If you can’t do them all in one go, think about splitting up the destinations in two separate trips!

Leave a comment if you are adding any of these places to your itinerary!

Similar to Road Trips in the Southwest

Interested in itineraries similar to road trips in the southwest? Check out my other California Road Trip with more Southwest locations!

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Join the conversation.

Such beautiful views thanks for sharing.

Tecopa Hot Springs sounds like such a cool spot! I love unique finds like this, definitely adding it to my list for my next Southwest trip.

Wow all these places look like they don’t belong on Earth! Definitely putting this on my bucket list

So many great spots to add to our next road trip in southwest USA. I love the idea of a hot springs stop on a road trip to work out the kinks of long driving days. With all of these great stops we might need weeks.

what an epic road trip! i am absolutely obsessed with Remington Hot Springs now, i had never heard of them, but i will 100% be adding them to my SW road trip as well.

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Home » North America » USA » Best Road Trips in Southwest (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips in Southwest (Insider Guide for 2024)

Is there a single place on the planet that begs for a ‘road trip’ any more than the American Southwest? We certainly can’t think of any! Geographically speaking, the Southwest is one of the most diverse parts of the country. Spanning six states, you’ll encounter all kinds of deep red canyons, desert plateaus, and lush alpine vistas.

The trick to making the most of everything this region has on offer is to plan a good, old-fashioned roadie. Public transport isn’t the best in these parts, and of course, it claws away at your sense of freedom.

But, where to begin? There’s so much to see – you must be thinking, how can I plan a road trip in the Southwest that lets me see a bit of everything? Well, keep scrolling. We’ve created four itineraries so you can have the best road trip in the Southwest to suit your timeframe and budget!

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Why Roadtrip in the Southwest?

Southwest road trip route 1: ultimate southwest national park roadie, southwest road trip route 2: historic route 66, southwest road trip route 3: the rockies and beyond, southwest road trip route 4: canyon explorer, driving in the southwest, what to pack for a road trip in southwest, final thoughts on the best road trips in the southwest.

Why take a road trip in the Southwest, you might wonder? The US is a pretty big country to visit , and when it comes to road-tripping, there’s no shortage of options. Well, here’s why:

• National Parks: Some of the greatest national parks in the US of A are right here in the Southwest. You’ve got the Rockies, Zion, Monument Valley. Did we miss one? Oh yeah, the Grand Canyon!
• Camping: What’s number one on your list of Southwest road trip essentials? A tent, of course. Fling one in your rental, and you can turn this into a real wilderness quest.
• Real Wild Wild West: You’ve got abandoned ghost towns, saloons, and stark desert plateaus. A road trip in the Southwest slides you right into a John Wayne movie.
• Phenomenal Scenery: That’s the main reason for a road trip, right? The scenery in the Southwest is a total freak show, in the best kind of way.
• Outdoor Activities: Nothing beats getting out and about and connecting with nature. Fortunately, the Southwest gives you bucketloads of awesome hikes and activities to spike your adrenaline.

Alright, now that’s out of the way, it’s time for the fun stuff. We’ve put our heads together to give you four fabulous Southwest road trip ideas!

Ultimate Southwest National Park Roadie – 10 days

Historic route 66 – 8 days, the rockies and beyond – 5 days, canyon explorer – 5 days.

• From: Las Vegas
• To: El Paso
• Total Distance: 1,200 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: Valley of Fire State Park, Zion National Park, Monument Valley, White Sands National Park,  Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell

Want to hit four states and see some of the best national parks in the US? Then you definitely need our ten-day Southwest vacation trip planner. Beginning in Sin City, we’ll hit the road before we flutter away our gas dollars.

This is a long drive, stopping off at some of the most iconic parks in the whole country. But we’ve broken it up so that there’s as much adventuring as driving! We’ll navigate 1,200 miles of backcountry and small towns between Vegas and El Paso. Our road trip from Las Vegas takes you through deserts, mountains, canyons, ghost towns, and much more.

Road Trip Highlights: 

• Camp in the Zion National Park
• Check out some vintage road signs from the historic Route 66
• Stand in four states at the same time
• Raft down the Colorado River
• Sled down the soft dunes of the White Sands National Park

Day 1-2: Las Vegas to Zion National Park (4 hours)

Your ultimate Southwest road trip begins in the one and only Sin City! Those bright lights will become a distant memory as you cruise through dusty desert landscapes of the I-15. You’ll get your fix of red rock formations and petrified trees with a short hike at the Valley of Fire. Then, we’ll continue to tonight’s accommodation – who’s game for camping?

Book a spot for two nights. This gives us a full day to explore Zion National Park on the second day. There are countless trails to choose from , including the so-called scariest hike in the US, Angel’s Landing. Alternatively, let’s get our feet wet and hike the Narrows trail through the river.

• Best Stops: Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, The Neon Museum, Valley of Fire State Park, Beaver Dam Wash National Conservation Area
• Where to Eat: Lil’ Wagon Tacos, Affogato West, Black Bear Diner, Stage Coach Grille, Oscar’s Cafe
• Where to Stay: Super8 by Wyndham Zion Hurricane National Park ($), Watchman Campground ($) Hotel Zion ($$)

Day 3: Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon (1 hour 20 minutes)

Rise and shine. If you’re an early bird, you can wake early and watch the sunrise over Zion Park. If you’ve camped, there’s really no excuse not to!

Today we head to Bryce Canyon. This is a slight detour, but these bizarre hoodoos are worth it, trust us. What we love about Bryce Canyon is that we can explore the sights entirely by car. There are plenty of hikes, but we won’t judge you if you choose the auto-tour option. We can drive ourselves through the park or hop on the free shuttle if you fancy saving some gas money.

• Best Stops: Bryce Canyon, Rainbow Point, Farview Point, Natural Bridge
• Where to Eat: Stone Hearth Grille, Bryce Canyon Pines, Valhalla Pizza
• Where to Stay: Bryce Canyon Resort ($), North Campground Bryce Canyon ($) ($$)

Day 4:  Bryce Canyon to Page (2 hours 35 minutes)

We have a very pretty drive ahead today as we cross over into Arizona. It’s a short journey, but there are plenty of sights to stop for, so be sure to leave enough time. We can even check out a cave was once used as a speakeasy, believe it or not. If you’re the romantic type, this region is incredible for stargazing.

• Best Stops: Paria Ghost Town, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Moqui Cave, Star Party, Lone Rock Beach, The Toadstools, Little Hollywood Land (Kanab)
• Where to Eat: Jakey Lee’s Coffee Shop and Bakery, State 48 Tavern, Driftwood Lounge
• Where to Stay: Rodeway Inn at Lake Powell ($), Red Rock Motel ($$)

Day 5: Page to Monument Valley (2 hours 30 minutes)

Welcome to Arizona, the third state on our epic Southwest US road trip. There are plenty of things to do around Page : Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are two must-sees on this Southwest road trip itinerary. Let’s squeeze in some kayaking or a stand-up paddleboarding session on Lake Powell, or rafting down the Colorado River!

Once we’ve dried off, the drive to our next destination is pretty desolate – we’ll take the road through the desert. We can take a motel, but you should know that camping in Arizona is where it’s at.

• Best Stops: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam Lookout, Navajo National Monument
• Where to Eat: Blue Coffee Pot Restaurant, Pizza Guys, Amigo Coffee, Reuben Helfin Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Mokee Motel ($) The View Campground ($), Kayenta Monument Valley Inn ($$)

Day 6: Monument Valley to Gallup (3 hours)

The Navajo’s Nation’s Monument Valley is a soaring plateau of towering sandstone buttes. If you’re a Western movie buff, you’ll recognise these from the silver screen. Forrest Gump fan? Punch the GPS coordinates 37.101393, -109.990973 into the satnav.

What’s also pretty awesome is that the park straddles Utah and Arizona, so you can hop across the state lines while you explore. For a bit of vintage charm, you could stay in the historic El Rancho Hotel tonight once we get to Gallup.

• Best Stops: Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Four Corners Monument
• Where to Eat: Denny’s Diner, Genaro’s Cafe, Aurelia’s Cafe
• Where to Stay: Travelodge by Wyndham Gallup ($), Yellow Navajo Hogan ($$) El Rancho Hotel ($$$)

Day 7: Gallup to Albuquerque (2 hours)

Gallup is a small city on Historic Route 66. If you want to buy a few souvenirs, the city is famed for its arts and crafts. As we head eastwards today, we’ll follow the iconic old highway itself. We’ll stop off to snap old neon signs and abandoned gas stations along the way. The Acoma Pueblo is a cool stop where we can take a guided tour around the community.

Let’s aim to be in Albuquerque by lunch, so we can explore the city. There are plenty of museums in town if you fancy dipping into Southwest history, or you can stretch your limbs by rowing at Tingley Beach instead. Feeling flush? Let’s splash out on a hot air balloon ride.

• Best Stops: Red Rock Park, Acoma Pueblo, Bowlin’s Old Crater Trading Post
• Where to Eat: Whistle Stop Coffee Room, Padilla’s Mexican Kitchen
• Where to Stay: Econo Lodge Midtown Albuquerque ($), La Quinta by Wyndham Albuquerque West ($$)

Day 8-9: Albuquerque to Lincoln National Forest Park (3 hours 40 minutes)

Before we leave Albuquerque, one thing we shouldn’t miss is the phenomenal view from the Sandia Peak Tramway. That’ll give us a sprawling panorama of the whole city, plus 11,000 square miles of New Mexico wilderness!

And then, farewell to city comforts; we’re heading deep into the lush greenery of the Lincoln National Forest. Choose to camp for a few nights, or check into the local hostel.

We’ve planned something exceptional to wrap up our road trip in the Southwest! The White Sands National Monument is a vision after all the rusty red rocks we’ve seen so far. There is a mix of hikes to choose from that range from 20 minutes to 3 hours. Or get an adrenaline boost by hiring a sledge and swooshing down the dunes!

• Best Stops: Sandia Peak Tramway, Albuquerque Old Town, Tingley Beach, Cloudcroft, White Sands National Monument
• Where to Eat: Western Bar & Cafe, Rebecca’s at the Lodge, Rustic Cafe
• Where to Stay: Lincoln National Forest campground ($), Cloudcroft Hostel ($), Days Inn by Wyndham Alamgorado ($$)

Day 10: Lincoln Forest National Park to El Paso (2 hours 20 minutes)

Before we part ways, we’ll make our final state border crossing and travel into Texas. The Franklin Mountains State Park is a great stop on the way and is fantastic for mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking.

And then, finally – El Paso concludes our road trip from Las Vegas. This is a cultural gem where we can experience the best of Southwestern charm with a splash of Mexican spirit! There’s a ton of things to do in El Paso so make sure to stick around for a day or two.

• Best Stops: Welcome to Texas sign, Chihuahuan Desert Gardens, Franklin Mountains State Park
• Where to Eat: Milagro Coffee y Espresso, Tacos el Troquero, L&J Cafe
• Where to Stay: Red Roof Inn PLUS + El Paso East ($), Inspira Hotel ($$) Beautiful Stylish Casita ($$)

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• From: Oklahoma City
• To: Phoenix
• Total Distance: 1,027 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: Cadillac Ranch, Santa Rosa, Albuquerque, Petrified Forest, Painted Desert, Sedona

Yup, the Historic Route 66 technically no longer exists. However, you can still trace the route of Mother Road through the American Southwest. And it still makes a killer road trip. But planning a road trip in the Southwest that covers the whole 2,500 miles of the Main Street of America gobbles up your vacation days. That’s why we’ve taken just a slice of the route.

Our road trip from Oklahoma City navigates a stretch of that legendary highway, which we’ll break up with stops in small towns. Rather than heading into California, we go south to culminate with some breathtaking natural wonders in Arizona.

Road Trip Highlights:

• Cruise past relics of the Historic Route 66, including neon signs, abandoned gas stations, ghost towns, and fascinating museums
• Check out the auto-art installation of Cadillac Ranch
• Take a dip in a sinkhole in the middle of the New Mexico desert
• Explore the natural wonders that are the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest
• Take a tour in one of the iconic pink jeeps of Sedona

Day 1: Oklahoma City to Amarillo (3 hours 52 minutes)

Get comfy; we’ve got a decent stretch of road to cover as we start our road trip from Oklahoma City. Let’s visit a couple of Route 66 relics in Oklahoma City first – duck into a museum if you feel like it. Then, off we go.

Today’s all about soaking up the nostalgic charm of the legendary highway. We’ll stop to check out relics like the oldest gas station in Texas. There are a couple of museums where you can browse old memorabilia to break up the drive!

• Best Stops: Milk Bottle Grocery, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma Route 66 Museum (Clinton), National Route 66 Museum (Elk City), Lucille’s Historic Gas Station (Hydro), Phillips 66 (McLean), Wonderland Park
• Where to Eat: Aubrey’s Fish & Ice Cream, Lucille’s Roadhouse Diner, Jo Taco
• Where to Stay : Red Roof Inn Amarillo West ($), Updated and Modern Studio in Downtown Amarillo ($$) Zo’s Relic ($$$)

Day 2: Amarillo to Santa Rosa (2 hours 30 minutes)

After breakfast, we’ll freshen up our Instas with some snaps of the spray-painted cars at Cadillac Ranch. Belt up for a drive through the New Mexican desert. We’ll grab a coffee at the aptly-named Midpoint Cafe and pose with the neon sign of the historic Blue Swallow Motel.

The Route 66 ghost town of Glenrio is a worthy pit stop before we reach Santa Rosa. Let’s cool down with a dip in the natural phenomenon that is the Santa Rosa Blue Hole. This sinkhole is filled with water; if you’ve brought your PADI licence along, you can even scuba dive!

• Best Stops: Cadillac Ranch, Santa Rosa Blue Hole, Glenrio, Welcome to New Mexico sign, Route 66 Auto Museum
• Where to Eat: Midpoint Cafe, Kix on 66, Blue Swallow Motel, Comet II Drive In & Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Casa del Leon ($), La Quinta by Wyndham Santa Rosa ($$)

Day 3: Santa Rosa to Albuquerque (1 hour 46 minutes)

We can stretch our legs in the Santa Rosa Lake State Park or indulge in some watersports once we’ve had our coffee. Shortly before we reach today’s final destination, we can have a quick stroll in the Canyon Estates.

Once we park up in Albuquerque, take your pick of cool things to do. We can hire a rowing boat down at Tingley Beach. Or if we have some spare cash, sign ourselves up for a hot air balloon ride. Let’s catch the sunset at the Sandia Peak Tramway.

• Best Stops: Santa Rosa Lake State Park, Lewis Antique Auto & Toy Museum, Canyon Estates Trailhead, Sandia Peak Tramway
• Where to Eat: Sierra Blanca Brewing Company, Mary & Tito’s Cafe, Antiquity Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Days Inn by Wyndham Albuquerque West ($), Danish Modern Mini Luxury Suite ($$)

Day 4-5: Albuquerque to Holbrook (3 hours 20 minutes)

We’ll power on to Holbrook today, with a stop off in Gallup – a historical city which is handy for souvenir shopping. Oh yes, don’t forget to factor in some treats for loved ones back home in your Southwest vacation trip planner!

To make things easier, we’ll book into a motel in Holbrook for two nights. That way, we can spend the next few days exploring two of Arizona’s finest natural wonders, hiker’s heavens . The Petrified Forest is the only national park that contains a segment of the Historic Route 66. It’s an enchantment of colourful ancient trees – another haven for photographers! Meanwhile, an hour’s drive brings us to the intriguing badlands of the Painted Desert.

• Best Stops: Gallup, Historic Armco Gas Station (Gallup), Petrified Forest, Painted Desert
• Where to Eat: El Rancho, Genaro’s Cafe, Healing Grounds Coffee Shop
• Where to Stay: 66 Motel ($), Campsite @ Big Spin Ranch, Petrified Forest ($), The White Buffalo Casita ($$)

Day 6-7: Holbrook to Sedona (2 hours)

If that wasn’t enough excitement for you, we have even more natural wonders a mere two-hour drive west! But first, we’ll make a pitstop in the Route 66 city of Flagstaff and check out a few more sights. We’ll also have a gander around a crater formed by a meteor, before catching the sunset from Airport Mesa.

Stay overnight in Sedona for two nights so we can experience this adventurer’s playground.  Take your pick from desert jeep tours, horseback riding, rafting, rock climbing, and mountain biking. There’s even a massive natural waterslide! If you ask us, Sedona is what makes this a contender for the best road trip in the Southwest.

• Best Stops: Meteor Crater National Landmark, Walnut Canyon, Amtrak Train Station Route 66 mural, Slide Rock State Park, Devil’s Bridge Trail, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock
• Where to Eat: Mother Road Brewing Company, Criollo Latin Kitchen, Diablo Burger
• Where to Stay: Sedona Camping Gear ($), Wonder View Grotto ($$), Newly Built Tiny Home with Awesome Views ($$)

Day 8: Sedona to Phoenix (2 hours)

We’ll drive south via Cornville and stop off at a vineyard for lunch. You might want to duck out of being today’s designated driver if you want to sample the local wines.

As we approach our final destination, we can check out a couple of exciting natural attractions around Phoenix before we explore the city. And relax, that concludes our road trip from Oklahoma City.

• Best Stops: Red Rock State Park, Cornville, Old Town Scottsdale, Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, Goldfield ghost town
• Where to Eat: Page Springs Cellars, Thanks a Latte Esporess Cafe, Los Taquitos
• Where to Stay: Quality Inn Phoenix ($$), Urban Guesthouse in Uptown Phoenix ($$$)

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• From: Denver
• To: Salt Lake City
• Total Distance: 746 miles
• Top Road Trips Stops: Rocky Mountain National Park, Glenwood Springs, Arches National Park, Canyonlands, Great Salt Lake

Despite taking less than one week to complete, this road trip from Denver takes you through a decent chunk of Colorado and Utah. We’ll make Salt Lake City our final destination.

Along the way, we’ll explore some of the finest state parks and mountain ranges in the whole Southwest, including the lush Colorado Rockies. Our itinerary prioritises the scenic routes over the fastest – so we get to see the most epic landscapes this region has on offer!

If you want to tackle this trip during winter, let’s factor some skiing into our itinerary. You might want to add an extra night to accommodate this.

• Hike in the rugged snowcapped wilderness of the Colorado Rockies
• Mountain bike in one of Utah’s legendary national parks – Canyonlands or Arches
• Explore fascinating ghost towns
• Raft your way down the Colorado River
• Take in the epic landscapes of the Great Salt Lake itself

Day 1: Denver to Estes Park (1 hour 20 minutes)

Ticked off whatever you wanted to see in the city? Cool, let’s rev the rental and start our road trip from Denver. We’ll kick off the road trip with the alpine glory that is the Rocky Mountain National Park (the Rockies to their friends). Today, we’ll take the fastest route (Highway 36), so we have as much of the day as possible for the park.

Once we make it to Estes Park, we’ll grab lunch then follow the scenic loop through the majestic mountains. This takes around four hours, but we’ll be in and out of the car. In terms of hiking, there are hundreds of trails to choose from.

We vote for the Bear Lake Loop, Ute Trail, Mount Ida or Chasm Lake. These are relatively short and pack in some of the best scenery in the region. Let’s hop on the tramway, too, and take in the views from Prospect Mountain.

• Best Stops: Golden Gate Canyon, Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park Aerial Tramway
• Where to Eat:  Salto Coffee Works, Sweet Basilico Cafe, Coffee on the Rocks, Trailhead Restaurant
• Where to Stay: Rocky Moutain National Park campgrounds ($), Murphy’s River Lodge ($$), Cozy Shepherd’s Tent in Aspen Grove near RMNP ($$$)

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park to Glenwood Springs (2 hours 30 minutes)

Let’s tackle a short morning hike before we hit the road. This time, take the peak-to-peak scenic byway out of town. This way, we can drive right through the mountains and past a number of ski resorts. If we’re in a 4X4, we’ll take a detour to Dakota Hill.

Once we get to Glenwood Springs, we can wander along the Colorado River. Or, for something more adventurous – let’s go rafting or book a canyon swing. Cycling along the Glenwood Canyon Bike Trail is another option, perfect for summer. And of course, we must take a dip in the hot springs. Accommodation in town is pricey, so let’s stay in a cheaper guesthouse and get a day pass to the springs instead.

• Best Stops: Rocky Mountain National Park, Loveland Ski Resort, Vail Ski Resort, Dillon Reservoir, White River National Forest, Glenwood Caverns
• Where to Eat: Vail Mountain Coffee & Tea – Roastery cafe, Abbey’s Coffee, Glenwood Canyon Brewclub
• Where to Stay: Rodeway Inn Glenwood Springs ($$), Glenwood Springs Cedar Lodge ($$)

Day 3-4: Glenwood Springs to Moab (4 hours 40 minutes)

With the gorgeous Rocky Mountain National Park in our rear-view mirror, we’ll cruise west into the realm of canyons. For the most scenic route, skip I-70 and drive through the mountains. It’s longer but much prettier, with even more mountains to ogle. We can stop off in towns like Paonia and Delta for coffee to break it up.

Rejoin I-70 at Redlands. Let’s turn off onto state route 128 so we can check out the ghost town, then follow the scenic drive through Dewey. The Fisher Towers trailhead is a pleasant two-hour hike to stretch our legs and catch the sunset. There are lots of places to stay around Arches National Park , which is a great base for exploring the area for a couple more days.

• Best Stops: Gunnison Gorge/Black Canyon, Cisco Ghost Town, Fisher Towers,  Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point State Park, Arches National Park
• Where to Eat: Black Bridge Winery, Berg Harvest Mercantile and Cafe, Doghouse Espresso
• Where to Stay: Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground ($), Adventure Inn Moab ($$), OK RV Park Glamping Tipi OK56 ($$$)

Day 5: Moab to Salt Lake City (5 hours)

Squeeze in any last activities you fancy, top up the gas tank, and northwards we drive. We’ll take the scenic road, past the San Rafael Swell and up through the Manti-La Sal National Forest.

If you stay an extra night in SLC, hang onto your rental and take a day trip to either the Wasatch or Oquirrh mountains. And, of course, don’t miss the opportunity to plunge into the Great Salt Lake and see how well you float!

• Best Stops: Green River State Park, Spring Canyon ghost town, San Rafael Swell, Utah Lake State Park, Temple Square
• Where to Eat: Green River Coffee, Tangerine Eatery, Happiness Within, Guru’s Cafe,
• Where to Stay: Park City Hostel ($), Cozy Tiny House ($$), Ellerbeck Mansion Bed and Breakfast ($$$)
• Total Distance: 563 m
• Top Road Trips Stops: Grand Canyon National Park, Slide Rock State Park, Airport Mesa, Goldfield ghost town, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

If you’re looking for short ‘n’ sweet Southwest road trip ideas, this one gives you tonnes of sights without chewing up all your annual leave.

Our 5-day road trip itinerary takes you to some of Arizona’s best natural wonders, starting with a canyon you’ve possibly heard of.

• Savour the hues of one of the most alluring wonders of nature, the Grand Canyon
• Tackle the gruelling but rewarding Humphrey’s Peak track – the highest point in Arizona
• Stun yourself with the rust-red delights of Sedona
• Experience fragments of the Historic Route 66
• Throw in a tent and camp for a real Wild West adventure

Day 1-2: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Village (4 hours)

Pick up your rental in Sin City, load up the snacks and say farewell to Nevada – we’re crossing over to Arizona.

The drive starts off as barren as you might expect as we cruise through the desert landscape of Nevada. Once we cross the state line into Arizona, things start getting greener. We’ll stop off to take photographs and aim to squeeze in a short hike in the Kaibab National Park, where we can camp tonight.

Whichever accommodation you decide on, book for two nights so you can spend the entire second day exploring the Grand Canyon South Rim.

• Best Stops: The Neon Museum, Hoover Dam, Liberty Bell Arch, Willow Beach, Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum, Kaibab National Park
• Where to Eat: Coffee Cup Cafe, Cruiser’s Route 66 Cafe, Rutherford’s 66 Family Diner, Plaza Bonita
• Where to Stay: Kaibab National Forest campgrounds ($) Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel ($$), Nomad’s Pad Grand Canyon: The Grand Nomad ($$$)

Day 3: Kaibab National Forest to Flagstaff (1 hour 20 minutes)

If you have the energy for a strenuous hike, we’ll tackle the Humphrey’s Peak trail this morning. This affords us fabulous views from Arizona’s tallest peak. Access depends on the weather – the route is only accessible when it hasn’t snowed. Pick up snacks from Tusayan if so, breakfast options are limited around here.

Afterwards, we’ll check out the youngest volcano on the Colorado Plateau. The Bonito Vista Trail and Lava Flow Trail are gentle, easy options to recover from this morning’s antics. Then, onwards to Flagstaff for the night. If you can still move your legs, let’s go line dancing at the Museum Club.

• Best Stops: Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Humphrey’s Peak, Walnut Canyon National Monument
• Where to Eat: Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery, Tourist Home All Day Cafe,
• Where to Stay: Econo Lodge Flagstaff Route 66 ($), Western Hills Motel ($$), Sage Yurt – A Cozy Nature Getaway ($$)

Day 4: Flagstaff to Sedona (50 minutes)

We have a short drive this morning, which is for the best because Sedona is one of the best towns in the whole of Arizona. Let’s make the most of it!

The town is cradled by 1.8 million acres of national forest land and buttressed by four wilderness areas and staggering mesas. There’s plenty of scope for thrill-seekers; take your pick from desert jeep tours, horseback riding, rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking. Whatever we do, we can’t miss the sunset from Airport Mesa.

Accommodation is a bit pricier in Sedona, so if you’ve brought your tent along, now’s its moment to save you a few bucks.

• Best Stops: Slide Rock State Park, Devil’s Bridge Trail, Airport Mesa, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
• Where to Eat: Air Cafe, SaltRock Kitchen, 89 Agave Cantina
• Where to Stay: Cave Springs Campground ($), Days Inn by Wyndham Sedona ($$), Newly Built Tiny Home with Awesome Views ($$)

Day 5: Sedona to Phoenix (3 hours 30 minutes)

For our final day, we will take the scenic route to Phoenix through the Saguaro cactus-studded desert that forms the Tonto National Forest. There, we’ll get out to see what’s considered to be the largest natural travertine formation in the world.

After that, we’ll stop off in Payson for lunch, the so-called ‘Heart of Arizona’. The landscape here isn’t what you expect from the cactus state. Clasped by the Mazatzal Mountains and dense forestry, it’s got much more of an alpine vibe. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a final brew in Arizona’s largest city. For a quiet place to stay after a long day of driving, consider staying at a vacation rental in Scottsdale .

• Best Stops: Montezuma Castle National Monument, Payson, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Old Town Scottsdale, Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, Goldfield ghost town
• Where to Eat: Pinon Cafe, Common Grounds Coffee House, Virtu Honest Craft,
• Where to Stay: Red Roof Inn Phoenix – Midtown ($$), Cozy Desert Oasis ($$)

Renting a vehicle is the best way to explore the Southwest. That could be a regular car, a 4X4, or even a campervan/RV.

Renting a Vehicle in Southwest

Renting a vehicle is one of the most popular ways for domestic and international tourists to explore the region. In general, US motorists drive conservatively. For many of the itineraries in our Southwest vacation trip planner, you’ll be in the backcountry, away from the city traffic.

You must have a valid driver’s licence to rent a vehicle in the Southwest. If you hold an overseas licence, you will need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) too. You should check the requirements as per your passport country.

You may pay a couple of additional fees on top of the car hire rate. Factor in the following charges when planning a road trip in the Southwest.

• Young Renter Fee: You must be aged 21 or over to rent a car in the Southwest. If you are under 25, you may have to pay a ‘young renter fee’. The average cost of this is $20 per day, but it can vary from state to state.
• One-way Rental: All our road trips originate and finish in different cities. You’ll most likely be asked to pay a drop-off fee. This should be included in your quote.
• Additional Driver: Unless the additional driver is your spouse or domestic partner, you will pay a fee to add a second driver. This varies depending on the state and company.
• Deposit: You will need to pay a deposit/bond when you pick up your rental. This must be paid on a credit card and is usually $200-$300.
• Insurance: Another of your Southwest road trip essentials is sturdy insurance. We recommend not purchasing insurance from your rental – these guys always inflate the prices. Instead, check out an independent insurance company, such as RentalCover.com. Their rates are much friendlier.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use  rentalcars.com  to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in the Southwest

As with everywhere, the US is subject to road rules. And yes, they do take things seriously, like speeding, driving under the influence, and travelling without a seatbelt!

When you plan a road trip in the Southwest, here some of the weirder rules that may catch you off-guard.

• Whatever you do, don’t miss your exit in Arizona. Reversing down a public road is against the law.
• If you fancy our road trip from Denver, request a non-black car. According to an old law, driving a black car on a Sunday is illegal.
• Stick to a trusty automobile while road-tripping across Nevada. If you decide to ride a camel down the highway, you’ll be smacked with a fine.
• Put your comic down while driving through Oklahoma. Reading about Batman’s latest exploits while driving is a fineable no-no.
• It is illegal to make hand-held phone calls and send texts while driving in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Neighbouring states are likely to instigate similar rules in the near future.

On a more serious note, remember that every state in the US sets its own road laws. When crossing into different states on your road trip in the Southwest, do check each state. Also, as you cruise closer to the Mexican border, don’t be surprised if Border Police wave you down. They might ask to check your documents and trunk. It’s pretty common.

And don’t forget, they drive on the right in the US!

Insurance in the Southwest

Before you hit the road, we just want to swoop in again with nobody’s favourite topic. One of the ultimate Southwest road trip essentials is insurance for your rental car. Yes, you can buy this from your hire company. But you can save a decent bit of cash by using an independent insurance provider.

In the US, you are required to purchase liability insurance and a damage waiver. Often, this is packaged up as Collision Damage Waiver/Loss Damage Waiver. This covers damage, theft and loss of use of the rental vehicle and usually amounts to a maximum of $30 per day.

Roadside assistance is an optional extra that may come in handy for your Southwest road trip itinerary. There are long stretches between gas stations in the backcountry! Rental companies typically charge $10-$15 per day for assistance. It’s worth shopping around with companies like RentalCover.com to find a plan that covers the lot in one deal.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re not careful, Southwest’s wilderness will smack ya to next Monday.  There are six road trip essentials I never go traveling without:

1. First Aid Kit : Even if you don’t plan on doing anything extreme on your trip, like hiking, climbing, or other extreme sports, you never know what could happen. You could cut yourself while cooking, smash a finger in a car door, or burn yourself on a hot radiator. A first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

2. Aux Cord : One of the only things to do on a long car ride by yourself is to listen to music or a podcast. Since most people use their phones as an MP3 player these days, an auxillary cord is crucial to preserving your sanity. If there is no auxiliary port in your car, buy a radio transceiver or use a portable speaker.

3. Phone mount :  It’s very dangerous to be looking down at your phone while driving. If you need to have access to your phone, for maps and what-not, buy a mount for it. This way, you can keep your eyes on the road and your phone won’t be far from your field of view.

4. Headtorch : Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

5. Roadside Emergency Kit : Just like you never know what could happen to yourself , one never knows what can happen to their car . A vehicle can mysteriously fail, break, run into a ditch; all that and then some. Most emergency kit include a pair of jumper cables, a tow rope, a set of essential tools, and ties.

6. Toiletry Bag : I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full road trip packing list.

Well, that brings us to the end of our top four Southwest road trip ideas! We hope you’ve found your perfect itinerary. Now all you need to worry about is creating an epic soundtrack for your own road trip in the Southwest!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Colleen Kinsey

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The ultimate Southwest road trip itinerary

• Post last modified: March 14, 2024

Deep canyons, red deserts and thrilling national parks are appreciated ingredients on this ultimate Southwest itinerary. Begin the drive in Las Vegas and get ready to marvel at most unique natural attractions in the world.

Disclosure: All listings are independently selected. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more ›

Route through the Southwest

• Start: Las Vegas
• Grand Canyon NP
• Monument Valley
• Antelope Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend
• Bryce Canyon NP
• Finish: Las Vegas
• Total distance: 1020 mi / 1642 km
• Total driving time: 17 h

1. Las Vegas, NV

Your American Southwest road trip begins in Las Vegas. When gambling was legalized in Nevada in 1931 no one could have known what a boom it would mean for the state in general and Las Vegas particularly. Vegas is today recognized as an entertainment oasis in the middle of the desert.

But there’s a lot more in the city to do than to just gamble, eat and shop. It’s a dynamic city that attracts both tourists and new permanent residents. The climate feels healthy and the surroundings are beautiful.

If you look a little bit further than the Las Vegas Strip you find the charm of Fremont Street. That’s where the original Vegas boom in the 1930s took place.

Las Vegas is a great starting point for the Southwestern desert road trip. Apart from all the entertainment it offers it’s usually possible to find cheap flights to the city and great hotel rates when you look for accommodation.

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas is an old saying. But just remember that the next destination on Southwest road trip is one you really don’t want to miss.

2. Grand Canyon, AZ

• Driving distance:  279 mi / 449 km
• Driving time:  4.5 h

The first of three national parks on the Southwest road trip itinerary sets the expectations high. Mighty Grand Canyon is one of the most famous wonders of the world.

Grand Canyon in northwestern Arizona is carved by the Colorado River and has a length of 277 miles (446 km). It’s up to 18 miles (29 km) wide and reaches a depth of more than a mile (1847 meters). Grand Canyon is simply put huge and a pleasure to visit.

As the elevation differs so much the temperatures do too. The highest peaks in the area see snow in the winter, while the bottom of the canyon faces very hot temperatures in the summer.

The different parts of Grand Canyon have different attributes even though they belong to the same national park. The South Rim of the park is much busier and offers more lodging than the quieter North Rim. Both offer great viewpoints.

As the altitude is higher in the northern part it’s colder and gets more snow. The snowy conditions keep the North Rim closed during the colder months of the year, while South Rim is open every month of the year.

Where to stay

Grand Canyon Village and Tusayan are the options for where to stay near Grand Canyon closest to the year-round open South Rim. For the less accessible Grand Canyon North Rim there are much fewer alternatives for lodging.

• El Tovar Hotel  – Historic in Grand Canyon Village.
• The Grand Hotel  – Lodging with pool and hot tub in Tusayan.

3. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

• Driving distance:  175 mi / 281 km
• Driving time:  3 h

A dream destination on every road trip itinerary is the iconic Monument Valley. The renowned valley is located on the border between Arizona and Utah.

The region is especially characterized by the red color and huge buttes, the rock formations, standing on the floor of the valley. The desert valley is red because of iron oxide in weathered siltstone. The red color and buttes make the place feel like out of this world.

Monument Valley is where Forrest Gump famously ended his cross-country run in the movie with the same name. And Monument Valley is really a beautiful place that puts things into perspective. Time you spend in Monument Valley is time you never forget.

The View Hotel and Goulding’s Lodge are options for where to stay in Monument Valley that offer stunning valley views. Other alternatives are the towns Kayenta and Mexican Hat that are located about 30 minutes away.

• The View Hotel – In Monument Valley Tribal Park.
• Goulding’s Lodge  – With valley views just outside the park.

4. Antelope Canyon, AZ

• Driving distance:  116 mi / 186 km
• Driving time:  2 h

Not many geological formations are as fabulous and mysterious as Antelope Canyon in Arizona. Its most famous features are the distinctive wavy canyon walls and fantastic light beams that reach through the openings in the canyon. Together the features creates a magnificent appearance, a photographer’s wet dream.

The canyon consists of two canyon sections, Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. Both parts of the canyon are spectacular to visit. The wavy canyon walls in the Arizona canyon are nothing less but spectacular.

But the famous light beams only appear in Upper Antelope Canyon. They do so at midday when the sun is at its peak during the warmest months of the year. So although both parts of the canyon are spectacular the light beams only appear in its upper section.

No matter which part of the canyon you aim for you need a tour guide to enter. The only way to get access to the canyon is to go through a licensed tour operator. Therefore make sure that you book your tour in good time before your American desert road trip as the tours are very popular.

If you pick Page for where to stay near Antelope Canyon you only have about 4 miles (6 km) from your base to the canyon exploration. Then you with little effort can go between your lodging and the photogenic Arizona canyon.

• Hampton Inn & Suites  – Accommodation at Hampton with pool and tub.
• Wingate by Wyndham  – Unique lodging with pool and tub near Colorado River.

5. Horseshoe Bend, AZ

• Driving distance: 7 mi / 11 km
• Driving time:  0.5 h

Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe like bend in the Colorado River. It’s not part of the Grand Canyon although Grand Canyon National Park isn’t far away. Horseshoe Bend is only a little bit more than 5 miles (8 km) away from where Grand Canyon NP starts.

A drop worth driving for

When you stand and enjoy the views at Horseshoe Bend you can easily see the Colorado River down at the bottom of the canyon. The light reflected by the red cliffs and the blue Colorado River make up for a very scenic view.

But remember that the drop from the overlook down to the Colorado River is about 1,000 feet (300 m). So make sure that you are careful when you walk at the edge. There is yet much more to see on the itinerary.

The city Page is the best pick for where to stay near Horseshoe Bend just as it is for Antelope Canyon. It’s in fact not more than 7 miles (11 km) between the two Arizona highlights. The short distance makes it easy to visit both sights on the same day.

6. Zion National Park, UT

• Driving distance:  107 mi / 172 km

Now the Southwest loop continues on the other side of the Arizona-Utah state border. Zion National Park in Utah is the second national park on the itinerary and the perfect place for a hike to stretch your legs.

The hikes you can make in Zion are just amazing. The red sandstone cliffs and green vegetation in the canyons make a really good combination. And you can choose between easier hikes and more demanding ones. You can spend the whole day hiking from early until late, or just make it a morning activity.

The closest option for where to stay near Zion National Park is Springdale. The town Springdale is conveniently located right at the entrance to Zion National Park. If you make Springdale your base you don’t even need a car to get to the trailheads.

7. Bryce Canyon, UT

• Driving distance:  73 mi / 117 km
• Driving time:  1.5 h

Bryce Canyon is the third and final national park on the itinerary. And Bryce is just like Zion National Park excellent for hiking. But you will notice when you visit that the two areas differ a lot from each other.

The canyon is packed with its characteristic rock hoodoos. Hoodoos are rock columns that stand out from the bottom of a terrain. They typically have a high density top that protects them from erosion.

When you visit Bryce Canyon, you find them in various shades of orange, red and white. The rock hoodoos look peculiar and there are thousands of them in the park for you to explore.

Over millions of years natural amphitheaters have been created in Bryce Canyon. Because of that it’s rather easy to in relatively little time get to many of the park’s highlights when you visit Bryce.

Some of the best viewpoints in Bryce are found just at the main road through, Highway 63. So if you can’t hike, don’t want to do it or simply are in a hurry you can still reach many extremely beautiful points from the comfort of your own car.

In Bryce you also have the chance to enjoy one of the darkest night skies in the country. The fresh air and few light polluters in the area create fantastic stargazing opportunities.

A very convenient option for where to stay near Bryce Canyon is Bryce Canyon City . The small Utah town is located just outside the national park. So in just minutes you can go from your base in Bryce Canyon City to exploring the national park.

8. Las Vegas, NV

• Driving distance:  260 mi / 418 km
• Driving time:  4 h

After an amazing journey, it’s time to round off the trip. The last leg completes the loop back to where it all started, Las Vegas.

Rather see more? An alternate route is to drive north to Salt Lake City.

Find a hotel in Las Vegas

Use the booking tool below to find perfect accommodation for your stay in Las Vegas. Browse the map for options in various areas, or click on the search button to get all options listed.

Additional destinations for the Southwest road trip itinerary

You can easily add more destinations to the itinerary. Zion National Park and Bryce National Park are only two of Utah’s group of five mighty national parks .

So if you want to continue exploring the deserts in the American Southwest, it’s a great idea to add Utah’s other national parks. They are Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Capitol Reef National Park.

Arches National Park, UT

Just like Bryce Canyon has its distinctive hoodoos, Arches National Park has its arches. They are in thousands in the national park with the most famous being the Delicate Arch. You can see the Delicate Arch from a viewpoint by the road or you can hike all the way to the arch for a real close-up encounter. Either way Arches National Park is a fun addition to the itinerary.

Canyonlands National Park, UT

Canyonlands consists of four different districts with different faces. The most visited and easily accessible part to visit is Island in the Sky. In the park you find many beautiful overlooks. One of them is Mesa Arch, from which you can look down on the land of the canyons.

Capitol Reef National Park, UT

Capitol Reef is often overlooked and should get more attention than it gets. In the national park you can combine history in Fruita Historic District with hikes in the diverse Utah landscape. The combination of history and nature makes it a unique stop to add to the itinerary.

The ultimate American Southwest desert road trip FAQ

This ultimate American Southwest desert road trip is 1020 miles (1642 km) long, taking about 17 hours not including any stops along the way.

The ultimate Southwest road trip itinerary includes 3 states. These are Nevada, Arizona and Utah.

The main stops included on the ultimate road trip in the American Southwest are Las Vegas, Grand Canyon NP, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Zion NP and Bryce Canyon NP.

A Southwest road trip can be made throughout the year. However, be prepared for that in summer the temperature in Nevada, Arizona and Utah frequently goes above 100°F (38°C).

For the best experience, we recommended setting aside 2 weeks or more. But if you have less time, you can take a pacier road trip or break the itinerary up to focus on your favorite parts.

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The Ultimate Desert Southwest Road Trip Playlist

There’s nothing quite like driving through the deserts of the American Southwest . The scorching sun above dusty fields of cacti, tumbleweeds blowing past as you make your way through the iconic American landscape. It’s like a scene from a movie, and one that can only be made better with the perfect soundtrack. I’ve got you covered there with the perfect Desert Southwest road trip playlist.

This is the ultimate Desert Southwest playlist to accompany you on your next road trip through Arizona , Nevada , New Mexico, and beyond.

This travel-themed playlist series was designed to both add another layer of interest to your trips as well as to give you a way to relive your experiences once you’re home. Whenever you’re missing the desert, or even if you’ve never been and just want to mentally transport yourself, throw on this playlist for instant desert vibes.

Catch the full Desert Southwest Road Trip playlist at the bottom of this article. Follow it  on Spotify to have it saved to your Playlists for easy access. Be sure to check out  The Awayist on Spotify  for more travel-themed playlists as well.

Desert Southwest Playlist

The Vibe Spaghetti Western, Indie Rock, Desert Rock

Notable Artists Danger Mouse • Beirut • Mattiel • Desert Sessions • Daniele Luppi • The Black Keys • Mystic Braves • The Animals • Black Rebel Motorcycle Club • Arctic Monkeys • The Rolling Stones • Dan Auerbach • The Doors • Karen O

The Inspiration

Something about riding through the deserts of the Southwest instantly makes you feel like you’re starring in your own Western film. This playlist was designed to be the soundtrack to your movie. From classic Spaghetti Western sounds to modern Desert and Indie Rock, this playlist is the perfect backdrop for your American Southwest adventure.

Start Planning Your Desert Southwest Road Trip

Featured Artists

There are usually a few musicians or groups that I build a playlist around to create a cohesive feel. These are some of the key players that influenced the sound of this Desert Southwest playlist.

Rome (Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi)

My household is a big fan of anything Danger Mouse does. For this project, he teamed up with composer Daniele Luppi to create a Spaghetti Western-inspired album, and it’s pretty epic. The venture is titled Rome, and not only does it feature musicians who recorded Spaghetti Western soundtracks, but it also brings in vocals from Jack White and Norah Jones on songs like “Two Against One” and “Black”. The whole album is incredible, and it’s featured heavily throughout this playlist. You’ll find several other songs by Danger Mouse or Daniele Luppi on here as well.

I always try to work local artists into my travel-themed playlists, and this New Mexico native band was a no-brainer. While it’s clear that Beirut’s tunes have many worldly influences, it’s easy to feel the mark of the band’s home state on their sound. “The Gulag Orkestar” could be the soundtrack to any Western movie standoff. Moreover, if you want to hear the desert sun wrapped up in a song, listen to “Gallipoli”.

What’s a desert playlist without a little Rock? Mattiel’s particular brand of rock really hits the spot. A little bit indie, a little bit desert rock, and the slightest bit of honky-tonk all come together to form the perfect Southwest sound.

Standout Songs

There are SO MANY good songs on this playlist, so it’s hard to pick just a few to highlight. I certainly didn’t leave off Desert classics like “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals or “Riders of the Storm” by The Doors , but there are countless others that really make this playlist special. Here are just a few to get excited about.

Redeemer – Karen O, Danger Mouse

I told you Danger Mouse would have several more appearances throughout this playlist, and here’s just one of them. This time he teamed up with powerhouse vocalist Karen O of the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs. With lyrics like, “You’re not coming for me, I’m coming for you,” this song was just begging to be added to a Desert Southwest playlist.

Bang, Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) – Nancy Sinatra

Classic. So good. No further explanation needed.

History Song – The Good, The Bad, and The Queen

I’m not sure if Damon Albarn was actually influenced by the Spaghetti Western classic when he named this band, but I’m going to go with it. Whenever I hear this song, I can picture driving through the dusty desert – elusive mirages on the hot pavement and tumbleweeds blowing past.

The Switch and The Spur – The Raconteurs

The Raconteurs are one of my favorite bands in general. This particular track is a fantastic example of the desert exemplified through song.

Something You Can’t See – Desert Sessions

Okay, so I originally only came across this group because it has the word “desert” in it, but it turned out to be a perfect addition to this playlist. Desert Sessions is a musical collective made up of numerous musicians from the Desert Rock scene. This song is one of my favorites rounding out the psychedelic rock sound that every desert playlist needs.

All the Spaghetti Western classics

Songs from films like A Fistful of Dollars and The Good, The Band, and The Ugly , as well as countless others that were influenced by the genre, are spattered throughout the playlist. These are really what sets this playlist apart and make it feel uniquely like a soundtrack to the American Southwest.

While the bones of the playlist will always stay the same, I’m consistently searching for new songs to add to the mix. Have anything you would add to this playlist? Let me know in the comments below. I’d love to check them out!

Follow this playlist  on Spotify to have it saved to your Playlists for easy access. Be sure to check out  The Awayist on Spotify  for more travel-themed playlists as well.

PIN IT FOR LATER

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7 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Saguaro National Park

How to Spend 2 Days at the Grand Canyon South Rim

The Best of Roosevelt Row in Downtown Phoenix

Halloween Fall Road Trip Playlist

Comments (1).

Carly Wahlen

March 4, 2024 at 4:57 pm

I am IN LOVE with this playlist. Thank you so so so much for making it. I’ve been through so many southwestern, cowboy, “Arizona vibes” playlists on Spotify for my upcoming trip to Phoenix, and none of them come close compared to yours when it comes to capturing that desert feel. I love the mix of psychedelic rock, I didn’t even think of that genre when looking for this music but it’s perfect. I would definitely suggest my favorite artist Lord Huron as an addition. Songs like Back From the Edge, Setting Sun, and Mine Forever are great folk-rock western jams. Thank you again for this amazing playlist! I love creating playlists as well and really appreciate good ones. 🙂

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Weekend Travel Guide to Tucson, Arizona

Guide to saguaro national park in arizona.

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Want to Road-Trip Across the American Southwest? This Is How We’d Do It.

A longtime resident of the Southwest shares her favorite ways to see this region’s geological wonders, surreal sunsets, and wide-open spaces

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Edward Abbey, who immortalized the Southwest in his writing, would be turning over in his grave in Cabeza Prieta Wilderness west of Tucson, Arizona, if he knew that Arches National Park had to temporarily close its gates in mid-October because capacity was maxed out. The famous monkey wrencher saved a special venomous wrath for the kind of tourist who drove from one viewpoint to the next only to snap a photo and move on.

But Abbey, who was a ranger at Arches, in Utah, for two summers in the 1950s (when it was still a monument), also understood that there’s no better region than the Southwest, a place of mind-bending geology, impossibly living fauna, ferocious wide-open spaces, sublime light, and millennia of human history, to clear the mind and make peace with the soul.

I lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, for 18 years, love the Southwest, and believe everyone can benefit from the solace and adventure these majestic landscapes provide. We all, however, need to grapple with how to responsibly recreate within them. If you choose to wander, this wide-ranging southwestern road trip starts and ends in Tucson and hits icons and off-the-beaten-path places, providing an itinerary to the best of the region. It’s ridiculous how much jaw-dropping splendor there is on this trip.

In the words of Abbey: “For god sake folks… take off those fucking sunglasses and unpeel both eyeballs, look around; throw away those goddamn idiotic cameras… stand up straight like men! Like women! Like human beings! And walk—walk—walk upon our sweet and blessed land!”

Might we politely add: leave no trace, BYO water, and respect those who came before you.

1. Route: Tucson, Arizona, to Patagonia, Arizona

Distance: 64.8 miles

Your base camp: patagonia.

Patagonia, a no-frills mining and ranching town 20 miles north of the Mexican border, cropped up in the middle of Pima, Tohono O’odham, and Apache territory in the late 19th century. It has been a beloved destination for birders almost ever since.

Adventures in Patagonia

• Hikers and trail runners have easy access to the summits of 9,456-foot Mount Wrightson and the historical fire lookout station at the top of 6,373-foot Red Mountain.
• What has more recently put Patagonia on the map is its mountain bike and gravel cycling, with 30 miles of new singletrack right from downtown on the Temporal Gulch Trail and endless miles of dirt roads in the San Rafael Valley. Take note: the Spirit World 100 gravel road race takes place the first weekend of November and sells out fast.
• Visit the Paton Center for Hummingbirds outside of town. They have documented 247 bird species.

Where to Stay

The Gravel House is built for small groups of cyclists, with a straw-bale house that sleeps six and a wood-framed studio that sleeps two. Both have kitchens and share outdoor space to wrench on bikes or celebrate post-ride with a cocktail.

Where to Eat and Drink

• Chef Hilda at the Patagonia Lumber Company serves a delicious menu, filled with Sonoran specialties like fresh tamales, carne adovada tacos, and barbacoa.
• The new Queen of Cups restaurant and winery offers fresh pasta dishes and three house-made wines on the menu.

The Best Detour

Tucson’s Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a must-stop destination for travelers who want to learn more about the fragile yet resilient ecosystem they are traveling through. A highlight includes daily Raptor Free Flights, where birds only native to the Sonoran Desert, like the Chihuahuan raven, Harris’s hawk, and great horned owl, fly free while an expert describes their attributes, habitats, and behaviors.

2. Route: Patagonia, Arizona, to Big Bend National Park, Texas

Distance: 624 miles

Your base camp: terlingua, texas.

It might take you a few days to get to Terlingua because there are a lot of fun detours along the way (see below). But the wait is worth it. This town, once 2,000 inhabitants strong and rich with cinnabar from which miners extracted mercury in the late 19th century, now stands by its claim as one of the most popular ghost towns in Texas, with 110 residents.

Adventures in Terlingua, Texas

• Sitting six miles west of the entrance of Big Bend National Park , Terlingua offers easy access to all the 801,163-acre park has to offer, including rafting or kayaking the Rio Grande River, hiking the Chisos Mountains, or road cycling its low-traffic paved highways.
• Just west of Terlingua is the storied mountain biking in Big Bend Ranch State Park, including the challenging 59-mile Fresno-Sauceda IMBA Epic route, known for long, steep, technical, and rocky climbs and descents. Heavy rains have washed out much of the park’s trails, so check in with Desert Sports , whose owners Mike Long and Jim Carrico (a former superintendent of Big Bend) provide a wealth of knowledge about where and where not to go, and offer shuttles, guides, and equipment.

Willow House founder Lauren Werner settled in the Chihuahuan Desert of far-West Texas to create an austere, cool, and comforting oasis for artists and others longing for open spaces and an unbridled night sky. Twelve private casitas that look like modernist concrete cubes all have stunning views of the Chisos Mountains. Guests can bring their own provisions to grill outside or cook in the main house’s gourmet kitchen, then retreat to the privacy of their own front porch to cozy up under an Alpaca throw and gaze up to the heavens.

Stop at the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon, sit on the front porch and sip a beer, then head inside for tequila-marinated Texas quail, a Scorpion margarita, and a rollicking night of live music.

• Chiricahua National Monument 131 miles northeast of Patagonia. Stretch your legs on the 7.3-mile-long Heart of Rocks Loop that surpasses the most unusual formations in the monument, including the aptly named Pinnacle Balanced Rock, which looks like it might topple over any second.

• Three hundred eighty-two miles east of Chiricahau is New Mexico’s White Sands National Park, home of the world’s largest gypsum sand dunes. Take a ranger-guided hike to Lake Lucero to understand how the dunes are formed. Bring a tent and grab a backcountry permit at the visitor’s center (available the day of camping only) to sleep among the dunes, preferably under a full moon.

3. Route: Big Bend National Park, Texas, to Taos, New Mexico

Distance: 570 miles

Your base camp: taos, new mexico.

I’ve spent many days hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the stunning land around Taos. To the west of the small town, the Wild and Scenic Rio Grande River has sliced like a hot knife through layers of volcanic basalt and ash, 800 feet below the Rio Grande Rift Valley. To the east, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains top out at 13,161-foot Wheeler Peak, the tallest point in New Mexico. In the middle sits a town of roughly 6,000 artists, cowboys, skiers, free spirits, and others. By far the most established are the Puebloan people, who have continuously lived here for more than 1,000 years.

Adventures in Taos, New Mexico

• Respectfully visit the Unesco World Heritage site of Taos Pueblo , the main part of which was constructed between 1000 and 1450 A.D, centuries before the first Spanish explorers arrived in 1540 in search of the fabled golden cities of Cibola. The visit will help contextualize other historical gems in town like the Kit Carson House and Museum, which the famed trapper, frontiersman, and explorer bought in 1843.
• Eighteen miles northeast and 2,200 feet above Taos is the base of Taos Ski Valley , one of the steepest alpine resorts in the country. In the summer it’s an excellent base from which to launch a hiking expedition to the top of Wheeler Peak via the 8.5-mile out-and-back trail that passes Williams Lake. Power down the peak before 4 P.M. to polish off a 32-ounce stein of German beer and a plate of Sauerbraten Wiener schnitzel at the iconic Bavarian Restaurant back at the base.
• The 12.7-mile loop trail at Horsethief Mesa northwest of town is a good lower-elevation option for intermediate mountain bikers.
• For more of a challenge, and time commitment, shuttle or hitchhike east on U.S. 64 to Valle Escondido for the start of the South Boundary Trail , a 30-mile singletrack challenge that tops out at 10,729 feet. Some of its gnarliest rocky descents are at the very end.
• For experienced whitewater paddlers and rafters who want a thrill, the Taos Box offers Class IV rapids at the depths of the 800-foot Rio Grande Gorge. Lower down the river is the Racecourse, a mellower section of Class II-III rapids, perfect for a half-day journey for kids as young as five. New Mexico River Adventures offers half-day, full-day, or overnight options on both sections of the Rio Grande and other rivers nearby.

Where to Stay 

Kick in the nostalgia in one of the 21 vintage trailer units dating between 1951 and 1972 at Hotel Luna Mystica a couple of miles north of Taos in El Prado on the wide-open Hondo mesa. Across the road are the ever-flowing tap beers at Taos Mesa Brewing; above is a blanket of stars.

Five minutes west of downtown Casa Gallina is a cluster of five classic and colorful Southwest casitas sandwiched between verdant gardens fed by two acequias, part of the town’s historic agricultural district. Each casita has a kitchen in which guests can cook freshly picked vegetables and eggs gathered daily from the 30 to 40 free-range hens, owner Richard Spera’s “girls,” that roam the property.

• Manzanita Market in downtown Taos is the more accessible little sister to the Love Apple restaurant, the latter being one of the most coveted reservations in the region. In addition to deliciously healthy meals, Manzanita serves up small batches of ice cream made from local organic cream, eggs, seasonal fruits, and handmade caramel.
• The Love Apple is housed in a 19th-century chapel and serves northern New Mexico specialties, like red chile enchiladas made with local, organic ingredients. I try to eat here whenever I’m in Taos. Make a reservation for sure.
• Meanwhile, Medley , so named for its D.C. and L.A. expat chefs Wilks and Colleen Medley, offers a craft cocktail menu that is as mouth watering as the tantalizing comfort food they serve.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park , 235 miles north of Big Bend, is worth the time for a visit, especially when you contemplate how long it took to create the 120 known caves. The process began 265 million years ago with the calcareous sponges, algae, and lime-rich mud that formed the underwater reef in the Permian Sea that once covered this region. The largest cave open to the public is Carlsbad Cavern, which stretches 30 miles long and opens into the 8.2-acre Big Room, the biggest cave chamber by volume in North America.

4. Route: Taos, New Mexico, to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

Distance: 271 miles

Your base camp: gunnison, colorado.

This four-hour drive pushes the northern limits of what is technically considered the Southwest. There’s a more well-trodden southern Colorado route from Taos that shoots through Durango, and that’s the best bet to take if you’re traveling in winter when the Gunnison area can be hampered by heavy snow and seasonal closings.

Adventures in Gunnison, Colorado

• In the summer, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park , 61 miles west of the town of Gunnison, is a must-see. The 48-mile-long, 2,722-foot-deep canyon is not the longest or deepest in North America by a long shot. But its two-billion-year-old vertical black gneiss walls have been almost inaccessible for millennia, even to the Ute, the first inhabitants of this region.
• Most of the national park’s annual 308,000 visitors (for comparison, Grand Canyon National Park receives almost five million annual visitors) choose to view it from its north or south rims. The six-mile-long unpaved North Rim Road has six overlooks, some of which offer the best views to the canyon’s near vertical walls. Those who choose to can hike down on one of six wilderness trails—three on the north rim and three on the south rim—all of which require a permit obtained from the visitor’s center on the south rim.
• Expect routes into the canyon that lack stairs and switchbacks and descend 2,000 feet in the course of a mile. It’s essential to come prepared to tackle these tough routes with water, food, and the appropriate clothing for changeable weather. The payoff is some of the best trout fishing in the state on the Gunnison River. All rainbows are catch and release and the brown trout daily limit is four.
• Easier to access and closer to Gunnison is Curecanti National Recreation Area . In addition to containing 19 miles of the Black Canyon, it also has four reservoirs, including Blue Mesa, the state’s largest body of freshwater. All this liquid makes for a utopian setting for standup paddlers, kayakers, and kitesurfers. Lake Fork Marina, 26 miles west of Gunnison on Blue Mesa Reservoir, rents kayaks and SUPs. The 3.5-mile round-trip Dillon Pinnacles hike, on the northside of Blue Mesa Reservoir, is great for kids and trail running and offers open views of the aquamarine water and its namesake 600-foot volcanic formations.
• Hartman Rocks Recreation Area three miles south of Gunnison has 45 miles of singletrack, 45 miles of dirt roads, and countless crags—a haven for mountain bikers, gravel cyclists, and rock climbers. Three trails, Sea of Sage, Lost Dog, and Broken Shovel, are wide enough for hand cyclists. No place in town offers rental bikes—leftover inventory and staffing shortages from the pandemic—but Tomichi Cycles can tune your bike and point you toward their favorite trails.

Thirteen miles north of Gunnison, Campfire Ranch on the Taylor River offers ten well maintained, walk-in, tent-only campsites, each with tent pads, a picnic table, and fire ring. Nearby is free firewood, vault toilets, and a potable well water pump. To make the sites more inclusive to all, the ranch also offers on-site rental and demo camping gear, plus a 50 percent discount to actively enrolled college students.

• 1880s Tapas and Spirits in Gunnison serves an impressively authentic menu of the Spanish small plates. Pair Octopus a la Plancha with an eclectic array of cocktails.
• An espresso from Tributary Coffee Roasters a block down the road will get you going the next morning.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is roughly 100 miles north of Taos. The tallest sand dunes in North America rise 750 feet into the sky under the shadow of the surrounding snow-capped Rockies. The park has seven backcountry campsites along the 11-mile-long Sand Ramp Trail, an ideal spot to stretch your legs and then watch the Milky Way shimmer in the night sky.

5. Route: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado, to Escalante, Utah

Distance: 339 miles

Your base camp: escalante, utah.

Escalante is situated in the midst of everything: Bryce Canyon National Park , Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, and lesser known state parks like Kodachrome Basin and Escalante Petrified Forest. A few hours farther are Zion and Capitol Reef National Parks . And between all of that bounty are unsung slot canyons closer to town and the nearby lakes, rivers, and trails within Dixie National Forest that covers the Aquarius Plateau, the highest timbered plateau in North America, topping out at 11,328 feet.

Adventures in Escalante, Utah

• The options seem endless in every direction, but a good shakedown hike is to Lower Calf Creek Falls, a six-mile round-trip effort that starts at the campground in the Calf Creek Recreational Area 15 miles east of Escalante. When the water is flowing, it cascades 130 feet over streaked Navajo Sandstone into a deep, refreshing pool.
• Escalante Outfitters offers guided fly-fishing to under-the-radar lakes and streams on the plateau and a fascinating and low-key natural history hike of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument that gives an excellent overview of the ecology, geology, paleontology, zoology, and archaeology of the region.
• Cyclists can stop in at Escalante Cyclery to rent a dual-suspension or e-mountain bike for the day or sign on for a multi-day road cycling tour to Capitol Reef National Park.
• Don’t be fooled by the “yurt” in Escalante Yurts , a mile and a half north of town. These seven year-round structures are luxurious, with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, heating, hot breakfast burritos, or other hearty eats brought to your door every morning, and a night sky that never seems to end.
• A few miles west of town off Highway 12s Yonder Escalante has Airstreams, tiny cabins, and plenty of space to park your own RV, car, tent, or camper. Communal areas include a luxurious spa-like bathhouse with heavenly hot private indoor-outdoor showers, an oversize pool, and a nightly movie at the drive-in.

A Bighorn Pizza (Kalamata tapenade, prosciutto, ham, goat cheese, and slow-roasted tomato) accompanied by any leafy salad enjoyed while people watching from the front patio at Escalante Outfitters is the ideal way to refuel and re-enter after an epic outdoor adventure. Inside the store, stock up on any last-minute essentials for hiking or camping.

You could add 57 miles to the journey and spend a week meandering through the 2,000-plus formations of Arches National Park . But we recommend giving beloved Arches and nearby Moab a rest and instead head north to I-70 to hit the trifecta of mountain bike trail networks between Palisade, Grand Junction, and Fruita , Colorado, which range from a breezy four-mile beginner Rustler’s Loop to the 12.1-mile rocky and technical Lunch Loop Trails to the epic 143-mile-long Kokopelli Trail that will eventually take you southeast back toward Moab.

6. Route: Escalante, Utah, to Tucson, Arizona

Distance: 581 miles

Your base camp: cottonwood, arizona.

Northern Arizona, with its Grand Canyon views, the mountain trails of Flagstaff, and the calming red rocks of Sedona, is anything but a secret. It’s especially imperative to tread lightly through this place that is the traditional home of at least 11 federally recognized nations. One way to disperse the tourism load is to stay 19 miles southwest of Sedona in the Verde Valley town of Cottonwood, so named for the willowy trees that line the Verde River.

Adventures in Cottonwood, Arizona

While it lacks the mystery and awe of Sedona’s red rocks, Cottonwood has its own allure, with the craggy peaks of the Mingus mountains to the west, hiking and cross country mountain biking on the 15-mile Lime Kiln Trail that links Dead Horse Ranch State Park to Sedona’s Red Rock State Park to the east; and exciting energy in the historic Old Town, which include multiple breweries, wine-tasting rooms, and restaurants.

The charming one-bedroom, one bath Casita Blanca at San Juan Ranch Airbnb in the heart of the Verde Valley, has desert and mountain views, a gas stove for chilly evenings, and is only a 15-minute drive to Old Town.

Colt Grill BBQ and Spirits on North Main Street in Old Town is legendary for its in-house smoked meats. There’s only one way to eat the delightfully messy pulled pork sandwich accompanied by a side of butter garlic fries: devour it. Expect elbow to elbow dining. Merkin Vineyards, which has a tasting room on North Main Street, sources 100 percent of their grapes from local Arizona growers.

Of the five million annual visitors at Grand Canyon National Park , only 10 percent take the road less traveled to the North Rim, the traditional homeland of the Southern Paiute. The North Rim Campground sits at 8,200 feet and is open from May 15 to October 15.

The payoff for this 80-mile out-and-back detour on dirt roads is unparalleled views and unpeopled access to the 28-mile-long round-trip North Kaibab Trail, the only maintained trail into the canyon from the North Rim. To see the most spectacular sunrise of your life, get up before dawn and hike 4.2 miles into Cape Final. The trailhead is off the Cape Royal Road.

Contributing editor Stephanie Pearson lived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, for 18 years, has written numerous travel stories for Outside , and is the author of the recent book 100 Great American Parks .

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DESERT SOUTHWEST

Curated picks for 100+ Southwest favorites

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A field guide to the Desert Southwest: hot springs and trading posts, astronomers and desert naturalists, Navajo traditions and Route 66 charm.  

Inside Wildsam Desert Southwest, you'll find tales from prize-winning writers, past and present; detailed road trip intineraries and profiles of towns from West Texas to Arizona; interviews with artists, mystics, scientists and ultrarunners; delightful miscellany from the archives, selective recommendations about authentic Southwestern experiences and offbeat intel that offers stunning insight into this iconic American region.

"From its burnt-orange days to the night skies pitched with a million stars, the Southwest brings to stage wonder and awe."

145 pages, printed in the U.S.A. Back-pocket size, 4 x 6.5 inches Featuring more than two dozen local experts

• True West’s Ultimate Historic Travel Guide: The Desert Southwest

by Stuart Rosebrook | Nov 6, 2017 | Departments , True Western Towns

From the Grand Canyon to the Texas Gulf Coast, from the Rio Grande River Valley to Oklahoma’s endless grasslands, the Desert Southwest Region is a land of sky islands, spectacular canyonlands, plains and prairies, unforgiving deserts and rugged mountains.

The natural beauty, vast distances, and diversity of cultures in the regions will inspire the visitor to gain a greater understanding of how the aridity of the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts has influenced the Indian, Hispanic and American settlement of the region.

The Desert Southwest Region is home to many of the nation’s   most recognizable geologic landmarks, ancient pueblos, monuments and historic sites, but also some of its oldest Indian and Hispanic communities.

Visitors to the four states will quickly find themselves on the trails of conquistadors and explorers, cowboys and cavalry, and walking in the footsteps of ancient peoples, Indian nations, homesteaders and prospectors.

Battle of Big Dry Wash Site

In July 1882, the last bloody battle between Army regulars and the Apache tribe took place north of Payson and is commemorated by a marker built in the 1930s by the U.S. Forest Service and the Civilian Conservation Corps.

To visit the battle site from Payson, drive north on Highway 87 through Pine and Strawberry to the Rim Road, Forest Road 300. Turn right and drive east to the Battle of Big Dry Wash Historical Marker near General Springs.

Battle of Big Dry Wash Site, Payson, AZ 928-472-5110 • RimCountryMuseums.com

Camp Verde State Historic Park

Founded in 1865, Camp Verde State Historic Park is a living history center that commemorates and honors the history of the Army and the conflict with the Yavapai and Western Apaches during the American settlement of Central Arizona.

125 E Hollamon St, Camp Verde, AZ 86322 928-567-3275 • AZStateParks.com

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Located in the heart of the Navajo Reservation, Canyon de Chelly National Monument is home to the traditional clans who have lived in the spectacular canyon for generations.

Tour the national monument, above and below the canyon, with special guided tours of the park, and learn about the canyon’s importance to Navajo culture, and the tragic years of the tribe’s incarceration at Bosque Redondo in New Mexico.

PO Box 588, Chinle, AZ 86503 • 928-674-5500 •   NPS.gov

Fort Apache Historic Park

A key outpost during the U.S. Army’s conflict with the Apaches from the 1860s to the 1880s, Fort Apache today is part of the Theodore Roosevelt National Historic Landmark, maintained by the Apache Tribe with assistance from the Fort Apache Heritage Foundation.

The park offers exhibits on tribal history plus a museum shop. The Nohwike’ Bágowa (House of Our Footprints) Museum is open six days a week, and on Sundays May through September.

127 Scout St, Fort Apache, AZ 85926 928-338-1392   • FortApacheArizona.org

Fort Bowie National Historic Site

Located at Apache Springs near the national stageroad in the heart of Chiricahua territory, Fort Bowie National Historic Site can be reached by a short hike across the Butterfield Trail, past the spring and through the desert hills to well-maintained ruins of the fort and historic cemetery.

3500 S Apache Pass Rd, Bowie, AZ 85605 520-847-2500 • NPS.gov

Fort Whipple

Founded in 1863, Fort Whipple was one of the Army’s earliest outposts in central and Northern Arizona during the American post-Civil War settlement of the Grand Canyon state.

Gen. George Crook built the Crook Trail from Whipple to Fort Apache during the Yavapai War. Today, a historic museum is maintained in a 1909 officer’s home on the post’s grounds, which today is a V.A. Hospital for Northern Arizona.

AZ-89, Prescott, AZ 86303 • 928-445-3122   • Sharlot.org

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is the traditional home and a sacred site to the Havasupai, Hualapai, Navajo, Hopi and Paiute Indians of northern Arizona.

Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim visitors center receives 5 million visitors annually. Don’t miss the exhibition on John Wesley Powell’s exploration of the Grand Canyon and his epic 1869 river run on the Green-Colorado.

PO Box 129 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 928-638-7888 • NPS.gov

Founded in 1881 by the Santa Fe Railway, Holbrook quickly gained a reputation as one of the toughest towns in the Southwest.

As the headquarters of the infamous Aztec Land & Cattle Company, aka the Hashknife Outfit, a walking/driving tour of the historic town once patrolled by legendary lawman Sheriff Commodore Perry Owens starts at the Historic Navajo County Courthouse.

928-524-6558 • CI.Holbrook.US.az

Picacho Peak State Historic Park

Just off Interstate 10, west of Casa Grande, the picturesque Picacho Peak can be seen for miles in every direction, a landmark for generations of travelers and the site of the Westernmost battle of the Civil War on April 15, 1862.

Every March re-enactors gather and entertain thousands with a re-enactment of three battles:   Picacho Peak, Glorieta and Val Verde, the latter two fought in New Mexico.

I-10, Exit 219, Eloy, AZ 85141 • 520-466-3183 AZStateParks.com

The historic and picturesque Territorial capital of Arizona, Prescott is the perfect town in which to take a walk through state history.

Start at Sharlot Hall Museum, the living history center with several historic buildings, including the Territorial Governor’s Home, and walk down Gurley Street to Prescott’s historic Courthouse Square, where Solon Borglum’s Rough Rider bronze greets visitors to the park.

Across the street take a walk down Montezuma Avenue, known as Whiskey Row, and visit the historic Palace Saloon.

928-445-2000 • Prescott.org

The centerpiece historical site in downtown Bisbee is Phelps Dodge’s Queen Mine, one of the richest mineral bonanzas in state history.

Retired miners lead the underground tours that take visitors on trams deep into the copper mine.

After touring the mine, don’t miss an opportunity to walk through Bisbee’s historic district, including a tour of the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, and the legendary Copper Queen Hotel.

478 N Dart Rd, Bisbee, AZ 85603 • 520-432-2071 QueenMineTour.com / DiscoverBisbee.com

Slaughter Ranch

Texas John Slaughter was a legendary lawman and rancher in southeastern Arizona during and after the Apache Wars and Earp-Cowboy feuds in Cochise County in the late 19th century.

Today his San Bernardino Ranch is home to the Johnson Historical Museum of Southern Arizona and adjacent to the San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge.

6153 Geronimo Trail, Douglas, AZ 85607 520-678-7596 • SlaughterRanch.com

“The town to tough to die,” Tombstone is Arizona’s most infamous Territorial mining camp and is known internationally for the Earp-Clanton gunfight behind the O.K. Corral.

Tour the Tombstone County Courthouse State Historic Park, take a walk through Boothill Graveyard, and park at one end of Allen Street and walk into history.

In the National Historic District don’t miss visiting Big Nose Kate’s Saloon, the Crystal Palace, C.S. Fly’s, O.K. Corral, the Bird Cage Saloon, Rose Tree Museum, Good Enough Mine Underground Tour and the Tombstone Epitaph Museum.

888-457-3929 • TombstoneChamber.com

Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

T ubac Presidio was the first Spanish fort in present-day Arizona. In 1752, following a revolt by local native peoples, Spain placed a fortress, the San Ignacio de Tubac, in the Santa Cruz River Valley.

Tubac is famous for being the launch point of the Anza Expedition to San Francisco in 1775. By 1787, the fort was manned by the same native peoples who had revolted, now enlisted as a Spanish infantry company at Tubac.

The Tubac Presidio would later become headquarters for Charles Poston’s mining company when the Americans came in 1856.

The museum showcases every culture, with artifacts and displays that bring 2,000 years of history to life. The state park is also a trailhead for the Juan Bautista De Anza Trail that leads to Tumacacori National Historical Park.

1 Burruel St, Tubac, AZ 85646 • 520-398-2252 TubacPresidio.org / AZStateParks.com / NPS.gov

Warren Earp’s Grave

Warren Earp, the youngest brother of Virgil, Wyatt and Morgan, is buried in the Willcox Cemetery not too far from where he was gun downed by Johnny Boyette in Brown’s Saloon in 1900.

After paying your respects at Warren’s monument, enjoy a visit to a museum dedicated to Cochise County’s very own, Rex Allen, at the Rex Allen “Arizona Cowboy” Museum & Willcox Cowboy Hall of Fame.

454 N 3rd St, Willcox, AZ • ExploreCochise.com

Near the confluence of the Gila and Colorado rivers, the U.S. Army built a post at the strategic crossing of the Colorado.

Today the Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park provides a window into early Territorial settlement, steamboat military, railroad and mining history.

Across the highway from the depot is the notorious Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, once one of the most feared prisons in the Old West.

201 N 4th Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364 928-783-0071 • VisitYuma.com • AZStateParks.com

Battle of Glorieta Pass, Pecos National Historical Park

A separate unit from the main visitor center of Pecos National Historical Park, the Glorieta Battlefield commemorates the key battle between New Mexico forces and the Confederate Army that had been attempting to secure Southern control over the Southwest.

To walk the park’s 2.35-mile Glorieta Battlefield hiking trail, ask the rangers at the Pecos National Historical Park visitor center to provide you the gate code and a map.

NM-63, Pecos, NM 87552 • 505-757-7241 • NPS.gov

El Morro National Monument

For centuries travelers across New Mexico would cite El Morro as a key landmark on their trail north and south from the Pueblo communities along the Rio Grande and New Spain’s settlements in Mexico.

Many who paused and rested at the butte’s watering hole carved their name into its sandstone face.

With over 2,000 inscriptions, El Morro’s importance from ancient times to the present is documented at the monument’s visitor center and along the Inscription Trail to Inscription Rock, and the Headland Trail to Atsinna, the 875-room pueblo ruin atop El Morro.

Ice Caves Rd, Grants, NM 87020 • 505-783-4226 • NPS.gov

Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark

Built in the territory of New Mexico east of Silver City in 1866, Fort Bayard was an army camp until 1900 when it became a military hospital.

Adjacent to the former hospital (closed in 2010) is the Fort Bayard National Cemetery, opened in 1866, and operated by the Veteran’s Administration. The museum is open every Monday, April through September and by appointment only, October through March.

3rd St & D Ave, Fort Bayard, NM   • 575-956-3294 FortBayard.org / SilverCityTourism.org

Fort Selden Historic Site

B uilt in 1865 along the Rio Grande River in the Mesilla Valley, Fort Selden was an important Army post in the Southwestern Apache wars until its closure in 1891.

Just ten miles north of Las Cruces, Fort Selden Historic Site offers a visitors center, adobe ruins visitors can walk through and on weekends during summer months, living history events with re-enactors in period dress.

1233 Fort Selden Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88007 575-647-9585 • NMHistoricsites.org

Fort Stanton Historic Site

Built in 1855, Fort Stanton was a key Territorial outpost in the Army’s war with the Mescalero Apache tribe until its closure in 1896.

The fort’s soldiers were also called into service during local conflicts, including the Lincoln County War between Billy the Kid and his Regulators fighting for the Tunstall-McSween faction and the Murphy-Dolan faction.

Just ten miles from Lincoln, visitors should start their tour at the Fort Stanton Museum before taking a walking tour of the 240-acre site, which has 88 historic buildings.

104 Kit Carson Rd, Fort Stanton, NM 88323 575-354-0341 • NMHistoricsites.org

Fort Sumner Historic Site/Bosque Redondo Memorial

During the Civil War, the U.S. fought a war with the Navajo people that led to the tribe’s defeat and long walk to incarceration adjacent to Fort Sumner at the Bosque Redondo Reservation.

The miserable location for the 8,500 Navajos led the tribe to negotiate a peace settlement that allowed them to return with sovereignty to their traditional lands in the Four Corners region.

Over 500 Mescalero Apaches who had also been incarcerated at Bosque Redondo fled the reservation in 1865.

Visitors should tour the museum and walk the Old Fort Site and River Walk trails. The outlaw Billy the Kid was killed in the town of Fort Sumner on July 14, 1881, and is buried in the village cemetery.

707 N 4th St, Fort Sumner, NM 88119 575-355-7705 • NMHistoricsites.org

Fort Union National Monument

One of the most significant U.S. Army posts in eastern New Mexico, Fort Union was built at the crossroads of the Santa Fe Trail’s Mountain and Cimarron Cut-off trails.

Re-enactors hold regular events at the monument and visitors will enjoy the many tours of the grounds and the fort’s well-preserved ruins.

NM 161, Ocate, NM 87734 • 505-425-8025 • NPS.gov

Kit Carson Home and Museum

Located in the center of Taos, Kit Carson’s family adobe has been preserved as a museum that interprets his dramatic—and controversial—life as a mountain man, explorer, trailblazer, soldier and family man.

113 Kit Carson Rd, Taos, NM 87571 575-758-4945 • KitCarsonMuseum.org

In the annals of Western U.S. history, the humble town of Lincoln’s notorious past is synonymous with the violence that plagued the West, and especially the New Mexico Territory after the Civil War.

The historic buildings in the center of town are managed and preserved as a New Mexico Historic Site.

Visitors can walk the streets of Lincoln and stride in the footsteps of the Regulators, Billy the Kid, Pat Garrett, John Tunstall, Alexander McSween, Lawrence G. Murphy and James J. Dolan. Stay the weekend at the Dolan House, Ellis Store or Wortley Hotel.

Tour the 17 historic structures (call ahead for scheduled openings), including the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, the Tunstall Store, Montaño store, the 1850s stone Torreon, San Juan Mission Church and the Anderson-Freeman Museum.

Old Lincoln Days are held every August and re-enactors entertain tourists with some of the most infamous moments of the Lincoln County War, including Billy’s dramatic escape from the Lincoln County Jail.

Highway 380 Mile Marker 97.5, Lincoln, NM 88338 575-653-4025 • NMHistoricsites.org

Founded in 1848, Mesilla is one of the oldest settlements in the southern Rio Grande River Valley in New Mexico and was an important crossroads for territorial trade and travel on the El Camino Real and Southern Overland Route of the Butterfield Stage Line.

Mesilla’s historic plaza is where U.S. troops from Fort Fillmore raised the American flag after the conclusion of the Gadsden Purchase in 1853.

The town served as the short-lived capital of the Confederacy in New Mexico during the Civil War.

In the 1870s and 1880s Mesilla’s popular saloons and dance halls attracted law-abiding citizens and outlaws, including Billy the Kid.

Visitors should tour the historic plaza (the Kid was tried and sentenced to die in the historic building that is home to today’s Billy the Kid Giftshop), the local Gadsden Museum and the New Mexico Ranch & Farm Museum in nearby Las Cruces.

2231 Avenida de Mesilla, Mesilla, NM 88046 575-524-3262 • OldMesilla.org

Palace of the Governors

Built of adobe in the early 1600s as New Spain’s seat of government in New Mexico, today it is the state’s preeminent museum and archives of the city, state and region’s history.

A Registered National Historic Landmark and American Treasure, the Palace of the Governors is the oldest occupied public building in the United States.

The New Mexico History Museum opened next door to the Palace on Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza in 2009 and is dedicated to the ancient multi-cultural history of the Land of Enchantment state.

105 W Palace Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501 505-476-5100   • PalaceOfTheGovernors.org / NMHistoryMuseum.org

Pat Garrett Murder Site Historical Marker

Sheriff Pat Garrett became famous for his killing of Billy the Kid, but along the way the notorious and controversial lawman made many enemies in many powerful moneyed circles in the territory of New Mexico.

One morning, violence ended Garrett’s life, much like he lived it, and a marker commemorates his assassination in Dona Ana County.

Jornada Rd & I-70 Service Rd, Las Cruces, NM NMHistoricMarkers.org

St. James Hotel

In Cimarron, the historic St. James Hotel bears the bullet holes in its ceiling as evidence of its Wild West past as a Lambert’s Saloon before the proprietors expanded it into a popular hotel.

Many well-known Westerners traveling along the Santa Fe Railway stopped for the night, including Buffalo Bill Cody, who was a friend of the owners—French chef Henri Lambert and his wife, Mary.

Today, the historic hotel welcomes guests to enjoy the vintage, well-appointed rooms and a meal and drink at the restaurant and saloon. 

617 S. Collison, Cimarron, NM 87714 575-376-2664 • ExStJames.com

Village of Columbus/Camp Furlong

On March 9, 1916, Mexican revolutionary Gen. Francisco “Pancho” Villa led a raid into the United S tates across the border into the Village of Columbus and past the troops stationed at Camp Furlong.  

With nearly 500 Villistas riding hard wantonly through the town, the revolutionaries set fire to downtown before suffering dozens of losses.

Today, the only attack on U.S. soil by foreign invaders until 9/11 is remembered at Pancho Villa State Park, the former Camp Furlong from which Gen. Jack Pershing led 10,000 soldiers into Mexico in search of Villa.

224 Lima Ave, Columbus, NM 88029 575-531-0046 • ColumbusNewMexico.com

101 Ranch Memorial

The internationally renowned Miller Brothers’ 101 Ranch Wild West Show, billed as “The Greatest Show of the West,” toured the world from 1905 to 1939.

During the Miller Brothers heyday, the Oklahoma family empire included vast land holdings, oil wells and international fame.

The 101 Ranch Old Timers Association owns 72 acres of the original ranch site and in 1996 opened the public picnic area.

Visit the E.W. Marland’s Grand Home Museum in Ponca City to see the official 101 Ranch Collection and 101 Ranch Old Timers Association Museum.

Visit Ponca City in June to experience the annual celebration since 1960 of the great 101 Ranch Wild West Show at the 101 Ranch Rodeo .

On State Highway 156, 13 miles SW of Ponca City 101RanchOTA.com / KayCounty.info / MarlandGrandHome.com

Chisholm Trail Heritage Center

In Duncan, Oklahoma, The Chisholm Trail Heritage Center is located north of the Red River along the historic Chisholm Trail.

An interactive museum with regularly scheduled events inside the exhibit hall and outside on the museum’s grounds, the centerpiece of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center is the Garis Gallery of the American West.

In addition to the museum’s extraordinary Western art collection, visitors will enjoy both permanent and temporary exhibitions that celebrate the history and culture of the Chisholm Trail, American cowboy and the West.

When walking the museum grounds, don’t miss Paul Moore’s On the Chisholm Trail bronze that greets visitors at the entrance to the Heritage Center.

1000 Chisholm Trail Pkwy, Duncan, OK 73533 580-252-6692 • OnTheChisholmTrail.com

Fort Gibson Historic Site

A national historic landmark, Fort Gibson dates to 1824 when the U.S. Army began exploring the region.

A key post during the Indian Removal era, it was closed in 1857. After the Civil War started the fort was reoccupied and became a key military outpost until 1890.

Tours should begin at the Commissary Visitor Center on Garrison Hill and proceed through the reconstructed log fort, and historic buildings constructed between the 1840s and 1870s.

Visitors also enjoy re-enactors leading living history programs and events during the year.

110 E Ash Ave, Fort Gibson, OK 74434 918-478-4088 • OKHistory.org

Fort Sill National Historic Landmark & Museum

One of the most significant historical military museums in Old West history, the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum is dedicated to the interpretation of nearly a century of American and Indian history in the region, including the post-Civil War engagements with the Southern Plains tribes.

Fort Sill was enlarged in 1894 when the Chiricahua Indians, imprisoned for nearly a decade in Florida and Alabama, were moved permanently to a reservation at the military base.

The interactive history facility boasts 38 buildings and curates over 235,000 objects at the 142-acre Historic Landmark. The museum is completely dedicated to its historic era, while the US Army Field Artillery Museum has been a separate institution since 2008.

437 Quanah Rd, Fort Sill, OK 73503 580-442-5123 • Sill-WWW.Army.mil

Fort Supply Historic Site

Founded out of necessity during the winter of 1868 to support the Army’s war with the Southern Plains tribes in Western Oklahoma, Fort Supply was a key outpost in the Indian Territory for 25 years until its closure in 1894.

Today, five original buildings, including the 1875 ordnance sergeant’s quarters and a replica of the 1868 stockade, can be toured at the site.

Visitors should start at the restored and furnished 1892 brick guardhouse, which houses Fort Supply’s exhibitions.

1 William S Key Blvd, Fort Supply, OK 73841 580-256-6136 • OKHistory.org

Fort Towson Historic Site

Built in 1824 to protect early settler in the Arkansas Territory, Fort Towson was a key border outpost between Mexico and the United States prior to the Texas Revolution.

The Choctaw and Chickasaw encamped at the fort before settlement in the Indian Territory. U.S. forces prepared for war against Mexico at the fort in 1846 before it was closed in 1856.

The Confederate Army had its headquarters at the abandoned fort and in 1865 the final Southern surrender, by Gen. Stand Watie, occurred at Fort Towson.

Visitors can tour the Suttler’s Store, 18 interpretive sites on a walking tour, and enjoy regularly scheduled living history demonstrations throughout the year.

896 N 4375 Rd, Fort Towson, OK 74735 580-873-2634   • OKHistory.org

Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site

North of Checotah and adjacent to Rentiesville, the Honey Springs Battlefield Historic Site commemorates and honors the largest of 107 engagements in the Indian Territory during the Civil War.

Visitors can walk six different trails across the 1,100-acre park and learn about the July 17, 1863 Battle of Honey Springs at 55 interpretive sites.

The Union’s decisive defeat of the Confederate forces has earned the battle the nickname “Gettysburg of the Indian Territory.” A new visitor center is under construction in Rentiesville.

101601 S 4232 Rd, Checotah, OK 74426 918-473-5572 • OKHistory.org

National Cowboy Western & Heritage Museum

Founded in 1955 in Oklahoma’s capital city, the National Cowboy Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the preeminent museums in the United States dedicated to the cultural history and heritage of the American West.

Annually more than 10 million visitors tour its Western art galleries, Old West and American Indian history galleries, and its three halls of fame: the Hall of Great Westerners, Hall of Great Western Performers and Rodeo Hall of Fame.

1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK 73111 405-478-2250 • NationalCowboyMuseum.org

Oklahoma Territorial Museum

In Guthrie, the Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library is the centerpiece of the historic downtown district that honors and celebrates the Oklahoma’s transformation from Indian Territory to statehood that began with the 1889 land run.

The downtown district is on the Register of Historic Places and is the largest contiguous urban historic district in the country.

Begin your tour of the Guthrie Museum Complex in the museum at the Territorial and first state capitol building before taking a walking tour of the historic city.

406 E Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044 405-282-1889 • OKTerritorialMuseum.org

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

The Lt. Col. George A. Custer-led U.S. 7th Cavalry surprise attack at dawn on the Southern Cheyenne village of Peace Chief Black Kettle on November 27, 1868, is commemorated at the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site.

Follow the 1.5-mile trail from the overlook to the site of Black Kettle’s village and learn about the tragic conflict between the U.S. and the Southern Plains Indian tribes.

426 E Broadway, Cheyenne, OK 73628 580-497-2742   • NPS.gov

Internationally the most recognized historical site in the state of Texas, the Alamo is a Shrine of Texas Liberty and those who visit should revere it as hallowed ground.

Built originally by Spanish pioneers in 1718, the Mission San Antonio de Valero was abandoned in the 1790s.  

By 1836 and the Texas War of Independence, the mission was known best by its nickname “El Alamo” renamed by Spanish soldiers in the early 1800s.

Visitors to the Alamo will enjoy the various tour opportunities of the mission and battlefield site, history talks, audio tours, regularly scheduled special events and the unique Phil Collins Collection of Alamo and Texas history.

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205 210-225-1391 • TheAlamo.org

Concordia Cemetery

Take a walk back into time in El Paso’s historic Concordia Cemetery, the eternal resting place for the famous and infamous, valiant and brave, humble and unknown.

El Pasoans have buried their dead in the graveyard since the first soul was interred in the 1840s. The historic cemetery is managed by the Concordia Heritage Association to protect, preserve and maintain the graveyard.

Visitors can walk its grounds and see outlaw John Wesley Hardin’s grave as well as the grave of John Selman, the lawman who put Hardin in Concordia.

Don’t miss the special section dedicated to Buffalo Soldiers, the graves of Texas Rangers, Civil War veterans and the innumerable headstones of El Paso’s citizenry forgotten with time.    

3700 E Yandell Dr, El Paso, TX 79903 915-842-8200 • ConcordiaCemetery.org

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

An ancient dome of granite in Texas’s Hill Country, Enchanted Rock has been a landmark to the peoples of the region for thousands of years.

Protected in a state natural area, the landmark 425-fott pink granite outcropping, has over 400 archeological sites, and is considered sacred by many tribes.

Enchanted Rock was the site of a famous shootout between Texas Ranger Capt. Jack Hays and a band of Comanches in 1841.

Today, visitors can hike its trails, explore the granite dome and star-gaze, all the while considering why the local Tonkawa believed the granite dome was the “Glowing, singing rock.”

16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 830-685-3636 • TPWD.State.Tx.gov

First Battle of Adobe Walls Site Historic Marker and Second Battle of Adobe Walls-Battle Ground Marker

Southern Plains pioneer and proprietor William Bent built an adobe trading post on Bent Creek north of the Canadian River in 1843.

Five years after his initial log cabin was expanded into an adobe fort he closed and blew up his 80-square-foot outpost because of Indian attacks.

In November 1864 and then in June 1874, the ruins of Bent’s adobe fort became ingrained in Western history as the site of the First and Second Battle of Adobe Walls, respectively.

Visit the Hutchison County Historical Museum in Borger to learn more about the local history, culture and the two Battles of Adobe Walls.

613 N Main, Borger, TX 79008 806-274-2211 • BorgerChamber.org

Fort Concho National Historic Landmark

Built in 1867 as a strategic U.S. Army outpost during the post-Civil War conflict with the Southern Plains  tribes, Fort Concho served its purpose effectively until it was closed in 1889.

The City of San Angelo operates the historic landmark museum and handles the preservation of 23 fort buildings.

Walk in the footsteps of soldiers and their families who lived at the fort and tour Officers Row and Quarters, the Enlisted Men’s Barracks, Post Headquarters, Hospital, School House and Chapel.

Fort Concho is also the site of numerous annual living history events, including Buffalo Soldier Heritage Day in February and Fort Concho Frontier Day in April.

630 S Oakes St, San Angelo, TX 76903 325-481-2646 • FortConcho.com

Fort Davis National Historic Site

From 1854 to 1891, Fort Davis played a strategic military role in the settlement of West Texas and the protection of travelers on the San Antonio-El Paso Road.

Today, Fort Davis National Historic Site is one of the best examples of frontier posts involved with the Indian Wars with the Comanche, Apache and Kiowa people in the American Southwest.

Visitors can tour the fort’s restored and refurbished buildings on a self-guided tour, and enjoy regular scheduled living history events with re-enactors in period and military dress, including an annual Independence Day celebration.

101 Lt. Henry Flipper Dr, Fort Davis, TX 79734 432-426-3224 • NPS.gov

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

From 1866 to 1890, Texas cowboys drove the cattle north to market, and in the early days, Fort Worth was a last stop before the trail boss headed his outfit and herd north across the Red River, across Oklahoma to the railheads in Kansas.

After the railroad arrived in 1876, Fort Worth became a shipping station and the first stockyards were built.

For the next seven decades, Fort Worth developed into the nation’s largest stockyard and livestock exchange in the nation. In the 1970s, with the steady decline in the cattle business and packing houses in the city, the Fort Worth Historical Society was created to preserve the historic district.

Today, the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the state (don’t miss the twice-a-day longhorn cattle drives), and cattle are still sold at the Livestock Exchange Building every week—via satellite.

131 E. Exchange Ave, Suite 110, Fort Worth, TX 76164 817-625-5082 • StockyardsMuseum.org

Goliad State Park & Goliad Historic Site

When visitors arrive at Goliad State Park they should be prepared to take a walk into Spanish Colonial, Mexican and Texan history.

Tour a 1930s refurnished restoration of the Spanish Colonial Era Mission of Nuestra Señora del Espíritu Santo de Zuñiga, the reconstructed birthplace of Mexican Cinco de Mayo hero General Ignacio Zaragoza, the Fannin Memorial Monument and the 1749 Presidio La Bahia, where Fannin and his men were executed under the orders of Mexican Gen. Santa Ana in 1836.

The Fannin Battleground State Historic Site is ten miles east of Goliad, and well worth a tour, as is a walk through Goliad’s historic downtown.

108 Park Rd 6, Goliad, TX 77963 361-645-3405 • TPWD.State.Tx.gov

Historic Fort Stockton

First constructed in 1856 near present-day Pecos, Camp Stockton was abandoned in 1861 at the outbreak of the Civil War.

In 1867, Fort Stockton was re-established at its current location and garrisoned with the 9th Cavalry, a newly created Black regiment. The fort was used to the tactical advantage of the Army in its fight with Southern Plains Indian tribes until it was closed in 1886.

Historic Fort Stockton consists today of the parade ground, the guard house, two reconstructed enlisted men’s barracks and kitchens, and three structures from the original Officers’ Row, two of which are open to the public.

301 E. 3rd St, Fort Stockton, TX 79735 432-336-2400 • HistoricFortStockton.org

Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site

Home to ancient peoples long before the Spanish entrada into the region, modern Indian tribes found refuge, water and shelter amidst the tanks, as did succeeding generations of explorers, travelers, settlers, and even the Butterfield Overland Mail had a station there in the late 1850s. A working ranch from the 1890s to the 1940s, the rancher’s adobe home is the park’s interpretive center today.

6900 Hueco Ranks Rd No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938 915-857-1135 • TPWD.State.TX.us

Old Fort Parker Historic Site

Fort Parker bears the name of the family who suffered an Indian raid on May 19, 1836, that led to the kidnapping of nine-year-old Cynthia Parker. She would be raised as a Comanche and married to Chief Peta Nocona. Their son grew up to be the legendary Chief Quanah Parker, the last to lead the Comanches in war on the Southern Plains.

Tour the restored fort, built in 1936 in honor of the Texas Centennial, adjacent to Fort Parker State Park.

866 Park Rd 35, Groesbeck, TX 76642 254-729-5253 • OldFortParker.org

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Monument

On May 8, 1846, the Mexican American War started on on the prairie of Palo Alto near the Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors to the Palo Alto Battlefield Historic Monument should begin their tour at the visitor center’s museum before walking interpretive trails to the battlefield site.

7200 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville, TX 78526 956-541-2785 • NPS.gov

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

In the Panhandle of Texas, Paul Duro Canyon State Park, known as “The Grand Canyon of Texas,” protects a unique natural and culturally important site in the Lone Star state.

Home to Native peoples for over 12,000 years, the Comanche and Kiowa tribes occupied the canyon lands prior to their wars with the U.S. in the 19th century.

In 1874, the tribes suffered a major defeat in a battle at Palo Duro, and two years later, famous cattle baron Charles Goodnight established his JA Ranch in the canyon.

Events are held at the park every month, but for five decades Texas! Outdoor Musical held in the Pioneer Amphitheatre in the Canyon, June to Mid-August, is the highlight of the year.

11450 State Hwy Park Rd 5, Canyon, TX 79015 806-488-2227 • TPWD.Texas.gov

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

A World Heritage Site since 2015 that includes the Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park protects, preserves and interprets Missions Concepción, San José, San Juan and Espada four of the most important 18th century Spanish Mission complexes in North America.

6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214 210-534-1540 • NPS.gov

San Elizario Historic District

J ust east of El Paso, the San Elizario Historic District is a living history center that provides visitors with a window into 18th and 19th century life along the Rio Grande River in southwestern Texas.

Founded in 1789, the town of San Elizario grew up in support of the Presidio San Elceario. Visit the city’s historic sites on a walking tour that includes the Presidio, Old City Jail, Memorial Placita and Los Portales, home to the city’s museum and visitor center.

12710 Church St, San Elizario, TX 79849 915-974-7037 • CityofSanElizario.com

San Jacinto Battle Monument

General Sam Houston’s decisive victory over Mexican leader General Santa Ana’s army on April 21, 1836, is honored and enshrined at the San Jacinto Battle Monument and Museum just 20 minutes outside of Houston.

The 567.31-foot obelisk towers over the battlefield site with an observation tower at the top and the San Jacinto Museum in the base. Tour the museum’s exhibits and watch the film Texas Forever!!

1 Monument Cir, La Porte, TX 77571 281-479-2421 • TPWD.Texas.gov

Waco Suspension Bridge

Driving the longhorn herds north from southern Texas to Kansas, the range bosses and cowboy crews faced innumerable daily dangers, but pushing thousands of steers across rivers on the Chisholm trail led to many drownings of men and animals.

The Brazos River in Waco was unpredictable, and the ferry crossing cumbersome for cattle drives.

The city recognized an opportunity for the future and built a 475-foot suspension bridge, the first ever in Texas. Today, the Waco Suspension Bridge is for pedestrians only, but Waco still holds its Independence Day celebration at the bridge and Indian Springs Park, the original townsite.

Waco Visitor Information Center 106 Texas Ranger Trail, Waco, TX 76706 800-922-6386 • WacoHeartOfTexas.com

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• The Day the Train Rolled into Phoenix
• The Day the Steel Rails Reached Tucson
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• True West’s Ultimate Historic Travel Guide: Northern Prairie and Plains
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I stayed in 2 of Arizona's top hotels, and they couldn't have been more different. Take a look.

• Scottsdale, Arizona, has become a popular destination for luxury travelers.
• The Phoenician and Hermosa Inn are among Arizona's top luxury hotel offerings.
• I stayed in both and had two completely different experiences.

Arizona is a hot spot for luxury travelers .

The state is known for its award-winning travel offerings, from high-end resorts and spas to pristine golf courses and awe-inspiring desert landscapes, Condé Nast Traveler reported in 2023 .

This is especially true in Scottsdale.

In 2022, the city outside Phoenix hosted roughly 11 million tourists, from day trippers to overnight visitors, who spent a total of $3.2 billion, according to the city's Tourism and Events department .

I recently visited the Southwest desert town and stayed at two of Arizona's four-star top hotels — The Phoenician in Scottsdale and the Hermosa Inn in Paradise Valley, a nearby town known as " the Beverly Hills of Arizona ."

The Phoenician was named "Arizona's Leading Resort" in the 2023 World Travel Awards . It also received the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award in 2024 for the 22nd time in a row, according to the hotel's website .

Meanwhile, the Hermosa Inn is a boutique establishment that Travel + Leisure named the best hotel in Arizona in 2023.

I had top-tier VIP experiences at both establishments, but the vibes at each couldn't have been more different. Ultimately, I think they were made for two different vacations.

I spent my first night at the Phoenician, a gigantic resort with 645 rooms.

From the moment my cab turned into its entrance, the Phoenician felt like a mega-resort . The 600-acre property was dotted with fountains, golfing greens, and several large buildings.

A winding road led to the main building, where the lobby and several accommodations, restaurants, shops, and event spaces were located.

After exploring the entire resort on foot the next day, I got lost on the way back. It took me about 30 minutes to find my room from the far end of the site.

Inside, the lobby had a warm color palette and modern decor.

Open since 1998, the luxury Marriott Hotel has gone through several interior renovations. Most recently, the accommodations were redesigned in 2016, and public spaces were revamped in 2018.

The lobby was huge. The warm hues of beige and red paired with geometric patterned fabrics reminded me of the desert landscape and Southwestern style.

My room was 600 square feet, with a bed, a sectional couch, and a balcony.

The deluxe room I booked typically costs about $800 a night when booked a month in advance, according to a search on the company's website. Business Insider received a media rate for the one-night stay.

I thought the furniture and decor were modern, like in the lobby, but there were more grays, making the beige elements feel like accents.

I had a comfy, king-sized bed across from a TV and storage cabinets holding a safe, a mini-fridge, and a Keurig coffee maker.

The bathroom was spacious, with a shower and a large tub.

The bathroom felt luxurious, with marble flooring and counters. There were two robes hanging inside, too.

From the balcony, I could see the building's unique architecture.

The geometric building paired boxy edges with a curvature. I thought it was a neat shape for a hotel.

But most of the fun took place in the communal resort areas such as the pool complex.

The complex has five pools, including one water playground and one adult-only pool. The pools are surrounded by lounge chairs, cabanas, and palm trees for shade.

During my stay, there seemed to be enough space for each guest to have a secluded experience. I didn't see crowds in the afternoon.

The Phoenician has eight restaurants and bars on-site.

The resort houses the award-winning restaurants J&G Steakhouse and Mowry & Cotton, and the award-winning lobby bar, Thirsty Camel.

The resort is home to an award-winning five-star spa.

The Phoenician Spa, which won the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award in 2024 for the fifth consecutive year, has 24 treatment rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, a sauna, and a room dedicated to peace and quiet. There's also a boutique, a dry bar, and a nail salon.

Near the spa, there's an athletic club.

The athletic club has several tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts.

There's also an 18-hole golf course on-site with a driving range.

The course is surrounded by views of the Sonoran Desert.

The resort has a cactus garden, too.

The garden is behind the main building on a secluded, shaded trail. The short walk is dotted with 250 different kinds of plants.

After my night at the massive Phoenician resort, I checked in at the Hermosa Inn for a different experience.

A road in Paradise Valley lined with hilly fields and grand estates led to the Hermosa Inn. The hotel's entrance was a small, traditional adobe structure just a few yards from the main road.

The six-acre property has 43 casita accommodations in individual buildings of the same design style rooted in history, according to the company's website .

In 1936, cowboy and artist Alonzo "Lon" Megargee built the now-hotel to serve as his home and studio until 1941, when it opened as the Hermosa Inn.

Inside and out, the decor maintains a traditional Southwestern style.

Unlike the Phoenician, there's nothing modern about the Hermosa Inn's interior design.

Instead, it transports visitors to the early 20th-century West from the moment they check-in, with adobe bricks, wooden beams, and high-quality rustic furniture. The lobby and rooms showcase some of Megargee's artwork, too.

Winding garden paths lead to the casitas.

Instead of being in a secluded space like at the Phoenician, the gardens lined the pathways around the resort.

Guests can access bikes on the property, but I explored on foot.

It was a peaceful and quiet walk to my room. I passed through archways and spotted fountains and vibrant flower beds.

My room was a deluxe casita at the back of the property.

At the end of the garden path, I had a secluded deluxe casita with a patio.

The room costs about $600 a night a month in advance, according to a search on the company's website. BI received a media rate for the one-night stay.

Inside, the 600-square-foot room has a seating area, a king-sized bed, a bathroom, and a fireplace.

The interior design was as Southwestern as the lobby, with wooden window shutters and a bed with wooden posts that made me feel like royalty.

Apart from the balcony, this room had all the same amenities as the Phoenician accommodation, from a safe to a mini-fridge.

The bathroom had a similar rustic flair.

Apart from the style, the bathroom at the Hermosa Inn was much like the Phoenician's. It was spacious, with a roomy shower and a soaking tub.

The pool area was much smaller at the Hermosa Inn.

At the Hermosa Inn, there is one pool and one whirlpool. I only saw a couple of guests using it at a time during my stay. Like the Phoenician, the Hermosa Inn also has a spa.

There's one restaurant and bar at the Hermosa Inn.

LON's was named the most romantic restaurant in Arizona by Food & Wine Magazine in 2022. It serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner and has a massive, garden-side outdoor patio as well as indoor seating. LON's Last Drop is the bar next to it, which has an outdoor adobe fireplace.

A wine cellar beneath the restaurant hosts guests with an exclusive tasting menu.

The underground room is always kept at 57 degrees.

There's also a library on-site with limited-edition art books and a fireplace.

The library is often used for wedding receptions and hosts up to 32 guests.

The hotel has a small fitness center.

The fitness center at the Hermosa Inn is small, but this makes sense, considering there are so few guests at a time compared to the Phoenician.

The Phoenician seemed great for families, while the Hermosa Inn provided a more unique, secluded, and cultural experience.

The Phoenician provided so many amenities, restaurants, and activities that guests could spend their entire vacation on the property. The resort is ideal for families and those looking to spend their days playing sports and chilling by the pool.

While much less extensive, the Hermosa Inn provides a unique experience for those looking to appreciate culture, peace, and quiet.

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'Frustrating and saddening': Central United Methodist Church in Phoenix to close after 150 years

Billed as Phoenix’s first Protestant church, Central United Methodist Church is shuttering after more than 150 years.

The church’s pastor, the Rev. Brandon Gilmore, told The Arizona Republic on Thursday that congregants decided in a 26-4 vote on April 21 to close the house of worship on North Central Avenue near East McDowell Road due to dwindling attendance and lack of funding.

"It was frustrating and saddening," Gilmore said of the decision to close the historic church. 

The formal closure will come during the United Methodist Church’s annual Desert Southwest Conference in Tucson, according to the regional conference’s website . Gilmore said members have not decided when its last day of service will be held.

The conference has provided more than half a million dollars to the church to keep it going, said Gilmore, 47, who took over church leadership in July 2021 with a focus on strengthening membership. 

Gilmore said the church has about 200 enrolled members, with an average of 50 worshippers during each service. And the church has struggled to right its course.

"The history of Central had been in decline. A lot of people felt that it was like watching the Titanic sink. It was just a matter of time," Gilmore said, adding he tried to "help that momentum shift in the hearts and the minds of the people in the church."

United Methodist Church Phoenix Episcopal Area Bishop Carlo Rapanut was quoted on the conference’s website as saying, "We will actively discern what God is calling us to do next in that part of the city of Phoenix."  

The church was first formed on the banks of the Salt River, with an adobe structure housing congregants in 1872, according to the church’s website . The church moved to a couple of different locations, including a white column building on Central Avenue in 1926, before the mission-style structure it calls home was completed in 1950. 

The church helped form multiple other Methodist churches in Arizona, its website mentions. 

"Not only was Central the first Protestant Church in Phoenix, but it was one of the first two Methodist Churches in Arizona. Central Church has often been called the Mother of Arizona Methodism," said the church’s website.

Jon Talton, a former columnist for The Arizona Republic and Arizona historian, is a former Central United Methodist congregant and still remembers when he was a child, his mother played the church’s "immense" pipe organ. More than a thousand attendees spilling out of its pews was not an uncommon sight in the 1960s, Talton wrote in his blog .   

The East District Superintendent Rev. Melissa Rynders issued a statement about the church's decision to shutter:

"The core of our faith as United Methodists is that we believe in death and resurrection. While the ministry of Central United Methodist Church has come to its faithful completion, we know that new ministry will rise out of the legacy and faithfulness of the people of Central UMC," read the statement by Rynders.

Read more about it: Here’s what a massive exodus is costing the United Methodist Church

Reach breaking news reporter Jose R. Gonzalez at   [email protected]  or on X, formerly Twitter:   @jrgzztx .