las vegas road trips

21 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas

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

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

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

1. Nelson Ghost Town and Eldorado Canyon Gold Mine

45 minutes from Las Vegas (45 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

50 minutes from Las Vegas (49 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Visit Lake Mead and see the Hoover Dam

55 minutes from Las Vegas (39 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. A trip to the desert - Mojave National Preserve

1 hour from Las Vegas (59 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Feel the heat in Death Valley National Park

1 hour 55 minutes from Las Vegas (126 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

6. Go fishing on Lake Havasu, Arizona

2 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (153 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 hours 40 minutes from Las Vegas (160 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. See the amazing trees in Joshua Tree National Park

3 hours 10 minutes from Las Vegas (187 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 hours 45 minutes from Las Vegas (245 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Bryce Canyon National Park

3 hours 50 minutes from Las Vegas (260 miles)

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

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

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

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

11. See the size of the Grand Canyon

4 hours 15 minutes from Las Vegas (275 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

12. Hike through the Red rocks of Sedona

4 hours 20 minutes from Las Vegas (280 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Sedona

13. The Hollywood road trip: Los Angeles and Malibu

4 hours 45 minutes from Las Vegas (304 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

14. Relax by the seaside in San Diego

5 hours from Las Vegas (332 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to San Diego

15. Go hiking in the Yosemite National Park

5 hours 20 minutes from Las Vegas (340 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6 hours from Las Vegas (421 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (434 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Phoenix

18. Marvel at the natural wonders of Monument Valley

6 hours 30 minutes from Las Vegas (400 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to Monument Valley

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

8 hours from Las Vegas (455 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Utah

8 hours from Las Vegas (521 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11 hours from Las Vegas (650 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Road Trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco

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

Best road trips from Las Vegas

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6 of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas

A popular Las Vegas marketing slogan has successfully become a part of Sin City's identifying lexicon and culture: "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas."

The image the phrase conjures up is part illusion and part reality. But if what was going to happen in Vegas has already happened, what can you do now? Or, as Vegas' new marketing video implies, what if you need to find something new?

Fortunately, there's so much more to Vegas than just casinos , expensive concerts and fancy meals. For travelers who've already seen the main attractions, or locals who are ready to spread their wings, here are six of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

For the latest travel news, deals and points and miles tips please subscribe to The Points Guy daily email newsletter .

Mount Charleston

Driving time from Las Vegas: One hour

For a dramatic and totally unexpected escape from the bright city lights, get in your rental car and head up to Mount Charleston. It's visible from some Las Vegas hotels and is part of the Spring Mountains, behind which the sun sets each day. It doesn't look overly inviting or welcoming from Las Vegas Boulevard because the eastern front of the range appears mostly barren and dry. But that distant and somewhat hostile impression plays a big part in the surprise that awaits the first-time visitor.

What to do: Mount Charleston is a relaxed, outdoor playground perfect for a variety of outdoor experiences such as hiking, camping, skiing, horseback riding or even just a scenic drive. It's a clear contrast between Nevada's two worlds: man-made and natural. The man-made sits on the valley floor, the natural tops out at 11,900 feet. One has imported palm trees, the other has tall Ponderosa pines and aspens that glow gold in the fall.

If you find Las Vegas overwhelming, you'll love the fresh, crisp air here. The towering glass-and-steel hotels are replaced by cabins made of rough-hewn logs and in an instant, your blood pressure drops. You're only 50 miles from Vegas, but it feels like a thousand.

During the drive to Mount Charleston, be sure to stop at the Desert View Overlook. There you'll find a short and well-maintained path that leads to an expansive and panoramic vista of the Mojave Desert below. A series of informative panels provide information about what you're viewing and its history.

Part of what you'll see includes the Nevada Test Site, the scene of almost 1,000 nuclear detonations from the 1950s to the 1990s. About 100 of these were atmospheric tests that resulted in mushroom clouds that could be seen from Las Vegas.

Farther up the road, at the end of Lee Canyon, is the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort.

Yes, there's a real outdoor ski area within an easy drive from Las Vegas. Sure, it's small, but there's enough terrain and snow to provide for a great winter getaway. The area historically receives about 200 inches of snow each season, with temperatures about 30 to 40 degrees lower than those in the valley. At other times of the year, it's a still a beautiful backdrop for a picnic.

A few years ago, we skied at the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort, and I wouldn't hesitate to include it into another Vegas winter stay.

Where to eat: Be sure to fit the Mount Charleston Lodge and Restaurant into your day trip; it's a quintessential mountain experience.

The very popular restaurant has a rustic A-frame design with full windows on three sides that allow guests to enjoy the view while perusing the large menu. An expansive porch wraps around the exterior to allow for outdoor dining, and a central fireplace adds to the coziness. You will also likely find authentic Native American jewelry and goods crafted by local artisans for sale.

Where to stay: The Mount Charleston log cabins start at around $125 per night. Of course, since Mount Charleson is only an hour from Las Vegas, you could also head back to Las Vegas in time for your dinner reservation on the Strip.

Valley of Fire State Park

A second easily reachable destination outside Las Vegas is the Valley of Fire State Park . It's about an hour away from the city via I-15 N to Exit 75. The Valley of Fire is named for the color of the 150-million-year-old Aztec Red sandstone that comprises a lot of the park. We've also been there with the temperatures approaching 120 degrees, so maybe the heat also has something to do with the name.

What to do: A $10-per-car entrance fee is required and a stop at the visitor center is suggested. There you'll find a comprehensive study of the park and learn about how it was created. Also, there are restrooms and a small store selling snacks and souvenirs . Make sure you leave the visitor center with a map, a plan and water. Lots of water. It's very dry and has a very high ultraviolet and heat index.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Las Vegas

Valley of Fire State Park can be thoroughly enjoyed from the car using the excellent Scenic Loop Road that curves its way through the rock formations. But you'll be best served by at least an occasional stop at the many parking areas that provide access to some of the most distinctive features.

For instance, there's the Petroglyph Canyon that leads to Mouse's Tank. Here, rock etchings created by inhabitants from 2,500 years ago are visible on the sides of this short canyon. The canyon floor is covered with a loose, fine, deep sand that will easily make its way into your shoes and boots.

Another easy stop is Rainbow Vista, a colorful, panoramic landscape that seems to change hue with the movement of the sun. One of our favorites is the one-mile, round-trip hike to the Fire Wave. A relatively flat and easy trek leads you to undulating sandstone formations enhanced by swirling ribbons of contrasting color.

It is a small but very dramatic area you'll be glad to see — especially if you need a break from all the neon in Las Vegas. Just remember, there's little to no shade on this walk, and the heat can certainly be a risk.

White Domes is a crowd favorite. The mile-and-a-half-long trail leads you down past remnants of an old movie set and through a short but impressive slot canyon before looping back toward the parking area. The landscape is peppered with towering rock formations that look especially resplendent against the darker colors of the nearby desert rocks.

Related: The best national and state parks to visit with kids in the Southwest

Don't miss the petroglyph panel known as Atlatl Rock. You climb about four stories of metal stairs to get a close-up look of the carvings that are highlighted by images of the Atlatl — an ancient hunting weapon.

The Valley of Fire offers history and hills ablaze. There are petroglyphs and petrified logs; arches and ancient art; balanced rocks and bighorn sheep. Among the waves of red rock and snaking roads, you'll find the Valley of Fire is a destination on its own, but also a nice road trip from Las Vegas.

Where to stay: As with Mount Charleston, you could easily make a day trip from Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire State Park, but there are options if you want to spend the night. There is camping available within the state park. You can also choose among some budget hotels, such as the North Shore Inn at Lake Mead, about 12 miles away. But, if you want some luxury at the end of your day of hiking, you'll probably want to head back to Vegas.

Related: Review of the Bellagio Las Vegas

Death Valley

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

What to do: The things to do in Death Valley are to absorb the unusual, value the uniqueness, respect the environment and simply survive. Death Valley is different, beautiful in its own way and extreme.

One of the high points, if the lowest elevation in the U.S. can ever be defined using the word high, is Badwater Basiin, 282 feet below with sea-level starkness. Heatwaves dance and mirages come to life here during the heat of the day. The distance itself becomes an optical illusion.

Artists Palette on Artists Drive is also worth investigating as the rolling hills are splotched with multi-colored hues much like an artist's palette. The colors are usually best defined in the late afternoon light.

The road is one-way, well paved and narrow. And fun. It is a miniature roller coaster ride that you may want to take twice. It is at its best when you have the road to yourself.

Other popular and automobile-accessible locations for Vegas day-trippers are Zabriskie Point and Dante's Peak. Dante's sits about one mile above the valley floor and offers an expansive overlook of Badwater Basin and its surroundings. Zabriskie is likely the park's most popular viewing spot and offers a nice vantage for sunrise and sunsets.

Golden Canyon is just off Badwater Road and allows visitors to get an intimate feel for Death Valley without going too far from your car's air conditioning.

If time allows, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes near Stovepipe Wells is a good visit. The sand hills rise and flow, poetically delineated by the rippled ridges of the sand that are forever at the mercy of a thermal wind. This is another good locale for the photographer in you.

Stops at the Harmony Borax Worksite, the Park Information Center and at the Death Valley National Park sign are certain to be on most visitors' agendas. If you spend the night in the park, the skies in Death Valley can get dynamically dark, providing a brilliant celestial show. During the day, Navy fighter jets race across those same skies.

Related: What to expect as national parks reopen

Death Valley is best enjoyed when the temperature is an ally and not an enemy. Think October through April. Also, like most of the great and grand outdoors, optimum viewing is when the sun is lower in the sky and not directly overhead. We have been to Death Valley when the temperatures were 115+. It is doable ... but the land's ancestral natives did not call the area Tomesha ("Ground Afire") without cause.

Where to stay: You can stay within Death Valley at Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel in one of 83 rooms that start around $150 per night. There are also campsites and RV hookups available -- along with a general store, the Toll Road Restaurant and Badwater Saloon.

Other options can be found at the Oasis at Death Valley, the Ranch at Death Valley and the Inn at Death Valley, set along Highway 190 next to the National Park Service Visitor Center. Here you'll find lush date palms, spring-fed pools and even golf.

Related: The US welcomes 3 new dark sky parks

Grand Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours to the closest point, the Grand Canyon West Rim

What to do: The Grand Canyon lives up to its name. It is quite ... grand. The more popular North and South Rims are also reachable by car from Vegas, but you'll need to budget several additional hours in the car each direction, with the South Rim being the closer of those two. The West Rim is closer still, though each offers its own unique possibilities.

Should you decide to make an overnight road trip to the South Rim, you might consider a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway that begins in Williams, Arizona, and takes you on a two-hour (each way) nostalgic journey to the canyon. Several trains run daily, and there are multiple price ranges available. This is a very popular experience and one we highly recommend. While in Williams, you can enjoy another homage to the past while you cruise down part of the famous Route 66.

But, the West Rim, which is run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe, is a reasonable driving distance from Las Vegas and this is where you'll find the Skywalk Glass Bridge that extends out over the edge of the canyon so you can look down 4,000 feet.

Where to stay: If you go to the West Rim, the Hualapai Ranch offers rustic cabins for rent. Along with your cabin stay, you also get access to an animatronic "Shootin' Gallery" and free magic and gunfight shows. Horseback rides are available at the ranch starting at $40.

Another nearby option is the Grand Canyon Western Ranch, about 10 miles away. At this ranch, you'll find pine cabins and glamping tents with prices that start around $200-$300 per night. In addition to the tents and cabins, you'll find horseback rides, wagon rides and a gun range.

Related: The best time to visit the Grand Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Driving time from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

Antelope Canyon is one of the best places we've ever been. This is the longest of the road trips we've recommended from Las Vegas, but it's also our favorite. It's at least a full-day commitment from Las Vegas, 275 miles away in Page, Arizona . In fact, you'll probably want to at least spend the night in Page before making your way back to Vegas.

What to do: What you'll find at Antelope Canyon are two slot canyons that will deliver a physical and visual experience unlike anything else on Earth.

The upper and the lower canyons are located on land of the Navajo Nation and can only be toured with authorized guides. Reservations can be made online and do sell out. Both canyons deliver stunning plays of light on sandstone sculpted by rushing water from infrequent but powerful desert storms. The upper is on ground level, and the lower makes its way through a narrow and winding passageway about 50 feet below ground.

There's no pattern to these natural works of art, just a rhythm of wild and unscripted motion. The walls rise and fall like waves, curl and curve into themselves. There are dynamic photo opportunities throughout the canyons as the walls gather and distribute the light from above in a multi-hued light show.

The Antelope Canyons are a mecca for the greatest of artists and for the iPhone photographer alike, so be sure to bring something to capture the moment.

Individually purchased adult tour prices will range from about $50 for the Lower Canyon to $60 for the Upper Canyon. The fees for children are $10 less. Special tours are available at a higher fee that allows extra time in the canyons, emphasize photography or allow access during "peak" times. During normal times, multiple tour companies make day trips to Antelope Canyon with 6 a.m. departures. Basic transportation costs about $65 from Vegas if you aren't driving, and full tours start around $200.

Of course, if you have your own car, you're on your own schedule.

Where to stay : There are a number of budget-friendly properties in Page, about 10 miles from Antelope Canyon. If you want to use your hotel points or free-night certificates, you can pick from the Hyatt Place Page - Lake Powell (12,000 Hyatt points), Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell (36,000 - 50,000 Hilton points) or Days Inn, Comfort Inn and Best Western-type properties.

Related: Fun road trips in Arizona

Zion National Park

Driving time from Las Vegas: Three hours

What to do: Zion is like a natural cathedral. It is that inspiring. Just the definitions and spiritual applications of the word Zion should give you a real hint as to the grandeur there.

Zion surrounds you, engulfs you and embraces you. And, before COVID-19 hit, it gave a lot of hugs as it was attracting about four million visitors each year. Zion's main features, its most popular venues, are mostly accessed from a single road that parallels the Virgin River. Traffic in the park can be congested, so a huge fleet of shuttle buses are used to minimize traffic.

You can appreciate Zion from a distance and get a broad view of the wonders much like an image presented by a panoramic photo. But Zion is best experienced by zooming in on individual segments and becoming more of a participant than a spectator.

Hikes and explorations range from an easy, but rewarding, stroll on the Riverside Walk to an all-day strenuous trek through water to the see the famous Narrows. In between, there is the uncomplicated and straightforward trail to Weeping Rock, the moderately challenging path to the Emerald Pools and The Canyon Overlook and the formidable climb to the breathtaking Angel's Landing.

As with most popular destinations, the best time to visit is the off-season when attendance is down. But since most travelers don't always have that scheduling freedom, it is best to simply get out early in the day, ahead of the crowd.

As a personal aside, if time does not permit a true visit to Zion, the spectacular Highway 9 from Springdale to Mount Carmel Junction is worth the time, the effort and the National Park fee. The road bisects part of the park and offers scenery and sights that will have you looking for one of the many turnouts and overlooks to pull into for an even better view. The road has a series of long tunnels that cut through the core of the mountains and the drive through the tunnels and the vistas when you emerge are truly exhilarating. Utah State Highway 9, the Zion Park Scenic Byway, is a travel treasure. (Just watch out for deer crossings.)

Where to stay: Within Zion, your options are either camping in one of the three campgrounds or booking a stay at the Zion National Park Lodge, where rooms and cabins often start at $220+ per night and can book up well in advance. But there are points-friendly options in the area too.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park sits in the shadow of Zion, and is bookable for 40,000-60,000 Marriott points per night. (Or a free-night certificate available from the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card when the room prices at 50,000 points per night or less). The Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park prices around 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night and the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale is 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night.

Related: Where to stay near national parks using hotel points

Bottom line

We love Las Vegas . We love it for what it is and what it will be post-coronavirus pandemic , but if you are looking for a road trip out of Las Vegas, there's plenty nearby that can broaden and enhance the experience. Safe travels!

These 5 road trips from Las Vegas will take you far beyond casinos and glitz

Apr 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Not far from the glitz of the Strip, the open road offers desert adventures © JacobH / Getty Images

In a city filled with the atypical, it’s easy to fall into the typical tourist routine in Las Vegas .

The generationally accepted Sin City mantra is to gamble, catch a show, gamble some more, have a few drinks, enjoy a little entertainment…and repeat as many times as humanly possible until you have to stagger back to the airport and catch your flight home. Vegas’ two tourist zones, the Strip or Downtown/ Fremont Street , are within a 15-minute drive of one another; if you stay in one, perhaps you’ll make an excursion to the other. And that’s the extent of a “day trip” for most.

Yet far too many visit Las Vegas without exploring the top-notch historical, geographical and cultural attractions nearby, many of which are within a three-hour drive. By renting a car, you can coast through the likes of Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire of State Park within 45 minutes (though we recommend taking more time, to explore the orange rock formations in both by hiking).

It’s pretty easy to navigate Las Vegas and surrounding areas via generally well-kept and well-paved roadways, with Interstate 15 (running north-south), Clark County Rte 215 (a beltway encircling the city) and a US Rte 95 (a northwest-southeast diagonal) the key roads to know.

It’s true that Las Vegas is surrounded by desert, and this arid region doesn’t abound with notable road-trip stops. But quality makes up for quantity, and you’ll find a world of wonder awaits within reach of Sin City: think the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, quirky hotels, national parks…and so much more.

Here are three true day trips – plus two additional multi-day options – that will help expand your Las Vegas horizons.

1. Grand Canyon West

Best road trip to do via bus Las Vegas–Grand Canyon West Skywalk; 125 miles (201km); allow one (long) day

The Western Rim of the Grand Canyon (known as Grand Canyon West ) is within a two-and-a-half-hour bus ride of Las Vegas. Tour operators like Grand Canyon Destinations , Gray Line and GC Tours pack it all in one day, making early morning pick-ups, allowing three-or-so hours of free time and stopping for optional meals. The “must” at Grand Canyon West is a tip-toe along the cantilevered, glass-bottomed  Skywalk .

Planning tip: Grand Canyon West is operated by the Hualapai Nation (whereas Grand Canyon National Park is under the purview of the National Park Service). From Las Vegas, a trip to the national park will take substantially more time, and should be a multi-day affair. 

2. Boulder City

Best road trip for history lovers Las Vegas–Boulder City; 26 miles (42km); allow one day  

While this city is only a 30-minute drive southwest of Las Vegas, it feels a world apart. Whereas the Strip is all about creative destruction and ever-bigger resorts, Boulder City has more than 500 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, most of which were constructed in the 1930s and ’40s. The city came into being in the ’30s, when workers from across the USA converged to build nearby Hoover Dam ; you can learn all about the key figures at the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum . En route to the majestic dam – just 15 minutes northeast of Boulder City – stop at Hemenway Park , which offers panoramic vistas of the often bright-blue Lake Mead . 

Detour: Henderson is Nevada ’s second-largest city, and its Water St artery regularly hosts car shows, parades and farmers markets.

3. Laughlin

Best road trip for a river reprieve Las Vegas–Laughlin; 97 miles (156km); allow one day  

On the southern tip of Nevada on the Colorado River, you’ll find this cozy, casino-filled town. Along north-south main drag Casino Dr, you’ll see a handful of gambling names that you’ll also find in Las Vegas, including Golden Nugget , Harrah’s and Tropicana . So why Laughlin ? Its appeal boils down to cheaper table games, less swank and river adventures aplenty.

Water excursions come in all forms here, including guided kayaking journeys with Desert River Outfitters , Jet Ski rentals with Watercraft Adventures or hikes along the Colorado River Heritage Greenway Trail , which runs adjacent to the river.

Best road trip for seeing another side of the Silver State Las Vegas–Reno; 438 miles (705km); allow 4–5 days  

With its vast green landscapes, a slower pace and small-town vibes, northern Nevada is a different world from Las Vegas. Its anchor is Reno – aka the “Biggest Little City in the World,” a nickname proudly proclaimed by an arched sign in the city’s Commercial Row core. Reno is a nearly 7-hour drive from Vegas following US Rte 95.

En route, stop at the Goldfield Hotel , the 1902 hallmark of an eerily quiet town and regarded as one of the most haunted structures in the US. Keep that haunted streak going with a visit to the Clown Motel in Tonopah , which also has a free clown museum in its lobby. Tonopah is also stargazing heaven, hosting  a biweekly “Star Party”  after dark every April through October. Telescopes and binoculars are provided to get up close and personal with the constellations.

Once you arrive in Reno, hit the Reno Brewery District , which has more than 15 craft spots. Nevada’s first meadery, the Black Rabbit Mead Company uses locally sourced honey in its brews.

5. Zion National Park

Best road trip for outdoors enthusiasts Las Vegas–Springdale, Utah; 159 miles (256km); allow 4–5 days  

Within a two-hour drive of Sin City, a world of emerald pools, soaring pine-lined trails and the Angels Landing bucket-list hike await. And for all the wonder you’ll find within Zion National Park , getting there from Las Vegas is half the fun. Along the way – generally a straight-north shot on I-15 – stop at Valley of Fire State Park to see mounds of sandstone with red patterns reminiscent of a cinnamon bun, as well as 2000-year-old petroglyphs etched in caves. Continue north to the city of St George, just over the Utah border. Red mountains loom in the distance over its historic downtown and art district; pop in the St George Art Museum for rotating exhibits that showcase the Western USA ’s rocky and rugged beauty.

As you approach Zion, Springdale, the quaint town at the park’s southern gate, has southwest-inspired souvenir shops, hotel-chain outposts and the five-star LaFave Luxury Resort , which has villas that sleep up to 10. If want to camp in the park, Watchman Campground is open year-round, with reservations accepted up to six months ahead of booking. 

Detour: Tucked off Interstate 15, Mesquite is a golfer’s paradise, with nine public courses – including the Jack Nicklaus–designed Coyote Springs Golf Club – within a 10-minute radius of town.

This article was first published Apr 5, 2024 and updated Apr 10, 2024.

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7 Best Road Trips from Las Vegas: Ultimate Guide

| Filed in Arizona , Blog , Nevada , Road Trips , Utah | Disclaimer: I use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. | Leave a Comment

I’ve had the pleasure of road-tripping around the American Southwest six times now and cannot get enough of it. The red hues of the canyons, the unique rock formations, and the ideal weather when its cold everywhere else, has me coming back over and over. Here are some of the Best Road Trips from Las Vegas that I’ve done. These can be done as single destinations spots, but I did these in one road trip.

If you choose to do these destinations in one road trip, here is the route that I took. Flying into Las Vegas is always a great option, as it is cheaper than most airports. And Las Vegas is very close to SO many destinations. I have rented SUV’s and built out vans to travel in for these southwest trips.

Vehicle Recommendation: for this road trip, most spots do not require any special clearance or vehicle capabilities – except for Yant Flat. I recommend at least an AWD vehicle with SUV clearance.

I will also be listing several other detailed road trip itineraries that can be based out of Las Vegas at the bottom of this post.

Video Itinerary: Best Road Trips from Las Vegas –

The Best Road Trips from Las Vegas:

1. Snow Canyon, Utah

Despite the name, it does not snow here. Snow Canyon has over 16 miles of hiking, biking and climbing! And the camping there is some of the best I have ever experienced at a State Park. 

Views to Expect: Lava flows mixed with sandstone cliffs and vibrant oranges and reds. And I never thought I’d see a petrified sand dune until visiting here!  

Snow Canyon State Park is truly an underrated gem that I highly recommend checking out on your next Utah Trip.

Hike Required: 1.2 miles round trip, 216 ft elevation gain

Favorite View: Petrified Dunes Trail

Distance from Las Vegas: 2 hours

2. Zion National Park, Utah

The scale alone of this place is absolutely wild and it feels so Jurassic. Even if you only have time to drive through part of this park, it will give you a sense of the scale and beauty of this place. You could easily spend one day here or a whole week.

Views to Expect: Beautiful layered sandstone, towering red cliffs, emerald pools and rivers!

This is the most visited National Park in Utah, and for good reason. Read my guide to know the best times to go and what sights to see.

Favorite View: Canyon Overlook Trail

Hiking Required: 1 mile roundtrip, 187 ft elevation gain

Distance from Las Vegas: 2.5 hours

3. Yant Flat, Utah

Yant Flat, also known as the Candy Cliffs is short hike with high reward and definitely a lesser known area than the popular Utah National Parks nearby like Zion National Park. This is maybe the most “hidden gem” location of all of the road trips from Las Vegas.

Views to Expect: Swirls of orange and white sandstone makes it apparent why it was named ‘Candy Cliffs’. As well as many different textures and layers of rock in unique formations.

The road to get there does turn into a dirt/sand road with some areas where higher clearance is helpful. This depends on the weather conditions of course. Read more about this hike on my full guide linked below.

Hike Required: 3.4 miles, 337 ft elevation gain to main view point

Distance from Las Vegas: 2 hours and 45 minutes

4. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

There’s a reason this place is the most instagrammed spot in Arizona. An easy walk to an impressive view of the bend in the Colorado river with an impressive rock formation! This place is beautiful rain or shine and is an easy add on to any adventure.

Views to Expect: Expansive overlook of the horseshoe shaped bend in the Colorado River. There is an impressive rock formation that protrudes from the canyon.

Hike Required: 1.5 miles

Distance from Las Vegas: 4.5 hours

5. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

A stunning sandstone slot canyon in the Navajo Nation. This slot canyon has incredible textures, angles, and movement of light. You must be accompanied by a Navajo Guide to visit. It gets crowded, but it is truly a beautiful experience.

Views to Expect: the guides are great about letting you get photos of the incredible narrow passage of red-orange stone. The light will change depending on the time of day you go, but I truly think it’s beautiful any time of day.

Book in Advance!

6. Lone Rock, Utah

Lone Rock in Utah is In Lake Powell in Glen Canyon Recreation Area on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Land. There is camping that looks out at the solitary rock that scales over 250 feet. And depending on the season and rainfall, there can be water surrounding the rock. People often camp here and paddle board this area!

Views to Expect : A scenic monolithic rock protruding from Lake Powell in a very scenic lakeside camping area.

Distance from Las Vegas: 4 hours, 20 minutes

7. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park is a Road Trips from Vegas MUST. It absolutely lives up to the dreamy photos you’ve probably seen already of this place on social media. The Valley of Fire Hikes absolutely blew me away with the views of miles and miles of red sandstone rock, interesting rock formations and incredibly scenic hiking and camping. All still with WAY less crowds than the Utah Big 5 National Parks.

Views to Expect: Swirling sandstone patterns and unique red and orange rock formations and canyons.

Favorite Hike: Fire Wave Trail

Distance from Las Vegas: 1 hour

My biggest regret is not spending more time here! The campground was incredibly scenic (and is first come first served). Find out all the hikes, views and camping information in my guide:

Other Nearby Road Trips from Las Vegas:

This itinerary was one I did in March with some friends. It includes some of the best of the California desert destinations as well as some underrated gems along the way to the Grand Canyon and Sedona!

This itinerary is heavy on the California hot springs and packed full of incredible photo locations!

One of my first road trips to the Southwest was pretty spontaneous when our permits to Havasupai got cancelled due to flash floods. This itinerary really made me fall in love with the desert.

Shop my Gear: Road Trips from Las Vegas Outfits/Camera Gear

I loved having a fleece jacket that looks cute, but keeps me warm on those chilly desert mornings and evenings.

And these Blundstone Boots are so easy to hike shorter distances, keep my feet warm and look cute on the trail and in town!

Shop my favorite backpack for hiking and adventures!

Southwest Road Trip YouTube Video:

Conclusion: Road Trips from Las Vegas

The American Southwest clearly has endless places to adventure. It keeps pulling me back time and time again as soon as the weather in the PNW starts to turn dark. A quick summary of this road trip:

• Snow Canyon, Utah
• Zion National Park
• Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon
• Valley of Fire

Let me know in the comments if you’re saving this for your next Southwest Road Trip!!

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I loved this collection. Heading to Vegas this summer and want to use it as a base to explore the area. I’ll likely add the Grand Canyon to the list.

Oh absolutely! Grand Canyon is a fantastic add on to this. Enjoy!!

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The Best Road Trips from Las Vegas, Nevada

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Las Vegas, Nevada is among the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, attracting more than 40 million travelers from all over the country and the world. The vast majority never even leave the Las Vegas Strip, which is a shame because there is much more to see nearby. Indeed, it serves as a great jump-off point because you’ll find some truly incredible road trips from Las Vegas.

I’ve spent a great deal of time in Vegas and exploring the surrounding areas, and while Las Vegas honestly isn’t my favorite place, but many people love it and it is undeniable well-located for exploring some of the most beautiful and spectacular natural areas on earth, all within a few hours drive.

Whether you’re on a road trip to Las Vegas or looking to head out from there, this guide will help you identify some of the coolest areas to explore. We will start with some shorter and easier day trips from Las Vegas and then dive into longer road trips from Las Vegas that are best done with at least one or two nights.

The idea is to include a range of different road trips in all different directions and accessible to you no matter which way you want or need to head and no matter if you’re in your own vehicle or a car rental.

Day Trips from Las Vegas

If you plan to stay based in Las Vegas but want to get away for the day, there are a handful of great options for you in almost any direction. There is spectacular nature, man-made wonders, and so much more accessible to those who love a great American road trip .

Red Rock Canyon

The spectacular Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area sits just 15 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip. Indeed, this is a place you can visit without really leaving Las Vegas (it sits on the western edge of the city limits).

This conservation area features some of the most beautiful scenery you can imagine, with brightly colored rocks, striated mountains stretching up to 7,000 feet, along with great hiking, flora and fauna, and more.

There is a beautiful scenic loop drive that you can do or you can spend a little longer here, going hiking through canyons, along the multi-colored rocks, or roping up and climbing the sandstone.

You can do this as a relatively quick morning jaunt or take a full day exploring.

Read More: Visiting Red Rock Canyon

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

Just east of Las Vegas, right on the Arizona-Nevada border less than 45 minutes away, sits the impressive engineering marvel that is the Hoover Dam. This dam was once the world’s largest hydroelectric station and the tallest dam on earth . Today it has been surpassed, but it is nonetheless amazing.

Boulder City was an entire town constructed nearby to house the massive workforce that congregated during the Great Depression to build something that was, at the time, unproven. It was a government stimulus to get Americans back to work and get the economy moving again, there are legacies of this effort all across our country and even in our national parks (the CCC).

The dam also created America’s largest reservoir (when full) in Lake Mead. If you do this road trip from Las Vegas, you can stop at the dam first to admire it and then continue around the northwest corner of Lake Mead before looping back to Vegas.

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park sits just less than one hour east of Las Vegas and is a spectacular geologic wonder. This road trip could potentially be combined with the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, but you may want more time to explore what is one of the country’s coolest state parks.

Here you will see some radical formations of rock striped in red and white colors, along with petrified wood, and maybe even a glimpse of bighorn sheep.

This is a special place and it only costs $10 to enter. Be sure to stop at the visitor center for a better understanding of how the Valley of Fire was formed and what you’ll see. As always, be sure to bring plenty of water if you want to get out and enjoy the trails.

Mount Charleston

Sitting due northwest of Las Vegas are towering mountains that you can access in less than hour from Vegas and where temperatures are often about 20 degrees cooler than the valley below.

You can drive up above 8,400 feet on the scenic 158 Road and Charleston Peak itself stands at nearly 12,000 feet, among the highest in all of Nevada (eighth highest). There are numerous hiking trails, campsites, and picnic areas, making this a popular year-round getaway.

The changes in vegetation and climate are quite incredible and feel a world away from Vegas yet is so close. There is even a small ski area here during the winter! Yes, you can go skiing in Las Vegas.

This scenic road trip is worth doing in and of itself, but you’ll probably want to make a day out of it to explore a bit. The climb to the top of Charleston Peak, however, is pretty epic, requiring 16 miles and 4,000 or so feet of elevation gain.

Grand Canyon West

I know the helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas are a big deal, but you can save money and have a better experience by taking a road trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.

A day trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon is not to Grand Canyon National Park itself but is most often to the Hualapai tribal lands that sit on the south side of the Colorado River closest to Vegas. This area is known as Grand Canyon West.

Grand Canyon West is just a little over two hours from Las Vegas, making it an easy day trip. A relatively recent attraction, especially for those coming from Vegas, is the newly famous Grand Canyon Skywalk which is a glass walkway that takes you out over the massive precipice of the canyon. It is a crazy expensive $56 per person but is a once in a lifetime type experience.

Longer Road Trips from Las Vegas

Some of these trips could be possible as a day trip, but because the destination is so amazing, it would be a shame to allow so little time. Therefore, all of these road trips from Las Vegas are best done as an overnighter with at least one night spent outside of Vegas, if not more.

Las Vegas is surprisingly close to a handful of national parks. You could take multiple road trips from Las Vegas to National Parks and visit as many 6-7 parks, all within a five-hour drive from the Strip. That’s to say nothing of some of the other spectacular areas nearby.

All of the destinations below offer camping opportunities or nearby lodging.

Death Valley National Park

Thanks to Las Vegas’ location at the pointy southern tip of Nevada, you are within very close proximity to California, Arizona, and Utah. One of best road trips from Las Vegas is to head west into California (fill up on gas before you go!) into Death Valley National Park

Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the United States, is only about 2.5 hours away from Vegas. Here you will find a sweltering valley that is the hottest place on earth. But you’ll also find some beautiful terrain like Zabriskie Point or Artist’s Drive loop where you’ll find pastel-colored hills in all sorts of colors or the strangely fascinating Scotty’s Castle.

If you want an interesting and alternative way to get to Death Valley, continue up to Beatty, Nevada and then do the Titus Canyon Drive into the park. This one-way, unpaved road will wind you down past ghost towns, awesome vistas, and through slot canyons (at least for a vehicle).

Four-wheel drive isn’t required, but a high clearance vehicle is recommended. It is one of those that I consider among the most scenic drives in America .

Mount Whitney

If you want to go from the lowest point to the highest point on a road trip from Las Vegas, then you should extend your trip a little further and head to Lone Pine and Mount Whitney. If you are heading directly from Vegas, then Whitney Portal is just over 4 hours away.

Lone Pine is a pleasant little town that sits below the Eastern Sierras and is a great place to base yourself in. Don’t overlook the awesome Alabama Hills which has been the setting for countless Hollywood movies over the years.

There are ample camping opportunities here, or you can drive up to the high country (up to 10,000 feet!) in a place like Cottonwood Lakes. Of course, the big draw in the area is Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the Lower 48 and which sits only 85 miles from the lowest point in the country! What a contrast. The mountain offers challenging hiking and climbing routes to the top.

We stood on top via the amazing East Buttress route , one of the best climbs I’ve done. Mount Whitney sits on the edge of Sequoia National Park, so you could visit yet another one.

You could spend a lifetime exploring the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, but you can at least get a taste of them on a road trip from Las Vegas.

Mojave Preserve and Joshua Tree

Heading in a different direction into California, this time almost directly south, you will cross through the awesome Mojave Preserve, filled with Joshua Trees and big wide-open stretches of road. If you are adventurous, see if you can locate the iconic Mojave Mailbox on the way.

About 185 miles away and about three hours of driving, you’ll arrive at Joshua Tree National Park, one of my favorite national parks. Joshua Tree is home to one of the best concentrations of Joshua Trees in the country, they are those spindly, odd-looking trees that grow in the desert.

Joshua Tree is also home to hundreds of rock climbing opportunities among the scattered rocks and boulders, and ample hiking as well. This place feels quite remote, with no cellphone signal, and almost no light pollution. This is the place to be for staring up at the stars and sitting beside a campfire.

I adore Joshua Tree and spent nearly a whole month there one time, not to mention subsequent visits to the park.

Read More: Guide to Visiting Joshua Tree

Grand Canyon South Rim

If you want to visit the main part of the Grand Canyon, the famed South Rim, rather than Grand Canyon West, then you’ll need to drive a bit further. At just over four hours’ drive, you can reach what is one of America’s most iconic and beautiful parks.

My recommendation is to head out the day before and stay the night either in a hotel or campground, then get up really early to catch the sunrise over this spectacular place. It is especially incredible to watch the terrain slowly be unveiled by the rising of the sun. Plus the early morning (or sunset light) provides the best lighting and shadows to take it all in.

You’re quite likely to see mule deer and maybe some other wildlife here. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most accessible and popular spot, but it’s still undeniably incredible. This is a true Grand Canyon road trip from Las Vegas.

Most people only ever stick to the rim of the canyon, but you can find a bit of solitude one a Grand Canyon day hike by hiking down just a little way. Just be sure to bring the day hike essentials if you do.

Great Basin National Park

Instead of visiting one of the most popular national parks, how about heading to one of the least visited? Great Basin National Park is certainly one of the most underrated national parks that almost no one talks about and which receives little love. That doesn’t mean it isn’t amazing though.

The big problem is that it is a park located in an isolated part of Nevada, at the end of Highway 50, the Loneliest Road in America, if that tells you anything. But you can get to Great Basin in only about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas (291 miles away).

Here at Great Basin, you can go on incredible hikes above 10,000 feet, marvel at ancient bristlecone pine trees, and explore the amazing Lehman Caves on a guided tour with knowledgable park rangers.

We quite enjoyed our visit to Nevada’s only national park, and I’m sure you will too.

Zion National Park

Heading in the opposite direction, this time to the east, you’ll quickly cross into Utah. The first park you’ll come across is the spectacular Zion National Park at just about 2.5 hours away from Las Vegas.

Zion is a unique and spectacular park, certainly among the most beautiful in the country. It is often said that Zion is like Yosemite but in color. There is stunning red rock formations, the white walls of the canyon, great hiking and canyoneering, and so much more to explore here.

Among the most famous Zion National Park hikes is the route up to Angel’s Landing, a fairly exposed scramble (with chains for support) up to a narrow precipice overlooking the valley below and the Virgin River.

Even just driving through the park will have you turning your head and dropping your jaw at the spectacular vistas. Of course, the whole southern section of Utah is a playground for adventure, with five amazing national parks. You can (and should) do a dedicated Utah national park road trip to explore them all, but Bryce Canyon National Park is the easiest one to add on a road trip from Las Vegas.

Read More: Best Zion National Park Hikes

Sedona, Arizona

Like Utah, an Arizona road trip holds a million wonders and things to do, but one of the most accessible places on a road trip from Las Vegas is to head to Sedona, Arizona via Flagstaff. Along the most direct route, Sedona is about 280 miles from Vegas, or about 4.5 hours driving.

Coffee Pot Rock.

I love Sedona and have long contended that this place would have made an obvious contender to become Sedona National Park if it weren’t for the town. But that’s okay, this little hippie, new age vortex is surrounded by some of the most spectacular red rock formations you will see anywhere on earth. We are talking giant monolithic rock formations jutting up from the earth all around you.

If you’ve got the time while coming or going from Sedona, I’d highly recommend driving along Highway 89A through Jerome. This drive is another that I consider the most beautiful in America , running basically between Prescott and Flagstaff, with Sedona almost in the middle.

Page, Arizona

This is another classic destination in Arizona and one that can easily be visited on a road trip from Las Vegas, perhaps even combined with some of the other destinations we’ve already discussed.

Page, Arizona sits just south of the Utah border, about 4 hours and 15 minutes away from Las Vegas, where you’re surrounded by some truly amazing places. Even the drive over here features one of the most scenic stretches of Interstate driving that I’ve seen, along I-15 and the Virgin River Gorge (which also happens to be one of the most expensive Interstate sections ever built).

Near Page, you’ll find the iconic Horseshoe Bend (somehow often shown for photos of the Grand Canyon), Antelope Canyon, and The Wave (a psychedelic landscape if there ever was one).

You can even check out another spectacular man-made construction here with the Glen Canyon Dam and the massive Lake Powell which it creates.

Combining the Best Road Trips from Las Vegas

Any and all of these trips are spectacular and worthwhile destinations for a Las Vegas road trip, but perhaps the most spectacular way would be to combine them into one epic road trip of the American southwest, home to some of the country’s most amazing landscapes.

If you’ve got the time, it is definitely feasible to make a big loop that includes part of California, southern Utah, and northern Arizona. Check out my guide to one epic national park road trip for an idea of how to link these all up, this area is also home to some of the best national parks to visit in Spring because they get too hot in the summer.

I hope that this guide to the best road trips from Las Vegas was helpful to you. There is a few lifetimes worth of stuff to explore, so at least you’ll keep busy! 🙂

Traveling to Las Vegas soon? Book your lodging on Booking.com now to save, or if you plan to stay longer, I highly recommend looking for a place on Airbnb . And don’t forget to purchase travel insurance that will help protect you against illness, injury, and theft. I use and recommend World Nomads for its combination of coverage and affordability.

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Top 10 Road Trip Destinations from Las Vegas (with Maps, Tolls & Tips)

Vegas baby! For many, a trip to Sin City is simply slot machines, video poker, and getting stuffed at all you can eat buffets. But if Lady Luck isn’t on your side, or you’re just looking for an adventure away from the strip, Las Vegas is a great starting point for a road trip. Whether it’s a quick day trip or a longer outing to San Diego or Arizona, Las Vegas is perfectly positioned to give you some amazing experiences. Ready to plan your route? Here are the 10 best Las Vegas road trips you can take.

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• The Hoover Dam
• Death Valley
• Grand Canyon
• Los Angeles
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Palm Springs
• Zion National Park
• Lake Havasu
• Other long road trips from Las Vegas

1. The Hoover Dam, NV

Considered one of the greatest engineering achievements in human history, the Hoover Dam still draws in thousands of tourists a day. Built in the 1930s, the dam towers of the Colorado River, offering spectacular views from a dizzying 900 feet.

Sixt Pro Tip:

It’s also worth checking out the nearby town of Boulder City, which caters to visitors with zip lining, four wheeling and brewery tours at Boulder Dam Brewing Co. Enjoy the ride even more in a Ford Mustang convertible.

Sixt Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 35 miles; a 45-minute drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

2. Lake Mead

Take a short drive east of Las Vegas to a “lake” that is actually a reservoir that was formed when the Hoover Dam was built. Lake Mead is the closest body of water to Vegas and a great place to go swimming, boating and jet skiing.

Entrance fees are $25 per vehicle and are valid for a week. But if you think you’ll be back again, it might make sense to get the annual pass for $40. If you need a rental, an SUV can carry all your outdoor gear.

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 31 miles; a 51-minute drive TOLLS: There are no tolls on the route.

3. Death Valley, CA

With the highest recorded temperature in history at 134 degrees, Death Valley deserves its ominous name. But if you can stand the heat, Death Valley offers some of the most spectacular and dramatic scenery in the southwest. Dunes, salt flats, mountains, ancient trails, prehistoric rock formations and the lowest-elevation lake in North America.

Surviving the heat doesn’t always look stylish. Wear a dorky expedition hat, and slather on the sunblock; you’ll thank us later. You may also want to consider a premium car with ice-cold air conditioning, like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 123 miles; a 2.5-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

4. Grand Canyon, AZ

You’ll go through a few playlists getting to the Grand Canyon, but we promise it lives up to the hype. Grand Canyon National Park is a hugely popular destination for hiking, donkey rides and whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities, and is well worth the tank of gas to get there and back.

The most epic views are found at the South Rim of the canyon, but if you’re feeling adventurous, drive to the west rim where the Hualapai Tribe operates the famous skywalk. And why not rent a Ford Mustang convertible to enjoy 360-degree views?

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS: 271 miles; a 4-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

5. Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking for a road trip with a variety of scenery, start driving southwest on Interstate 15 and don’t stop until you hit Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean. There’s something for everyone in LA, including too many amazing food trucks to try in just a day, so make a weekend of it.

Looking to heat things up? Make a pitstop in Baker and check out the world’s largest thermometer. And since you’re heading the stars’ way, you’ll need an all-star to blend in. Treat yourself to a Jaguar F-Type Convertible. You can also choose a one-way rental car from Vegas to LA from SIXT.

DISTANCE FROM SIXT LAS VEGAS:  262 miles; a 4-hour drive TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

6. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

See a different kind of desert landscape with a road trip to Joshua Tree on I-15 from Las Vegas. Many people head to the park for hiking through the rugged rock formations and distinctive Joshua trees. It’s also an excellent spot for stargazing, rock climbing and camping. Just be sure to be prepared for the weather, which can be very hot or cold depending on the time of year and day.

SIXT Pro Tip:

Make sure to come prepared for your visit to Joshua Tree. There is no drinkable water available in the park, so bring plenty with you. This is the desert after all! Also plan to come early to avoid crowds and snag a parking spot, especially if you are visiting in spring, fall or winter.

SIXT Travel Facts:

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 187 miles; a 3 hr 15 min drive

TOLLS: There are no tolls along the route.

7. Phoenix, AZ

Go for a longer drive and spend some time in Phoenix. You can take US Highway 93 S all the way from Las Vegas to Phoenix, and pass through some interesting towns and desert landscape along the way.

You can drive on a stretch of the famous Route 66 as you pass through Kingman, Arizona. You can even visit the Route 66 Museum here. If you or your kids are into trains, there is the Kingman Railroad Museum and Locomotive Park, which are a nod to the city’s past as a railway hub.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS:  300 miles; a 5-hour drive

8. Palm Springs, CA

Make the 4-hour drive to the desert oasis of Palm Springs. The city is popular for its golf courses, spas and setting at the foot of rugged mountains. While you can fill your time with outdoor activities like hiking in the neighboring Coachella Valley, you can also just relax and shop in the many boutiques.

Architecture fans will delight in driving around the city and seeing all of the midcentury-modern houses and buildings. You can stay in a midcentury-modern hotel or resort, or just drive around the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood where more than 300 homes were built in this architectural style in the 1950s.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS:  233 miles; a 4-hour drive

9. Zion National Park, UT

In less than 3 hours you can be in one of the most popular national parks in the US. Take I-15 to the northeast and either do a straight drive or stop in other popular spots like the Grand Canyon along the way. Just be sure to fill up on gas before leaving Las Vegas because you won’t hit many towns until crossing into Utah.

Take a little side trip south on Highway 167 to Valley of Fire State Park. You can see the amazing rock formations that contribute to the park’s name, and just enjoy the scenery before continuing to Zion.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 158 miles; a 2 hr 45 min drive

TOLLS: When you get to Utah State Route 9, called the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, you will have to pay an entrance fee to Zion National Park. It costs $25.00 for a 7-day pass.

10. Lake Havasu, AZ

Drive south on Highway 95 to the California/Arizona border to relax at Lake Havasu. Like Lake Mead, Lake Havasu is also a reservoir formed by a dam on the Colorado River. It has beaches to relax on while you enjoy the mountain view.

You don’t need to go across the pond to see a landmark of England. The exterior part of London Bridge was relocated to Lake Havasu in the late 1960s and now spans the Colorado River rather than the River Thames, linking the mainland of Lake Havasu City to an island.

DISTANCE FROM LAS VEGAS: 153 miles; a 2 hr 30 min drive

11. Other long road trips from Las Vegas

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Travel Tips

Beyond the bright lights: the best las vegas road trips for adventure seekers.

In this article of the top Las Vegas Road Trips, you’ll find links, distances and videos to help you with your planning.

Las Vegas, Nevada is known as the entertainment capital of the world and often finds its way into the itinerary of U.S. road trippers who are looking for a great time. Whether for the thrills of the tables, or the open roads, a Las Vegas road trip has a lot to offer! You can take a stroll down one of the most famous strips on the planet, walk through the grandest entrances to the biggest casinos in the world and party until the sun comes up. Or, hit the road to experience some road trip nirvana at any number of nearby destinations. One of the main advantages of traveling to Las Vegas by car is that you never really have to stay in one place for too long. The roads are the only limit.

Las Vegas actually makes for an awesome road trip home base. The city is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and unique destinations that you can drive to in just a couple hours or less. Here are some of my top Las Vegas Road Trips to consider.

Valley of Fire State Park is one of the best Las Vegas Road Trips not to miss

Located just an hour northeast of Sin City, Valley of Fire is one of my favorite Las Vegas road trips. This place is aptly named because the ancient sandstone formations often look like they are literally on fire when the sun is low on the horizon. The red rocky landscape feels a bit like standing on Mars, which is probably the reason why scenes from Total Recall were shot there. You’ll want to keep your eye out for drawings in the stone, which are known as petroglyphs. For the scenic route from Las Vegas, take 147 and then 167 through the Lake Mead National Park. If you’re in the north end of the city, you can take I-15 out of town and turn onto Valley of Fire road. Click the following link for a dedicated post and video on Valley of Fire State Park .

Mileage: 45-60 miles depending on which direction and area of the city you are located.

Red Rock Canyon is a nearby Road Trip to take when visiting the Strip

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is truly an amazing place to visit, it offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the American Southwest. The area features towering red sandstone peaks, vibrant rock formations, and colorful desert landscapes that are sure to leave a lasting impression. With a 13-mile scenic drive, visitors can take in the panoramic views from the comfort of their car or hop out to hike and explore the many trails in the area, each providing a unique perspective of the natural wonder.

Rock climbing is also popular in the conservation area with the park offering a range of routes for all skill levels. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, and a wide variety of birds, making it a great destination for wildlife viewing. With its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and access to the great outdoors, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Las Vegas.

Mileage: Just 15 miles from Vegas and about a 20 minute drive.

Boulder City, Nevada

Boulder City, Nevada is a charming and idyllic community perched above Lake Mead and the dam that created the town. Established in 1931 to house the builders of Boulder Dam ( later changed to Hoover Dam ), Boulder City is not far from its neighbor known for glittering neon lights and high stakes gaming. While just 30 miles from Las Vegas, Boulder City is a world away from the city that never sleeps. There are no bright lights or gambling allowed in Boulder City. Instead, it’s a peaceful place to stroll the streets and visit vintage shops, antique stores, peruse the public art or its many parks. Boulder City is the gateway to many nearby activities, from the Hoover Dam, water sports, lake tours, ghost towns to hiking trails and more. Click the following link for more information on visiting Boulder City , complete with restaurant and hotel recommendations, top sites to see in historic downtown and much more.

Mileage: 26 Miles, about a half hour drive

Las Vegas Road Trips to Escape the Heat…Head up Mt. Charleston

If you want to escape the desert heat, or want to play in the snow during the winter months, head up to Mt. Charleston, also known as Charleston Peak. This massive mountain is located in the Spring Mountains range just 40 miles from Las Vegas. It is the highest peak in the range and the eighth highest mountain in Nevada, with an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet. This is a popular place for hiking, camping, and skiing. The area around the mountain is home to the Lee Canyon ski resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and picnicking in the summer. The mountain also includes a number of campgrounds and picnic areas, as well as the Mt. Charleston Lodge, a popular spot for relaxation and dining.

Mileage: 39 Miles, about 45 minutes

Vegas Road Trip to Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a marvel of modern engineering located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas. The dam was completed in 1935 and was a major achievement of the Great Depression era. It stands 726 feet tall and it is considered an important source of hydroelectric power and water resource for the western part of the U.S. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and its power plant to learn about its history and construction. There are several tour options available, including a basic tour that takes you through the dam and the power plant, and a VIP tour that offers a more in-depth look at the inner workings of the dam. Other notable experiences include the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge which is a concrete arch bridge that carries U.S Route 93 over the Colorado River, it offers stunning views of the Dam and Lake Mead. Additionally, the Hoover Dam is a popular spot for photo opportunities and visitors can also enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll around the dam. The Hoover Dam is open year-round, but the schedule may vary depending on the season.

Mileage: 37 Miles, about a 40 minute drive

Lake Mead Recreational Area

Lake Mead was created by the Hoover Dam, it’s located in the Mohave Desert on the border of Nevada and Arizona, and it is the largest reservoir in the U.S, by volume. It offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and hiking. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride on the lake, go fishing for bass, catfish, and striped bass, or take a dip in the cool waters. Camping is also popular at Lake Mead, with several campgrounds and RV parks available for visitors. Additionally, there are several hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape, the Railroad Trail is one of my favorites.

Mileage: 31 miles, about 40 minute drive

Ghost Towns are fun Las Vegas Road Trips to consider

There are two ghost towns near Las Vegas, both are about an hour away, but in different directions. The first is St. Thomas, which was underwater for decades. That was, until Lake Mead began to recede and revealed the city, or what is left of it. Check out the video below to learn more about this fascinating place.

Also nearby is El Dorado Canyon Ghost Town in Nelson, which is a place that encapsulates Nevada’s wild west roots. This is a privately owned ghost town available to pursue on your own, or you can take a tour, which includes a look at the Techatticup Mine that once produced millions in precious metals. The town was established in the late 19th century, during the height of the gold and silver mining boom in the area. The El Dorado Canyon Mine was the main source of income for the town, and it produced gold and silver for several decades.

Today, the ghost town is a popular destination for history buffs and tourists interested in the mining history of Nevada. Visitors can tour the remnants of the old mine, as well as see the remains of the town’s buildings, including an old jail and a schoolhouse. The town also has a small museum displaying artifacts from the town’s history. Despite the harsh desert environment, the ghost town is well preserved and gives an eerie glimpse into the past life of the people who once lived there.

Mileage: 60 miles from Vegas, just over an hour drive

Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular Las Vegas Road Trips

A visit to Nevada wouldn’t be complete without a road trip through Death Valley National Park. This awesome place is the hottest, driest, and lowest place in North America, which doesn’t sound too appealing, but it truly is a stunning place for those hardy enough to hack it. The three-million-acre park is home to gold mines, ghost towns, jagged salt formations, volcanic craters, and dried up lakes.

You can reach Death Valley from Las Vegas by taking the US-95 and then the CA-190 into the park. From there, you can get information from the visitor’s center and plan your route. There’s so much to see, that it’s almost definitely worth camping overnight at Furnace Creek to give yourself enough time to soak it up. If you want to extend your trip even further, you can carry on through Death Valley to Yosemite!

Mileage: 125 Miles, about a 2 hour drive

Seven Magic Mountains is a Colorful Roadside Attraction

Seven Magic Mountains is an incredible art installation located just 10 miles south of Las Vegas. The installation consists of seven towering neon-painted stone pillars, each over 30 feet tall. Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the installation was completed in 2016 and is intended to serve as a reminder of the natural beauty of the desert and the ways in which human civilization can harmoniously coexist with it. The Seven Magic Mountains are made of locally-sourced boulders and painted with vibrant day-glo colors. They have become a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who come to take photos and enjoy the desert views. Click the following link to get details and watch a video on Seven Magic Mountains .

Outdoor fun in Blue Diamond

Blue Diamond is a small community located in the foothills of the Spring Mountains, in Clark County, Nevada. It is situated about 20 miles southwest of Las Vegas, and is known for its rural atmosphere and proximity to outdoor recreational activities. The town is home to the Blue Diamond Hill Gypsum mine, which is one of the largest open pit gypsum mines in the world. The town has very limited services and amenities, but it’s a perfect place for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain bike riding, rock climbing, and off-roading.

Mileage: 28 Miles, about half an hour drive

Zzyzx – A Vegas road trip stop en route to Los Angeles

Zzyzx is a desert oasis located about two hours from Las Vegas. It is home to the Zzyzx Mineral Springs where there was once a health spa, which was once used as a stopover for travelers on their way to Los Angeles. Today, visitors can explore the surrounding Mojave Desert, and learn about the history of the area. The drive from Las Vegas to Zzyzx is also a scenic one, taking you through the rugged and beautiful landscape of Southern Nevada.

Mileage: 105 Miles, about an hour and a half drive

Save If you have any Las Vegas Road Trips you would recommend, please leave a comment below. If you have any questions about doing a road trip from Las Vegas, leave a comment below. So, until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…

Mike Shubic

Tags: Las Vegas Road Trip , Las Vegas Road Trips , Nevada road trips , road trips from Las Vegas , Vegas road trip , Vegas Road Trips

Great article! I can never forget my trip to Vegas too. From beautiful scenic places to the bustling nightlife of the city. What made the trip even better was renting a Mustang GT from LVC exotic rentals and speeding down the iconic Vegas strip was an experience I can never forget. LVC Exotic Rentals have a range of exotic luxury cars available with great packages and prices as compared to others, I’d definitely recommend checking them out

Thank you so much Ryan! I bet, that would be so much fun to road trip the area in! Thanks for stopping by.

doing a road trip from Florida to the west coast for our 30th wedding anniversary this seems exciting

You will love it…so many great things to see/do in the Southwest. Have a great trip!

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The 10 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas

Blog , Nevada , North America , USA / January 28, 2021 by Monica / Leave a Comment

Millions of people flock to Vegas each year for an escape to Sin City. But what about those of us nature-lovers, looking to escape the bright lights of Vegas? Here is my collection of the ten best road trips from Las Vegas into the beautiful natural surroundings. Prepare for your Las Vegas Road Trip below!

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Las Vegas is an incredibly popular destination for US tourists. Millions of visitors flock to Sin City every year for the excitement, the bright lights, the gambling, and the incredible shows.

However, even those who love the outdoors can find some amazing hikes, parks, and natural wonders nearby!

Whether you are a local looking for a Las Vegas road trip or a visitor who wants to add a stop to their vacation, this list is for you. Here are the top ten best road trips from Las Vegas for nature-lovers at heart!

You May Also Like: National Parks Near Las Vegas

Table of Contents

1) Valley of Fire State Park

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – Valley of Fire State Park surpassed my expectations, and majorly. This Nevada state park was such a highlight for me, I was honestly planning my next trip back before I had even left the area.

This desert park covers 46,000 acres of land, and visitors will be blown away at every turn. Towering red mountains and multi-colored hills will greet your eye at every corner. Striped and rugged rock formations, some dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, are waiting to be discovered.

You May Also Like: Planning the Perfect Girls’ Trip to Vegas

There are plenty of breathtaking hikes inside Valley of Fire State Park, and most of them are fairly short. This is not a bad thing, because temperatures can get HOT! The hikes lead to amazing sights like ancient petroglyphs, incredible rock formations, and gorgeous vistas.

You do not want to miss this park! Only a one hour drive northeast from the Las Vegas Strip, it’s a quick and easy day trip from Las Vegas.

Read my in depth post on visiting Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada.

2) Seven Magic Mountains

One of the easiest road trips from Las Vegas, the amazing art installation called Seven Magic Mountains is sure to impress artistic and non-artsy visitors alike. Produced by the Nevada Museum of Art and Art Production Fund, this art installation was originally meant to be a temporary project. As of now, it’s lifespan has already been extended once (and I suspect will be extended again).

Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone in 2016, these giant neon boulders stand up to 25 feet tall in the middle of nowhere, with a dry desert backdrop and endless blue sky above. It’s the perfect blend between the natural world and the man-made.

Seven Magic Mountains is a completely unexpected visual surprise, just off of the freeway and only 20 minutes from the Vegas Strip.

Read my in depth post about visiting Seven Magic Mountains.

3) Joshua Tree National Park

If you have never visited Joshua Tree National Park in California, then this is a must-see! At approximately three hours away, this is one of the most scenic drives from Las Vegas.

Joshua Tree National Park is a special place. It became a National Park as recently as 1994, and for good reason! The park covers areas of both the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert, meaning that it contains two very different but equally beautiful landscapes.

The famous and strange Joshua Tree – which is actually a tall Yucca – dots the landscape like an otherworldly being. The nighttime stargazing is phenomenal, earning a designation as a Dark Sky Park .

Joshua Tree is popular with hikers, campers, photographers and rock-climbers. The park has something for everyone, and should be seen at least once in everyone’s life.

Read my in depth post about visiting Joshua Tree National Park.

4) The Grand Canyon

Though it probably needs no introduction, the world famous Grand Canyon absolutely deserves a spot on this list of the best road trips from Las Vegas. Crossing into Arizona, the drive will take around four and a half hours to reach the Grand Canyon.

The first time I saw the Grand Canyon, I remember thinking that it almost looked like an illusion, or a backdrop from a movie. It’s hard to comprehend how vast this beautiful rock formation spans. The Grand Canyon covers over 270 miles lengthwise and 18 miles in width.

To truly appreciate the size of the Grand Canyon, it’s not a bad idea to spend a night or two near the park in order to have a few extra days to explore. Whether you prefer hiking, camping, photography, or even river rafting, the Grand Canyon has it. So, definitely start to plan that road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon today!

Get more information on visiting the Grand Canyon.

We’re heading back to California for my next Las Vegas road trip, to the beautiful locale of Malibu.

For first time visitors, Malibu is rarely what they’ve pictured in their heads! That’s because Malibu is a far cry from glamourous Beverly Hills and is actually more of a small sleepy town with a laid back vibe.

My favorite surprise of Malibu is how beautiful the natural scenery is. The coastline has so much character due to the tall and jagged cliffs that line much of the beach. El Matador State Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in all of Los Angeles, and is a great place for photography or just lounging. The nearby Leo Carillo State Park offers gorgeous hiking and camping opportunities.

As for meals, there is certainly no shortage of restaurant options in every price range. Though it will take around four and a half hours to get here, this is one of the prettiest and most relaxing road trips from Las Vegas you could choose.

Read my in depth guide on all things Malibu.

6) Mojave National Preserve

The Mojave National Preserve is an underrated and relatively unknown park that definitely deserves recognition. It sits on the border of California and Nevada, and will take under an hour to reach by car from Vegas.

As part of the Mojave Desert, you will see many Joshua Trees stretching across vast areas of desert land. This is a beautiful place to hike, but definitely come prepared because desert hiking is no joke.

There are a few surprises in the Mojave National Preserve that you wouldn’t expect. Tall white sand dunes called Kelso Dunes stretch across one area of the park, with a mountainous backdrop and dry desert brush lining the entry. Visitors can also access an underground Lava Tube that is amazing for photography and fun to explore.

Learn about visiting the Mojave National Preserve.

7) Zion National Park

Heading east from Las Vegas is the unbelievable Zion National Park in Utah. In under three hours, you can reach Utah’s very first National Park, and it’s a beauty.

Tall pink and red sandstone cliffs tower overhead into the sky above. Unique plants, animals, streams and rocks are waiting at every turn.

The first time I drove into Zion was in the evening, and what I vividly remember is the bright stars shining overhead and the moon illuminating the outlines of the surrounding cliffs. This is one of my most memorable stops in Utah so far and has a special place in my heart. I highly recommend taking a road trip from Vegas to Zion National Park.

Get more information on visiting Zion.

8) The Trona Pinnacles

This is one of the more obscure locales on the list of road trips from Las Vegas. The Trona Pinnacles are not super well known outside of their home in California. It will take visitors just under four hours to make the trip from Las Vegas.

Besides being incredibly unusual, the Trona Pinnacles used to be submerged underwater. Today they rise out of the very flat and dry Searles Valley in various shapes, named towers, tombstones, ridges and cones. They are just so strange! It’s no wonder that this is a famous spot for filming science fiction productions.

One cool detail to remember, camping is allowed here, anywhere, and is completely free. This is another great spot for nighttime photography.

Read my in depth guide on visiting the Trona Pinnacles.

In Northern Arizona, Sedona is a great place to visit with a Southwestern vibe! Sedona is a four and a half hour drive from Las Vegas, and the route will take you through interesting scenery around Flagstaff and the Coconino National Forest.

Housing a population of 10,000, Sedona is an artsy and New Age type haven. Galleries, spas, and small shops line the streets. Giant red-rock buttes and pine forests shelter the town, creating a visual treat.

Sedona is a great weekend getaway from Las Vegas if you have the time. Exploring the shops and galleries, hiking, and sight-seeing are excellent ways to pass the time.

Bonus, if you are looking to extend your road trip further, my guide on road trip stops between Phoenix and Sedona will highlight several additional can’t-miss sights in Arizona.

Get more information on things to do in Sedona.

10) Death Valley National Park

Last and absolutely not least is one of my personal favorite parks in California; Death Valley National Park. There is just so much to see here! As the largest National Park in the contiguous United States, the views are never-ending.

From the incredibly colorful Artist’s Palette to the jagged points of Zabrieski Point, the geology is certainly stunning. One of the most picturesque spots is called Badwater Basin, and it’s claim to fame is being the lowest point in all of North America, sitting at 282 feet below sea level.

If you do any hiking, be sure to follow desert safety guidelines . Death Valley regularly reaches temperatures over 110 degrees in the summer and fall months.

With such a large amount of land to cover, this is one park you may want to explore for more than a day. And, at only two hours away from the Las Vegas Strip, it’s an easy park to come back to again and again.

Read all about visiting Death Valley National Park.

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These are the 10 BEST road trips from Las Vegas, all reachable in four and a half hours or less!

I’ve been to each of these spots multiple times, and can’t recommend them enough. Whether you prefer quirky art installations, desert hikes, or quiet beachside vacations, it is all here.

More Nevada Resources:

• Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Seven Magic Mountains
• National Parks Near Las Vegas
• The Ten Best Road Trips from Las Vegas
• Hiking the Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park
• A Complete Guide to Valley of Fire State Park

Let me know in the comments below which one is first on your list!

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• Cancun vs Cabo: Which is Better, Los Cabos or Cancun?
• 10 Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting El Matador Beach, Malibu
• The Perfect Day Trip to Malibu: A One Day Itinerary [2024]

About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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Wild Junket

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

Last Updated on March 7, 2024

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Travel Insurance for Nevada

•  How to Get to Nevada

How to Get Around Nevada

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

•  Nevada Itinerary Day 14: Drive Back to Las Vegas

Enjoy Your Nevada Road Trip!

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

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

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

  How to Get to Nevada

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nevada Itinerary Days 1 – 2: Explore Las Vegas

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

Explore the Strip

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

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

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

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

Budget: Excalibur 

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

Midrange: Paris 

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

Luxury: Waldorf Astoria 

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

El Cortez Hotel (East Fremont)

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

Midrange: South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa

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

Luxury: Wynn Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nevada Itinerary Day 5: Drive to Carson City

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

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

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

Budget: Hardman House

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

Midrange: Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites

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

Luxury: Staybridge Suites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Budget: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

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

Midrange: Secrets Inn Lake Tahoe

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

Luxury: The Hyatt Residence Club High Sierra Lodge

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

Nevada Itinerary Days 10 – 11: Enjoy Artsy Reno

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

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

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

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

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

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

Budget: Boutique Motel in the Heart of Midtown

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

Midrange: Courtyard by Marriott Reno 

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

Luxury: The Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel & Spa

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

  Nevada Itinerary Day 12: Driving Day

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

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

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

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

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

Budget: Stargazer Inn Nevada

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

Midrange: Holiday Inn Express & Suites

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

Luxury: Hidden Canyon Retreat Bed & Breakfast

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

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

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

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

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

  Nevada Itinerary Day 14: Drive Back to Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some weekend itineraries for cities in the US:

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

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

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

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Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Perfect 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 7-Day Las Vegas Itineraries

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | The Perfect 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 7-Day Las Vegas Itineraries

Whether it’s your first time in Sin City or you’ve been here before, it helps to have a Las Vegas itinerary to make the most of your trip.

Taking the time to plan which activities you’ll do and when will save you lots of aggravation while maximizing your time. To make it even easier, this guide includes some Las Vegas itinerary templates .

While I’ve included ideas for up to a week in Vegas, 2-3 days is enough to see the best attractions. Of course, if you have more time, you can take advantage of even more cool things to do outside Las Vegas . I also recommend getting a Las Vegas city pass and reading our guide on where to stay in Las Vegas   and our guide on how to plan a trip to Las Vegas.

The Perfect 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 7-Day Las Vegas Itineraries

Finally, remember that these itineraries are just ideas, and your agenda will depend on your interests and budget. You may prefer to stick to activities on the Strip, or you may want to take a day trip from Las Vegas !

• Las Vegas in a day , a Las Vegas birthday itinerary idea
• 2-day Las Vegas itinerary , the best Las Vegas weekend itinerary
• 3-day Las Vegas itinerary , a Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary idea
• 4-day Las Vegas itinerary , a romantic Las Vegas couples itinerary
• 5-day Las Vegas itinerary , the perfect first-time Vegas itinerary
• 7 days in Las Vegas itinerary , the best Las Vegas family vacation itinerary

Keep reading to see my suggested Las Vegas weekend itinerary and ideas for birthdays, family vacations, and couples getaways in Sin City .

Las Vegas in a day, a Las Vegas birthday itinerary idea

If you’re going to do Las Vegas in a day , you need to be meticulous in your planning. This Las Vegas itinerary is a good place to start because it includes the top Vegas attractions that any visitor to Sin City should see.

First, opt for a ticket for the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will let you easily move from one spot to the next. The bus tour travels along the Strip and Downtown, making 9 stops and arriving every 45 minutes. You can get on and off at your leisure at the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign , the STRAT , and other landmarks.

One of those stops is the LINQ Promenade , a haven for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The centerpiece attraction is the High Roller , one of the world’s largest observation wheels.

I also recommend spending your day at some of the best hotels in Las Vegas . For example, The Venetian is home to the Grand Canal Shoppes and Madame Tussauds . It’s also worth seeing the Bellagio Fountains and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas .

Las Vegas in a day itinerary

Begin your day in Las Vegas by visiting the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . You can catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  there and take it to the LINQ Promenade .

After exploring this entertainment area, hop back on the bus and get a tour of Downtown Las Vegas . If you’re not interested in downtown, you can walk over to The Venetian and check out Madame Tussauds and the gondola rides at the Grand Canal Shoppes .

Later, head back to the LINQ Promenade and ride the High Roller during sunset. At night, walk to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas , where you’ll have a great view of the Bellagio Fountains . The water show is one of the best free things to do in Vegas , although if you want to see it from the Paris viewing deck, you should reserve a ticket  (It is also included at the Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass  ).

2-day Las Vegas itinerary, the best Las Vegas weekend itinerary

If you’re wondering what to do in Vegas for the weekend , you have plenty of options. A 2-day Las Vegas itinerary allows you to make the most of your trip and even venture a bit outside the city. Weekends are also the best time to plan a birthday or friends’ trip because you can see the main attractions and enjoy the nightlife.

I recommend taking the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  during the day to see some landmarks and popular resorts. For example, New York-New York has the Big Apple Coaster and Arcade , which is fun for all ages.

Then, you can take the bus downtown and take in the Fremont Street Experience and other attractions in downtown Las Vegas . Shortly before sunset, head to the LINQ Promenade and ride the High Roller . Then, enjoy the city views at night atop the SkyPod at the STRAT .

With another day in Vegas , you can use the first half for a Hoover Dam tour. Then, rest up before hitting a Vegas pool party or doing a bar crawl .

Las Vegas 2-day itinerary

Seeing the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign is a rite of passage, so start there. This is also where you can catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will transport you around the Strip.

If you like thrill rides, stop at New York-New York ‘s Big Apple Coaster before continuing downtown. Then you can do the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour , one of the best things to do in downtown Las Vegas .

Later on, head to the LINQ Promenade , where you can eat, shop, and ride the High Roller . You can also get awesome views from the 1,149-foot-tall SkyPod at the STRAT . The SkyPod has a late-night bar and lounge, so it’s the perfect place to wrap up a Las Vegas couples itinerary .

A Las Vegas weekend itinerary is ideal because you can experience some daytime activities in Las Vegas before diving into the nightlife.

First, take a break from the Strip with a half-day Hoover Dam tour . When you return to Vegas, take a quick break, then do go to a pool party in Las Vegas. If that’s not your thing, you can take in the scene at Fremont Street , perhaps with a ride on the SlotZilla zip line or a visit to the Mob Museum , one of the best Las Vegas museums .

In the evening, grab cocktails at a swanky lounge or do a bar crawl .

3-day Las Vegas itinerary, a Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary idea

Throwing a bachelor party in Las Vegas is quite the experience and your chance to go all out on activities. A 3-day Las Vegas itinerary gives you enough time to go wild in the city and explore the natural surroundings, too.

You can start this Las Vegas bachelor party itinerary with some go-kart racing at Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix . Then, take a midday break at the LINQ Promenade . In the evening, pre-game at Señor Frogs’ open bar , then go clubbing.

For day 2 of this bachelor/bachelorette itinerary in Las Vegas , take a break from the Strip. I recommend exploring one of the most impressive natural wonders near Vegas, the Grand Canyon . Here, you can hike to some magnificent viewpoints and capture incredible photos.

On the last day, spend the morning doing one of the most popular activities for bachelor/bachelorette parties in Las Vegas, like blasting a few rounds at a shooting range, playing paintball, or even enjoying a morning in the Spa. Then, check out the hottest Vegas pool parties . If you prefer to stay dry, check out the Fremont Street Experience downtown.

To cap off your Las Vegas itinerary , do a bar crawl and enjoy the drinks and music.

Las Vegas 3-day itinerary

Begin your 3-day Las Vegas itinerary with a thrilling go-kart race at Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix . It’s especially fun with friends, and it’s a good way to escape the crowds for a bit.

Once you return to the Boulevard, visit the LINQ Promenade . Here, you can grab a bite to eat, do some shopping, ride the High Roller , and check out the other attractions.

After dark, gear up for an exhilarating evening at Señor Frogs’ open bar , then enjoy yourself in one of the best nightclubs in Las Vegas .

I suggest dedicating the second day of your Las Vegas itinerary to a day trip, like the Grand Canyon . The great thing about Sin City is that it’s close to so many beautiful natural areas. What could be better than visiting this wondrous canyon?

While you’re here, check out some of the best lookout points and hiking spots. You may even want to consider a Grand Canyon helicopter tour to make the event extra special.

If you need some Las Vegas trip ideas for your last day in the city, consider one of the most popular activities for bachelor parties such as paintball, going to a shooting range, or axe throwing. If that is not your thing, your team may enjoy spending the morning at one of the museums in Vegas . The Erotic Heritage Museum is lots of fun and quite fitting for a bachelorette party!

Upon returning to the Strip, suit up for a wild party at some of the best pools in Las Vegas . Or for something quieter, the Fremont Street walking tour is a great alternative.

To round out your night, a Vegas bar crawl is a popular Las Vegas bachelor party idea .

4-day Las Vegas itinerary, a romantic Las Vegas couples itinerary

With a 4-day Las Vegas itinerary , you can take full advantage of the best things to do in Vegas . I still recommend taking the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  because it’ll take you along the Strip and downtown.

Also, be sure to check out the LINQ Promenade and consider visiting the nearby Springs Preserve . You can round out day 1 with the Bellagio Fountains show, maybe from the Eiffel Tower at Paris Hotel.

After that whirlwind day, you’ll appreciate getting away from the city with a visit to the Grand Canyon . Then, on day 3, spend the morning in one of the best spas in the City. And after that, for a couple’s itinerary in Las Vegas , the Erotic Heritage Museum is a great idea. Another fun thing to do in Las Vegas as a couple is to go to the STRAT SkyPod for after-dinner drinks.

Finally, spend your last day taking a day tour to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, or Zion National Park . You can’t go wrong with either option, as they’re some of the best day trips from Vegas .

Las Vegas 4-day itinerary

For your first day in Sin City, I recommend getting a head-start by visiting the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . Capture a memorable photo, then catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will take you around the Strip.

Then, take a break from the Boulevard and visit one of the top attractions outside Las Vegas , like the  Springs Preserve .

Afterward, return to the Strip or check out downtown Las Vegas with a Fremont Street walking tour . If you want to stay on the Strip, I recommend going to Madame Tussauds at The Venetian and the gondolas at the Grand Canal Shoppes .

Then, stop at the LINQ Promenade and enjoy a sunset ride on the High Roller . At night, walk to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas to watch the Bellagio Fountains . It’s one of the best things to do in Las Vegas at night , although if you want to see it from the Paris viewing deck, you should reserve a ticket .

For one of the most exciting Las Vegas family vacation itineraries , you must visit the Grand Canyon . This national park is absolutely gorgeous, so it’s a wonderful place to visit as a couple, with friends, or with children. Plus, on the way, you’ll pass the Hoover Dam , another place worth visiting.

Once you get to Grand Canyon Village , also known as the South Rim, you can see some of the most famous lookout points. One of the best is Hopi Point , where you can get panoramic views of the canyon, but if you want to have a completely different view of the canyon, I can’t recommend enough taking a helicopter tour at Grand Canyon.

After your day trip from the day before, rejuvenate with a massage or treatment at one of Las Vegas’ best spas . Then, use your free time exploring the Strip and doing some couples’ activities in Vegas . A few ideas are the Ethel M Chocolates Factory or the Fremont Street Experience .

In the evening, go to the Erotic Heritage Museum and visit the SkyPod at the STRAT . It’s one of the coolest rooftop bars in Las Vegas and the perfect way to end day 3 of this Las Vegas itinerary .

To end your 4-day Las Vegas itinerary , take a day tour to a nearby attraction. There are so many awesome day trips from Las Vegas , so it can be hard to choose. I recommend going to Zion National Park or visiting Antelope Canyon and neighboring Horseshoe Bend .

If you visit Zion National Park , you’re in for a treat because this place is full of beautiful hikes, overlooks, and natural structures. The hike at Angels Landing is a must-do, and you shouldn’t miss the iconic views at Court of the Patriarchs and the Virgin River .

The other day trip I recommend is Antelope Canyon , a gorgeous slot canyon with red, water-carved curves. Bring your camera, because when the light filters through the canyon walls, it’s one of the most ethereal scenes.

Plus, Antelope Canyon is very close to Horseshoe Bend , so you can visit both in one day. This imposing meander on the Colorado River is 984 feet tall, so you can imagine the views from here. It’s certainly worth adding to your Las Vegas trip itinerary !

5-day Las Vegas itinerary, the perfect first-time Vegas itinerary

Five days is ideal for a first-time Vegas itinerary . This way, you can see the best attractions on and off the Strip and have plenty of time to take in all the sights.

Start with a tour on the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus , which will take you down the Boulevard and through downtown. You’ll be able to hit the most popular spots like the LINQ Promenade , the Grand Canal Shoppes , and the Mob Museum . Later in the day, take the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour and finish with a Bellagio Fountains show.

The next day, spend some time perusing the best museums in Las Vegas , like Madame Tussauds and the Neon Museum . In the evening, check out the FlyLINQ Zipline and the Big Bus Night Tour . You can’t also leave the city without trying your luck in one of the  best casinos in Las Vegas.

I recommend using the last few days of your Las Vegas itinerary to take a multi-day tour. I like this one , which goes to Antelope Canyon , Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , and Monument Valley .

Las Vegas 5-day itinerary

As a newbie to Sin City, you must see the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . There, you can catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  and ride down the Strip. The bus will take you into the downtown district, where you can visit the Mob Museum , one of the top museums in Las Vegas .

Downtown Vegas is lots of fun and should definitely be on a first-time Vegas itinerary . You can learn more about this area by taking the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour .

Afterward, hop back on the bus and go to The Venetian to see the Grand Canal Shoppes . Even if you just walk around there, you’ll be amazed by the architectural replicas of Italian landmarks. Since the LINQ Promenade is a short walk away, I recommend heading there and riding the High Roller observation wheel. It’s a great place to watch the sunset or see the Bellagio Fountains water show.

The great thing about a 5-day Las Vegas itinerary is that it gives you more time to explore and take in all the activities. Since you’ll have the time, I suggest visiting Madame Tussauds and the Neon Museum. These two Las Vegas museums offer unique exhibits you’ll only find in Sin City! Plus, they’re popular kid-friendly attractions in Vegas , so they’re perfect for adding to a Las Vegas family itinerary .

During the latter part of the day, check out the FlyLINQ Zipline at LINQ Promenade , and soar over this bustling entertainment hub. You can round out the evening with a Big Bus Night Tour to see the Strip’s most famous landmarks. For example, I recommend stopping by some of the most popular casinos in Las Vegas.

After exploring the best attractions on Las Vegas Strip , it’s time to start your multi-day trip. This 3-day tour begins with a visit to Zion and Bryce Canyon.

Zion National Park is a gorgeous area with narrow canyons, mountains, natural pools, and wildlife. During your tour, you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities to capture the majestic cliffs and iconic sights like Weeping Rock . You can also embark on one of the park’s top hikes, such as the Emerald Pools Trail , which features waterfalls and turquoise lagoons.

Afterward, you’ll go to Bryce Canyon , a national park characterized by hoodoos or natural sandstone spires. These red-orange structures create some magnificent arches and bridges, as well as Bryce Amphitheater . After exploring the beauty of this park, you’ll wrap up day 3 of this Las Vegas itinerary at a Bryce Canyon campsite.

Day 4 of this Vegas itinerary begins with an early morning drive past Lake Powell , a scenic reservoir along the Colorado River. Along the way, your tour guide will take you to Antelope Canyon , one of our favorite day trips from Las Vegas .

Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s paradise, although anyone can appreciate the water-carved slot canyon and its striated walls. You’ll want to have your camera ready to capture the filtered light beams coming through the canyon.

The next part of your journey takes you to Monument Valley , a vast desert landscape. You’ll board a 4×4 Jeep and ride through the Navajo lands while learning about the history of this spectacular place. Finally, you’ll have the memorable experience of camping under the stars.

The last stop on this 5-day Las Vegas itinerary is the beautiful Grand Canyon . You’ll start with a visit to an authentic Navajo Trading Post and have the option to do a helicopter flight over the canyon. I highly recommend adding this to your Las Vegas itinerary . The Grand Canyon is one of the best road trips from Las Vegas , and a Grand Canyon heli-tour is an unforgettable experience.

If you don’t take the flight, you can take a hike along the canyon rim and hear from a knowledgeable guide about the area’s history and geology. Get acquainted with this massive natural wonder and witness the views from its famous lookout points. At the end of the day, your tour group will head back to Vegas.

7 days in Las Vegas itinerary, the best Las Vegas family vacation itinerary

If you have the time and budget for a 7-day Las Vegas itinerary , there is plenty of fun to be had! You’ll be able to maximize your trip and see the best of the Strip, downtown Las Vegas, and the surrounding areas.

To start, check out the most popular Vegas attractions and sights by taking the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus . Be sure to check out iconic landmarks like the LINQ Promenade and Madame Tussauds . In the evening, go to the   Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas  to watch the mesmerizing Bellagio Fountains show.

Begin day 2 at a Las Vegas waterpark , then visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum . Later, get an adrenaline rush by riding the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York and soaring along the FlyLINQ Zipline .

For days 3-5, take a multi-day tour like this one that goes to Antelope Canyon , Grand Canyon , Zion , Bryce Canyon , and Monument Valley .

When you return to the city, get some chill time at one of the best Las Vegas pools . Then, visit the nearby Red Rock Canyon and get your nature fix.

Finally, end your ultimate Las Vegas itinerary with a stop at the Valley of Fire , one of the most beautiful places off the Vegas Strip .

Las Vegas 7-day itinerary

For your first day in Las Vegas , get acquainted with the city by seeing some of the top attractions on the Strip . It’s always nice to start with a visit to the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . From there, catch the Hop-On/Hop-Off bus  and check out the downtown district.

You can take the Las Vegas Downtown – Fremont St. walking tour   or walk over to The Venetian , one of the best Vegas hotels . The resort is home to Madame Tussaud’s wax museum, a fun place to go in Las Vegas with kids . The hotel also has the Grand Canal Shoppes , which mimic Venice, Italy, and its historical landmarks.

Later, stop at the LINQ Promenade to ride the High Roller , perhaps at sunset. After dusk, go to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas and watch the famous Bellagio Fountains show. You’ll have to reserve a ticket for the viewing deck in advance.

If you plan on making this a Las Vegas family vacation itinerary , begin your second day at a Las Vegas waterpark . Mandalay Bay Beach at Mandalay Bay and Splash Zone at Circus Circus are right on the Strip. Or you can visit a nearby water park, like Lake Las Vegas or Cowabunga Bay .

Another fun family activity is going to a Las Vegas museum , like the Natural History Museum . After some chill time, you can experience some thrills on the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York and the FlyLINQ Zipline .

Since you have 7 days for your Las Vegas travel itinerary , you have enough time to take a multi-day trip. My top recommendation is this 3-day tour , which begins with a visit to Zion and Bryce Canyon.

The beautiful mountain peaks, hiking trails, and canyon structures of Zion National Park will take your breath away. You’ll have lots of chances to capture lovely photos during your tour, as well as explore popular hikes like the Emerald Pools Trail .

After spending a few hours in Zion, you’ll go to nearby Bryce Canyon . This national park is known for its sandstone hoodoos, which create intricate shapes, arches, and natural bridges. Your tour guide will point out famous landmarks like the Bryce Amphitheater , and you’ll spend the night camping in the impressive national park.

Your Las Vegas travel itinerary continues with a drive past Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon . This is one of the most popular day trips from Vegas , and you’ll quickly see why. The curvaceous, striped walls of this slot canyon will mesmerize you, especially when the light filters through the walls.

Once you take in the unique environment of Antelope Canyon, you’ll continue the trip to Monument Valley . Better yet, you’ll see this incredible desert dreamscape while riding in a 4×4 Jeep. A Navajo guide will tell you all about Monument Valley’s history, and then you’ll spend the evening at a starlit campsite.

Day 5 of the Las Vegas itinerary will take you to a traditional Navajo Trading Post, where you can peruse the offerings. Then, you may opt for a Grand Canyon helicopter tour , something I wholeheartedly recommend.

If you don’t do the flight, you can witness the majestic magnitude of the Grand Canyon on foot. Visiting this natural wonder is one of the best road trips from Las Vegas , so take your time hiking along the canyon’s rim and admiring its viewpoints. You’ll have some free time to take it all in before heading back to Sin City.

Now that you’re back in the city, why not recharge with a visit to one of the best pools in Las Vegas ? Chilling out by the water is one of the best things to do in Vegas during the day when the beating sun is at its most intense.

Some of the most popular pools belong to Las Vegas’ top hotels , so consider booking a room there. For example, the Garden of the Gods Pool at Caesars Palace is an elegant European oasis, while Encore Beach Club at The Wynn is perfect for a Las Vegas bachelorette itinerary .

Once you feel refreshed, you may want to visit nearby Red Rock Canyon . This state park offers beautiful views and attractions, many of which you can see along the Scenic Drive . For a more exciting adventure, take an e-bike tour along the route.

Red Rock Canyon also has family-friendly hikes like the Petroglyph Wall , Lost Creek Canyon , and Calico Hills . The park is about 20 minutes from the Strip, so you can easily fit it into a 7-day Las Vegas itinerary .

For the last day of your Las Vegas itinerary , I suggest visiting the Valley of Fire . Some people find it hard to believe that this incredible park is just 45 minutes from Vegas. Here, the landscape is defined by bright red Aztec sandstone that forms natural arches, peaks, and canyons.

Besides the fiery sandstone, the Valley of Fire is home to colorful landscapes like the Rainbow Vista and Pastel Canyon . You’ll also find impressive natural structures like Arch Rock , Elephant Rock , and the Beehives .

Be sure to travel along the park’s Scenic Drive, also known as Mouse’s Tank Road . I also recommend doing a hike or two to see the Fire Wave and the ancient pictographs . I guarantee you won’t regret ending your Las Vegas trip itinerary here!

How many days do you need in Las Vegas?

It’s hard to see all of Las Vegas in a day , but if you’re short on time, 2 days is enough. Ideally, I recommend a 3-day itinerary for Las Vegas so you can see all the top attractions.

I hope this gave you some trip ideas for Las Vegas ! Leave me a comment below to tell me your favorite Las Vegas travel itinerary , or to ask me any questions you have. Enjoy your trip to Sin City!

Ascen Aynat

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22 Incredible Day Trips from Las Vegas You’ll Absolutely Love

Posted on Published: December 15, 2022  - Last updated: April 4, 2024

Looking to escape the busy city of Las Vegas? Of course you are! There’s so many amazing adventures just minutes away. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Las Vegas, here’s your list!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Las Vegas has a reputation for shopping, dining and casinos – and it lives up to the hype! But if you’re craving adventure – or some nature – taking a day trip from Las Vegas is a great way to do just that.

Leave the crowded strip and hit the road!

Some of the best day trips are just 20 minutes away, while others will take you away the entire day from sunrise to sunset (or beyond). Whether you’re traveling solo , celebrating a birthday in Vegas with friends, as a couple or with your family, there’s something on this epic list of day trips from Las Vegas to fit every travel style .

Let’s dive in!

Map of the best day trips from Las Vegas

If you’re a visual person like I am, this map of the best places to visit near Las Vegas will help you plan your perfect adventure.

By the way, as someone who’s actively checking places off my travel bucket list , I haven’t been everywhere (yet). So I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with these things to do near Las Vegas. Enjoy!

Day trips from Las Vegas

Located in the Mojave Desert, there’s so much to see and do in the area. Here are some of the best ideas for things to do outside of Vegas!

1. Red Rock Canyon (one of the best things to do near Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles / 20 minutes

Perhaps one of the shortest day trips from Las Vegas is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It’s perfect for a full day of adventure away from the busy city, yet close enough for a quick drive.

One of the most popular things to do is the Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . This one-way, 13 mile drive takes you through the entire conservation area. Stop at Calico II to see the vibrant red sandstone rocks.

Bring grippy hiking shoes for the 2.2 mile hike on the Calico Tanks Trail . This fun, interactive hike requires a bit of scrambling to get to the viewpoint of the Las Vegas strip. So cool!

You’ll actually need a timed entry reservation to see the conservation area from October through May, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance! If you can’t grab a spot, consider booking a Red Rock Canyon hiking tour which includes park entry.

Of course, come prepared with enough water and high protein snacks. If you’re hiking be sure to bring the 10 essentials and a satellite communicator in case of emergency.

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

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2. Valley of Fire State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 56 miles / 48 minutes

Valley of Fire is a famous Nevada State Park, and a nature preserve area known for its breathtaking red sandstone and rock formations. It consists of 40,000 acres of Aztec sandstone.

Prehistoric remnants and unparalleled vistas are intertwined among the valley’s red rocks. There are also ancient petroglyphs that were carved into the Aztec Sandstone rock formations. These spectacular rock formations are best viewed on a sunny day, and every sunset, they illuminate the valley, making it appear they’re on fire.

There are several outdoor activities that you can do in the Valley of Fire. The park offers a short hike for you to survey the area’s scenic views.

As you explore the site, take advantage of these fascinating rock formations like the Valley of Fire Beehives, Atlatl Rock, Elephant Rock and the Fire Wave. They will surely leave you speechless in their beauty.

You can stay overnight in the Valley of Fire; various campgrounds located near this famous spot for camping enthusiasts. And reservations in advance are required, check the  park’s website  for more details.

Valley of Fire is approximately 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas; it would take you about 1 hour to get there by car. Take the I-15 north for about 35 to 40 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Head east toward the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead from Exit 75. The West Entrance Station is located in the Valley of Fire, about 17 miles away.

The best time to visit the park is in October and April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant during this period, while they are extremely hot during the summer. The park is open from sunrise until sunset.

Recommended by Christine of Guide To Daytrips

3. Kanarra Falls

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 33 minutes

At just 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, Kanarra Falls is the perfect day trip for adventure lovers. Grab your hiking boots and trekking poles and head off to this amazing slot canyon.

After arriving at the trailhead you’ll see a small restroom and ticket counter. They only allow 150 hikers a day, so it’s strongly recommended that you reserve your tickets online before arriving as no more tickets are sold on-site once the limit is reached. 

The hike itself is a moderate 3.8-mile hike directly through an epic slot canyon. Be prepared to get wet as the majority of the hike will have you walking through ankle-deep water (sometimes higher).

After about 1.6 miles you’ll see your first waterfall. If you choose to continue up the ladder, you’ll find the second waterfall about 0.3 miles later.

It will surely be a hike you won’t soon forget. Kanarra Falls is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

4. Lake Mead

Distance from Las Vegas: 31 miles / 36 minutes

Lake Mead is a wonderful afternoon or a day escape from the bustling city of Las Vegas! Located less than an hour outside of Las Vegas in Boulder, Nevada, visitors to Lake Mead are greeted with a surplus of outdoor activities sure to provide an outdoor recharge. 

For Lake Mead day trips Las Vegas, it’s recommended to drive so that visitors have flexibility to explore different parts of this natural preserve throughout the afternoon.  

Enjoy hiking, navigating slot canyons, swimming and boating at Lake Mead.  Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, and that swimming and boating beaches are separated. 

More of a relaxed afternoon can be spent driving to one of the many pull out parking spots to enjoy some views with a picnic lunch. Most of the pull out parking spots include a bathroom house.  

Visiting outside of summer months is most recommended as the Mojave Desert can heat up to 120 degrees fahrenheit during this time of year.  

A huge plus is that the natural preserve accepts the Annual National Parks Pass . Without the pass, entrance is $30 per vehicle. 

Recommended by Alyssa of An Apple a Plane

5. Zion National Park (a favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 41 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is visiting Zion National Park in Utah. Just over 2.5 hours from Vegas, Zion offers incredible views and adventures you’ll love.

The perfect Zion itinerary for one day is to take the shuttle into the Zion Scenic Drive to see the impressive canyon. If you’re up for adventure, hike The Narrows.

The Narrows is the popular hike where the canyon narrows and you can walk through the Virgin River (up to 10 miles round trip) to see the massive canyon up close as it closes in. Be sure to bring water shoes and hiking sticks for The Narrows.

Alternatively, you could get crazy awesome views on the Canyon Overlook Trail . It’s just one mile round trip, offering wide open views of the canyon with less effort.

Grab lunch or ice cream at the Zion Lodge or in Springdale, just outside the park. Or, pack a picnic and enjoy the views of the canyon! Regardless of if you’re solo, as a couple, with friends or visiting Zion with kids , it’s a fabulous adventure and perfect day trip from Las Vegas.

Just be sure to take the right hiking essentials when visiting in Zion, like good hiking shoes and plenty of water!

Note: if you’re based in or near Vegas and have or rent an RV, check out this RV road trip guide that details the road trip from Vegas to Zion then the Grand Canyon. What a fun adventure!

6. Hoover Dam

Distance from Las Vegas: 37 miles / 39 minutes

Hoover Dam from Las Vegas is a short drive, and one of the best ways to spend a day away from the city. You can rent a car and drive yourself or take a tour from Vegas . See the historic Hoover Dam, which was completed in 1936.

As a visitor to the Hoover Dam, you can park for free and walk to the viewpoint on both the Nevada and Arizona Sides. The Nevada side you can see the front of the dam. On the Arizona side, you’ll see the Colorado River and the back side of the dam.

The visitor center has information on the history and architecture of the dam. If you rent a car and drive yourself, the parking lot closest to the entrance is $10 to park, or you can walk the 0.7 miles from the free parking to get there.

One of the best ways to learn about the dam’s construction is through a Power Plant Tour. You’ll actually get to go down into the dam to see how it works!

At the time of publication, you can purchase a Guided Power Plant Tour online but not a Guided Dam Tour so if you want the most in-depth tour of the dam, you’ll need to get there early to get a tour, because it’s first come, first serve and sells out quickly.

Book it now: Hoover Dam tour from Vegas

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

7. Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter

Distance from Las Vegas: 45 minutes (flight time)

Enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon without all the driving! Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas are a very efficient way to see the 4th most visited national park in the USA !

While driving to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas (see #14 below) allows you to hike and see the South Rim, a helicopter tour allows you to land inside the canyon, thousands of feet below the rim.

After a 45-minute helicopter ride from Las Vegas , feel extra bougie as you toast champagne on a bluff from within the canyon. Soak in the incredible views of the massive canyon you’re standing inside of! What a bucket list experience!

Book it now: helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Vegas

More things do do near Las Vegas

Outside of the city but comfortable enough to do in a day, here are more ideas for ya. There’s so much to see in the area!

8. Emerald Cave kayaking (one of the most fun things to do outside of Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 55 miles / 58 minutes

Kayaking in the Emerald Cave is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas strip. The cave is located in the Lake Mead Recreation Area, along a calm section of the Colorado River.

Your journey to the caves will include a relaxing kayak ride along the Colorado River. The surrounding hills and cliff walls are awe-inspiring as they tower above you. 

Along the way, you can also go ashore and take a number of short hikes for a better view of the river and rock walls. These hikes will also give you a chance to see the unique flora and fauna of the area. 

The Emerald Cave itself will often get crowded, and only a few kayaks can enter at a time. The cave is shallow, giving you a chance to enter, take pictures, and then exit again within a few minutes time. 

Within the cave, you’ll see a green glowing light reflecting off of the water and onto the cave walls. This green glow is where the Emerald Cave gets its name. The best time of year to see the full emerald effect is to go in summer on a sunny day. 

To reach the caves, you can drive to Lake Mead Recreation Area and rent a kayak there, or book a half-day tour , which includes hotel pickup and drop-off services from Las Vegas. For your trip, it helps to bring the right gear , including a good backpack and water shoes . 

The tour will provide you with guidance and instruction along the way, so it’s a great option if you’re newer to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area. 

Kayaking the Emerald Cave is one of the best Lake Mead Day Trips from Las Vegas!

Book it now: Emerald Cave kayaking

Recommended by Merry of Virginia Vacation Guide

9. Mojave National Preserve

Distance from Las Vegas: 68 miles / 1 hour, 9 minutes

If you’re looking for a way to get away from Las Vegas but want somewhere with few crowds, then consider making a visit to Mojave National Preserve. In just an hour’s drive on Interstate 15 from the big city, you’ll find hiking trails, caves, and much more to explore.

First, head to Cima Road, which is home to more Joshua Trees than you’ll even be able to find within the namesake national park. These are rare trees, only growing within certain parts of the southwest.

Another one of the best things to do is to visit the Kelso Dunes. These beautiful sand dunes offer viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to stand on top of the tallest dune.

The Lava Tubes Trail offers a short hike and a unique experience in a cave. There aren’t many places where you’re able to climb directly into the tube, so this one shouldn’t be missed!

Other fun activities include seeing the cinder cones along Aiken Mine Road, hiking the Teutonia Peak Trail, and visiting the Mojave Desert Mailbox. Because you’ll be in the desert, be sure to dress comfortably to stay cool while you’re out exploring.

It’s also nice to have a high-clearance vehicle for the visit, as some roads can be pretty rough. Also, be sure to check the status of the roads, because wintertime may bring snow and poor weather conditions.

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

10. UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains

Distance from Las Vegas: 25 miles / 49 minutes

Get ready for an epic adventure in Prime Valley and Hidden Valley at the McCullough Mountain Range, Nevada . This is one of the most fun day trips from Las Vegas if you’e looking for an adrenaline-filled time!

This half day UTV excursion takes you through fun, rugged desert terrain just outside of Las Vegas. You’ll get to see Hidden Valley National Monument during your excursion.

An excursion like this was one of the most fun things to do in Aruba , and I think you’ll agree it’s an awesome day trip from Vegas , too. Drivers must be 16 or older, and each UTV is fit for 2 people. Kids as young as 12 can ride with an adult, so it’s great for families with older kids, too.

Pro tip: wear clothes you can get dirty and closed toes shoes.

Pack anything you don’t want to get dirty in a dry bag with a strap and tie it down. That prevents dirt from penetrating a backpack for other cloth bag. This is the dry bag I used while UTVing and it worked great! Don’t forget to take extra water in reusable water bottles , too.

Book it now: UTV adventure near Vegas

11. Death Valley National Park (one of the best places to visit near Las Vegas for scenery)

Distance from Las Vegas: 110 miles / 1 hour, 55 minutes

Death Valley is one of the best national parks in California and a perfect day trips from Las Vegas if you are looking to escape the crowds and explore the stunning landscapes of the Mojave Desert. 

Although summers bring triple-digit temperatures to Death Valley, winter has a mild sunny weather with no snow, except for high altitudes. 

You can get to Death Valley by taking a guided tour from Las Vegas that includes major highlights of the national park or renting a car in Las Vegas . If you rent a car, you will have more freedom exploring this vast area and also enjoy stargazing at night since Death Valley boasts incredible dark skies free of light pollution.

The park has many hikes like Golden Canyon, overlooks and is also home to the lowest point in North America, Bad Water Basin, that sits at 282 feet below sea level. Since Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states, prepare to drive longer distances, as some points of the interest are as far as 50 minutes away from one another.

Book it now: Death Valley tours from Las Vegas

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

12. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 24 miles / 27 minutes

Some of the oldest buildings in Nevada lie right next to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area at the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This historic ranch is a fun little day trip from Las Vegas , where you can tour old buildings like a blacksmith shop and sandstone cabin.

Nestled in a picturesque setting, it’s a lesser-known attraction in the Las Vegas area , so you’ll really be able to escape the crowds. Pack a picnic and enjoy the outdoors. The best time to visit this state park is October through May.

The Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a great spot for beginner hikers or families and pets, too. Hike the Spring Mountain Ranch Loop trial, at just 1.5 miles and flat, it’s an easy trail for nearly any skill level.

Hours change seasonally so check before you go at the Spring Mountain Ranch website .

13. Seven Magic Mountains

Distance from Las Vegas: 26 miles / 27 minutes

A fun experience close to Las Vegas is the Seven Magic Mountains . These colorful stacked boulders are an art instillation that took social media by storm in 2016, thousands of visitors come to the Seven Magic Mountains annually.

It’s a free, short day trip from Las Vegas, and one worth visiting if you’re looking for something low-key to do in the area. And bonus – no extra hiking gear or picnic supplies required.😊 It’s perfect for when you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids !

Created by artist Ugo Rondinone and supported by the Nevada Museum of Art  and  Art Production Fund , this is a free attraction although donations are always welcome! Take as many photos as you desire, but please don’t damage the boulders.

Pro tip: If you want great photos with fewer people, come early in the day – just after sunrise – to avoid crowds. Also check out this guide for more free things to do in Las Vegas .

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the best things to do outside of Vegas that doesn’t take a lot of time, either.

Full day trips from Las Vegas

With 3+ hours of driving each way, these are the best day trips from Las Vegas that make a long day, but totally worth the effort! Of course if you have more time, these destinations would make great weekend trips from Las Vegas, too.

14. South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 279 miles / 4 hours, 22 minutes

If you’re looking to escape the intenseness of Las Vegas for a day and want to spend some time surrounded by incredible scenery you’ll never forget, head to  the Grand Canyon South Rim .

The Grand Canyon is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders of the world and offers absolutely stunning views. The South Rim in particular is considered to be the best part with its really expansive views and is truly a sight to see.

There are many unique hikes and viewpoints such as Mather Point that you can visit at The South Rim – but note that the weather and temperature can change suddenly here so make sure to bring plenty of layers and be prepared for any weather. Woolx Merino wool layers work perfect for any season and are perfect for the Grand Canyon.

Drive time to Grand Canyon South Rim is just over 4 hours each way from Las Vegas so it’s a long day but it is definitely worth it! You can rent a car and drive yourself, or if you’d prefer someone else to do the driving you can book a Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas on a bus.

The day trips are usually around 15 hours long, starting at around 6 or 7am, and cost under $100 so good value for money! It’s best to book a Grand Canyon tour in advance as it is a popular day trip from Vegas!

Not only is The Grand Canyon one of the best day trips from Las Vegas, but the route to get there is really interesting too as you’ll get to drive along the famous Route 66!

Book it now: Grand Canyon bus tour from Vegas

Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

15. Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles / 4 hours, 23 minutes

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most photographed sites along the Colorado River and a fantastic excursion for those traveling from Las Vegas.

While on the far end for a day trip, Horseshoe Bend is about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas. Located in Page Arizona, the iconic feature is a must-do for those traveling through the southwest. 

Horseshoe Bend, part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is one  top things to do in Page Arizona .  It can be done as a stop along with other activities in the area.

The trail and parking for Horseshoe Bend is managed by the city of Page, and doesn’t take any National Park or other park passes for entrance to the site. Parking for Horseshoe Bend is $10 and the site is open from sunrise to sunset daily.

For those visiting the site, the hike requires about 1.5 miles (out and back) to reach the viewpoint for the bend. There’s a small platform located at the end of the trail.

However, be sure to continue on past the viewpoint along the slick stones and you’ll be treated to some great other views of the bend without as many tourists around. You can even climb the small hill to get a better overlook of the site. 

Beyond Horseshoe Bend, there’s plenty of other things around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Visit to the nearby Glen Canyon Bridge and Dam is worth a quick excursion. Visitors can view the amazing engineering feats of creating both the bridge and dam in this part of the river.

There’s also great hiking nearby such as the Hanging Gardens Hike, the Chains, and The “New Wave” which is a lovely banded sandstone area close to the glen canyon dam. 

Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door

16. Bryce Canyon National Park (one of the most epic day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 259 miles / 4 hours, 3 minutes

You’ll want to get up early for this one! As a day trip, this is doable but a pretty long day. It would make a great weekend trip from Las Vegas, too.

Anyway, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the famous hoodoos, which are irregularly shaped rock spires. Witness the unique beauty of this landscape from Bryce Point or Inspiration Point.

If you’re up for hiking, try the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop , which is a fun, interactive trail. It’s 3.1 miles and rated as moderate, you’ll weave through hoodoos and witness the bright orange and red rocks up close.

Have a picnic at Sunset Point or enjoy the views at Sunrise Point, too. You can see all the Bryce Canyon National Park highlights in just one day!

17. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 186 miles / 3 hours, 8 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is a day in Joshua Tree . It takes about 3 hours to drive from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park, but it is worth the drive and a great way to escape the city.

Joshua Tree is best during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. In the summer, the park gets very hot, and in the winter it’s cold. However, if you’re taking a day trip in the winter, you will still experience the warmest part of the day in winter.

While in Joshua Tree, take the quick hike to Arch Rock, drive down Queen Valley Road, visit the Cholla Cactus Garden, and, of course, see all the Joshua Trees. One of the best places to find a high concentration of Joshua Trees is along Queen Valley Road or on Park Boulevard from the West Entrance Station.

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

18. Antelope Canyon (a popular tour from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 278 miles / 4 hours, 32 minutes

Las Vegas is such a fun city to explore but many people don’t realize there are amazing places to visit outside of Las Vegas. Antelope Canyon is a popular slot canyon in Page, Arizona.

The canyon is full of beautiful Navajo Sandstone that makes for some of the most stunning views you’ll find. Getting to escape from the concrete jungle of Las Vegas is a great way to refresh and enjoy some time away from the city.

If you’re planning on visiting Antelope Canyon, there are a few things you must know.

The canyon is on Navajo land and is restricted to tours by Navajo tour guides and tours are required to visit. You’ll want to book in advance to ensure you can get a tour. If you find that Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are booked, look into tours of Antelope Canyon X .

May to October get really busy, the earlier you book your tour , the better.

To do Antelope Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas, follow I-15 North through Saint George, Utah. Then take UT-9 to Hwy 59 towards Kanab, UT, where you’ll get on the US-89 East to Lake Powell and Page, Arizona. The drive is a little long, but it makes for a great adventure to one of the most beautiful slot canyons you can find!

Book it now: Antelope Canyon tour from Las Vegas

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

19. Palm Springs

Distance from Las Vegas: 231 miles / 4 hours, 9 minutes

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive, taking a day trip from Las Vegas to Palm Springs is an ideal way to add some fun and adventure to your travels. Though it’s situated about 4 hours away, there are so many ways to spend one day in Palm Springs !

You can explore the iconic downtown area, which features boutique shops, hip galleries, and tasty restaurants. Or, check out the original retro architecture on residential homes and hotels.

Outdoor lovers can venture out for a day hike at one of the many trails, such as Tahquitz Canyon. One can’t-miss activity for any first time visitor is the famous Palm Springs aerial tramway, which takes you up the nearby San Jacinto Mountains for panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

With so much natural beauty to explore, it’s no wonder why Palm Springs has become such a popular getaway spot for travelers from Las Vegas.

Be aware that summer is a tough time for hiking and strenuous activity in the California desert. If visiting in the summer months, I would recommend visiting one of the many pool and mineral springresorts. 

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth 

20. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 240 miles / 3 hours, 41 minutes

Did you know there are actually 2 Red Rock Canyons to escape to as a day trip from Las Vegas?

Not to be confused with the National Conservation Area just a few minutes outside of Vegas,  Red Rock Canyon State Park  is a 3.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. While it’s a long drive for a day trip, it’s doable starting before sunrise and driving back at sunset.

Located in Cantil, California, Red Rock Canyon State Park is part of the Mojave Desert. Once you’re there, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Joshua Trees and get a breathtaking view of sandstone cliffs as far as the eye can see.

Enjoy activities such as rock climbing, picnicking, easy nature walks, as well as beginner canyoneering. Best of all, you won’t find huge crowds here, so enjoy the peaceful escape from the city.

Recommended by Cassie of Cassie’s Compass

21. Grand Staircase Escalante (another favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 213 miles / 3 hours, 26 minutes

Grand Staircase Escalante is a fun and unique day trip from Las Vegas. If you’re looking to hike some really cool slot canyons, Grand Staircase is the place to do it.

A 3.5 hour drive from Vegas, there are a  few different slot canyons  located within Grand Staircase Escalante to visit. One of the most famous is Zebra Slot Canyon, a canyon that has stripes along the wall making it look like the stripes on a zebra!

Besides hiking the slot canyons in the area, there are plenty of other amazing trails to hike in this area. To get to Grand Staircase Escalante, head northeast on I-15 towards St. George, once in St. George depending on where you want to go in Grand Staircase either head towards Kanab or head towards Bryce Canyon.

The roads inside of Grand Staircase aren’t paved and a lot of the roads require you to have a 4×4 vehicle. Make sure to always check with the visitor centers nearby in Kanab and Escalante before heading out to make sure the weather and roads are safe for exploring.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

22. Alabama Hills (one of the most scenic things to do near Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 246 miles / 4 hours, 13 minutes

Alabama Hills, California is an underrated destination that’s gained in popularity over the last decade or so. A long day trip from Las Vegas, it can be done in a single day with an early morning and late night, or better yet, as a weekend getaway from Las Vegas!

With expansive views of these smooth rocky formations, there’s quite a bit to see and do in Alabama Hills. Movie Road is aptly named based on the volume of films that have been shot here. Drive down it and recognize scenes from Iron Man and Gladiator, just to name a few.

There’s plenty of hiking opportunities in Alabama Hills , too. Grab your hiking shoes and head to the famous Mobius Arch, coming in at less than one mile. Or explore views of the snow-capped mountains on the Upper Alabama Hills Trail to Cyclops Skull Arch .

Best day trips from Las Vegas

Well, that’s a wrap! The area surrounding Las Vegas is full of fun and activities for all ages. Whether you’ve got just one day trip from Vegas or have a few days to explore the area, you’ll find something amazing to do with your time!

Let’s take a look at those adventures again, in a quick list…

Places to visit near Las Vegas

• Red Rock Canyon
• Valley of Fire State Park
• Kanarra Falls
• Zion National Park
• Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter
• Emerald Cave kayaking
• Mojave National Preserve
• UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains
• Death Valley National Park
• Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
• Seven Magic Mountains
• South Rim of the Grand Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Antelope Canyon
• Palm Springs
• Red Rock Canyon State Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante
• Alabama Hills

Related content you might like: 20 BIG Adventure Vacations in the US Not to Miss 28 Absolutely Best National Parks to Visit in Summer 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the United States You’ll Love

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share on social media!

wanderwithbelle

Sunday 29th of January 2023

I love Vegas and have been there a numerous of times!! Thanks for sharing these great tips.

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Welcome Belle. Thanks for your comment and visiting the blog! :)

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Vegas itself isn't really on my list of places to visit, but I'd love to do all of these daytrips!

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

Agreed! Every time I go to Vegas, I leave Vegas 🤣

Saturday 17th of December 2022

I am not a big fan of Las Vegas so I love the idea of trying some of these road trips on the next time I attend a conference in Nevada. I love the rugged landscape.

Monday 19th of December 2022

Same, same Terri! Each time I visit Vegas I have to get out 🤣 Have fun on your next non-Vegas adventure!

Interesting read. Emerald cave kayaking looks so relaxing.

Totally agree, Anukrati! I hope you get to try it sometime.

Friday 16th of December 2022

Some great ideas here, and some wonderful photos too!

Glad you found this helpful :)

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TravelAwaits

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

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

Cindy Barks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some great stops along the way.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valley Of Fire State Park

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

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

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

Traveller70 / Shutterstock

Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge

After backtracking a bit to get onto Highway 93, you will soon arrive at the green, leafy oasis of the Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge . If you’re ready for a night of camping, the refuge has 15 primitive lakeside campsites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The pretty lake also offers hiking, boating, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities, worthy of either a quick stop to stretch your legs or an overnight camping opportunity, depending on your interests.

Alamo, Ash Springs, And Crystal Springs

Over the next 30 miles or so, you will pass through several small communities that offer handy places to stock up on snacks and lunch supplies, as well as to fill up your gas tank.

Pro Tip: Because of the long distances and relatively remote roads, I recommend that you fill up whenever you can on Highway 93. In Alamo, a handy Sinclair gas station and well-stocked Great Basin Foods grocery store are conveniently located right along the highway. It’s a great place to make sure you have plenty of water, ice, beverages, and fuel for the coming drive.

Extraterrestrial Highway

If you’re up for an extraterrestrial experience, plan to take a detour west onto the Extraterrestrial Highway (Route 375), where you’ll run adjacent to the Nevada Test and Training Range, which includes the notorious Area 51.

The Travel Nevada website cautions that although spots along the highway are great for photo opportunities, Area 51 is not a tourist attraction. “As a part of an active military base, it is patrolled and guarded by some of the heaviest security on Earth or anywhere else,” says the description of Area 51. “Be sure to obey all posted signs and don’t even think about trespassing.”

Even if you don’t plan to take the 150-mile detour from Crystal Springs to Tonopah, you can still stop at the E.T. Fresh Jerky shop along Highway 93 in Crystal Springs before continuing north.

Upon driving into the small town of Caliente , your attention will immediately be drawn to the long white Spanish-style train depot that sits alongside the town’s railroad switching yard. It is a beautiful retro building and a great place for your first stop in this resort town that boasts hot springs, a quaint downtown, and a burgeoning mountain-biking scene.

The train depot is considered Caliente’s crown jewel, and the building once included a restaurant and 50-room hotel. Today, it serves as the town offices, and also features a Boxcar Museum.

Plan to spend a few hours exploring Caliente and lunching in a downtown eatery such as the cute Side Track restaurant and bar. If you are ready for an overnight stop, check out the Caliente Hot Springs Motel and Spa , which pipes 104-degree mineral water into the baths in six of the 18 rooms.

Cathedral Gorge State Park

Near the town of Panaca is a Nevada State Parks visitor center that features information about the five state parks located in close proximity. I suggest visiting at least one of the parks — my favorite was Cathedral Gorge State Park .

With its chalky-white hoodoos, cliffs, and slot canyons, the park offers an otherworldly sightseeing and hiking experience. Plan to spend a few hours wandering through the park. Check out the hike here .

Known as “Nevada’s liveliest ghost town,” Pioche offers a look back at the wild mining days that helped give Nevada its reputation as the Silver State. Dating back to the 1870s, Pioche had a reputation as a lawless mining town, and at one time, it was one of the largest silver districts in the United States.

Today, visitors can delve into the mining culture at the Lincoln County Historical Museum , the “Million-Dollar Courthouse,” and a row of rustic bars and restaurants. Pioche is a good stopping-off spot for lunch and a refreshing drink, as well as an hour or two of sightseeing.

With a population of fewer than 100 people, Baker is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it towns. Even so, it has a few wonderful features as the gateway to Great Basin National Park.

Not only will you find the informative national park visitor center in Baker, but the town also features a bustling little hotel/restaurant complex right on its main street. The town’s Stargazer Inn features spacious rooms and a rustic setting complete with a beautiful garden and courtyard. And right next door is Kerouac’s Restaurant , billed as a tribute to life on the American road. What could be a better stop on an epic road trip? I loved the Stargazer’s comfortable rooms and the ability to order food in the restaurant and dine at a courtyard table right outside my room — a very convenient option after a day of hiking the trails of Great Basin.

Great Basin National Park

With its gorgeous snow-tipped peaks, crystalline alpine lakes, and gnarly old bristlecone trees, it’s hard to understand why Great Basin National Park is one of the least-visited national parks in the country.

I can only chalk it up to the remote location — it’s certainly a haul to get to the park, which lies along Nevada’s eastern edge not far from the Utah border. The low visitation works in your favor, though, with relatively few crowds and traffic-jam-free driving.

Once you arrive at the park, the 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is a not-to-be-missed experience. The park website’s poetic description of the road does not exaggerate: “A true mountain road, the scenic drive hugs the mountains of the South Snake Range, slowly winding you to a point above all others, where vistas reach the horizon, and one is met with a pristine view of the rugged, harsh, yet surprisingly beautiful Great Basin Desert.” Note that the upper portion of the scenic drive is open only from about June through October.

Many hikes are available — the best of which can be found at the trailhead near the Wheeler Peak Campground. For a good taste of the park, consider hiking the Alpine Lakes Loop Trail, the Bristlecone Trail (both moderate, with routes in the 2- to 3- mile range), and the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail, which is a strenuous hike of 8.6 miles and a 2,900-foot elevation gain. Another feature to check out is the Lehman Caves Tours .

Pro Tip: Great Basin has been designated an International Dark-Sky Park and is considered one of the best spots around for stargazing . In the park, the Mather Overlook is a great place to look skyward. In lower elevations, head to the Baker Archaeological Site near Baker.

Cindy Barks is an Arizona-based newspaper reporter, freelance travel writer, and travel blogger. Her blog, NearandFarAZ gives readers an insider's view of the wonders of the U.S. Southwest, and a traveler's take on far-off locales from Panama to Hong Kong to the Czech Republic. Regardless of the destination, her goal is to find the perfect scenic hike, city walk, beach stroll, or road-trip jaunt, and bring it to life in her blog. Cindy's articles about outdoor adventures have appeared in numerous regional and national publications.

7 Epic Road Trips From Las Vegas to National Parks

Las Vegas might just be the most perfect fly and drive road trip city. Let’s face it – U.S. employers aren’t known for having the most generous vacation plans in the world. This causes serious time issues if you enjoy road tripping and visiting national parks west of the 100th Meridien.

However, if you fly into Vegas and road trip from there, in less than seven hours, there are seven national parks – not to mention a whole bunch of other public lands – you can visit pretty easily. Here’s how to do it.

This article contains affiliate links . That means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you book or buy something from a link I share. This keeps Southerner Says online and on the road .  Thank you for your support .

Best Road Trips From Las Vegas to National Parks

With seven national parks in close proximity to Vegas, what’s the closest national park to Las Vegas? Death Valley National Park is the closest national park to Las Vegas. It’s approximately 125 miles from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park.

Followed by Zion National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Great Basin National Park and Yosemite National Park. All are the parks are around five hours or less, with the exception of Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite is a bit further than the others but it is doable and I wanted to cover it in this road trips from Las Vegas to national parks list since the route via Highway 395 North and across the Tioga Pass into the park is one of the most underappreciated drives in the United States. If you know, you know.

For convenience, I’ve included a map of the road trip routes as well. In the cases where several route options are available, I’ve highlighted my preferred route on the map. Note: You could also visit Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park from Las Vegas. It’s not included on this list because I have not personally road tripped it from Vegas. I have only visited from Los Angeles.

To use this map, click on the icon on the left hand side of the title to see the map layers. Check or uncheck whichever layer you want to see or don’t want to see. You can also add the map to you own Google account by highlighting the faint star to the right of the title. .

Why Plan Road Trips From Las Vegas

There are several reasons why planning road trips from Las Vegas to national parks is ideal. First, getting to Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is easy.

Most cities in the United States are no more than a three hour flight away. And if you fly from the east coast, you even get a couple of extra hours of time difference at the beginning of your trip. An early flight from the east coast and you can begin your road trip the same day.

Next, the airport is in an excellent location. If you are someone that’s not really a fan of Vegas, you could fly for your road trip and never even go to the strip if you didn’t want to. Or if you enjoy Las Vegas then spend a few days enjoying the Vegas sights and then head out.

Overnighting near the airport, or in nearby Henderson, Boulder City or even Mesquite, depending which direction your are headed, is a good way to start your road trips from Las Vegas to National Parks. I like the Hyatt Place at Silverton , the Courtyard by Marriott at Green Valley Ranch (great area) and the Fairfield Inn right by the airport.

Third, although it can be hot, the weather is Vegas is just about always perfect. That means no snow and very little rain or thunderstorms which equals fewer weather delays. I’ve been traveling to Vegas at least once a year since 2007 and I’ve only ever experienced one weather delay. (Two now after 2023’s El Niño year)

Finally, rental cars are generally always available in Las Vegas and they are pretty affordable. Prices are usually a fraction of the cost in other cities. DiscoverCars.com provides 24/7 customer service and no hidden fees. You can use them to compare prices and the right vehicle for you.

Now that you know all the advantages of planning road trips from Las Vegas to national parks: which park will you choose to visit first?

What Are the Best Road Trips From Las Vegas to National Parks?

There aren’t too many places in the United States with access to so many public lands, national parks, state parks, Forest Service Land and Bureau of Land Management property, Nevada really comes through. In fact, it’s estimated that almost 88% of Nevada is federal or public land.

Besides what’s mentioned in this article, there are other park sites close to Las Vegas like Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, just a few miles from the Vegas strip and Lake Mead National Recreation Area located in nearby Boulder City . Plus, conservation areas and don’t miss state parks like Valley of Fire .

For simplicity, this article is about parks that have been given national park designation and these road trips from Las Vegas to national parks are the easiest to execute. Note: you could also visit Sequoia Kings Canyon fairly easily from Las Vegas and even though I have visited those parks, I have not visited from Las Vegas.

Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park

Park Alert: Death Valley National Park suffered major damage in August of 2023 when they received a year’s worth of rainfall in several hours. Secondary roads were washed away and Hwy 190, the major route through the park from California to Nevada, was damaged. The park is open but check nps.gov/deva for updates or any road closures.

Located on the border of Nevada and California, Death Valley National Park is one of those parks that everyone should visit at least once. Not only because it’s the lowest and hottest place in North America but because it’s stunning and stark and is full of otherworldly features you can’t see anywhere else in the United States.

Planning a road trip from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park is easy and as long as you are well prepared you can go just about anytime. It’s a good itinerary for families and solo travelers too. If you happen to be in Las Vegas on business or for a conference, it also can be done as a day trip or with an organized tour.

Best Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Death Valley

There are several ways to get to Death Valley National Park from Las Vegas. One of the best ways is through Beatty , Nevada, which in itself is a fun little road trip stop. Beatty prides itself on being the the gateway to Death Valley and is only seven miles from the entrance.

Additionally, from Las Vegas, you could drive through Pahrump, Nevada to Death Valley Junction before entering the park. This scenic route from Las Vegas crosses through the Spring Mountain Recreation Area with opportunities for additional stops along the way. Pahrump even has a few wineries you could add to the itinerary.

Things To Do in Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is full of amazing experiences. Everywhere you look is something unique. Some of the most impressive features include Dante’s View, Badwater Basin and my favorite, Ubehebe Crater.

Since Death Valley is a large park, many of the roads are unpaved and require high clearance vehicles and, at times, four-wheel drive. But don’t let that discourage you. There are still plenty of things to do to keep you busy even in a passenger car.

Where to Stay in Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park has three hotels in the park. The swanky Inn at Death Valley and the more moderately priced Ranch at Death Valley are both part of the Oasis at Death Valley, a planned resort offering amenities like restaurants, swimming pools and even a golf course in the desert.

And Stovepipe Wells offers hotel rooms in a more laid back, historic village setting with a restaurant, gas station and a general store.

For those who prefer to sleep under the stars, Death Valley National Park has twelve campgrounds in the park. Furnace Creek Campground is the best bet because it’s open year round. Just keep in mind that if you are tent camping, it takes a while for the desert to cool down at night.

For lodging outside the park, the small town of Beatty , just 7 miles from the eastern entrance has a few lodging options , good barbeque and friendly wild burros roaming around town.

How Much Time Do You Need in Death Valley National Park?

To see the top things in Death Valley National Par, you’ll need at least a couple of days to hit the highlights and more if you plan on driving some of the unpaved roads and canyons.

If you have a week, then combine a Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park road trip with a visit to Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave Preserve for a fun desert loop. There are so many options for extending your road trips from Las Vegas to National Parks itineraries.

When’s the Best Time to Road Trip to Death Valley National Park?

Death Valley National Park is open year round. Peak season is December through April and a typical wildflower season in late March, April and May.

Even though it’s hot in the summer, with careful and thorough planning, you can still visit. Just keep in mind that late summer months are also monsoon and that means rains.

Autumn in Death Valley can still mean high temperatures. My first visit was in the middle of October and temps hovered around 116F during the three days I was there.

For the least amount of crowds and lower temps, November is one of the best times of the year to visit Death Valley National Park.

Las Vegas to Zion National Park

• 2 hours 45 minutes

As you approach Zion National Park , Utah’s first national park, it doesn’t take long to realize why it’s one of the most popular parks in the national park system. The introduction to this park is like no other. The drive in is full of towering red, pink and creamy colored sandstone cliffs all around and the renowned emerald colored Virgin River runs along side the main road into the park.

It’s also unique that instead of being above the canyon looking down. Like at the Grand Canyon and many other parks, you are actually inside the canyon or Zion Canyon, and surrounded by the cliffs and peaks.

Best Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Zion National Park

One of the things that makes Zion a good road trip option from Las Vegas is the ease of getting there. Most of drive is roomy interstate driving and only secondary roads for the last 30 or so miles unto you reach Springdale, Utah, the gateway city to Zion.

Of course, you could drive secondary roads once you get to Utah, but the I-15 route carved through the mountains is the only direct into Utah route coming from southern Nevada.

The drive from Las Vegas to Zion is so easy that once you exit the interstate in Utah, you’ll feel like you’re practically there. The drive takes no time as the last 25 miles or so passes thorough several cute small towns and some of prettiest vibrant colored landscapes that approach a national park.

Things To Do in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is the only park on this list where visitors are required to ride a shuttle into the main section of the park called Zion Canyon. The most popular hikes like Angel’s Landing (permit required) and the Narrows are located in the canyon.

I do want to mention that even though I fully believe everyone needs to see Zion Canyon via the shuttle, it’s not absolutely necessary to enjoy the park. You still get awesome views from just about anywhere.

Plus, there are several really fun hikes – that are way less crowded – outside Zion Canyon. The Pa’rus Trail, the East Rim trail and the Many Pools Trail are just a few good hikes that don’t require a shuttle ride.

If you are visiting Zion in the busiest months of spring and summer, then use these tips to avoid the crowds in Zion National Park.

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Because it’s so close to Springdale, Zion National Park has plenty of options for places to stay. The surrounding area, as well as the east side of Zion, has an abundance of hotels, ranches, private campgrounds and BLM land offering dispersed camping.

Inside the park, there’s a lodge and three campgrounds run by the park service. Lava Point is another campground located in the more obscure Kolob Terrace.

Watchman Campground, inside the Zion Canyon is open all year and South Campground, also inside the park, is closed in winter. Reservations for all park campgrounds can be made at recreation.gov.

For a glamping experience, one of my favorite properties near Zion is Zion Wildflower Resort , located in Virgin, just a few miles from the park.

The resort takes advantage of its perfect setting and views near Zion, offering cozy cabins and covered wagons, complete with outdoor community spaces for campfires and relaxing hammocks around the property.

How Much Time Do You Need in Zion National Park?

If you don’t have much time or are headed to another park or public land in southern Utah, it’s possible to drive through Zion on a day trip. To really see all the park and the most popular sights, at least two days is necessary and three days would be best.

Especially if you visit in the warmer spring and summer months when the park is crowded. That way you can take your time and not feel rushed.

When’s the Best Time to Road Trip to Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is open year round. April through October are considered peak season. So late fall is a good time even though at the higher elevation, Zion can get quite cold and even have snow.

One other benefit besides less people in winter is that there’s no shuttle. Typically, the end of November and December, excluding holidays, there’s no shuttle service in the park. That means you can drive your own vehicle into Zion Canyon.

Every year, the National Park Service makes seasonal adjustments to the shuttle schedule so that date could change from year to year. Always check nps.gov for the latest info.

Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park

Visiting Joshua Tree National Park on a road trip from Las Vegas is a timeless Nevada to California road trip. Located in southern California, both families and solo travelers alike will enjoy Joshua Tree’s peaceful desert beauty and starry dark skies.

The park is full of protected Joshua trees, interesting rock formations and unique landscapes. Plus, there’s tons of opportunity to see wildlife, including the endangered desert tortoise.

Best Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park

From Las Vegas there’s a variety of ways to get to Joshua Tree National Park but the most scenic one is the 183 mile drive down Highway 95 south through Searchlight, Nevada and across Mojave National Preserve.

This drive takes you through thousands of Joshua trees before you even get to the park and includes places like historic places Goffs and Amboy , California and even a little of piece of the “mother road” – Route 66.

Things To Do in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fairly large park but the way it’s organized makes it compact enough to see a lot in a day. With preparation and caution , plenty of easy hikes makes it doable even in summer months when temperatures are the highest. Skull Rock and Keys View are year round must see’s no matter how little time you might have or how high the temps are.

For a fun visitor center experience, the National Park Service has recently collaborated with the nearby town of 29 Palms, local Native American groups and the Bureau of Land Management to construct a new visitor center. The Joshua Tree Cultural Center Information is located downtown 29 Palms and includes a bookstore, a museum with rotating exhibits and the Joshua Tree National Park store.

This area of the California desert is jampacked with outdoorsy activities. Nearby Pioneertown is a crowd pleaser for its distinctive western vibe and Palm Springs and the Salton Sea are less than two hours away.

Also, don’t miss Mojave Trails National Monument for interesting hiking and out of this world topography like lava and volcanic craters.

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree National Park

While there’s no National Park Service lodge or hotel, the high desert around Joshua Tree is full of unique and quirky properties. The Joshua Tree Ranch House and the Joshua Tree Inn are two wonderful properties. Casa de Frank is a stunner too.

For campers, Joshua Tree National Park has no shortage of places to pitch your tent. There are more than 500 campsites inside the park. My favorite campgrounds are the Jumbo Rocks campground and Hidden Valley Campground. Most of those sites can be reserved up to six months in advance via recreation.gov in high season.

How Much Time Do You Need in Joshua Tree National Park?

A Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park road trip requires at minimum an overnight stay and preferably, at least, two to three days.

Although, you could combine this road trip stop with a Las Vegas to San Diego road trip, a Las Vegas to Las Angeles road trip or a Las Vegas to Phoenix road trip. The road trip possibilities are endless and you could easily spend a week in the area.

When’s the Best Time to Road Trip to Joshua Tree National Park?

Except for late summer, Joshua Tree National Park is busy pretty all year round. Peak season is March and April and spring in general for wildflower season.

To mitigate that, the National Park Service recommends mid-week trips instead of weekends and holidays. Also try going on Monday through Thursday for less crowds.

With good planning, you can visit in the less crowded, much hotter late summer months. However, it’s imperative that you are prepared.

Have a plan, take plenty of water and limit hiking to early morning. I have been once in August and it was very hot but still enjoyable and I felt like I had the entire park to myself.

Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park

One of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, Bryce Canyon National Park is another good option for a road tripping from Las Vegas. If you aren’t familiar with it, Bryce is full of hoodoos or irregular columns of rock.

The bright orange landscape feature looks similar to Cheetos if that crunchy orange snack appeared in nature.

Hoodoos can be found around the world but Bryce Canyon National Park has the largest concentration found anywhere on earth. Long known for its special Native American connections, Bryce Canyon is a spectacular national park road trip from Las Vegas and shouldn’t be missed.

Best Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park

The best route from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park is I-15 through Springdale and Zion National Park. From Zion, Bryce is only 72 miles.

This drive takes you east of Zion to Mount Caramel Junction via Highway 89 to Bryce. In places, this route runs alongside the Little Virgin River and continues onto Utah’s Scenic Byway 12, which is one of my favorite drives in the United States.

If you don’t want to spend time in Zion National Park, then an alternative to go straight to Bryce Canyon, is continuing north on to I-15 to Cedar City, Utah and exiting the interstate there.

This route takes you through the Dixie National Park and near Cedar Breaks National Monument that could also be added to a Las Vegas to national parks road trip.

Things To Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Of course, Bryce Canyon National Park in known for its stunning views from the amphitheater and various viewpoints throughout the park, but there’s also hiking, horseback riding, ATV tours to the rim of the canyon and amazing fly fishing.

Offering an 18 mile scenic drive that’s perfect for families with children and for those that don’t get around so well anymore, Bryce is ideal. One of my favorite stops on the scenic drive is Natural Bridge.

Bryce Canyon is also close to Red Canyon , a U.S. Forest Service managed site inside the Dixie National Forest. It has its own visitor center, plenty of hiking trails, a couple of campgrounds and just absolutely stunning trails and views.

Where to Stay in Bryce Canyon National Park

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon, located inside the park, is open from April through November and there are two park service campgrounds to accommodate campers.

Reservations for the North Campground can be made through recreation.gov, seasonally, and Sunset Campground is first-come first-served April 15th through October.

The small village of Bryce Canyon City boasts several private campgrounds and hotels but for me Ruby’s Inn is the place to stay. The Syrett Family that owns Ruby’s has an interesting history in the Bryce Canon area and has been taking care of guests for over 100 years.

Ruby’s has hotel rooms at the Best Western brand but also offers lodge stays, campgrounds with RV sites, two restaurants, a general store and tours in the round-up.

How Much Time Do You Need at Bryce Canyon National Park?

You can actually do a lot in a day at Bryce but to see it at its best – sunrise and sunset in my opinion – and really get to know the surrounding area, then I recommend at least two days and three would be even better to include hikes and a ranger led program.

When’s the Best Time to Road Trip to Bryce Canyon National Park?

Bryce is open year round but the peak time is March thorough October. Just remember if you are visiting in winter or passing through, it’s possible to encounter snow in the area.

Check nps.gov and local weather for alerts and closures. Just for context, I visited in the middle of November and it was 18F at night. Too cold to camp for me.

Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park

• 4 hours 15 minutes

Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park is probably one of the most road tripped places from Las Vegas. It’s a classic and one of the Wonders of the World.

Besides the proximity to Las Vegas, one of the things that makes it easy to visit is that the park has three easily accessible national park entrances and one viewpoint area on the western side. Which one you choose to visit will depend on how much time you have and what your objective is.

Grand Canyon West is closest viewpoint from Vegas to see the canyon. This section of the canyon is owned and managed by the Hualapai people and isn’t part of Grand Canyon National Park.

Although, it does have its own unique views and is home to the famed glass Grand Canyon Skywalk that is positioned out over the canyon.

Best Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park

The easiest way to get to the Grand Canyon National Park’s south entrance from Las Vegas is via Highway 93 through Kingman, Arizona to Interstate 40 and then enter the park at the small town of Tusayan, just 7 miles from the south entrance.

This route takes you near Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Boulder City, the Hoover Dam. The road trip stops are endless.

Things To Do in Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a classic road trip destination all on its own. Mainly because I mean, it’s the Grand Canyon! This western part of the U.S. was made for vacations and road trips.

Also, there’s a variety of things to do. From the simplest things – like visiting all the viewpoints on the South Rim to more vigorous activities like hiking or riding horses down into the canyon.

Nearby, Williams and Kingman, Arizona both are on the famous Route 66. Road trippers will find an assortment of museum options, kitschy souvenir shops and historic diners dedicated to this classic cross county route.

This region of northern Arizona is also home to some of the finest national forests in the country and even other national park sites such as Walnut Canyon National Monument with its cliff dwellings, the amazing volcano at Sunset Crater National Monument and a glimpse into past civilizations at Wupatki National Monument .

Where to Stay in Grand Canyon National Park

Out of all the road trips from Las Vegas to national parks, the Grand Canyon probably has the most hotel and camping options. The park’s Grand Canyon Village at the South Rim is known for its popular and difficult to get a room in lodges.

This is also where the world famous Bright Angel Lodge is located. If you are a advance planner, then a overnight at one of these lodges would be the ultimate national park stay. For a more spontaneous trip, there’s an abundance of properties in nearby Tusayan .

The National Park Service has three campgrounds at the South Rim with the closest one being Mather Campground near the Tusayan entrance.

Additionally, there is a campground at the Desert View Campground (closed in winter) and a Trailer Village RV park run by a park concessioner. The surrounding area also has many other private campgrounds, like the family friendly, open year round KOA at Williams .

How Much Time do You Need in Grand Canyon National Park?

You could easily spend a week visiting Grand Canyon National Park and few other places in the area. Three days dedicated to the park itself should be sufficient for the casual visitor but other activities like hiking rim to rim or whitewater rafting would require more time.

When’s the Best Time to Road Trip to Grand Canyon National Park?

Grand Canyon National Park is open year round, weather permitting. Peak season is between Memorial Day and Labor Day but spring break, weekends and holidays during fall and winter are also crowded.

Because of its higher elevation, it’s not uncommon to receive some snowfall in the winter. If you happen to visit when there is snow – enjoy it. It’s unimaginably beautiful in the snow.

Las Vegas to Great Basin National Park

If you’ve only traveled around southern Nevada you might imagine the rest of state looks like the desert scenes you’re used to around Las Vegas. This couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, in some central and northern areas, Nevada is actually a very green, mountainous state.

Great Basin National Park, located in eastern central Nevada near the Utah border – is a good example of both. One of the lesser visited national parks Great Basin National Park takes some effort there but it’s so worth it to see something completely different from Las Vegas scenery.

Best Time Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Great Basin National Park

The best scenic drive to Great Basin National Park from Las Vegas is Highway 93 north through ghost towns like Crystal Springs and historic places like Caliente.

This route passes through the actual great basin of Nevada – yes, there is an actual great basin – with farms, green pastures with plenty ponds and water sources. Quite different from southern Nevada.

Things To Do in Great Basin National Park

One of the most popular things to do at Great Basin National Park is the Lehman Cave Tours. This tour is a ranger lead tour through the caves in the park that goes into the geology and the history of the park. Weather permitting, tours are offered year round but might be limited in winter due to colder temperatures. Recreation.gov has tickets that can be reserved in advance.

The 12-mile Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive is another don’t miss activity in Great Basin National Park. This auto touring route is full stops and turnouts with gorgeous views of the mountains. The road is generally open June through October. At the top are alpine lakes to hike and ancient bristlecones to see.

Great Basin National Park is also an International Dark Sky park so make sure you check at the visitor center for any ranger led programs or special nighttime events.

Where to Stay in Great Basin National Park

There’s no park lodge inside Great Basin but nearby Baker offers a few options and Ely , jsut 66 miles away, has even more to choose from.

Inside Great Basin National Park, there are developed five campgrounds. The only one open year round is Lower Lehman Creek. Other campgrounds are usually open May through October, weather permitting.

The Upper Lehman Creek Campground is one of my favorite national park campgrounds I’ve ever stayed in. It’s quiet, wooded and has a small stream that runs through it. If you can snag a site near the water it makes for a wonderful night’s sleep.

How Much Time Do You Need in Great Basin National Park?

Since it is pretty remote, plan on spending at least two days in Great Basin National Park. Realistically, that gives you enough time to see a few things on your travel day from Las Vegas, spend the night and have the next day before continuing on.

Three or four days would definitely be better since there are some a few other things to do in the area. When road tripping from Las Vegas to Great Basin save some time for Cathedral Gorge State Park and Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge on the way.

When is the Best Time to Road Trip to Great Basin National Park?

Great Basin National Park is open year round with exception of major holidays. Even though it’s a lesser visited park, less than 200,000 people visited in 2023, summer is peak season and when it’s most crowded.

However, to see all the park features and visit the caves, summer and early fall are definitely the best times to visit.

Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park

• 6 hours 20 minutes

A Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park road trip has just about everything imaginable that you could want from a road trip. Deserts, lava fields, alpine forests, mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, rivers – and that’s just getting there.

Once you finally make it to Yosemite, you’ll probably never want to leave because Yosemite National Park is in a word: magical. It’s one of those national parks that everyone needs to visit at least once.

Best Road Trip Route From Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park

From Las Vegas you could drive the interstate route to Yosemite but the best route, in my opinion, is via Highway 395. This gives you the chance to enter the park from the eastern side and see a few things you might not see if you go in on the west side.

Even though it might be slower than driving the interstate and entering at the more popular western entrances, the towns and sights along Highway 395 are unparalleled.

There are plenty of ways to access Highway 395 from Las Vegas. You could even drive Highway 190 through Death Valley National Park to 395 but I’ve included my favorite way in my Google Map above.

That route takes you north on Highway 95 to Nevada Highway 266/California 168 and passes near the Ancient Bristlecone Forest. I strongly recommend adding this stop to your trip. The road out to the national forest visitor center has some of the most amazing views of the Sierra Nevada.

Unfortunately, this route into Yosemite National Park across the Tioga Pass – California’s highest vehicle crossing – is only accessible part of the year. The pass is generally closed from November through late May or early June.

So, if you are visiting Yosemite from Las Vegas in the spring, late fall or winter, you’ll need to use one of the western entrances to Yosemite National Park. Any other time of the year, consider the eastern entrance.

Things To Do in Yosemite National Park

The better question is what can’t you do in Yosemite National Park. As one of this country’s first national parks, Yosemite has been a natural playground since President Lincoln signed the Yosemite Land Grant in1864.

Besides all the normal national park activities like hiking and chasing waterfalls, a couple of my favorite things to do in Yosemite are biking and swimming.

Yosemite has a bike rental program in the park that allows you to download the app and grab a bike at various locations in the park. Turns out that pedaling is one of the best ways to get around around the park and avoid traffic.

For swimming, the Merced River flows right through the park and it’s the perfect opportunity to find your own personal swimming hole. Cathedral Beach Picnic Area is an awesome spot to start looking. This waterside area has great views and easy access to the water.

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

Like Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park, Yosemite has a plethora of accommodations in the area.

With a multitude of lodges, hotels and cabins in the park and around the perimeter, it’s really just your preference for where to stay. Yosemite hotels are managed by Travel Yosemite. Check their website for reservations.

There’s also tons of campgrounds in the park, however, just like in many popular parks, it can be hard to secure a site. Consider staying in a private campground or a nearby national forest campground.

How Much Time Do You Need in Yosemite National Park?

My answer to this is as much time as you can spare. Yosemite is so gorgeous and so much fun, you may not want to leave. The more time you have the better.

I’m sure there are some people that do it as a daytrip but I would not unless I had been several times. I personally feel like you need at least three days to see the bare minimum.

When is the Best Time to Road Trip to Yosemite National Park?

According the the National Park Service, even though the park is open all year, nearly 75% of visitors come during May through October.

Because of this, the park service implemented a permitted entry to help mitigate the busiest time of the year. You can get a reservation on recreation.gov.

I’ve only visited Yosemite in August and I’ll admit, Yosemite Village felt more like an amusement park than national park. But once you got out of the village it was much better. I hope to visit in winter some time to see the park in the snow.

Tips for Planning Road Trips From Las Vegas to National Parks

See you on the road!

Author: Lori Blalock

A girl raised in the south, Lori is the founder of Southerner Says and has over 100k miles of solo road trip experience. A lover of public lands, sunsets and good barbeque, Lori spends her time in Georgia and Nevada when she isn’t on the road.

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Seven Magic Mountains , an unusual and truly picturesque art display in the Las Vegas desert, was ranked as the top road trip stop in all of Nevada by Country Living . A vibrant pop of color against the red-hued sand and rock that dominates the southern part of Nevada, the Seven Magic Mountains art installation is a must-visit photo op for even the most novice photographers.

Considering Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the US , finding a way to stand out is quite a challenge, and yet the Seven Magic Mountains has done exactly that. So how exactly did this one-of-a-kind formation come to be? And how can enthusiastic road trip travelers enjoy the installation today? Here's everything to know about Nevada's top-rated road trip stop.

How Can Travelers See The Seven Magic Mountains?

Open 24/7, the public is encouraged to enjoy this road trip stop.

As Nevada's top road trip stop, the Seven Magic Mountains are not meant to be hidden away, left for a select few to enjoy. As one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas , the Seven Magic Mountains are designed with everyone in mind.

While the art installation gives the appearance of being in the middle of nowhere, the stones are just a short drive from Las Vegas, making them accessible to all those who are interested.

The display is visible 24/7, and there is no fee to visit. Just a half hour from the Las Vegas Strip, the Seven Magic Mountains

About The Seven Magic Mountains

• Seven Mountains Address: S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89054
• Distance from Las Vegas Strip: 21 miles
• Hours: open 24/7 (preferred sunrise to sunset)
• Entrance Fee: FREE

There is a parking lot near the attraction, with a small dirt path leading to the display itself. Once there, guests are free to snap photos and gently touch the giant stone artwork.

While touching the sculpture is welcome, guests should not attempt to climb or move the stones. As there are no amenities at the Seven Magic Mountains, visitors will need to "pack in, pack out" to keep the land pristine for other travelers.

Road Trip Vegas: This Stunning Nevada Park Is Just An Hour Away From Sin City

Who created the seven magic mountains, ugo rondinone, a world-renowned artist, is the mastermind behind the seven magic mountains.

The Seven Magic Mountains was developed by Swiss-born artist Ugo Rondinone. Rondinone has created numerous large-scale art installations at exhibitions around the world.

• Other Works of Ugo Rondinone: Carre d’Art, Nimes, Boijmans van Beuningen, Rotterdam (2016); Palais de Tokyo, Paris, Secession, Vienna (2015), Rockbund Art Museum, Shanghai, Museo Anahuacalli, Mexico (2014); Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, M Museum, Leuven (2013)

Before it was one of the best stops to include on a five-day Nevada road trip itinerary , the Seven Magic Mountains was simply a collection of large boulders, soaking in the rays of the desert sun. Rondinone has long utilized a variety of materials to complete his artwork, and his ability to use the landscape itself as the background of his creation, making him an ideal candidate for this project.

Ugo Rondinone created the Seven Magic Mountains in cooperation with several producers, primarily the Art Production Fund, New York and Nevada Museum of Art, Reno.

What Is The Meaning Behind Seven Magic Mountains?

The seven mountains are a colorful commentary on nearby sin city.

There are a number of unique attractions immediately outside Las Vegas, including Ice Age Fossils State Park, the newest state park in Nevada . Even with plenty of competition, tourists regularly flock to the Seven Magic Mountains.

Nevada's Newest National Park Site: Everything Confirmed So Far

So why the bright colors, and why in the middle of the desert? There is plenty of meaning behind the display, with symbolism in every aspect of the art.

The symbolism starts with the location of the Seven Magic Mountains, near Las Vegas but alone in the desert. The idea, according to Rondinone, is to represent the halfway point between the natural world, the desert, and the artificial, Las Vegas.

This symbolism can be found in the artwork itself. The mountains are made of large boulders that were locally sourced in the Nevada desert. These natural forms were then stacked and painted in bright, unnatural colors, illustrating the takeover of the artificial.

The final result is as beautiful as it is jarring. The rocks simultaneously belong and yet no longer fit into the landscape. Their shape is natural, but their texture no longer matches the desert. The mountains and Jean Dry Lake in the background further emphasize the unnatural state of the rock, mirroring the bright lights of nearby Las Vegas in the middle of the desert.

Nevada may be known for its neon lights and unforgiving landscape, but somewhere in the middle lies something truly one-of-a-kind. The Seven Magic Mountains, designed by Ugo Rondinone, and their colorful commentary on the decadent city have become the top road trip stop in all of Nevada.

A Local's Guide For New Visitors On How To Get To Arches National Park

Getting to Arches National Park can be tricky, but these airport and driving tips from a local Utahn may make the navigation easier.

• Choosing the right airport is essential when visiting Arches National Park - Salt Lake City and Las Vegas are great options.
• Be prepared for a scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Arches National Park with clear signage and striking views.
• Avoid traffic by planning your visit wisely - Fridays are crowded on Utah roads, so aim for off-peak travel times.

Arches National Park is undoubtedly one of the best attractions in the state of Utah. With a natural formation so iconic it is featured on Utah's license plates, Arches National Park is a true bucket list destination.

Despite its popularity, Arches National Park is not the easiest place to reach. As a local Utahn who recently made the four-hour drive to the park, I quickly realized I had a lot to learn during my first trip to Arches National Park .

With millions of visitors flocking to Utah national parks, coming up with a successful travel itinerary is a vital first step. From picking the perfect airport to mapping out the driving route, here are this local Utahn's best tips for new visitors traveling to Arches National Park.

7 Amazing One-Day Road Trips In Utah

Best airports to fly to for an arches national park visit, salt lake city international airport and harry reid international airport offer realistic options to visit arches national park.

Arches National Park sits just outside of Moab in the southeastern region of Utah, making it slightly more remote than the even more famous Zion National Park for those flying into the state. There are several nearby airports, each of which has its own benefits, depending on the kind of trip visitors are planning.

Moab does have a local municipal airport, Canyonlands Field Airport. However, there are very few public charters each day, and only SkyWest and United Airlines have flights available.

Salt Lake City International Airport, Salt Lake City, Utah

Perhaps the most obvious flight path for those headed to Arches National Park is Utah's only major international Airport. Salt Lake City International Airport is about four hours from Arches National Park, following I-15 South to Spanish Fork and US-6.

Salt Lake City International Airport is a busy and continually expanding airport and is a hub for Delta Airlines . For budget-conscious travelers, taking advantage of this hub can be a great way to snag cheap airline tickets, saving money for Moab and Arches National Park.

Travelers from Salt Lake City Airport starting their drive between 3:30 and 5:30 pm on a weekday will want to add at least 30 minutes to their projected drive time to account for severe after-work traffic.

Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, Nevada

Sin City itself may be known for its flashing lights and 24/7 slot machines, but it is also a great place for out-of-town travelers looking to explore the American Southwest. Particularly for those looking to embark on a Utah national park road trip, one of the best national park road trip routes in the US , Las Vegas provides direct access to several major attractions.

Harry Reid International Airport is considered a hub for both major and budget airlines, including Allegiant Air, Frontier, JSX, Southwest, and Spirit Airlines. The flexibility of this major airport means that it may be more accessible for some travelers, depending on what is available for them locally.

Driving To Arches National Park

Driving to arches national park requires connecting several freeways, regardless of where visitors start.

Whether guests have to fly in or are close enough to drive, one way or another, every visitor to Arches National Park will have to hit the road. Coming from the big city or one of Utah's other major national parks, understanding the limited driving options in Utah is key to a successful visit.

From Salt Lake City

Whether traveling from Salt Lake City International Airport or any of the smaller cities and towns in central Utah, the drive to Arches National Park looks about the same. The most important first step is to get on I-15 South. Since this is Utah's only major north-south highway, directions to the interstate are abundant along the side roads.

The I-15 stretch of the drive doesn't last long, however, as drivers will exit the interstate in Spanish Fork to connect with US-6.

Once drivers hop on US-6, the winding drive begins. A slow but scenic canyon drive, US-6 offers great views of Utah's mountains, with scenic detours to places like Thistle, a ghost town that has to be seen to be believed .

Connecting to US-191, I-70, and back to US-191, the drive from Salt Lake City International Airport to Arches National Park follows well-established roads with clear signage, making it a safe choice for those who have never driven through Utah before.

From Zion National Park

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Arches National Park is as part of one of the many multi-national park road trip itineraries . For those who have come from Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport, passing by Zion National Park is a natural part of the drive to Arches National Park.

Zion National Park is the most popular of Utah's national parks, and the many challenging hikes in Zion are a nice complement to Arches National Park's simpler trails and layout.

Getting from Zion National Park to Arches National Park takes about five and a half hours, following major freeways I-15 and I-70 for a majority of the drive.

This is a particularly lonely stretch of I-70, with no stops for gas or food available for most of the drive.

Forget Zion: Visit Utah's Most Underrated National Park

A local's tips for getting to arches national park, living in utah, i have seen several traffic trends that can affect the drive to arches national park.

Even knowing the best routes, what looks good on paper doesn't always translate to real life very well. As someone who lives through Utah's traffic day in and day out, there are a few things to know to make the most of one's time on the road.

These Are 10 Of The Most Dramatic Natural Formations In Arches National Park

Traffic is the worst on fridays.

Utah is immensely popular with outdoor adventurers, many of whom call the state home. Between the out-of-town visitors starting their long weekend getaway and the locals taking advantage of their tech job's flexible work schedule, Fridays on Utah roads are miserable, particularly for those heading to places like Arches National Park.

I saw this firsthand as I headed back home in the middle of the day on a Friday. Having left for Arches on Tuesday, large stretches of highway were practically barren, and it was easy to coast along on cruise control.

As I drove back home, I was shocked by the parade of cars making their way to Moab. The once lonely roads had become packed with bumper-to-bumper traffic, and I was just grateful not to be stuck in it.

Don't Over-rely on Google Maps

Full disclosure — I have a terrible sense of direction. I am the first one to jump to Google Maps when I have even a moment of doubt about where to go. The problem with solely relying on Google Maps (or any other app-based mapping system) to get to Arches National Park is that there is no cell service anywhere near Arches.

Once drivers reach I-70, getting a reliable signal is hit or miss. There's even a sign on the freeway that states: "Last Gas for 200 Miles." If that doesn't reveal how isolated this region is, nothing will.

Consequently, there is just not a lot of help a phone can offer for lost visitors. Guests, particularly those like me who cling to maps for comfort, should plan to download their directions before hitting the road.

Thankfully, there is plenty of signage along the way, so even without live directions, finding Arches National Park is fairly easy.

Arches National Park is a gorgeous natural attraction that stands out even among Utah's numerous national park sites. Away from Utah's biggest north-south freeway, and several hours from an international airport, getting to Arches National Park can take some planning.

As a Utahn who struggles daily with the state's traffic patterns and who also recently visited Arches National Park, knowing where to fly in, which roads to take, and what days to travel are all key to having a successful visit to Arches National Park.

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Rail spikes hammered, bullet train being built from Sin City to the City of Angels

A $12 billion high-speed passenger train line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, center, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, right, drive rail spikes into a symbolic rail, on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

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Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo leaves the stage at a groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., left, and Sen. Jacky Rosend, D-Nev., right, speak at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., speaks at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

A plane takes off behind a groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg speaks at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

Kids play in confetti at the groundbreaking ceremony for a high-speed railway on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil) (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

CORRECTS TO SEN. CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., speaks at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

The Las Vegas strip is shown behind the groundbreaking sight of a high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

This Jan. 25, 2012, photo shows the site of a proposed station for the high-speed rail line to Las Vegas at the end of the Dale Evans Parkway exit from Interstate 15, on the far outskirts of the Mojave Desert city of Victorville, Calif. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE - This photo taken Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, shows the site of a proposed station for a high-speed rail line to Las Vegas, background, at the end of the Dale Evans Parkway exit from Interstate 15, on the far outskirts of the Mojave Desert city of Victorville, Calif. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE - This photo Jan. 25, 2012, photo shows the site of a proposed station for a high-speed rail line to Las Vegas, foreground, with Interstate 15 in the background, on the far outskirts of Victorville, Calif., the Mojave Desert city on the route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE - A Brightline train is shown at a station in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Jan. 11, 2018. A fast-tracked plan to build a high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area is set to mark the start of construction. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A $12 billion passenger bullet train linking Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area was dubbed the first true high-speed rail line in the nation on Monday, with the private company building it predicting millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg before taking a stage with union representatives and company officials at the future site of a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip. “It’s really happening this time.”

Buttigieg cited Biden administration support for the project that he said will bring thousands of union jobs, boost local economies and cut traffic and air pollution.

Brightline West, whose sister company already operates a fast train between Miami and Orlando in Florida, aims to lay 218 miles (351 kilometers) of new track almost all in the median of Interstate 15 between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California. It would link there with a commuter rail connection to downtown Los Angeles. A station also is planned in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area.

Company officials say the goal is to have trains exceeding speeds of 186 mph (300 kph) — comparable to Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains — operating in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

“I believe we’ll look back at today and say, ’This was the birth of an industry of high-speed rail,’” Brightline Holdings founder Wes Edens said Monday.

AP AUDIO: Rail spikes hammered; bullet train being built from Sin City to the City of Angels

AP correspondent Haya Panjwani reports on the development of a high-speed rail between two major West coast cities.

The company aims to link U.S. cities that are too near each other for air travel to make sense and too far for people to drive.

Las Vegas has no Amtrak service. The idea of a bullet train to Los Angeles dates back decades under various names including DesertXpress. Brightline West acquired the project in 2019, and company and public officials say it has all required right-of-way and environmental approvals, along with labor agreements.

Brightline received Biden administration backing including a $3 billion grant from federal infrastructure funds and recent approval to sell another $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds. The company won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds.

Brightline West says electric-powered trains will cut the four-hour trip across the Mojave Desert to a little more than two hours. It projects 11 million one-way passengers per year, with fares that Edens said will be comparable to airline ticket costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

Officials hope the train line will relieve congestion on I-15, where drivers often sit in miles of crawling traffic while returning home to Southern California from a Las Vegas weekend. An average of more than 44,000 automobiles per day crossed the California-Nevada state line on I-15 in 2023, according to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings’ Miami-line debuted in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It offers 16 round-trips per day with one-way tickets for the 235-mile (378-kilometer) distance costing about $80.

Other fast trains in the U.S. include Amtrak’s Acela, which can top 150 mph (241 kph) between Boston and Washington, D.C. But fast train connections for other U.S. cities have been floated, including Dallas to Houston ; Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina ; Chicago to St. Louis ; and Seattle to Portland, Oregon. Most have faced delays.

In California, a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco was approved by voters in 2008, but has been beset by rising costs and routing disputes . A 2022 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority projected the cost had more than tripled to $105 billion.