7 day southwest road trip from phoenix

Five Different Itineraries for the ULTIMATE 7 Day Southwest Road Trip

I’ve spent a LOT of time road tripping through the Southwest. Growing up (and even still today), we regularly spent a lot of time in Northern New Mexico and Southwest Colorado and when I was planning out my summer 2023 travel, I decided to go big and road trip to a lot of places in the Southwest that I’d never seen before. 

I’ve done soooo much research and logged so many miles…in a Jeep, on the trails, even in the river…and now I’m going to share it with you!

For starters…the American Southwest is a BIG area. Most people think of Arizona and southern Utah as the southwest, but New Mexico and even parts of Colorado, Texas, Oklahoma, and Nevada fall into this region. 

You could spend months traveling around this part of the country and not see it all. But the good news is that the American Southwest is so concentrated with amazing sites that even if you only have 7 days, you can see a LOT. 

So how do you decide to narrow it down? 

Well, first and foremost, if you have “must see” spots that are calling you…you should definitely prioritize those. Personally, I’ve been wanting to see Monument Valley for years so I knew I had to make that happen. 

Second…depending on where you’re traveling from logistics might make one itinerary preferable over another. If you’re flying to the Southwest, it’s hard to beat an itinerary that’s based out of Las Vegas. But Phoenix can also be a good option. And if you’re driving from the middle of the country, you might decide to focus on areas that are closer like New Mexico and Colorado. 

FIVE 7 Day Southwest Road Trip Itineraries

If you’re completely open and just want to see magnificent sights, I’ve put together FIVE different itineraries that I think offer a great bang for your buck. 

Some of these itineraries cover different areas, and some cover less ground, some will be a whirlwind, some might feel more like a vacation than a trip spent “touring.”

Itineraries #1 and #2 split southern Utah and Northern Arizona in half. Itinerary #1 covers the western half and itinerary #2 covers the eastern half. Itinerary #3 attempts to see the whole thing (focusing on hitting the National Parks) in a WHIRLWIND of a week. Itinerary #4 covers a lot of Arizona (from Phoenix) and itinerary #5 covers New Mexico (from Albuquerque).

Itineraries #1 and #3 start and end in Las Vegas. This is the biggest/international airport option in the area and you’re going to get the best options for flights in and out of LAS. Most airports in the US have direct flights to Las Vegas so it’s a really attractive option. 

For itinerary #2, Salt Lake City is the largest airport in the area, but Grand Junction, CO is closer (with less flight options) and if you have the $$$ then flying directly into Moab, UT is the way to go. 

Itinerary #4 starts and ends in Phoenix which is another decent sized international airport with good flight connections from most places around the country. 

And itinerary #5 works best with flying in and out of Albuquerque, NM. Santa Fe is a much smaller regional airport (more $$ and fewer direct flights) and Taos is even smaller. 

Whichever itinerary you pick, I know you’re going to have a GREAT trip!

Itinerary #1: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon & Sedona from Las Vegas

If you’ve never been to this part of the country before, this is my #1 recommendation for how to spend a week. 

Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas (LAS) // Valley of Fire State Park // Virgin, UT

Day 2: Zion National Park // Hike the Narrows or Angels Landing

Day 3: Zion Canyon Overlook // Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 4: Page, AZ // Antelope Canyon // Horseshoe Bend

Day 5: Grand Canyon (South Rim)

Day 6: Sedona

Day 7: Flagstaff // Walnut Canyon

Day 8: Back to Las Vegas to fly home

It covers some of the biggest sites in the Southwest, you can do this staying in just two places (if you don’t mind driving), and flying in and out of Las Vegas is by far your easiest (and least expensive) option. 

If this were my trip, I would book two hotels:

• AutoCamp Zion in Virgin UT for the first three nights
• High Country Motor Lodge in Flagstaff, AZ for the last four nights

I LOVE both of these places. I think they’re both “destination” hotels, and they really add to the experience of the trip. They’re not exorbitantly expensive, but they’re way more fun than staying at your basic Hampton Inn. 

Generally when I travel (even on a road trip), I like to minimize how often I change hotels so I’m willing to drive further each day if I can stay in the same hotel. 

So with my above recommendation for staying in just those two places, that’ll mean on day 3 you’ll drive from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon and back in one day (about four hours of driving time total). On day 4 you’ll drive from Virgin, UT to Page, AZ (a little under 2.5 hours) and then onto Flagstaff when you’re finished in Page (another 2 hours). And then once you’re based in Flagstaff, it’s about an hour to the Grand Canyon and less than an hour to Sedona. 

If you’re wanting to minimize how much time you drive each day and don’t mind staying in a different hotel each night, then you could add a hotel near Bryce Canyon on night 3, a hotel in Page, AZ on night 4 (pretty much all of the standard chain options in town are very new and nice looking), and maybe even Sedona (soooo many options in all price points here but if you’re going to stay here I would probably flip day 6 and 7 to keep the hotel switching to a minimum).

Again, personally…I’ve found that even if I have to drive a bit further, keeping the hotel switching to a minimum generally makes the trip more pleasant. 

Here are more details about the itinerary hashed out: 

Day 1: Arrive in Vegas // Valley of Fire State Park // Virgin, UT

It’s pretty easy to get an early flight into Las Vegas. Even my smallish airport in Tulsa, OK has a direct flight that arrives in Las Vegas by mid morning. 

The final destination for the day is to check into your hotel in the Zion area so you could either drive straight from Las Vegas to Virgin/Springdale and maybe even squeeze half a day at Zion National Park in OR you could have a nice breakfast in Las Vegas and opt for a stop at Valley of Fire State Park on the way. 

I opted for breakfast and Valley of Fire. 

I was tempted to do one of the big brunch buffets on the strip like Wicked at the Cosmopolitan since I’d never been to Vegas before, but I didn’t want to get too hung up and lose most of the day.

So I stopped at Eggscellent off the strip. It was super easy to get in and out and it was sooooo good!

From Las Vegas, it’s about a 2.5 hour drive to the Zion National Park area. 

And a stop at Valley of Fire State Park is a great way to break it up. You’ll detour off of I-15 and drive a little horseshoe loop down through the park and connect back with I-15. 

There is some hiking you can do in the park, but when I visited (mid August) pretty much all of the trails were closed due to extreme heat. 

But there’s plenty to see just driving through the park and stopping at pull out points. 

Plan to spend at least two hours in the park. 

And then onto Zion! 

I mentioned above that my #1 pick would be to stay at AutoCamp Zion. I LOVE AutoCamp in general (they have multiple locations) and the one near Zion is pretty spectacular. I’ve written a full post about AutoCamp (and UnderCanvas) here so you can get all the details. 

But if you decide that neither of those options is right for you, there are soooo many places to stay in Springdale which is right outside the gates of Zion National Park. Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton all have nice properties here plus there are a ton of other smaller/boutique places at various price points. 

This is your full day to spend at Zion National Park. With one full day, you’ll definitely want to do one of the park’s two most famous hikes: The Narrows or Angels Landing. 

If you’re going during the off season (not summer), you could probably manage to squeeze both into one day but if you’re going during the summer you’ll probably have to pick one. 

I decided to do the Narrows since the weather was warm and it seemed like an easier hike. 

I’ve got a full post here about Zion National Park that you should definitely read. It’ll help you decide which hike to do but also give you the lowdown on how crowded the park gets and how to navigate it all (i.e. there’s a mandatory shuttle system and sometimes during the summer there’s an hour plus wait). 

Also, if you’re not into hiking, here’s a whole list of things to do in Zion National park BESIDES hiking . 

P.S. If you like a good morning coffee stop, I really liked FeelLove Coffee in Springdale. 

Day 3: Zion Canyon Overlook Hike // Bryce Canyon National Park

From Virgin, it’s about 2.25 hours to Bryce Canyon National Park, but I would break it up with an early morning hike at the Zion Canyon Overlook. 

This is one of my favorite hikes at Zion. It’s pretty short (1 mile round trip) with an amazing view. Plus you’ll get to drive the scenic Zion Mt Carmel Highway. 

**From Virgin, make sure you drive into Zion National Park and do the route through Springdale and Mount Carmel Junction (not up through Cedar City). 

You HAVE to do the scenic drive and this way it kills two birds with one stone on your way to Bryce Canyon. 

On my last trip, I did Bryce Canyon as a day trip and we arrived at the park’s visitor center about 11AM, had lunch at the park lodge, hiked the Navajo Loop Trail and drove through the whole park stopping at most of the overlooks and still wrapped up around 5 PM. 

Read this post for a full recap about how I spent the day at Bryce Canyon (and what I would do differently next time). 

Day 4: Page, AZ // Antelope Canyon // Horseshoe Bend 

Antelope Canyon is one of the most jaw droppingly iconic sites in the American Southwest and it’s the most famous slot canyon in the world. 

It’s pretty stunning any time of the year, but during the summer months when the light beams appear it’s downright magical. 

From the Virgin/Springdale area, it’s less than 2.5 hours to Page, but if you’ve got a guided tour, double and triple check the time because sometimes Arizona is in a different timezone. 

Arizona doesn’t observe daylight savings time (the Navajo Reservation does, but the tour companies mostly operate on the official time in Page, AZ) so you could be an hour off coming from Utah. 

Anyways, read this post for absolutely everything you need to know about visiting Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. But one thing you MUST know…if you’re visiting during late spring through late summer when the light beams are visible, you need to book your tour times months in advance. There are limited times of day when you can see the light beams and limited tour operators so they sell out pretty quickly. 

Also, it’s worth stopping at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center that’s part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It’s on top of the dam on the Colorado River and it has great views. 

I mentioned at the beginning of this itinerary that you might want to stay the night in Page (most hotel chains have pretty nice and new options in Page), but I would drive on to Flagstaff to stay for the rest of the trip. It’s about two hours down highway 89. 

The High Country Motor Lodge in Flagstaff is one of my favorite hotels I’ve stayed at recently. It’s an old Route 66 era motel that’s been completely renovated in the coziest and most aesthetically pleasing way. And it’s pretty decently priced!

Day 5: Grand Canyon South Rim

The south rim of the Grand Canyon is the most popular spot for most visitors to the Grand Canyon. From Flagstaff, it’s just a bit over an hour drive to get to the south rim. 

Full disclosure: I haven’t been to the south rim of the Grand Canyon yet (I’ve visited the north rim), but it’s the hub of tourism around the Grand Canyon. 

There are a few different ways you could do this. Most people drive to the south rim and only spend a couple of hours there. There are plenty of different viewing points and light hikes you can do along the rim. 

El Tovar is a world class National Park lodge that’s worth checking out even if you’re not staying there. There are places to eat, gift shops, etc. 

You could also book a full day tour like a mule ride down into the canyon, a rafting trip down the Colorado River or do a longer hike if you’re brave enough to hike down into (and back up) the canyon. 

If you want to make a full day of it, but you’re not looking for an extreme adventure or hike, you could drive to Williams, AZ (just west of Flagstaff) and take the train to the Grand Canyon. It’s a pretty big production however it’s mostly all about the train ride (you’re not passing magnificent scenery until you get there). 

My last bit of advice is that if you’re really just wanting to drive up, see the Grand Canyon from the overlooks, have lunch and hit the gift shop…you could probably combine this day with a drive through Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument. 

They’re both accessed off of Highway 89 which takes you from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon. 

In this itinerary, I’ve paired Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument on day 7 with Walnut Canyon National Monument since they’re all pretty close to Flagstaff, but if you have extra time on this day to visit Sunset Crater Volcano and Wupatki then it would clear up time on day 7 to do other things. 

It’s only about 40 minutes from Flagstaff to Sedona so it’s a really easy day trip to do some hiking in the famous red rocks or a Pink Jeep tour and a nice resort dinner. 

I actually haven’t gotten to visit Sedona yet (I’m planning a trip to go back soon to spend several days in the area), but it looks incredible and everyone I know who has been LOVES it. 

Most people go to Sedona for the hiking (Cathedral Rock and Devils Bridge are the two best/most popular hikes in Sedona), but you can also take one of the famous Pink Jeep tours if you’re not up for a hike. 

Sedona is also a pretty nice resort town so if you’re running low on energy after an action packed trip, this would be an excellent place to do a spa day or even a pool day if you can find a resort that does day passes. 

Or plan a nice meal at one of these restaurants . 

Day 7: Flagstaff // Walnut Canyon National Monument

Flagstaff was one of my unexpectedly favorite towns on my big Route 66 trip that I did last year. 

Read all about my Flagstaff favorites here , but it’s an easy place to spend the day in town shopping plus there are plenty of great restaurants and a handful of sites besides the National Monuments in the area. 

I mentioned Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument on day 5 as an option to add to your Grand Canyon day. 

If you didn’t get to them on day 5, on this day I would recommend starting at Walnut Canyon since it’s closest to Flagstaff and the only one that really requires a hike. 

From there, head up to Sunset Crater Volcano and finish up at Wupatki since they’re connected. 

When you finish at Wupatki you’ll be about 45 minutes from Flagstaff.

Day 8: Back to Las Vegas

From Flagstaff, it’s about a 3.75 hour drive back to Las Vegas. Since there are always so many flights leaving Vegas, it’s pretty easy to get a flight that leaves in the afternoon so you can drive back in the same day and hop on your flight. 

If you’ve got the time though you may consider spending an extra night in Las Vegas before you go home which would give you the full day to drive from Flagstaff to Las Vegas. 

You could do some classic Route 66 stops in Williams, Seligman, and Kingman and even drive the Oatman Highway before heading up to Vegas. Read this post for details on that stretch of Route 66. 

***If you want this trip to be more of a vacation (i.e. time spent fishing, white water rafting, horseback riding, and extended hiking, etc.) and less of a sightseeing tour then you can easily fill a week just exploring Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and the north rim of the Grand Canyon. And you could do all of those from one central base camp. Kanab, UT is the most central place to stay to visit those three places. I haven’t personally stayed there, but I really like the looks of the Best Friends Roadhouse.

Itinerary #2: Moab, Monument Valley & Mesa Verde from Salt Lake City

If you’ve already done the major southwest spots from itinerary #1 (or you’re just looking for something else) then this is a great option for a trip that in some ways seems a little more off the beaten path. It’s not that this area is uncrowded, but it’s not as convenient to get to the Moab area as it is to Las Vegas so comparatively speaking it’s less crowded. 

Day 1: Fly into Salt Lake City, UT // Drive to Moab, UT

Day 2: Moab, UT // Arches National Park

Day 3: Moab, UT // Canyonlands National Park

Day 4: Monument Valley, AZ

Day 5: mesa verde, co // durango, co, day 6: million dollar highway // durango, co to ouray, co, day 7: black canyon of the gunnison // montrose, co, day 8: drive to salt lake city // fly home.

While this itinerary has you spending the first three nights of the trip in Moab, UT, the rest of the week is planned out as a pretty good sized loop that could have you spending the night in a different hotel each night road trip style or opting for a central location and doing longer day trips. 

For your first three nights in Moab, there are so many options. 

I’ve stayed at ULUM Moab which is an ultra luxury glamping experience from the creators of Under Canvas (read all about it here ). 

If you want more of a vacation vibe (plunge pools, outdoor games, campfires for roasting marshmallows), then I can’t recommend it enough. The tents have air conditioning plus power outlets and rainfall showers so you’re really not going to be roughing it here. 

I’ve also stayed at Field Station Moab which is more of a bare bones “adventure hotel.” It’s set up really well for multiple adults to stay in one room with plenty of space for your gear (mountain bikes, climbing gear, etc.). 

Even if you’re not into extreme adventures (I’m a light hiker at best), it’s a fun (and inexpensive place to stay) with a great community feel. 

And there are a ton of other options for where to stay in Moab. For the nicest hotel experience, I think I would try Hoodoo Moab which is part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. 

On day 4, you’re going to want to book a room at The View Hotel in Monument Valley (more on that below). 

For nights 5-7, you could break it up and stay near Durango, then Ouray, then Grand Junction or you could stay in one central place for all three nights (maybe the Montrose area) and do your traveling as day trips. 

This itinerary is designed as a loop from the Moab/Grand Junction area, but if you’re flying in it might be a little more complicated. 

The largest airport in the area is in Salt Lake City, UT which is almost four hours from Moab. If you’re flying Southwest, it’s probably your best option. And if you’re wanting a direct flight from a major city, it’s also your best option. 

For convenience, Grand Junction, CO is probably the airport I would pick if you don’t mind making a connection or flying American/United. It’s about 1.5 hours from Moab. 

Southwest has also introduced a flight to Montrose, CO that operates seasonally. If that flight works for you, it’s quite a bit closer than flying into SLC (2.75 hours from Moab plus it’s the ending point of this itinerary). 

There’s also a tiny airport in Moab. United and Delta partner with SkyWest Airlines to connect flights from Denver and Salt Lake City on 50 seater commuter jets. 

Day 2 & 3: Moab, UT // Arches National Park // Canyonlands National Park

Moab is home to TWO National Parks: Arches National Park & Canyonlands National Park. You could either spend a full day in each park, try to tackle both parks in one day and use your second day for some other adventures in the area or do half days in each park with other adventures in the afternoons. 

Read this post for details on both parks plus how I would do both in one day. 

Moab is practically the offroading capital of the world so if you’re going to do anything, a Jeep tour or ATV tour is a must. There’s also some pretty good white water rafting on the Colorado River. 

Monument Valley was one of my top “must sees” when I was planning my big Southwest road trip this summer. 

You can see the “monuments” in a couple hours on the 17 mile scenic route, but to see this place at its best you really need to see a sunrise and a sunset so that means spending the night. 

I stayed at The View Hotel which is on the Navajo Reservation and 100% worth it for the views alone. 

Also, even though you can drive the scenic loop in your own car (4WD not necessarily required but high clearance is strongly recommended), I did a tour with a Navajo guide into the backcountry and I definitely recommend it if you have the time. 

Read everything you need to know about visiting Monument Valley here . 

Leaving Monument Valley, it’s time to head into Colorado. From The View Hotel it’s about 2.5 hours to Mesa Verde National Park. If you have time, take the route south through Kayenta and Teec Nos Pos. You’ll pass right by the Four Corners Monument. I didn’t have time to stop because we had early reservations for a tour at Mesa Verde, but if you’re interested, now is the time!

Mesa Verde National Park is the only National Park that preserves cultural history in the US and it has the most impressive cliff dwellings you’ll find in the American Southwest. 

To have the best experience, you’ll need to make reservations in advance to tour either Cliff Palace or Balcony House (or both!) on a ranger led tour.

Find all of the details in this post , but in general touring the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde (especially Balcony House) is one of the wildest adventures I’ve ever had in a National Park.

If you’ve got the time and you’re into this sort of thing, the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and Yucca House National Monument are both in the area and have ancient Pueblo ruins. 

Durango is the closest sizable town to spend the night. It’s a good sized city with all your basic hotel chain options. 

The drive from Durango to Ouray is hands down one of the most scenic drives in the country. They don’t call it the Million Dollar Highway for nothing!

It’s not for the faint of heart though. If you have an extreme fear of heights or driving mountain roads (there are no guard rails in the super steep parts), then you may seriously want to consider rerouting your trip when you leave Mesa Verde National Park. If you go up through Cortez and Telluride, you’ll bypass the more extreme route and you can still circle around through Ridgway and drop down to see Ouray. 

Another option is to take the historic steam train from Durango to Silverton and back. I’ve spent a lot of time in this area, but I’ve never done the train and it’s high on my list to make it happen soon. 

I have a pretty decent fear of heights and a healthy respect for this road but for some reason riding on the train doesn’t seem nearly as scary as driving it in a car. 

However you decide to go, I strongly recommend spending at least one night in Ouray. They call it the Switzerland of America and it’s one of my favorite places in Colorado. 

There aren’t any big hotels here, but plenty of small inns and vacation rentals. There are several hot springs/spas in Ouray plus shopping, hiking trails, and a lot of off road trails. 

On your last full day, you could spend more time in Ouray or head over to check out Telluride. It’s a beautiful little mountain ski town and it’s free to ride the gondola up to the ski village. 

But definitely plan to squeeze in a visit to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park near Montrose. I can’t believe I’ve spent so much time in this area and I’ve never actually been here but it’s at the top of my list next time I’m in the area. 

Depending on where you’ve decided to spend the last few nights and which airport you’re flying home from, you could have a way to drive on this day. If you’re flying in and out of Grand Junction or Montrose you’ll be pretty close to the airport, but if you’re driving all the way back to Salt Lake City, it’s about four hours from Grand Junction. 

Itinerary #3: Whirlwind National Parks Tour from Las Vegas 

When I say this is a whirlwind, I mean this is a WHIRLWIND week hitting Utah’s Big 5 National Parks plus the Grand Canyon. 

Honestly, I’m not sure how recommendable this is…it’s just covering soooo much crowd in such a short amount of time. BUT if you’re coming to the area from another part of the country, you’re a National Parks enthusiast, and you’re comfortable spending a lot of time in the car and mostly just hopping out to see this and that then it’s technically possible to do this trip in a week. 

I won’t go into as much detail with this itinerary since it’s all been covered in the last two itineraries, but if I was trying to knock out the Utah Big 5 and the Grand Canyon in one week, this is how I would do it…

Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas, NV // Valley of Fire State Park, NV // Springdale/Virgin, UT

On the way from Las Vegas to Zion National Park (about 2.5 hours), you could stop to drive through Valley of Fire State Park or just head on to Zion and squeeze in an extra half a day in the park. 

Since this is a whirlwind of a trip, I would just pick somewhere convenient to stay in Springdale that’s close to the park gates. 

Day 2: Zion National Park 

This is your full day to spend in Zion National Park. I think I would choose to hike Angels Landing to Scouts Lookout and do the Canyon Overlook Trail, but here are more hiking options plus things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking . 

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park

From Springdale, it’s about 2 hours to Bryce Canyon which leaves plenty of time to see the best of the park in one day. Read about how I spent 1 day at Bryce Canyon here . 

When you’re finished at Bryce Canyon, drive on to Torrey, UT to spend the night (I like the Skyview Hotel) so you can get an early start at Capitol Reef National Park. 

Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park // Moab, UT // Arches National Park

Capitol Reef isn’t Utah’s least visited National Park (that’s Canyonlands National Park), but it seems to be the least known. There’s plenty to see here, but on a whirlwind trip like this…it’s the most obvious place to cut time. 

In just a couple of hours, you can really see the most accessible part of the park. 

Start the day with breakfast at Wild Rabbit Cafe in Torrey and then head to the park to do the scenic drive from the visitor center. 

The hike to the Hickman Natural Bridge is also a good hike if you have time. It’s a fairly easy 1.5 mile trail. 

And don’t forget to stop at the Gifford House in Fruita for some pie and ice cream!

Read more about visiting Capitol Reef for the day here . 

From the Capitol Reef visitor center, it’s about 2.5 hours to Moab. 

Check into your hotel and plan to enter Arches National Park after 4 PM (reservations aren’t required after 4) and make your way to the Delicate Arch trailhead about 1.5 hours before sunset. 

This is a must do hike and sunset is the best time to do it. 

Day 5: Canyonlands National Park // Arches National Park 

If you’re majorly into hiking, of course you could spend a full day at Canyonlands and Arches (multiple days really!), but it’s also pretty easy to hit the highlights of both in one day (especially if you hiked to Delicate Arch the evening before). 

Read how I would do Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park on the same day here . 

Day 6: Monument Valley // Petrified Forest National Park

This will be a fairly big day of travel, but it’s worth it to squeeze in an extra National Park plus a Navajo Tribal Park. 

From Moab, it’s about 2.5 hours south to Monument Valley. This is an absolute don’t miss for me on a trip to the American Southwest. Read all about Monument Valley here . 

The only bad part about this itinerary is that you’ll just be driving through Monument Valley during the day and you won’t be around to see sunset or sunrise, but it’s still magnificent. 

When you’re done at Monument Valley, keep heading south to Petrified Forest National Park. It’s about 3 hours from Monument Valley and ideally you’ll pace yourself so you’ll have time to visit the park today. 

There is hiking of course, but I was surprised how “drive thru” friendly this park is. Plan about two hours to drive through both sides of the park (the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest) and stop at all of the big lookout points. 

This post has more info about the Petrified Forest National Park on this stretch of Route 66. 

Hop on I-40 and head west to Winslow where I would recommend spending the night at La Posada. It’s a renovated Harvey House hotel with a prime spot on the Santa Fe Railway. 

Day 7: Flagstaff // Grand Canyon 

Keep heading west on I-40 and grab a room in Flagstaff for the night. From Flagstaff, it’s about an hour up to the south rim of the Grand Canyon which is by far the most popular entrance. 

Check out the viewpoints, see El Tovar Hotel and head back to Flagstaff for dinner. 

If you have extra time, you could squeeze in a visit to Walnut Canyon National Monument. 

Day 8: Back to Las Vegas to Fly Home

From Flagstaff, it’s about four hours back to Las Vegas. 

I warned you…7 National Parks in 7 days is a LOT. But if you’re super National Park focused and want more time in a certain park, you could skip the Monument Valley/Petrified Forest leg and add a day where you want more time. 

Itinerary #4: Grand Canyon, Sedona, Flagstaff & Antelope Canyon from Phoenix

I’m really sticking this itinerary here as a place holder since I’ll be doing a version of this trip soon and I’ll be back with all of the details. 

But it’s pretty easy to get a direct flight to Phoenix (PHX) from most US cities and you can see so much based out of there. 

From Phoenix, you could drive north to Sedona, Flagstaff, Page (Antelope Canyon) and the Grand Canyon), plus you could even drop down south to Tucson to visit Saguaro National Park or do a couple of resort days somewhere in Scottsdale.

Itinerary #5: Santa Fe & Taos from Albuquerque

New Mexico is one of my favorite trips. I think Santa Fe and Taos is one of the best cultural areas in the US.

It’s easy to fly into Albuquerque and from there it’s just about 1.5 hours to Santa Fe and another hour to Taos. 

I’m working on another trip to finalize the perfect itinerary, but in the meantime, here are some of my favorite New Mexico posts: 

Route 66 in Albuquerque

Santa Fe vs Taos

Santa Fe to Taos: High Road vs Low Road

My Favorite Things to Do in Taos

Taos Restaurant Recommendations

Fall Foliage in New Mexico

7-Day Action Packed Arizona Road Trip Itinerary – All the Major Attractions

Ultimate arizona road trip itinerary – 7 action packed days.

Planning an Arizona Road Trip :  There is so much to do and see in Arizona you will not be disappointed.

Table of Contents

On this Arizona Road Trip we will visit all of the Bucket List Places in Arizona including the Grand Canyon , Horseshoe Bend , and Antelope Canyon and much, much more.

This road trip in Arizona is perfect for first time visitors and those who are looking to explore a bit more of the Grand Canyon state.

I also have a full dedicated article to each of these destinations which I have linked under each day if you are looking for more information on a location or more ideas.

I also have a post on road trips from Phoenix to give you a few more ideas as well.

This is what one of the best road trips in Arizona looks like and where you will stop along the way.

Day 1: Phoenix to Sedona

Day 2: sedona, day 3: sedona to grand canyon, day 4: grand canyon, day 5: page, arizona – horseshoe bend, antelope canyon, day 6: monument valley, day 7: return to phoenix.

You can start your ultimate Arizona road trip by driving to Phoenix to Sedona. Phoenix is the capital of Arizona and it is considered as the 5 th most populated city in America.

It is also referred to as “The Valley of the Sun” due to its location in the Salt River Valley. It is the home to real cowboys, red-rock buttes, and cactus. 

I have a full article on the drive from Phoenix to Sedona and what to do once you get there. The drive usually lasts for two hours via State Route 179. And there are a lot of beautiful stops that you can take from Phoenix to Sedona. 

Stop 1 : Black Canyon City (46 miles from Phoenix)

This quaint desert town is 45 minutes away from Phoenix and squeezes the western edge of the Tonto National Forest. It gives you a slice of Arizona’s nature at its finest with its picturesque location such as Bradshaw Mountain along the Agua Fria River. 

Black Canyon City has an interesting history because this area served as a stage stop on the Phoenix to Prescott line in the late 1800s and a military stopover between Fort Whipple and Fort Verde during Arizona’s territorial days.

There is a 62-mile trail that you can explore in the area which is the Black Canyon Trail. The trail lets you see more of the Sonoran Desert and Bradshaw Mountains.

You can do lots of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.   

Stop 2 : Agua Fria Monument (67 miles from Phoenix) 

The Agua Fria National Monument is a 71,000-acre of unadulterated natural beauty. Here, you will find an expansive mosaic of semi-desert landscapes and prehistoric sites carved into the rocks that has been recorded for more than 2,000 years. 

It is a perfect place to view and photograph wildlife such as antelope, mule deer, javelina, bobcats, and a lot more. There are also other outdoor activities that you can do in the area such as hiking, camping, four-wheel driving, birdwatching, and hunting. 

Stop 3 : Montezuma Castle (94 miles from Phoenix) 

Montezuma Castle is one of the most popular Indian Ruins in Arizona and well worth a visit.

Montezuma Castle is a 5-story structure that features the well-preserved cliff dwellings built and used by the Sinagua people.

There is an entrance fee of $5.00 per person and you can also find a gift shop and interpretive center inside. 

Although visitors are not allowed anymore up inside the actual ruins, you can still do other things such as walk the loop trail and take a lot of pictures around the site. 

Stop 4: Wine tour at Verde Valley 

There are a lot of wine tours in Sedona that not only offer wine tasting but also other activities including enjoying the amazing sights of Sedona, shopping, and fine-dining.

Check out my post on Arizona wineries and where they are located.

Where to Stay in Sedona

• There are a number of Airbnbs in Sedona that are fantastic. Stunning views, hot tubs, treehouses – just really unique places to stay that you must check out.
• Whispering Creek Bed & Breakfast – this is one of the most luxurious bed & breakfast in Uptown Sedona that offers cozy and comfortable accommodation and breathtaking views of the Sedona Red Rock Mountains. Their four rooms range in size and price, from smaller rooms to a more spacious and luxurious private sites. All rooms have a private entrance and bathroom, as well as flat screen TV, free WiFi and complimentary menu style breakfast. 
• Arabella Hotel Sedona – This is located in the heart of Sedona, just a few steps from the famous Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and a private en suite garden. They also offer complimentary breakfast and complimentary cruiser bikes who will take you around Sedona. 

For your second day, this is the time that you explore the charming city of Sedona. This city has a lot to offer because it is considered as one of Arizona’s premier tourism, recreation, art centers, etc.

It has some of the most amazing hiking trails that you can explore in the world. In other words, the trail and hiking adventures are limitless in Sedona. 

Stop 1: Slide Rock State Park 

Slide Rock State Park is one of the most popular recreation spots in Sedona and it is a 43-acre historic apple farm situated in Oak Creek Canyon.

This park features a natural rock water slide that is 80 feet long and it is surrounded by famous red rocks and desert scenery. The park also has short trails and a nature trail and it is close to several Coconino National Forest hiking trails. 

Aside from hiking and water slides, this park is a habitat to an array of animals that may offer wildlife viewing opportunities for visitors. You can see whitetail deer, javelina, coyotes, and black bears within the park. A huge variety of bird species, smaller mammals, and various reptiles can also be seen here. 

Stop 2: Devil’s Bridge 

One of the most popular trails that you can hike in Sedona is the Devil’s Bridge. This hike is actually on top of the list of many tourists and visitors to Sedona because of its easy hiking trail and mesmerizing rock scenery.

A lot of visitors take this hike because it is just a short but steep hike. 

The official trailhead starts off the unpaved portion of Dry Creek Road but you need to secure first a high clearance vehicle to access, only then you are allowed to park at the Dry Creek Road trailhead at the paved section. 

And about 3/4 mile from the parking area the trail will come to a fork and you will turn left, and you’ll end up at the base of the bridge. Then you will continue up a natural rock staircase from which you will witness beautiful views of Sedona. 

This is a fairly easy hike in Sedona – except for the last 15 minutes where you go up to the Devils Bridge.

Stop 3: Cathedral Rock

Sedona is famous for its rocky formations and stunning views of nature and one of the best ways to get a glimpse of what Sedona can offer is taking a hike to Cathedral Rock. 

The total hike to Cathedral Rock is only a mile long and you’ll cross the junction between Cathedral Rock Trail and Easy Breezy Trail before you begin your ascent.

The initial climb is fairly easy but occasionally you will encounter staircases of rocks. And just before you reach the junction of Cathedral Rock Trail and Templeton Trail, you will arrive at a plateau where you can rest for a bit and savor the breathtaking view of Sedona. 

When you reach the second plateau, this is where most hikers get some rest and you will also see how close you are to the summit. A sign at the top stating “End of Trail” will greet you and it is the indication that you have reached the summit. And prepare your eyes to be mesmerized with Sedona’s natural beauty. 

Check out my post on all the  Best Hikes in Sedona  for more information on the best hikes and the best views.

Stop 4: Oak Creek Canyon 

The Oak Creek Canyon is just one of the scenic stops that you can visit en route to the Grand Canyon. It is well-known for its colorful rocks and unique formations. But before you drive into the canyon, you might want to stop at Oak Creek Canyon Vista where you can get a bird’s eye view of the road. 

You can actually enjoy the scenery of the Oak Creek Canyon without leaving your car. But you can also visit the crimson cliffs and crystal pools. There are plenty of overlooks, picnic areas, swimming holes, and hiking trails along the drive. 

Stop 5 : Tlaquepaque

To complete your Sedona experience, you must pay a visit at the internationally renowned shopping area Tlaquepaque, Sedona’s Arts and Crafts Village.

Tlaquepaque (pronounced as T-la-keh-pah-keh) is the most distinctive Sedona shopping experience that you can find in the Southwest. It has been a Sedona landmark since the 1970’s.

Even if you don’t want to shop, this is still a beautiful place to stop. The architectural buildings and settings will take you to another place and you will feel transported to a small village.

There are a lot of places to dine and shop ranging from the various mediums of art and knickknacks. 

Where to Eat in Sedona 

• Red Rock Cafe – for a great food adventure, you can head to Sedona’s premier cafe, Red Rock Cafe. They offer a diverse menu using the freshest ingredients. They quickly became a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, and guests who come to dine at this place always have a positive experience with them. And you should definitely try their all day breakfast and their famous giant Cinnamon Roll.
• The Hudson – The Hudson serves lunch and dinner daily and they take pride on their bruschetta, burgers, salads, hand cut 45 day aged prime steaks, ribs, fresh seafoods, specialty cocktails, wine, and local craft beer. Aside from their delicious food, their patio dining and spectacular views are the things you look forward to at this restaurant that will surely delight both your tummy and eyes. 
• Cucina Rustica – It is a rustic Italian kitchen in Sedona. They take pride in their 16-years of award-winning cuisine and incredible service. Aside from their array of vegetarian and vegan specialties, classic pasta dishes, and perfectly grilled steaks, they also have an extensive selection of wines. 

The drive going to the Grand Canyon from Sedona usually takes 2 hours. To maximize your time at the Grand Canyon, take the fastest route by sticking on interstate and state highways. 

Stop 1: Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff

This museum is located in Flagstaff, Arizona and it is one of the great regional museums of the world that is surrounded by great geological, biological, and cultural resources.

It showcases the beauty of the Colorado Plateau and it will also give you a better understanding of this unique region. 

If you want to learn about the lives and culture of the indigenous people who live in this area, this is a great place to stop by before heading to the Grand Canyon. 

If you have a bit more time, Flagstaff is a great place to stop off and explore. You can ready more about the Best Hikes in Flagstaff and check out these cool Airbnbs in Flagstaff for a place to stay.

Stop 2 : Sunset at the Grand Canyon at Yavapai Point

Yavapai Point is an easy walk from Mather Point which is right next to the Visitors Center at the South gate entrance.

Many visitors choose to park at the easily accessible parking at Mather Point and walk over to Yavapai Point because vehicles over 22 feet are not permitted at the small parking lot near this point.

Yavapai Point is one of the best viewpoints at the Grand Canyon – click through to see which other viewpoints I recommend.

There is the Yavapai Observation Station nearby which is a simplistic visitors center that has books and geographical information about the Grand Canyon.

Out of the three points that comprise the southern rim of the Grand Canyon it is well known that Yavapai offers the most panoramic views because it is the most northerly point and is located nearest to the impressive Colorado River.

Those who are hiking need to take note that the hike takes twice as long to get back as it does to initially get to Yavapai Point due to inclines. This is important for those hiking later in the day.

Stop 3: Grand Canyon Imax at Tusayan 

The Imax Theater at Tusayan features a giant six-story movies screen and over 12,000 watts of digital surround sound. It lets you experience the history of the Grand Canyon while sitting comfortably in the theater. 

Check out my guide on Where to Stay near the Grand Canyon

• There are a number of fantastic Airbnbs near the Grand Canyon . It is great to stay so close to the Grand Canyon so that you can spend all of your time visiting the canyon, not driving to it.
• Quarter Horse Inn & Lodge – l ocated at the base of the mountains in Williams, Arizona, the Quarter Horse Inn & Lodge gives you a relaxing and romantic vibe plus it is an excellent base camp if you want to tour around Arizona, especially the Grand Canyon. Their accommodations are very spacious that can fit up to eight people inside. Every room is decorated with antiques and artwork pieces and is equipped with a bathroom, fireplace, TV with cable, and a lot more. 
• Sheridan House Inn – This Arizona B&B is located at the base of Williams Mountain in a Ponderosa forest. All of their rooms are uniquely decorated with free WiFi and a refreshment tray with complimentary tea and coffee. Their guest rooms are equipped with a TV with DISH satellite channels, DVD player, and a mini fridge to complete your great travel experience. Their bathrooms offer boutique toiletries and bathrobes.

For the fourth day of your ultimate Arizona road trip, you will be exploring the famous Grand Canyon. What you will love about this place is the numerous activities that you can do.

In fact, the Grand Canyon is one of the world’s natural wonders. I have an entire post on how to spend one day in the Grand Canyon .

Wondering what to pack for the Grand Canyon? Check my Grand Canyon packing list .

Stop 1: The Main Visitor Center

The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a great starting point to begin your journey to the Grand Canyon National Park. It is situated at the South Rim and it offers an interesting and educational overview of Arizona’s famous landmarks.

You will be guided by their knowledgeable local representatives, as well as their helpful staff who will provide you with information about hotels and restaurants near Grand Canyon. 

Stop 2: Desert View Point 

Desert View is a small settlement on the South Rim just 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. If you are visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time, this is a great place to be if you want the first views of the Grand Canyon. 

One of the attractions inside the Desert View includes the finest view of the Colorado River and canyon geology, park ranger programs and cultural demonstration, and Tusayan Museum that features the story of American Indians of the region. 

Stop 3: Rim Trail 

Rim Trail is a paved walking path that follows the rim of the Grand Canyon. This trail offers hikers the chance to see the Main Amphitheatre from above and it extends from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point. It has a one way distance of 5.5 miles and has several steep elevation changes. 

Stop 4: Hermits Rest Scenic Drive

Hermit Road is a popular 7-mile route located at the west end of the south rim and takes its visitors along many beautiful scenic viewpoints before arriving at Hermit’s rest.

During the winter months, this road is open to private vehicles, while during the rest of the year, you will need to hop on the park’s shuttle bus to access this point. This route offers some of the best views in the canyon, including Hopi Point, Mohave Point and Pima Point.

Stop 5: Helicopter Tour over the Canyon

There really isn’t a better way to experience the Grand Canyon and soak in all the beautiful views, than doing it from a helicopter flying above!

Helicopter rides above the Grand Canyon provide a truly unique experience and give visitors views of the canyon you can’t get anywhere or anyway else. These tours can be a bit on the pricier side; however, you won’t regret this experience at the Grand Canyon. 

There are so many Page AZ attractions and things to do in Page Arizona you won’t want to miss this northeastern Arizona city.  Page is full of amazing and jaw-dropping natural and interesting formations such as Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. 

Stop 1: Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is just one of the picturesque and awe-inspiring natural formations that you will witness here. It is just located east of Page and it comprises tall, winding, and sandstone walls.

It is considered a haven for photographers because of its unique geological formations. 

The best way to explore this natural wonder is through a guided tour. There are numerous authorized tour operators that you can choose that will give you a breadth of information about this area.  

You can read my post on Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon – which one is best to help you decide.

Stop 2: Horseshoe Bend 

The Horseshoe Bend Hike is a 3/4 mile hike from US Route 89 and the trail is partly steep and partly deep sand. Although the hike is just a short distance, prepare yourself for a challenge.

But the steep hike is definitely worth it once you reach the area. And the best way to get the best results photographing this magnificent wonder is by bringing a wide angle lens.  

Stop 3 : Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Situated on the edge of Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the largest naturally occurring bridge in the world with the height being 88 meters and the width being 83 meters

This bridge also holds special importance to the people of Navajo culture as they believe it is responsible for giving soul to the life of the desert by creating clouds, rain, and rainbows. The best thing about this bridge is that it doesn’t have an entrance fee.

I recommend staying at one of these comfy Airbnbs in Page, Arizona .

Monument Valley is located on the border of Utah-Arizona and it is considered as one of America’s iconic landscapes – from sandstone buttes, huge mesas, to panoramic vistas. It has been a famous shooting location of popular movies like Forrest Gump, Mission: Impossible II, and National Lampoons Vacation. 

The distance from Page, Arizona to Monument Valley is 125 miles. 

Stop 1: Tribal Park Loop (Valley Drive) 

This is a scenic 17-mile loop that drives past some of the well-known sites in Monument Valley. It’s a bumpy and dusty road and you can self-drive this loop (4×4 car is not necessary). 

The first few miles of the scenic drive will take you to a group of red cliffs. If you want to be extra adventurous, you can avail the horse rental or a basic tour of the valley. But if you are running out of time, you can just drive the loop. 

Stop 2: Lower Monument Valley

This is the second loop in Monument Valley that veers off Valley Drive. However, this site can only be accessed by tour. But this will definitely be worth it because it takes you up close to some of the rock formations and mesas that you would miss if you only did the Valley Drive. 

The average price of the tour starts at around $80 per person and lasts for three hours. If you have a lot of time to spare, then this will be perfect for you. 

I hope you have enjoyed this Arizona Road Trip Itinerary. Its so each to get around Arizona and see all of the beautiful places along the way.

If you have some extra time today, check out my post on 101 Things to do in Phoenix, Arizona . There is something for everyone.

Where to Stay in Phoenix – did you know there are a lot of 5-star resorts in Phoenix and also there are lots of Phoenix hotels with pools ?

• The Camby, Autograph Collection – The Camby is a 5-star luxury resort hotel located in Downtown, Phoenix that gives guests the freedom to choose from either mountain or city views. No matter which room you get, you will be pleased with the surrounding scenery.
• Arizona Grand Resort and Spa – This family-friendly resort hotel gives guests a kind of pleasure perfect for families and traveling groups. All suites are air-conditioned and feature cable television, a sofa bed, and a mini-bar. You can have a splash at their first-class waterpark or head over for some relaxation at their Spa Center. 

Continue Reading more on my website about Arizona:

The Best Waterfall Hikes in Arizona

The Best Hot Springs in Arizona

The Best Resorts in Arizona

Weekend Getaways in Arizona

Romantic Getaways in Arizona

Nicole LaBarge

Nicole is a travel expert who has been traveling to the American Southwest since 1992. There is so much to see and do in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and California. I spend part of the year in Phoenix and travel around the area visiting all the best places and going on the best hikes. Check out my detailed destination guides, the best hiking in each state guides, and the travel gear you need for your next trip.

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Epic 7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary: From Phoenix to Page

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Looking for an unforgettable adventure in the American Southwest? You’re going to love this epic 7 day Arizona road trip itinerary! This state is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, from the red rocks of Sedona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. And what better way to experience all of the beauty and diversity of Arizona than with a week-long road trip?

In this post I take you on a journey from Phoenix to Page, highlighting the best stops and sights along the way. So buckle up , hit the road, and get ready for a week of adventure you’ll never forget!

Table of Contents

7-day Arizona road trip itinerary

Day 1-3: phoenix and scottsdale.

Scottsdale and Phoenix are pretty close driving distance to each other, so we kind of went back and forth between the two. We made Phoenix our home base and stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix . I love Kimpton hotels, and I knew our stay would be nothing short of delightful. I have the IHG credit card ( check out my travel credit card guide! ) so 9 times out of 10 those are the hotels we stay at since they typically give us free upgrades, or we book with points ( book through IHG directly here ).

The Kimpton has public bikes available for use, a lovely pool, and daily wine hour from 5-6 PM. Yes, free wine! Feel free to check out other Phoenix and Scottsdale hotel options in the booking widget below.

Quick links for your Arizona road trip

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Rentalcars is the best tool for comparing prices for your date amongst the most popular rental car companies!

Phoenix and Scottsdale very much gave me Tampa and St. Pete vibes. There was plenty to do in both of these towns, so get ready to have your hands full!

Phoenix, Arizona sits at an elevation of 1,028 feet and is the capital city of Arizona. It’s also one of the most populous cities in the U.S., with more than 1.6 million residents! Great hikes, mouthwatering restaurants, interesting museums, and historic areas like Old Town Scottsdale and Downtown Phoenix are just a few of Phoenix’s top attractions.

Things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale

Changing hands bookstore.

First, we stopped at Changing Hands Bookstore . If you don’t know this by now, I have an obsession with speakeasies, bookstores, and libraries. So when I read about Changing Hands Bookstore, I knew we had to go.

It had an awesome variety of book genres, a great area to read or get work done, and it even had a book bar. And get this, it’s called First Draft . I’m sorry but I died at how clever that was! Okay, now that I’m done geeking out…just know that it’s a great stop if you’re looking for a new read or just want to experience a cool vibe and grab a drink!

Desert Botanical Garden

Another must on your list of things to do in Phoenix is the Desert Botanical Garden . The Desert Botanical Garden is a great place to explore, get some steps in, and see some beautiful flora.

It’s open daily from 7 AM – 8 PM and general admission costs $24.95-29.95 (active military personnel gets in free with a valid ID). The garden sits on 40 acres and has over 50,000 plant displays which include over 4,000 different species. In addition to having several cacti and other sorts of desert plants, they also feature several trails , a butterfly pavilion, and greenhouses where you can observe various tree and plant species.

Camelback Mountain

Ahhh Camelback Mountain …my old friend. Okay, more like a foe, but whatever. It’s still a must! We made the mistake of going midday, you know when the scorching Arizona sun was beating on us.

Camelback Mountain is one of the most popular and well-known hikes in Phoenix. It’s a 2.4-mile challenging hike with an elevation gain of 1,322 ft. It offers amazing views of Phoenix once you reach the top. Learn from my rookie mistake and go early in the morning. Also, be sure to take plenty of water!

Dobbins Lookout at sunset

Dobbins Lookout is a moderately challenging 4-mile out and back hike in Phoenix. It’s one of the most stunning views in Phoenix, especially around sunset. You have the option to make the hike or drive to the summit. The road is open for vehicles to drive here most days between 5 AM – 7 PM.

Hot air balloon ride

Take in stunning vistas of the Sonoran Desert on a thrilling hot air balloon ride . You’ll have the ideal morning feeling like you’re floating on a cloud followed by a Champagne breakfast. Each flight lasts around an hour, and hotel transportation is available.

I have done a hot air balloon ride in Tampa , and it was so magical! It’s truly a surreal experience that you can’t really explain.

Enjoy some of the amazing restaurants and eateries Phoenix has to offer

In between all of these fun things, you’re of course going to be working up an appetite. Check out this list of great restaurants in Scottsdale and Phoenix . It also includes two of my favorite coffee shops, one of those being Dutch Bros of course!

Day 3-4: Sedona

You’ll know you hit Sedona when you begin to see all of the gorgeous red rocks. Sedona is a resort town, as well as a popular tourist destination. There are many red rock formations, hiking trails, art galleries, wineries, and vortexes for you to explore! This fun mix of activities made Sedona one of my favorite Arizona road trip stops. Below I’ve compiled my top picks for things to do in Sedona.

We ended up staying at the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek . What I love about Holiday Inn Expresses is that they include breakfast (always thinking of little ways to save during my trips). This stay came equipped with everything we needed, and the location was perfect.

Book the Holiday Inn Express Sedona directly with IHG here , or check out other hotel options for your stay here !

Things to do in Sedona

Winery hopping.

You certainly can’t leave Sedona without checking out a winery or two! Lucky for you several areas have multiple wineries just a hop, skip, and jump away from each other! We did DA Winery, Javelina Winery, and Oak Creek Winery and loved each one of them.

Several areas with groups of wineries are all a part of the Verde Valley Wine Trail. Check out the full map here . If you don’t want to worry about driving, book this all-inclusive wine tasting tour ! The tour includes a souvenir wine glass, 5-6 tastings at each of the three vineyards, a picnic lunch, and round-trip transportation from Sedona.

If you want to mix wine with adventure, check out this water-to-wine kayak trip . Taste wines from Arizona’s top wine-growing region, the Verde Valley, while taking a leisurely paddle down the Verde River. You’ll also get a $20 credit to use on tastings, snacks, or gifts at the winery.

Experience a vortex

For those unfamiliar, a vortex is a location where the earth seems to be particularly buzzing with energy. They are said to be beneficial for meditation, self-discovery, and healing.

Many individuals experience inspiration, refueling, or a boost after going to a vortex. I suggest taking a journal, or just taking some time to meditate while you’re in the vortex.

The four most well-known Sedona vortexes are located in Boynton Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Airport Mesa, and Bell Rock. Each emits its own distinctive energy. Some are supposed to create energy that spirals downward and into the earth, while others are thought to produce energy that flows upward.

Enjoy a hike

We hiked Cathedral Rock at sunset, and just wow . Not to mention you’re killing two birds with one stone here as it’s also a vortex! This Sedona activity should be a part of anyone’s Arizona itinerary!

It’s a somewhat challenging 1.2-mile out-and-back trail with epic views at the summit. There is some nearly vertical climbing and hiking involved at one part of the trail so good hiking shoes with traction are important.

At one point we were following people and realized we were off the trail, so be sure to download the All Trails map when you do trails! This helped us navigate back to the proper path.

Devil’s Bridge and Birthing Cave are also popular hikes. Devil’s Bridge is a 3.9-mile trail that’s recommended for sunrise. It typically takes around 2 hours to complete. Birthing Cave is 2 miles long and usually takes less than an hour.

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a Roman Catholic church erected into the red rock buttes of Sedona. It’s a must-see as it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in all of Sedona. The chapel’s most prominent feature is a 90-foot-tall iron cross that serves both decorative and structural functions.

Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a local rancher and artist, was the one who came up with the idea for and commissioned the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Her first efforts were to construct it in Budapest Hungary, however, the start of World War II forced her to abandon the endeavor and bring it to her homeland, Sedona.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is open seven days a week from 9 AM-5 PM.

Eat at The Hudson

I didn’t get to check out too many restaurants in Sedona, but our experience at The Hudson was so good I can only assume it’s one of the best restaurants in Sedona.

The Hudson is perched on a hillside with a view of Sedona’s picturesque red rocks. They offer lunch and dinner which showcases seasonal American cuisine with inventive takes on tried-and-true comfort foods. Their cocktails and wine selection were also lovely.

They have a fantastic patio, open dining area, and a central bar with an industrial-chic atmosphere overall. Check them out for their daily happy hour at the lounge and bar for special pricing on select apps, wine, cocktails, and draft beer.

If you plan ahead, make reservations. We went here without them, but enjoyed some of the happy hour prices at the bar while we waited for a table on the patio!

Grab Firecreek Coffee on your way out

We just really enjoyed our stop here on the way out! Delicious coffee and some yummy baked goods you can snag for the road!

Slide Rock State Park

This was the one thing on our Sedona list we, unfortunately, didn’t get to check out, but I wished we did! Slide Rock State Park has a few short nature trails and a swimming hole where you can cool off after a long day roaming through the town. It has even been named one of America’s top 10 swimming holes.

The park gets its name from the 80-foot-long slippery chute that is worn into sandstone visitors get to enjoy. It’s vehicle admission only and there are no walk-ins or drop-offs.

Hours and prices vary depending on the season, so check those out here .

Day 4-5: Flagstaff and Page

Things to do in flagstaff, sunset crater volcano national monument.

One of the most popular places in Flagstaff is Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument . This national monument is one of the best places to see the effects of volcanic eruptions in Arizona. It features several hiking trails including a 1-mile loop trail located at the base of Sunset Crater. Hiking to the summit is not permitted. Be sure to come with good shoes or boots on hand if you’re planning on exploring on foot!

It costs $25 per vehicle unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass which I recommend getting, especially if you’re heading to Utah after your Arizona road trip. The pass costs $80 and covers the entrance to over 2,000 parks across the US and is valid for 1 year!

Lowell Observatory

Lowell Observatory was established in 1894, making it one of the oldest observatories in the US. Discover planets, faraway gas clouds, and distant galaxies at night with the Giovale Open Deck Observatory’s six cutting-edge telescopes and Flagstaff’s renowned dark sky.

Admission is $25 for adults, aside from Tuesdays when it is $18.

Grand Falls

Grand Falls is a chain of natural waterfalls in the Painted Desert on the Navajo Nation, 30 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona. It’s also known as Chocolate Falls due to its hue. It is higher than Niagara Falls at 185 feet. It empties seasonal rain or snow melt into the Little Colorado River beneath.

The view trail is 1.1 miles out and back and is considered to be easy with a small amount of elevation gain. Be sure to check the conditions before going. There are certain months when the falls don’t have much flow and may not be worth the stop. March and April are the best times to visit because of the melting snowfall.

Grab a cocktail at a fun bar

We, unfortunately, had left Flagstaff before it got into the evening, but if you’re still around Hotel Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge and Annex Cocktail Lounge were both spots on my list that looked super cool with some fun specialty cocktails.

Annex Cocktail Loung is a modern club with a speakeasy feel that also has a rustic patio, and Hotel Monte Vista Cocktail Lounge is an old-fashioned, bi-level hotel cocktail lounge featuring karaoke and live music nights.

Page, Arizona

We ended the day in Page, Arizona where we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Page – Lake Powell . Page is a small town located in northern Arizona. It’s known for its hiking and camping opportunities, scenic views, and wildlife. The town also has several shops and restaurants where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

If you’re looking for something to do other than hike then there are many places to visit including Antelope Canyon which is well known for its beautiful scenery! Another must-see place is Horseshoe Bend which was formed by the Colorado River thousands of years ago when it carved out this beautiful valley over time. It’s one of America’s most spectacular natural wonders!

There are so many beautiful views in Page , you’d be amazed!

Day 5-6: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon

We certainly crammed a lot in here, but it was so worth it (that’s what she said)! Right we woke up we headed to Horseshoe Bend. Luckily it was just a short 10-minute drive from our hotel . We arrived around 6:30 AM and then left by around 7:30 AM to head to our Antelope Canyon tour .

We decided not to spend too much time at the Grand Canyon doing hiking trails, but instead drove through and stopped at some of the viewpoints.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a unique geological formation. It’s literally a horseshoe-shaped incised meander carved out in the Colorado River. From the parking lot to Horseshoe Bend is about a 0.6-mile walk.

The cost is $10 per vehicle. Despite it being a National Park, you will still have to pay this fee even if you have a National Parks Pass . The parking lot belongs to the city of Page, and the fee is charged by them.

The timing of visiting can be tricky. We visited for sunrise. While the shots we got were okay, there was a shadow on the bend or river that we couldn’t avoid. The most ideal time to visit is late morning or midday when the sun is more directly overhead so you can avoid shadows.

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon was the most unique experience and my favorite activity of the entire Arizona road trip! It is a slot canyon located on Navajo land and is protected by the Navajo Parks and Recreation. The only way you can visit and experience the canyon is through an authorized tour company.

While the tours are a little costly, I can assure you they are so worth it! Going with a tour group was actually great though. They were so informative, took dozens of photos for us, and even gave us some good laughs.

The canyon formed from water running through Navajo Sandstone over the course of hundreds of years. The walls of the canyon are so smooth it’s really wild to see!

You can choose to take a tour with either the Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon . The size of the canyon itself is the main distinction between Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. The iconic light beams that fill the canyon are caused by the fact that the upper canyon is broader at the bottom than the top.

Lower Antelope is formed like a “V” and is considerably smaller towards the bottom. There is also a little bit of price difference. Lower Antelope Canyon is a little bit cheaper (almost half the price), which is the tour we decided on. While it doesn’t have all of the light beams that the upper canyon has it was nothing short of amazing! There’s really no bad choice.

Be sure to book your tour for Upper Antelope Canyon , or for Lower Antelope Canyon in advance.

If time allows, kayaking Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend is a super cool way to explore the areas!

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. Formed by erosion from flowing water over millions of years—its shear walls are almost vertical at some points. Today visitors come from all over the world to see this marvel firsthand so make sure not to miss visiting during your road trip through Arizona!

The Grand Canyon is actually the second most visited National Park in the US. You can explore the North or South Rim. 90% of visitors explore the South Rim, as the North Rim is harder to get to and more secluded.

We chose to do the South Rim. You can drive, hike, or take the free shuttle around the park. Check out this guide for how to spend a day visiting the Grand Canyon !

After all of these adventures, we headed back to Sedona to stay at the Holiday Inn Express Sedona – Oak Creek for one more night. We planned on heading back to Scottsdale in the morning so we figured it was best to begin making our way back that way after the Grand Canyon.

Day 6-7: Scottsdale

The great thing about Scottsdale is it is right next to Phoenix, so anything you didn’t have time for in this area at the beginning of your Arizona road trip, you can check it out here! If you’re looking for more Scottsdale recs check out this guide .

I’m not going to lie, we didn’t get to experience too much of Scottsdale. This was the last day of our 3-week road trip so we were pretty beat. We had friends we were visiting with so on this last day we just relaxed by the pool and then went out for a night on the town. It was so fun, but I definitely need to make an Arizona trip just to spend a few days in Scottsdale.

We did enjoy Old Town Scottsdale which definitely has some charm to it, and the bars were a blast! The Old Town district has tons of shopping options, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and more.

Some of my favorite coffee shops, bars, and restaurants:

• Luci’s at the Orchard — for brunch
• Toca Madera — for dinner
• Fat Ox — for dinner

• Culinary Dropout — for lunch or dinner
• Hash Kitchen — for brunch
• AZ/88 — for drinks

• Dutch Bros — for coffee
• Sip Coffee and Beer — for coffee
• The Beverly on Main — for drinks
• Sugar Bowl — I didn’t get to check this spot out, but it looks like such a fun spot for ice cream and a little photoshoot

If you want to spend some time outdoors sunrise at Papago Park and hiking Tom’s Thumb Trail are two of the most popular outdoor activities in Scottsdale.

Sunrise at Papago Park is a good choice if you want to see Phoenix from above without having to climb any mountains yourself! This park offers beautiful views of downtown Phoenix as well as South Mountain Park where all those big red rocks are located.

Whether you choose to hike along the East Side Trails or the West Side Trails at Papago Park , you’ll have a grand start to your morning enjoying the sunrise here. You will need to enter the park on your own because the parking lot doesn’t open until sunrise and the gated roads don’t open until 6 AM.

One of the most visited trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve is Tom’s Thumb Trail. Due to how steep it is and how many twists and turns you must navigate in order to reach the peak, this 4-mile climb is moderately challenging. Along the way, you’ll get to enjoy some breathtaking vistas of Phoenix and the McDowell Mountains.

Bring lots of water and be sure to wear sunscreen. Check out this awesome tour if you prefer to experience this iconic hike with a guide!

The next time you’re thinking about taking a road trip, I hope you consider this Arizona itinerary. It’s a beautiful state with many exciting places to visit and see, from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon. You may even want to stop in Sedona or Page for some great sights!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other West Coast blog posts:

Joshua Tree day trip

One day in Palm Springs

LA to Joshua Tree road trip itinerary

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

My husband and I are wanting to take a trip like this and this itinerary is perfect! Hoping to see Arizona this year or next!

Yay! You’re going to love it! SO much to see and do

A great guide to follow with much to see and experience. Having visited Sedona and the Grand Canyon this post brought back wonderful memories.

Wow Arizona has been on my list but this post makes me want to go even more now!! Your pictures are beautiful. Saving this to use for my own road trip in the future, thanks for sharing!

Arizona looks so beautiful! I am planning a long US road trip soon and there really is so much to see! Thank you for sharing your itinerary!

Love Arizona, been there twice on a road trip and it’s a beautiful state. Somehow I have in my mind that we could still hike up Sunset Crater. It could be that it has changed since 2008 or that I’m mixing things up.

If you don’t mind me asking how much did this entire trip cost you. Planning one in October-December.

I honestly wish I would’ve kept track because you’re not the first to ask, but I don’t recall

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7-Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

I didn’t realize it at the time, but this seven day southwest road trip changed my life. Not only was it one of the best girlfriend getaways with my high school friends, but I eventually moved across the country to live in both Arizona and Utah. I lived in Tucson for two years, and I’ve now lived in Park City Utah for four years! I have published guidebooks for both Arizona and Utah and I still feel like there is so much to see in this region.

This road trip itinerary may or may not change your life, but I guarantee you will get amazing photos and enjoy landscapes that take your breath away. Honestly, I don’t think I ever want to live anywhere besides the Southwest States. I’m planning to spend several weeks in New Mexico this spring, so that may be the next place I land!

This post contains affiliate links. Buying through these links will not cost you extra, but I will earn a small commission.

Phoenix and Las Vegas are good starting points for your southwest road trip. Flight and rental cars seem to be more affordable and plentiful in Vegas, and it’s a bit closer to the parks of Utah, so we chose round-trip flights from Las Vegas. Want to explore one state at a time? I have a two-week Arizona road trip , as well as a Southern Utah itinerary . You’ll never see everything in one trip, so pick one and start planning. I also offer trip-planning services if you want someone else to do the legwork!

TIP: Time zones here can be funky. Arizona doesn’t observe Daylight Savings, so sometimes they are in Mountain Time, sometimes Pacific. So you can drive East but gain an hour, or vice versa…just be aware and don’t lock yourself in to a tight schedule! The Navajo nation is the exception, so sometimes they are an hour off from the rest of Arizona.

Day 1: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon (5 hours / 280 miles)

Try to get an early flight so that you still have plenty of daylight left for driving to Grand Canyon National Park. We’ve all been to Vegas many times, so we didn’t spend any time there upon landing. If you haven’t been to Las Vegas, you might consider spending your first night in Vegas, just for the experience. (We did an overnight hike at the Grand Canyon, so if that’s not your thing, it’s easy to swap that out for a night in Sin City.)

If you are staying at the Canyon, you’ll need to make reservations way in advance. I had a room at the Maswick Lodge for 3 nights (prices start at $119/night.) We arrived after dark and got ready for the next day’s backpacking adventure into the canyon.

Note that National Parks lodges accept reservations up to 13 months in advance, and properties on the South Rim frequently sell out, so you need to plan ahead if you want to stay in the park! Otherwise, there are hotels in Tusayan .

Day 2 – Grand Canyon Hiking

Backpacking is a “love it or hate it” activity – carrying all your belongings on your back and camping isn’t really everyone’s cup of tea, so I was pleasantly surprised when my friends all wanted to try it. We had a campsite (reserved months in advance) at Indian Gardens, which is 5 miles from the South Rim, and only halfway to the Colorado River.  We followed the Bright Angel Trail, which also happens to be the trail used by the mule trains.

Grand Canyon Hiking Tip: Bring a bandana or something to cover your face when the mules pass – they kick up a lot of dust!

Five miles turned out to be just the right distance for our inexperienced group. We reached the Indian Garden campground in the late afternoon as temps were climbing near 100. Another option if you have more time and stamina is to hike down the South Kaibab trail to Phantom Ranch, where there is a campground, cabins, and a cantina.

A great side-hike from Indian Gardens campground is 1.5 miles out to Plateau Point. After a bit of rest, we carried our camp stoves and a few of my favorite backpacking meals to watch the sunset at the point and then hiked back to our camp after dark.

Day 3 – Grand Canyon Hiking

Everything is the opposite in canyon country: what goes down, must come up! We had a long uphill slog and got a very early start in order to beat the heat. Watching the sun come up over the canyon walls as we hiked out was one of my most memorable travel experiences to date! Our group ended up splitting up on the hike out and we had walkie-talkies to keep in touch through the day. Our hike varied from 3 hours to 5 hours, and 7 hours for the 5-mile climb. In hindsight, we all should have done lots of stretching and walking around, but mostly we passed out in bed and eventually rallied for dinner later that night and a short trip around the lookout points of the South Rim.

Check out my backpacking gear list and bring more water than you think you’ll need!

Day 4 – Grand Canyon South Rim to Sedona (2.5 hours / 115 miles)

The next stop on our trip is Sedona. This town deserves way more than the 1 night we spent here, but I saw enough to know that I would return, and I have several times since this first trip. In fact, Sedona is very high on my list of places I might like to live one day. The red rock hills are full of Sedona’s best hikes , and the higher elevations of Flagstaff are nearby for the hot summer months.

There are tons of great hotels, resorts, and retreats in Sedona . Some of the places I’ve stayed in Sedona, and would recommend include:

• Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock is a beautiful property with great food and amenities
• Orchards Inn (pictured above) is a great location if you want to be right downtown within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
• For a more budget-friendly option, the Holiday Inn Express in Oak Creek is great, and dog-friendly!

On this trip two of us went for a jeep tour along the Mogollon Rim. We didn’t do the tour with the crazy tricks, just a nice scenic drive. Another fun Sedona area tour is to spend a day on the Verde Canyon Scenic Railroad .

• Sedona Hiking and Photo Adventure

• Price: $272.00
• Hopi Lands and Cultural Tour from Sedona

• Price: $218.60
• Private Sedona Sunset Vortex Tour

• Price: $198.00

Sedona to Springdale, Utah (5 hours / 280 miles)

Our next destination is Zion National Park and the town of Springdale, Utah. We packed a lot into this day, so it took way more than 5 hours. More like 12! We stopped at Sunset Crater , Wupatki National Monument , and Lee's Ferry on the Colorado River (the starting point of Grand Canyon rafting trips ) After many stops along the way, we lost an hour when driving West into Utah (super confusing!) and ended up arriving super late. We had no idea of the amazing scenery in Zion until we woke up the next morning.

Day 6 - Zion National Park

After our late arrival at Flanigan's Inn the prior evening, we woke up and set out for Zion National Park with the goal of hiking Angel's Landing. We now had a 5th friend with us as our friend Lisa flew in the night before to join us.

Jennifer and I were the only ones to attempt the final ascent of Angel's Landing, but the other 3 hiked to the base and waited for us. It was a gorgeous hike but so, so crowded. We got to the part where there are chains to grab to keep from falling to your death and it was just too crowded for me. We turned around in defeat, and I vowed to come back another time. (I finally did climb Angel's Landing in 2015!)

That night, we celebrated my birthday at the restaurant at Flanigan's Inn and turned in early so we could drive to Bryce Canyon the next morning.

Browse 24 Springdale Hotels on Booking.com

Zion to Bryce Canyon (2 hours/85 miles each way)

On the last day of our trip, we packed a lot in. We started with an early morning drive to Bryce Canyon National Park , where we rode the shuttle bus and did a few short hikes. The scenery here is unlike anything I've ever seen before or since!

After a few hours at Bryce National Park, we decided to race back to Zion National Park and hike some of the Virgin River Narrows. Unless you are doing an overnight trip through the slot canyon, you can hike up the river and then just turn around and come back the same way. We arrived very late afternoon, so the crowds were dissipating, and we all loved this hike through water that was sometimes knee-deep. Don't worry if you don't have walking sticks, there are usually a bunch lined up at the trailhead.

Hike the Zion Narrows in winter and you'll practically have the river to yourself!

The next morning, it was time to head back to Vegas for our flights back home. While this was a whirlwind trip, it was a good intro to the region and helped me narrow down some destinations for future trips.

More Southwest Road Trip Stops

Have more time for a Southwest road trip? Consider some of these additional Arizona and Utah attractions:

• Valley of Fire State Park makes a great stop between St. George Utah and Las Vegas, Nevada.
• Visit Arches National Park, one of the best things to do in Moab, Utah
• Take the scenic drive from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef .
• You can also plan an entire trip around ruins in Arizona or ruins in Utah !
• Page is an adventure hub near the Utah/Arizona border. Head to Lake Powell for some boating action, and visit Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Glen Canyon Dam.
• See Bear's Ears and the House on Fire ruins in Southern Utah

• 8-Day Arizona Adventure from Las Vegas

• Price: $3499.00
• Utah & Arizona National Parks: Small Group 7-Day Tour

• Price: $3045.00
• 5-Day Arizona Grand Canyon Challenge with a Licensed Guide

• Price: $1434.00

Southwest Road Trip Reading List

• Trails Illustrated Map to the Grand Canyon South Rim - the main corridor trails are pretty well marked, but it's always good to have a map.
• Photographing the Southwest - Southern Utah and Arizona - these books are awesome for telling you about iconic shots as well as directions to some off-the-beaten-path ones
• Rand McNally Road Atlas - that's right, I still love my road atlas. How else can you map out interesting alternative routes based on landmarks? Siri's just going to tell you the fastest way.

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22 comments.

Awesome road trip! HIghlighting some amazing spots around that area! That scenery is absolutely amazing at Bryce Canyon National Park, I have never heard of it before, but i’ll be adding it to the bucketlist now!

This looks like an amazing road trip! I absolutely love all of the national parks in that area. They have some of the most unbelievable scenery I’ve encountered anywhere in the world. It’s been fifteen years since I was out that way and I really want to go back and do some more hiking.

I can’t wait to go back this year, and right now our 70% humidity really has me dreaming of the desert!

Ahhh! Shut the front door! We are talking about planning a trip in this same general area for the end of Sept! Def taking some of this advice!

Awesome! I’ll be back at the end of September as well, hoping to see the North Rim of the Grand Canyon this time.

Looks like a fun girls road trip going to some of the best parks! Thanks for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!

Looks like a great itinerary. I would like to spend more time exploring the Grand Canyon and seeing Utah, so I pinned this for future reference. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.

I’ve been wanting to do this trip for years! How did you choose your Grand Canyon backpacking route?

There are two main “corridor trails” that are heavily used and recommended for first-time backpackers. South Kaibab Trail is 7 miles to the bottom, but has less shade. Bright Angel Trail is 10 miles to the bottom, with Indian Gardens halfway. My friends and I reserved two campsites – one at the bottom (in which case we would have taken South Kaibab down and Bright Angel up) and one at Indian Gardens. It became obvious on one of our training hikes that the group was not going to be able to do a 10-mile hike to the bottom, so we went with just hiking to Indian Gardens instead. Going solo, I would hike out in 2 days with a stop at Indian Gardens.

You went to SEDONA!! I’m officially jealous in the best way. Fell in love with the city years ago after reading a Nora Roberts novel and I finally get to experience it for myself on October.

I loved this post. I’ve been to the Grand Canyon twice and it’s a sight all should see once, especially at sunrise. Beautiful.

Excellent! I’ll be there in October as well, hopefully for a full week this time! Orchards Inn was great, we loved soaking in the pool after the sun went down!

You def hit up some great places in the American Southwest! I made the roadtrip from Texas to Cali and back periodically – It’s actually one of my favorite roadtrips ever! The American Southwest has insanely gorgeous nature views and epic hiking trails! Looks like you had a blast. =)

Ooh, did you ever detour through Big Bend in Texas? Another of my favorite areas!

This looks like such an amazing trip! I’ve been dying to road trip the southwest for ages because there is so many amazing things to do and see. I will have to keep this itinerary in mind when I finally make it out there.

I loved roadtripping the US! I wish I had more time in the South West because this looks amazing! Thanks for sharing!!

This post is perfect for me as I’m headed to a number of these spots in about 10 days! #theweeklypostcard

Awesome – I hope you had a great trip!

Isn’t Zion spectacular? You’re hitting up some of my favorite places in the US—yay! Now come to the Southeast on your way back 😉

There won’t be a “way back” I’m staying out West for as long as I can 🙂

This trip hit many of the places Rob grew up hiking, camping, and road-tripping. How great that you’re heading back to Sedona. It would be easy to spend a week just in that area! We are looking forward to reading about your return trip. #TheWeeklyPostcard

This looks like an amazing trip, esp with your friends. How awesome!!

Looks like an awesome trip together! I’m going to be going a similar road trip in Sept so cool to see and get inspiration!

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The Grand Circle is the ultimate US Southwest road trip

Sep 14, 2020 • 6 min read

White Pocket at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona © Getty Images

Driving the Grand Circle can take up to three weeks, but a spectacular eight-to-10 day portion centers around the Grand Canyon and features bold colors, fascinating geological shapes and textures and living history of our indigenous culture at every turn. Amidst views, hikes and grandeur, it includes stops in town for local art, cuisine and culture and where to sleep at night. Here’s how to hit the road for the best of the Southwest. 

The Grand Circle consists of five Southwestern states – Arizona , New Mexico , Colorado , Utah and Nevada – and has America’s largest concentration of national parks and monuments. It’s perfect for a majestic road trip of scenic byways, sheer cliffs, and purple, orange and indigo mesas. 

Parowan & Cedar City, Utah

Parowan is home to the first pioneer settlement in Utah, heritage museums, as well as famous landmarks such as the geometric petroglyphs at Parowan Gap. These ancient symbols were carved into cliff faces along the same path that local people have used for centuries. 

Take a 23 minute drive “downtown” to Cedar City, Utah, and relax after hiking with a wine tasting at IG Winery & Tasting Room , featuring world-class signature blends. Be sure to try one of the famous cinnamon rolls in Parowan Cafe , which are made fresh every morning and can sell out by lunch.  

Kanab, Utah  

Both Parowan and Kanab, Utah, are ideal basecamps for the Grand Circle’s natural wonders. 

One of them, Peekaboo Slot Canyon is a 10-minute drive from Kanab and needs an arranged tour. It is less crowded than the more well-known slot canyon at Upper Antelope (your next stop), but requires some rock scrambling, including about a 12ft hike to enter. The narrow, swirled arches are carved out of sandstone created by centuries of water rushing and are every shade of orange, depending on the sunlight.

Head to “downtown” Kanab for dinner at Rocking V , an eclectic art gallery/cafe for creative dishes. Sleep at Red Canyon cabin, which is set in a quiet area on the edge of town, but close enough to walk to the visitor center. 

If you can afford it, splurge on a flightseeing trip in the morning to get to your next destination for an incredible air tour of Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend and endless views of erosion-sculpted deep gorges weaving in and out of the shimmering blue lake.  

Upper Antelope Canyon: Page, AZ 

Page is located directly on Lake Powell. Just four miles out of town is the most photographed slot canyon in the world, Upper Antelope Canyon ( currently closed ). Reservations are required here with a licensed guide , and tours are limited. The soft polished red sandstone has swirls of red, white, tan and pink and the walls glow as the dust particles drift in the shafts of sunlight. It’s highly Instagrammable and simply stunning.  

Grab dinner at Lake Powell Resort and Marina’s waterfront spot, Driftwood for views, high-end burgers, and sustainable seafood. Book a lakefront room for lodging, a small Native American inspired room loaded with upscale amenities and chairs on the patio to enjoy the lake’s breathtaking sunset views. 

Grand Canyon, AZ

At last, your centerpiece. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and over a mile deep from the river to the rim in some spots – the largest canyon in the world. If you like, you can bicycle around the edge, or simply hike the many trails. 

Highlights on the Southern Rim include Desert View Point and Watchtower, Moran, Lipan and Grandview Point. As you gaze at the scenery, make sure to take a look around at the viewpoint buildings too, such as the 70ft tall Desert View Watchtower ( currently closed ), designed by architect Mary Colter . Arrive before 11am for cooler temperatures, less traffic and fewer lines.

Drive downtown to Grand Canyon Village and dine at the internationally recognized 117-year-old El Tovar located in the historic hotel. Many a president and celebrity has dined here. Sleep at Yavapai Lodge in the national park, which lets you walk or bus about a mile to the South Rim. 

Flagstaff, AZ

Drive 30 miles on historic Route 66 to get to the Wupatki National Monument , an old Indian cliff dwelling between the Painted Desert and Ponderosa highlands, outcropped on red rock across miles of prairie. 

Only a mile out of town is where dwarf planet Pluto was discovered, the 125-year-old Lowell Observatory ( open only to private groups ). This is the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Gaze at the sea of stars, moon and planets for night or day tours.

Just off Route 66,  grab dinner at Tourist Home All Day Cafe , a renovated 1926 house, for an upscale Hash Bowl and drive less than a mile to sleep at Hotel Monte Vista another 20’s era landmark replete with live music, all day happy hour, two swanky lounges, lots of ghost stories and a room as charming as the historic lobby.  

Sedona is a well-known crystal and art lover’s New Age healing paradise, but it’s also an outdoor haven surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest. Amidst red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests are numerous trailheads in the city to access Sedona’s stunning red rocks.

Drive seven miles south of uptown Sedona and start at Bell Rock for its bell-shaped striped earth-toned mesas. There is a vortex, said to be a zone of spiritual healing energy, near the breathtaking Chapel of the Holy Cross built by owner and rancher Marguerite Brunswig Staude which sits high atop the red rocks.

Sleep at Sky Ranch Lodge for the best views of the city and walk to Mesa Grill for southwestern inspired cuisine and stellar skyline views. Don’t leave without crystals and jewelry from the outdoor mall, Tlaquepaque.   

Driving into this small town you will see some of the most spectacular views in Arizona. Then, downtown is art gallery hopping, or a juicy ghost tour as Jerome was once the “wickedest town in the West” with brothels, opium dens and saloon gun fights replete with potential paranormal phenomenon.

Founded in 1876 and once a copper mining boom town of 15,000 it turned into virtual ghost town (population: 50 people) after the mines closed in 1953. Artists moved in and now the winding switchback streets are now filled with painters, writers, musicians and historians.

Eat at the Haunted Hamburger , for local draft beers, cocktails and supposedly hammer-yielding ghosts. Stay at the perhaps spirit-filled former hospital Jerome Grand Hotel with gorgeous views, gilded artwork, burgundy walls, fine dining and captivating views. Get up in the morning for your last stop. 

Prescott, AZ

This mile-high city lies in the middle of pinon pine-covered Prescott National Forest, and has more than 15 distinctive hiking and biking trails where you can stretch your legs. Definitely hike Thumb Butte which is only a three and a half mile drive from downtown, but can get crowded. Parts are steep, but there are panoramic views of the city and neighboring mountains.

For a waterfront oasis, you can fish and boat at Watson Lake , which is only a four miles from downtown. Head back downtown for art, performances and dining – we recommend Murphy’s Prescott for elegant but moderately priced seafood. Sleep at the historic Grand Highland Hotel as it sits on Whiskey Row, which is just as famous as the town. 

You might also like: 

Now's the time to plan a fall road trip to these national parks The Grand Canyon: how to get the most from a short trip National Parks: Top 10 US travel experiences

This article was first published January 2020 and updated September 2020

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The Best 7 Day Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary! The Ultimate Southwest Road Trip!

When is the Best Time to Plan the Ultimate Southwest Road Trip?

Before you go, how long does a grand circle road trip take.

We did this version of the Grand Circle Road trip in 7 days. You can add days and stops to it, but a full week will hit the highlights. If you keep reading, I have a few extra suggestions of National Parks you can add to make your trip just a bit longer if you have the time.

Where to Start Your Ultimate Southwest Road Trip

The ultimate southwest road trip itinerary, day 1: las vegas, save up to 50% off on hotels in las vegas, here's what i would have done differently:, looking for a hotel check these deals out.

Day 2: Zion National Park Where We Stayed:

Where to eat:, day 3: zion national park, we had a full day to experience zion national park and it was just the right amount of time given the fact that the main things we wanted to do just weren't possible... angels landing.

Narrows Hike

What We Did in Zion National Park

Pa'arus Trail

Canyon junction, temple of sinawava.

Day 4: Kanab, UT and Bryce Canyon

Where we stayed:.

What we Did in Bryce Canyon

Navajo Loop Trail to Queens Garden

On the agenda for bryce canyon next visit:, day 5: page, az.

Horseshoe Bend

Here are a few things no one will tell you about visiting horseshoe bend:.

Doing it for the Gram

Would i recommend a visit to horseshoe bend , day 6: lake powell/antelope canyon.

Tips for Renting a Boat on Lake Powell

Want to rent a kayak or stand up paddle board on lake powell, lower antelope canyon, ken's tours-love it or hate it-not much you can do about it.

Some Tips to Booking Antelope Canyon Tours

Is lower antelope canyon overrated.

Day 7: Grand Canyon National Park {South Entrance}

Where we stayed:, where we ate:, what we did:, moran point.

Grand Canyon Rim Trail

Mather point for stargazing, sunrise hike on south kaibab trailhead to oh ah point, read more about the best place to watch sunrise on the southern rim of the grand canyon, how many days in grand canyon is enough, day 8: hoover dam.

Looking to Expand Your Trip?

  add in these parks arches national park canyonlands national park mesa verde national park, some additional tips if traveling with teens, add in some chill time, book hotels that have more space, take time to plug in.

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• Arizona , North America

Are you searching for the ultimate Arizona itinerary that features the bustling city of Phoenix, the wondrous Grand Canyon National Park, and the stunning red rocks of Sedona? Look no further! This incredible 1-week Arizona itinerary takes you across the state to all the top destinations and attractions (including the cool ghost town of Jerome!). Keep reading to plan your 7-day Arizona trip!

Psst, this post contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure .

If there’s one state I keep going back to again and again, it’s Arizona.

As someone who hails from the northern midwest state of Minnesota , I just can’t get enough of Arizona’s sunny weather, diverse landscape, mind-blowing attractions (like the Grand Canyon), and incredible hiking opportunities !

Over the past 10 years or so, I’ve visited Arizona countless times!

Whether it was doing a one-month USA road trip with Dan (the wanderful boyfriend), visiting Sedona on a girl’s trip with my mom and sister, exploring Prescott and the Grand Canyon on spring break, or heading down there to visit my grandparents who live in Arizona for half the year, this stunning state keeps calling me back.

But it’s not just me Arizona is calling in — this state has gotten some serious love from travelers and tourists recently! More and more people are discovering the incredible outdoor opportunities and unique sites Arizona has to offer.

If you have an itching to visit this sunny state and are wondering how to best plan your trip, this itinerary will help you see the best of Arizona in a short time!

I’m recommending all of my favorite AZ spots in this 7-day itinerary — Phoenix, Grand Canyon National Park, and Sedona.

Additionally, on the drive up to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix, I add in a cheeky stop at the coolest ghost town in Arizona — Jerome! You’re going to love it.

Keep reading to discover what Arizona has to offer and how you can see Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Jerome in just one week.

Table of Contents

7-DAY ARIZONA ITINERARY: PHOENIX, GRAND CANYON & SEDONA

First things first: a car is essential for this trip.

Unfortunately, public transportation is dire in the United States and getting around via vehicle is absolutely crucial to make the most of your precious time and visit the best places in Arizona.

If you don’t have your own vehicle for your Arizona trip, I recommend using Kayak for car rentals . I find this site typically displays the best car rental deals!

Additionally, if you don’t live near Arizona or in the United States, you’ll likely be flying here. I recommend flying into Phoenix, as this will be the most affordable option.

Phoenix has two main airports — Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. Both are centrally-located and have rental car places right near the arrival gates.

I always use Skyscanner to search for cheap flights ! You can use the little widget below to see how much flights are from your departure airport to Phoenix, AZ.

(Side note: I have an entire post on how I score cheap flights! Check it out here .)

7-Day Arizona Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of the more detailed itinerary below.

• Day 1 – Land in Phoenix and spend time exploring the city.
• Day 2 – One full day in Phoenix to visit its top sites and attractions.
• Day 3 – Drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon with a stop in Jerome.
• Day 4 – Full day at the Grand Canyon National Park.
• Day 5 – Drive from the Grand Canyon to Sedona and explore this cool town.
• Day 6 – Full day in Sedona.
• Day 7 – Drive back to Phoenix from Sedona and fly out.

Don’t forget to view the map of this road trip at the bottom of the post to get a better idea and actual visual of how you’ll be traveling around Arizona!

Phoenix — Day 1-3

Your first couple days in Arizona are going to be spent in the bustling, lively city of Phoenix! As the capital of Arizona, you can bet there are tons of fun things to do, sites to see, and attractions to visit in Phoenix.

Best Things to Do in Phoenix, AZ

• Head into Scottsdale Old Town and explore the Wild West-looking buildings.
• Check out the incredible Desert Botanical Garden and view adorable succulents, beautiful flowers, towering cacti, and gorgeous greenery! (This is a personal favorite of mine!)
• Ready to view beautiful Phoenix from above? Go on a  Sunrise Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride !
• Depending on how hot it is, have a picnic in one of the many city parks.
• Jump in the car and head out for a hike on the outskirts of Phoenix. (I’m a big fan of the Lost Dutchman State Park.)
• Visit the Heard Museum, which is devoted to Native American civilizations.
• Check out the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
• Admire the Pueblo Grande Ruin.
• Spend time outside at the Tempe Beach Park.
• Explore the the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, Ro Ho En.
• Eat your heart out at the exceptional vegan restaurants in Phoenix .

Where to Stay in Phoenix, AZ

I recommend staying somewhere central to cut down on transportation when in Phoenix. Not to mention, by staying centrally, you’ll be closer to all the best things to do in Phoenix!

My favorite areas to stay in Phoenix include:

• Scottsdale (absolutely amazing!)

Phoenix → Grand Canyon National Park

Next up on this 7-day Arizona itinerary? The Grand freakin’ Canyon, baby.

After spending a couple days seeing and experiencing the best of Phoenix, it’s time to drive up to Grand Canyon National Park. It takes around 4.5 hours to drive from Phoenix to Tusayan via Jerome, which is why you’ll find day 3 is mostly a travel day with a stop in Jerome.

Tusayan is the town right by the Grand Canyon National Park south entrance and it’s where I recommend you stay due to it being more affordable than staying inside the park. More on that below.

Jerome – Day Trip

Jerome is hands down one of the COOLEST towns to visit in Arizona!

What once was a copper mining town has been turned into a tourist town filled with unique shops, little eateries, historic buildings, and a seriously interesting history.

Although, not too long ago Jerome was a bustling little place with around 15,000 residents. But as the copper mines dried up and money ran out, people up and left Jerome, leaving the town a desolate destination filled only with the lingering ghosts of long-lost miners.

Nowadays, there’s around 400 people living in Jerome! (Who often report of strange occurrences and ghoulies running around the place…)

Anyways, with all of its cool attractions and interesting history, Jerome is well worth a stop on your drive up to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix!

Grand Canyon National Park — Day 4

Who’s ready to see a giant hole in the ground? ME!

Okay, okay, the Grand Canyon is so much more than just a simple hole… it’s a seriously stunning and cavernous canyon whose size you cannot even begin to fathom until you’re standing in front of it in person witnessing just how giant it truly is!

Not to mention, this national park boasts incredible views, gorgeous colorful rocks, exciting hikes, and a wild history that goes back millenniums.

In fact, scientists believe humans have inhabited the Grand Canyon area since the Ice Age! How crazy is that?

All in all, you won’t be bored when visiting the Grand Canyon — especially if you’re into reading placards and learning about its history! While the views can get a bit monotonous (though still beautiful!), getting to know the Grand Canyon’s past is where it’s at.

In this one-week Arizona itinerary, I dedicate one full day (2 nights) to the Grand Canyon National Park. I want to make sure you get your full Grand Canyon experience when visiting Arizona!

Best Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

• 45 minutes helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, AZ .
• Drive to one of the many viewpoints situated along the Grand Canyon South Rim. (My favorites include Desert View Watchtower, Yavapai Point, and Yaki Point!)
• Go on a  Grand Canyon East Rim jeep tour .
• Visit Hopi House.
• Hike to Hopi Point from Grand Canyon Village.
• Explore the Grand Canyon Village. (Surprisingly, a LOT of vegan options in the grocery store!)
• Grand Canyon Hermit Road Bicycle Tour .

Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon National Park

As mentioned above, I recommend staying in Tusayan, which is the town located near the Grand Canyon National Park south entrance. If you’re road tripping Arizona on a budget, you’ll find accommodations in Tusayan are much more budget-friendly compared to accommodations inside the national park.

That said, if you have the means, I highly recommend staying within the national park! The hotels in Grand Canyon Village are incredible and in a spectacular location.

• Tusayan Hotels
• Grand Canyon Village Hotels

Grand Canyon National Park → Sedona

After you’ve gotten your fill of the Grand Canyon and its stunning views, it’s time to make your way back south to Sedona and its magical red rocks!

The drive from Grand Canyon National Park to Sedona takes around 2 hours so you can easily wake up in the morning, have a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Grand Canyon, make your way to Sedona, and have a good half day or so to go on a hike or explore this quirky little town.

Ever thought about visiting Yosemite and Sequoia in the winter? It’s absolutely gorgeous! But before you plan your trip, check out this post on essential things to know when visiting Yosemite & Sequoia National Park in the winter !

Sedona — Day 5-7

Sedona is by far my favorite destination on this 7-day Arizona itinerary!

With its gorgeous red rocks, endless hiking opportunities, magical atmosphere and spiritual aura (it’s known to have 4 energy vortexes!), adorable local shops, jaw-dropping views, and delicious eateries, Sedona is one of the best places to visit in Arizona.

Best Things to Do in Sedona

• Go on a hike — I recommend these short, easy hikes near Sedona .
• Hike Devil’s Bridge via Mescal + Chuckwagon Trail , which is a favorite among visitors.
• Check out Oak Creek Canyon.
• Visit Cathedral Rock.
• Explore the Red Rock Scenic Byway.
• Check out one (or a few) of the many gift and specialty shops — the crystal shops are amazing here!
• Take a look at the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
• View Sedona from above and watch the sunset from the Airport Mesa.
• Marvel at the Palatki Ruins ( Palatki Heritage Site ), just outside of Sedona in the Coconino National Forest.
• Venture to the outskirts of Sedona at night for some incredible stargazing. (Check out this Sedona Nighttime UFO + Stargazing Tour !)
• Go on a Small-Group Vortex Jeep Tour ! The vortexes are an iconic attraction in Sedona and a must-visit on your 7-day Arizona road trip.

Where to Stay in Sedona

Sedona is pretty small so no matter where you stay, you’ll likely have easy access to all the best places and attractions here! However, some of my favorite places to stay in Sedona include:

• Sky Ranch Lodge ( incredible views and amazing location!)
• L’Auberge De Sedona (this place is so unique and seriously luxurious!)
• Southwest Inn at Sedona (classic southwest theme and gorgeous views!)
• The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort (beautiful and affordable!)

Sedona → Phoenix

On the last day of your trip, it’s time to drive back to Phoenix! Depending on what time your flight is at, it might be easier to drive back to Phoenix on day 6 and stay your last night there so you’re not rushing in the morning.

However, I highly recommend staying in Sedona as long as you can and driving to the airport from Sedona the day you fly out (if possible). It’s a relatively straightforward drive from Sedona to the Phoenix airport that takes around 2 hours.

Sedona is a GORGEOUS place to hike in Arizona! I recommend going on at least one hike with your time here. Check out this post on 5 awesome short and easy hikes in Sedona, AZ for more inspiration.

Map of 7-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

How awesome does this 7-day Arizona itinerary sound?

Who wouldn’t love to road trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon and Sedona, with an exciting stop in the cool ghost town of Jerome?!

As someone who has personally done this Arizona sightseeing road trip before, I can wholeheartedly say it is totally awesome! It’s not too fast and not too slow, and features the best of Arizona in a short amount of time.

Tell me, are you planning an Arizona road trip that has stops in Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona? How does this 7-day Arizona itinerary sound to you? Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Not sure what to check out next? Readers love these posts:

• 7 essentials you should always pack for a day hike
• Falling in love with Port Townsend – Washington State
• Experiencing Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota (aka the most underrated national park in the USA)
• The ultimate 1-month USA West Coast road trip itinerary that’ll blow your mind
• Road trip packing list – 55+ essentials you can’t forget (2021 edition)
• 5 reasons you need to rent an RV for your next adventure

Love this post on a 7-day Arizona itinerary featuring Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona? Pin it!

As mentioned above, this post contains affiliate links. Which means if you make a purchase through the links, this site receives a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read our full disclosure here .

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Article comments.

We enjoyed your pictures and stories about Az. We relived our trip there many years ago and still enjoy hearing about it. Thank you for all the great pictures and stories .

Go Wander Wild

This 7-day Arizona itinerary is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

Robert T Stubbs

Great job and very informative. Thanks!

Thanks, Robert! Really appreciate you stopping by and reading the blog. Are you planning a trip to Arizona?

Hi Sophie, my wife and I are doing the 7 day phoenix, grand canyon, sedona trip from June 11 to 18 Thank you for doing this.

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Epic 7 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-12-12

Exploring the American Southwest for the first time is mind-blowing. This landscape is like nothing you’ve ever seen. Is this how westerners feel when they visit the East Coast and see all the green forests?

We took a week to explore this region, and buddy, did we ever explore it. Including mandatory first-time visits to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Canyon, we crammed in 7 more national parks and other must-see sights for good measure.

If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to this stunning desert region, this 7 day Southwest road trip itinerary is for you!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

7 Day Southwest Road Trip: Itinerary at a Glance

Here’s the quick and dirty itinerary if you’re just looking for inspiration.

Besides Las Vegas, this Southwest USA road trip hits 4 national parks, 1 national conservation area, 1 national recreation area, 1 national monument, 1 slot canyon, 1 state park, and 1 really big dam.

• Death Valley National Park
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – Valley of Fire State Park
• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park – Horseshoe Bend
• Antelope Canyon – Horseshoe Bend – Lake Powell
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Walnut Canyon National Monument – Hoover Dam

Of course, the beauty of this itinerary is it’s flexible.

We recommend making this a 9 day trip: Fly out to Las Vegas Friday after work, spend Saturday exploring Vegas, do the epic 7 day road trip, and end up back in Vegas for some more down time before flying home the next Sunday.

This is not slow travel. This is definitely a go-go-go itinerary that only requires 5 vacation days .

You will not see everything there is to see, but you will see a lot of amazing sights in all of these parks. You’ll be able to check many of them off your national parks bucket list!

Save This Map: 7 Day Southwest USA Road Trip from Las Vegas

We’re making it easy for you to steal this Southwest USA road trip itinerary!

Click the star to the right of the map title, and it will save this map to your Google Drive! To see the map legend, click the sliding bar icon to the left of the map title.

Packing List for this Road Trip

Besides needing the standard road trip packing list , we’ve also listed specific items we found indispensable for this Southwest road trip.

We highly recommend you bring the following and keep them handy in the car throughout your trip.

• America the Beautiful Annual Pass : This is the national park annual pass, costs $80, and will pay for itself more than twice over on this trip alone.
• Water, LOTS of water: This is the desert and you always need water, even in the winter.
• Offline maps or a physical atlas: An actual atlas is the safest, but offline maps are handy so long as your phone is alive.
• Sun protection: sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, etc.
• Camp blanket: Sit and watch a sunset, or sunrise, or have a picnic lunch in the shade.
• Cooler: Nothing will stay cool in your car for long without a cooler, especially in summer, including your chapstick. (Put it in a Ziploc baggie in your cooler, for real.)
• A light jacket: Elevation change = temperature change. The higher you go, the cooler it gets. Also, the desert gets cold at night.
• Hiking boots: Through dirt, mud, ice, or snow, or something like that…
• Wide angle lens: DSLR fans will know what I mean. This is for Horseshoe Bend specifically but handy elsewhere as well.
• Hiking backpack with comfortable shoulder straps: You need to bring water with you whenever you leave your car, and water gets heavy, so make sure you’ve got cushy straps. Hiking with the 10 Essentials is never a bad idea, either.

One Week Southwest Road Trip from Las Vegas

Let’s break down the road trip itinerary by day.

We’ll give suggestions for things to do in each location, recommendations for where to eat, a head’s up on anticipated costs, tips to look out for, and where to overnight so you’re ready for the next day.

Get an America the Beautiful Annual Pass for this trip! Whether you buy it from a local park near you, at an REI store, or at Death Valley on your first day, this pass is going to save you A LOT of money.

We’ll keep track of exactly how much money it’s saved you as we go through the itinerary, but the punch line is it pays for itself more than twice over on this one week trip alone.

And it’s valid for a year, so who knows what other national park shenanigans you can get up to in that time!

Day 1 – Day Trip to Death Valley National Park

What to Do in Death Valley

• Drive from Vegas – 2 hours
• Zabriskie Point
• Furnace Creek
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
• Artist’s Palette
• Devil’s Golf Course
• Badwater Basin
• Drive back to Vegas – 2 hours

There are a lot of things you can do in Death Valley National Park , but the above list is ambitious for a single day trip, especially if you visit in summer when temperatures soar!

This is the hottest, driest, and lowest point in North America. Don’t underestimate how quickly you’ll get dehydrated or develop heat stroke.

Where to Eat in Death Valley

Packing in a lunch is the easiest option because you can eat whenever you’re hungry, no matter where you are in the park.

Alternatively, Stovepipe Wells has the Toll Road Restaurant.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Death Valley

The Death Valley entry fee is $30 per vehicle and is valid for 7 days.

We strongly recommend an America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass instead. It will pay for itself almost twice on this road trip alone.

>> Money Saved by the America the Beautiful (ATB) Pass So Far : $30

Tips for Death Valley

• Bring LOTS of water and sun protection. There’s absolutely no shade in this park.
• Download offline maps before you leave Las Vegas.
• There’s basically no cell service out here. Consider putting your phone into airplane mode when you arrive at the park so it doesn’t drain the battery looking for service all day.

Where to Spend the Night

Return to Las Vegas. Stay at The Paris or The Palazzo at The Venetian .

Day 2 – Red Rock Canyon & Valley of Fire

What to Do in Red Rock and Valley of Fire

• Drive 30 minutes to Red Rock Canyon from downtown Las Vegas (arrive at your specific entry time if visiting between Oct 1 and May 31)
• Calico Tanks Hike
• One-way Scenic Drive through the park
• Drive 1hr15min to Valley of Fire State Park (from end of Red Rock one-way route)
• Fire Wave Hike or Rainbow Vista Hike
• White Domes Hike
• Elephant Rock hike, on the way out of the park
• Drive to Springdale, UT – 2.5 hours (and you lose an hour to time zone change)

Our recommendation is to spend the morning in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , drive over lunch to avoid the sun at its highest, spend the afternoon in Valley of Fire State Park , before finally driving up to Utah to spend the night.

>> If you’re visiting in the winter or spring (October through May), timed entry tickets are required for the scenic drive at Red Rock Canyon (most trailheads are along this route). Reserve these online ahead of your trip.

Timed tickets are required for entry between 8AM and 5PM. But if you arrive before 8AM, you don’t need a timed ticket. Something to consider if you want to get in more hikes!

>> If you’re visiting in the summer , swap out the Fire Wave hike for the Rainbow Vista hike.

Due to the exposed nature of the Fire Wave hike and the extreme heat in Nevada in the summers, the park closes the trail from June through September.

Where to Eat

Either pack a lunch or make a quick stop off of the interstate in the Vegas area. Once you get past north Vegas, there’s nothing better than convenience store food.

Reserve some snacks and water in the car for your evening drive.

Once you leave Valley of Fire, there’s a good hour and a half drive before you’ll reach any decent dinner options.

We recommend stopping in St George, UT for dinner , but Springdale is also ok if you know you can make it in time.

Remember, you lose an hour to time zones when you cross the state line. If you leave Valley of Fire at 5PM PST, you won’t get to St George until 7:30 MST or Springdale at 8:30PM MST.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Red Rock Canyon & Valley of Fire

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area collects a $15 daily entry fee , plus a $1 reservation fee if you reserve your timed entry online ahead of time.

The America the Beautiful Pass includes Bureau of Land Management sites, too, like Red Rock Canyon. You can get in for free with a pass!

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $45

Valley of Fire State Park charges for day use at $15 per non-Nevada vehicle.

As a Nevada state park, it’s NOT covered by the America the Beautiful Pass. (If you’re a Nevada resident, it’s $10 per vehicle.)

Tips for Red Rock Canyon & Valley of Fire

• Bring LOTS of water and sun protection. There’s a lot of hiking opportunities with minimal shade in both of these parks.
• Red Rock Canyon requires a timed entry ticket for the one-way scenic drive in peak season (Oct 1 – May 31 between 8AM and 5PM).
• Stop at the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center first, and make sure you know your route before you start the scenic drive. If you miss the parking area for your hike, for example, you have to drive the entire loop and come back around.

Drive to Springdale, UT, right outside the entrance to Zion National Park.

We’re fans of the Holiday Inn Express Springdale/Zion National Park and the Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park .

Finding an affordable spot in Springdale can be hard. Refer to our complete guide for where to stay near Zion for other options.

Day 3 – Zion National Park

What to Do in Zion

• Start the day hiking The Narrows or Angels Landing (pick one)
• Emerald Pools Trail
• Retrieve your car and drive through the Tunnel to park at the Canyon Overlook trailhead
• Canyon Overlook Trail for sunset
• Drive to Bryce – 2 hours

There’s a lot you can see with a day in Zion National Park. Primarily, though, you’ll be hiking your socks off.

This is Utah’s most popular national park . You will be visiting with thousands of others if you come in the summer.

To help with congestion, shuttle buses are mandatory . No private cars are allowed in the inner canyon, unless you stay at The Zion Lodge.

Exact dates vary but this generally applies May through September and some holiday weekends.

It also means it can take you longer to move around the park. If a shuttle is full, you have to wait for the next one.

We’ve tried to temper the itinerary with this in mind, but if you have more time, feel free to add another hike or two.

Where to Eat in Zion

Packing a lunch or eating at the restaurant at the Zion Lodge (in the park’s inner canyon) is the best way to save time .

You could leave the park and eat in Springdale, which has several options, but that takes time away from Zion activities. Up to you, if the rest is something you want.

For dinner, leave Zion no later than 6PM to get to Bryce before 8PM. In winter, the restaurants in Bryce will all be closed by 8PM. (It’s not a big place.)

Don’t count on finding fast food , either. There aren’t any between Zion and Bryce.

Alternatively, you could eat dinner in Springdale before driving to Bryce after dark. Just remember to take it slow and beware of wildlife once you get on the road.

We saw HERDS of deer along the side of State Route 9 before we made it to US 89. It was definitely nerve-wracking up to that point.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Zion

Zion National Park has a $35 daily entry fee or is covered by the America the Beautiful Annual Pass. The daily entry fee is good for 7 days.

The park shuttle is free, even if you get on in Springdale.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $80 ( officially paid for itself! )

Tips for Visiting Zion

• Mandatory shuttle during peak season. Factor in time for catching the shuttle between hikes and getting back to your car in late afternoon.
• Leave yourself plenty of time to get out of the parking lot, to get up to and through the Tunnel, and to find a parking spot for the Canyon Overlook Trailhead in time for a sunset hike.
• The Angels Landing hike now requires a permit to hike from Scouts Lookout up to Angels Landing.
• Bring a dry bag if you want to hike The Narrows. The water levels in the river can vary from ankle-deep to waist-deep.

Drive to Bryce (Canyon City) and stay at The Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel tonight. This allows you get a bright and early start tomorrow.

You can explore Bryce Canyon very thoroughly with just one day , if you get started early enough, which is why we recommend overnighting in Bryce rather than another night in Springdale.

However, there are a grand total of 3 hotels in Bryce , and they can get expensive or sell out in peak season.

We researched places to stay near Bryce and suggest a few options in case everything in Bryce itself is unavailable.

Staying another night in Springdale isn’t the end of the world if you can find availability there and not in Bryce. (Pretty unlikely though, as Zion is more popular than Bryce.)

Just keep in mind the morning rush to get into Zion can slow you down on your commute to Bryce. Yes, you will have to drive through part of Zion National Park on SR 9 to get to Bryce.

Day 4 – Bryce & Horseshoe Bend

What to Do in Bryce Canyon

• Hike early: Sunrise to Sunset Points
• Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop
• Rainbow Point Scenic Drive
• Mossy Cave hike, slight detour on the way out of town
• Drive 2.75hrs to Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ
• Catch Horseshoe Bend for sunset (or catch it tomorrow, no worries)

Bryce Canyon National Park is Utah’s second-busiest national park out of its Mighty Five. It also gets very busy in summers, but Bryce hasn’t yet made their shuttle system mandatory.

Ordinarily, we’re all about public transit to reduce congestion. But in order to see as much as possible with one day in Bryce, we recommend you bring your own car.

Most travelers can add another hike to this itinerary and still make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset.

We added Horseshoe Bend to Day 4’s itinerary purely for the sunset enthusiasts. It is gorgeous, but so is visiting during the day, which you will have time to do tomorrow if you prefer.

Don’t feel bad skipping Horseshoe Bend today if you’d rather do another hike in Bryce instead.

Where to Eat in Bryce & Page

We recommend packing in a lunch or eating at one of the restaurants near the Lodge . Leaving to eat lunch in town and re-entering the park after just wastes precious sightseeing time.

For dinner, we’re assuming you stuck to the itinerary and made it to Page.

We ate at the Dam Diner our first night in town, and it was perfect. Good variety on the menu, delicious food, and the décor is on point!

Entrance Fees/Cost for Bryce & Horseshoe Bend

Bryce Canyon National Park also has a $35 entry fee, good for 7 days .

Or, it’s FREE with your Annual Park Pass , and yes, I’m going to keep saying this until it sinks in.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $115

Horseshoe Bend has no NPS entrance fee , but the City of Page charges a parking fee for their large, maintained, and police-monitored parking lot at the trailhead.

There used to be a huge safety problem here because people would park along the side of the busy highway and cause accidents dashing across the road to the trailhead or pulling out in front of cars when they left.

The city built a parking lot and now keeps a police presence here so people don’t park on the side of the highway. It’s much safer than it used to be.

Most private vehicles are $10. Ubers are considered commercial vehicles, and they’ll charge them $35 to park. Currently, there is no uber drop off zone so you cannot avoid the parking fee.

For more information, read our review for everything you need to know to hike the Horseshoe Bend Overlook trail.

Tips for Visiting Bryce Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

• You need legit hiking boots to hike in Bryce. In winter, you need waterproof boots and spikes you can attach for traction in snow and slush. In summer, you need that ankle support and boot traction as nearly all hiking trails start out steep as you descend into the canyon. ( Trust us; we learned this one the hard way .)
• On Bryce’s scenic drive, drive all the way up to Rainbow Point first, and then stop at the overlooks on the way back down. It’s easier for flow of traffic.
• Catch Horseshoe Bend for sunset, but beware of the crowds (the parking lot may fill up) and realize that the canyon bend will be in deep shade. For photos of the incredible orange canyon walls and blue river below, visit tomorrow during the day (but you’ll have to pay to park again.)
• Bring a wide angle lens for photographing Horseshoe Bend with a DSLR camera. Some newer cell phones can get it all in frame, but the ratio will create a serious crop if you try to print it later. The wide angle lens gets the whole bend in frame at a ratio that can be easily printed.

Stay the night in Page, AZ. The Holiday Inn Express Page or the Hampton Inn & Suites Page/Lake Powell are our go-to hotel chains ( hello, loyalty points! ) but there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Page.

It’s not a big town. All hotels are close together and equally close to shops and restaurants.

Day 5 – Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, & Lake Powell

What to Do in Page

• Horseshoe Bend (if missed yesterday or if you want the full-color views)
• Antelope Canyon tour (midday for light beams in Upper Canyon; whenever for Lower Canyon)
• Afternoon at Lake Powell, or drive 2hrs out to Monument Valley and 2hrs back

If you’re new to Antelope Canyon, read this: Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which is Best to Visit?

It explains the differences between the two, pros and cons for each, and helps you choose which is best for you and your traveling group’s budget, time, and accessibility needs.

Book Antelope Canyon tours as far in advance as you can. They will absolutely sell out months ahead of time.

You can then build the rest of your day around your Antelope Canyon tour time. Horseshoe Bend will only take about an hour, max. That leaves the rest of the day for hiking or boating around Lake Powell.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a sprawling National Park Service site that includes popular spots like Horseshoe Bend, Lee’s Ferry, the Glen Canyon Dam, and Lake Powell.

The most popular areas near Page are Lee’s Ferry, Wahweap, the Glen Canyon Dam, and Antelope Point.

If you opt for the afternoon drive out to Monument Valley , bring lots of water, a few snacks, extra batteries for your camera, and plenty of road trip entertainment.

There is a whole lot of nothing on this drive, except for the amazing scenery.

Where to Eat in Page

Page has a handful of fast food joints for quick eats for lunch, or stop by a grocery store to cobble together an easy picnic lunch while you’re out exploring.

For dinner, ask your hotel concierge which is their favorite restaurant and go there. Big John’s Texas BBQ is a fan-favorite!

Entrance Fees/Cost for Page-area Attractions

Antelope Canyon tour fees vary by time of year and which canyon you visit.

Budget as little as $61 per person for Lower Antelope Canyon in low season to as much as $120 per person for a prime time slot for Upper Antelope Canyon in peak season.

Note that combo tours with other canyons are available in some cases, but will be higher.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which includes Lake Powell, collects a $30 entry fee, valid for 7 days. Once again, it’s also covered by the America the Beautiful Pass if you have one.

Lake Powell’s water levels have been struggling recently. Several marinas, docks, and boat launches are closed due to low water levels. Check the park website before you go to see what’s open.

Lee’s Ferry and the Glen Canyon Dam are pretty much always open, and guided tours of Lake Powell are a good way to let the locals show you around.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $145

See above (Day 4 – Entrance Fees/Cost) for discussion of costs for Horseshoe Bend. In short, you’ll need $10 to park at the trailhead.

Tips for Visiting Page and its Sights

• Book a midday tour for the epic light beams in Upper Antelope Canyon.
• If you’re visiting in winter, book a cheaper Lower Antelope Canyon tour. The light beams in Upper Antelope aren’t visible in the winter.
• There’s ZERO SHADE at Horseshoe Bend. Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sun protection, no matter the time of year you visit.

Stay another night in Page and relax a bit.

Day 6 – Grand Canyon

What to Do at the Grand Canyon

• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park’s east entrance – 2 hours
• Take your time to drive the Desert View Scenic Drive to the visitor center, stopping at overlooks along the way
• Park at the Visitor Center
• Walk to Mather Point and along the Rim Trail to Yavapai Geology Museum and back
• Shuttle the Orange Route (Yaki Point); Take a quick hike to the Ooh Aah Point.
• Shuttle the Red Route (Hermits Rest Road); Sunset at Hopi Point
• Drive to Flagstaff – 1.5 hours

Grand Canyon National Park is at the top of most people’s national park bucket lists . It’s definitely a sight to behold that you won’t regret!

We didn’t suggest driving up last night because, when coming from Page, you enter via the east entrance of Grand Canyon National Park.

This happens to be right next to the Desert Watchtower , and the drive to the visitor center from here is the Desert View Scenic Drive .

You want to do this drive during the day so you can stop at all the overlooks along the way.

Once you get to the visitor center, you can shuffle the itinerary however you like based on your lunch needs.

If you packed a lunch, you have maximum flexibility, but if you need a restaurant, you need to shuttle to the Village area or out to Tusayan.

The Orange Route requires a mandatory shuttle ride, year-round. The Red Route requires a shuttle ride typically March through November.

Where to Eat in Grand Canyon

If you follow the itinerary, you should arrive at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center a little before or right at lunch time.

The canyon rim is a fantastic place for a picnic lunch , and you’re close to your car if you need to bring anything back after lunch, like a small cooler.

If you prefer restaurants , shuttle over to the Grand Canyon Village or Market Plaza areas for lunch.

You can also shuttle out to Tusayan for lunch and back into the park in the afternoon, but it’ll cut into your sightseeing time by a couple of hours.

In the evening, if you can wait long enough, eat dinner in Flagstaff . This can be difficult in the summer, since sunset is so late, but it’s doable in the winter.

Alternatively, stop in Tusayan or at one of the restaurants in Grand Canyon Village before heading out for an evening drive to Flagstaff.

Entrance Fees/Cost for Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon National Park charges a $35 entry fee, valid for 7 days, and includes both the South Rim and the North Rim.

Or, you guessed it, visit the Grand Canyon for free with an annual park pass.

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $180 ( paid for itself, twice! )

Shuttles around the park’s South Rim are free.

Note : We didn’t include the Grand Canyon North Rim on this road trip itinerary because we’re hitting the highlights and don’t really have time for both rims. If your main focus is the Grand Canyon and you want to see both rims, we have a whole series of Grand Canyon road trip itineraries you may enjoy, whether you’ve got 3 days or 2 weeks for vacation.

Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon

• Hopi Point is packed for sunset but many overlooks are good for sunset
• Shuttles for the Orange Route (to Yaki Point) are mandatory all year.
• Shuttles for the Red Route (Hermits Rest Road) are mandatory in peak season, usually March through November.

This depends on your budget and availability more than on driving distance for tomorrow’s adventures.

Staying in the park at one of the excellent lodges is always pricey but could be worth the splurge for the views.

Tusayan is right outside the park’s southern entrance, so the convenience factor is high. Prices are correspondingly high and availability is often scarce.

Flagstaff is 1.5 hours from the southern entrance and will always be cheaper and have more availability. Williams is another possibility, slightly closer to the park but fewer hotel options.

Day 7 – Walnut Canyon & Hoover Dam

• If you stayed in Flagstaff, start at Walnut Canyon National Monument to view Native American cliff dwellings.
• Hike the Island Trail.
• Consider hiking the Rim Trail, if you have time.
• Drive 3.5hrs to Hoover Dam (Tours and shops operate on PST, so you gain an hour on the drive)
• Tour Hoover Dam
• Stop for a quick walk out onto the bridge for an iconic Hoover Dam pic
• Continue on to Las Vegas (45 min drive) or one of the suburbs, to your hotel for the night.

Day 7 is sort of a catch-all day for this Southwest USA road trip itinerary. There are a lot of different ways you can spend the day, so long as you end up back in Vegas when it’s all said and done.

Our suggested itinerary above includes more Southwest US must-see sights, but you could spend another half day in Grand Canyon National Park before heading back to Las Vegas in the late afternoon/evening.

Or, there’s the Route 66 Museum in Kingman or a detour out to the Grand Canyon Skywalk on the way back to Vegas.

Maybe you want to beeline back to Vegas and enjoy some down time in a legendary Las Vegas hotel pool, or do some sightseeing in Vegas .

These are all good ideas. Pick whatever suits you best!

Where to eat

Kingman, AZ is a good stop for lunch on the drive back to Vegas. If you follow our itinerary, you should arrive around noon-ish.

Whatever your plans for Day 7, we recommend being back in the Vegas-area for dinner . There is always something open in Vegas.

Entrance Fees/Cost

Walnut Canyon National Monument is $25 entry, valid for one week. But also, it’s covered by the America the Beautiful Pass and could be free for you!

>> Money Saved by the ATB Pass So Far : $205

Hoover Dam tours are NOT covered by the America the Beautiful pass.

Hoover Dam is operated by the Bureau of Reclamation, not the Park Service, and is actually self-sustaining from its ticket sales.

Visiting Hoover Dam can be free if all you want to do is stop and take a picture.

Park at the Bridge Overlook Parking lot, walk up the paved path and along the side of the Pat Tillman Bridge, and get that iconic photo of Hoover Dam. Then walk back to your car and leave.

We highly recommend the in-depth Guided Dam Tour for $30 per person , for all the fascinating stories and details about how this colossal engineering marvel was built with 1930’s technology.

You go inside the dam, see the power plant, see the inspection tunnels, and even get a picture through one of the vents in the middle of the dam.

Hoover Dam also offers a self-guided tour of the visitor center for $10 or a Guided Tour of the Power Plant Only for $15. (Both guided tours include access to the self-guided visitor center tour.)

The parking garage on the Nevada side and Parking Lot 9 on the Arizona side are both $10 flat fee (not hourly) .

Parking in the upper lots on the Arizona side is free , but it is a bit of a walk down to the dam, the visitor center, and the shops.

Tips for Visiting Walnut Canyon & the Hoover Dam

• Walnut Canyon’s Island Trail begins and ends with several flights of stairs. There are benches to rest, but it’s not a mobility-friendly trail.
• Hoover Dam’s Guided Power Plant Tour and Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour tickets are both available for advance purchase online. They often sell out!
• The in-depth Dam Tour tickets are NOT available online. You must be present in person to buy those tickets, first come, first served.

Las Vegas, or one of the surrounding suburbs with easy access to the airport but cheaper hotels.

Reminder, The Palazzo at The Venetian accepts IHG rewards points. #gamechanger

Enjoy exploring the Southwest on this Las Vegas Road Trip Loop!

Whether you spend a week on this road trip or extend it to 9 days for some extra Vegas sightseeing, we hope this Southwest USA road trip was a good introduction to the region and inspires you to come back!

Recap of helpful resources for planning your Vegas road trip loop:

• 35 Fun (and Sober!) Things to Do in Las Vegas
• One Day in Death Valley National Park
• Where to Stay near Zion
• Where to Stay near Bryce
• How to See Everything in Bryce Canyon National Park in One Day
• Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which is Best for You?
• What to Expect on the Horseshoe Bend Hike
• One Day in Grand Canyon National Park
• 8 Epic Grand Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

Happy travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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Perfect 7 Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary | Local Recs

May 6, 2023

Your Influencer Coach & Fellow Content Creator

I'm a travel creator and influencer coach based out of Arizona. This blog is where I share the best itineraries for US & beyond, 63 US National Parks , and influencer tips . Read More About Me ⟶

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Ready for the Southwest road trip of a lifetime? Embark on an unforgettable road trip through Arizona’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture! From the bustling city of Phoenix to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon, this 7 day Arizona road trip itinerary will guide you through the state’s most iconic destinations and uncover its hidden gems. So get ready to experience the best of Arizona, filled with adventures, delicious food, and unforgettable memories!

As an Arizona native, I’ll be pulling from my local experience to make sure you have the best trip possible. Let’s dive in! We’ll start with some must-know trip planning details.

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How Many Days Are Enough for Arizona?

The ideal duration for an Arizona trip depends on your travel goals and attractions of interest. While a short trip of 3-4 days covers some highlights, I recommend at least 7 days for a deeper immersion in the state’s diverse landscapes, cities, and unique experiences.

A 7-day Arizona road trip itinerary includes Phoenix, national parks like Saguaro, Petrified Forest, and the Grand Canyon, as well as Sedona , Monument Valley, and Antelope Canyon with Horseshoe Bend.

With 10-14 days, explore each location further, participate in activities like stargazing, river rafting, and off-roading, or visit additional attractions like Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and Jerome. You can also use this time to do an Arizona Utah road trip !

At the end of the day, the length of your Arizona trip depends on your interests and preferred pace, but regardless of the duration, you’re sure to create lasting memories and discover unforgettable sights.

What is the Best Month for an Arizona Road Trip?

The best months for an Arizona road trip are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) , offering pleasant weather and moderate temperatures perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides cooler temperatures and stunning fall colors in higher elevations.

Summer (June-August) is scorching hot, limiting outdoor activities, while winter (December-February) can be cold in northern regions with snowfall and freezing temperatures at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. However, winters are milder in southern Arizona.

In conclusion, spring and fall are ideal for an Arizona road trip, providing favorable weather to explore the state’s diverse landscapes and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Where to Start and End Your Arizona Road Trip

Start in Phoenix, Arizona, home to the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which offers numerous flight connections. In addition, Phoenix is an excellent base for exploring the city’s landmarks and the nearby Superstition Mountains!

Choose Phoenix or Flagstaff as your ending point, depending on flight options and travel preferences. Both cities have airports with connections to various destinations.

Ending in Phoenix completes an entire state loop and allows one to revisit the city before departure. Allow approximately 3.5 hours for the drive from the Grand Canyon South Rim.

Ending in Flagstaff, just 1.5 hours from the Grand Canyon South Rim, offers a charming city experience before departure. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport provides convenient flight options.

No matter where you start and end your Arizona road trip, plan your itinerary carefully and maximize your time exploring this beautiful state!

Arizona Road Trip Itinerary (7 Days) At a Glance + Map

Day 1: phoenix – city exploration and superstition mountains, day 2: saguaro national park and tucson.

• Day 3: Sedona – Red Rock Adventures and Spiritual Vortexes 
• Day 4: Petrified Forest National Park and Canyon de Chelly 

Day 5: Monument Valley and Valley of the Gods (optional)

Day 6: antelope canyon, horseshoe bend, and lake powell, day 7: grand canyon national park.

Below is a map of your itinerary and the stops you’ll make along the way. You can click here for a live version of the map to use on your trip!

Since you’ll be visiting national parks and Sedona, remember to grab your America the Beautiful Pass !

The best place to start your Arizona adventure is by flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which offers numerous flights from various destinations. Try to arrive in the morning or early afternoon to make the most of your first day in Phoenix.

Upon arrival, you can explore the nearby Desert Botanical Garden, only a 15-minute drive from the airport, or visit the popular Roosevelt Row Arts District for a taste of the city’s vibrant art scene.

If you’re hungry, head to Matt’s Big Breakfast, a local favorite serving delicious all-day breakfast dishes, or indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at Barrio Café.

Begin your Arizona adventure in the heart of Phoenix. If you didn’t already, Start by visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, where you’ll discover the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Next, dive into the city’s thriving art scene with stops at the Phoenix Art Museum. I also recommend visiting Scottsdale where you can even take a bike tour around the waterfront (an Instagrammable Scottsdale spot ).

Coffee lover? Try Berdena’s or another Scottsdale coffee shop !

Old Town Scottsdale also has some greta places to eat if you’re hungry (I love Herbox for brunch)— you should read: The Best Day Trips from Scottsdale, AZ

After lunch, make your way east to the mysterious Superstition Mountains. This rugged wilderness area is perfect for an afternoon of outdoor adventure. Next, take on the Peralta Trail , a moderately challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the desert landscape and unique rock formations.

Alternatively, you can head to Lost Dutchman State Park or the Apache Trail in the Supers — both are a great addition to your Arizona road trip 7 days! For lunch, head to one of the top-rated local eateries when hunger strikes for a delicious meal.

Consider trying the farm-to-table cuisine at FnB or the Caribbean-inspired dishes at The Breadfruit & Rum Bar.

As the sun sets, return to Phoenix for a night of delectable Southwestern cuisine. Sample the innovative dishes at Barrio Café , known for its unique take on Mexican food, or enjoy a memorable meal at Ocotillo, which offers a contemporary twist on American classics.

And of course, there are tons of food options and bars in Scottsdale that you can enjoy instead!

P.S. I recommend reading my guide on the most Instagrammable spots in Phoenix !

Accommodation

Rest up for the next day’s adventures at one of the area’s excellent accommodations. For an upscale experience, book a room at the historic Arizona Biltmore or the Cuban-inspired Scott Resort in Scottsdale.

However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider the stylish boutique hotel FOUND:RE Phoenix .

On your second day, head south from Phoenix to Saguaro National Park, an iconic desert landscape filled with the majestic Saguaro cacti. Split into two districts, the park offers a variety of trails for all levels of hikers. Consider hiking the Valley View Overlook Trail in the Tucson Mountain District (West), offering stunning vistas.

In the Rincon Mountain District (East), the easy Cactus Forest Loop Drive presents an opportunity for a scenic drive through the park.

Spend the afternoon exploring Tucson’s unique cultural attractions. Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combined zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum that showcases the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Then, step back in time at the San Xavier del Bac Mission, a beautifully restored 18th-century mission church.

After working up an appetite, head into Tucson for a well-deserved meal. El Charro Café, the nation’s oldest Mexican restaurant, offers a taste of history alongside mouthwatering dishes.

Alternatively, try the innovative fusion cuisine at The Tasteful Kitchen.

As evening approaches, indulge in Tucson’s thriving food scene. Dine at the popular Mi Nidito , which offers a famous menu of Mexican cuisine.

For a more casual experience, head to the bustling Mercado San Agustín , a public market featuring a variety of food stalls and local vendors.

Rest for the night at one of Tucson’s comfortable lodgings. Consider booking a room at the Omni or the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa for a luxurious stay.

Budget-conscious travelers can choose the La Posada Lodge & Casitas .

Day 3: Sedona – Red Rock Adventures and Spiritual Vortexes

Begin the third day of your 7 day Arizona road trip itinerary with a scenic drive north to the enchanting town of Sedona. Surrounded by red rock formations, Sedona offers a variety of outdoor activities. Start by hiking the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail , where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

For this hike and many others in Sedona, you’ll need a Red Rock Pass .

If you need alternative hikes, I suggest ready my guide on easy hikes in Sedona, AZ !

Sedona is known for its spiritual vortexes, which are said to be areas of concentrated energy conducive to healing and meditation. Visit the Airport Mesa , Bell Rock , or Boynton Canyon vortexes for a unique, restorative experience. Alternatively, explore more of the area’s natural beauty by hiking the West Fork Oak Creek Trail or renting a mountain bike to tackle the trails.

After your morning hike, refuel with a delicious meal at one of Sedona’s excellent eateries.

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at the ChocolaTree Organic Oasis, or indulge in creative Southwestern dishes at Elote Café.

As the sun sets, take a moment to appreciate Sedona’s vibrant arts scene. Browse the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village for local artwork, or catch a live performance at the Sedona Performing Arts Center. If you’re up for hiking, there are plenty of great Sedona sunset hikes to enjoy!

For dinner, try the Italian-inspired cuisine at Dahl & Di Luca Ristorante Italiano or the eclectic menu at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill .

Choose from Sedona’s wide range of accommodations to suit your preferences. For a luxurious experience, book a room at the Amara Resort or the Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa (The Wilde Resort).

Budget-friendly options include the charming Southwest Inn at Sedona or the centrally-located Sky Ranch Lodge .

For more options, check out my guide on the best boutique hotels in Sedona !

Day 4: Petrified Forest National Park and Canyon de Chelly

Rise early and head east to Petrified Forest National Park , a fascinating landscape filled with colorful petrified wood, ancient fossils, and striking badlands. Begin your visit at the Rainbow Forest Museum, where you can learn about the park’s history and geology.

Then, explore the park’s main attractions, including the Giant Logs Trail, Blue Mesa, and the Painted Desert Inn.

Continue your journey to the remarkable Canyon de Chelly National Monument , home to towering sandstone cliffs, lush valleys, and ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins. Take a self-guided tour along the North or South Rim drives, stopping at the many overlooks for stunning views of the canyon.

For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour led by a Navajo guide, which will allow you to access the canyon floor and learn about the area’s rich history and culture. While options are limited inside the park, you can pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the unique surroundings.

Alternatively, head to nearby Holbrook for a bite at one of the local diners, such as Joe & Aggie’s Café or Tom & Suzie’s Diner.

As you wrap up your day of exploration, dine at the Thunderbird Lodge Cafeteria, which offers a variety of Navajo and American dishes. Relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the canyon as the sun sets.

Tomorrow you’ll head closer to Utah!

Spend the night within the Navajo Nation at the Thunderbird Lodge , which offers basic but comfortable rooms. Alternatively, consider staying in Chinle at the Best Western Canyon de Chelly Inn or the Holiday Inn Canyon de Chelly .

These options provide easy access to the park and a range of amenities for a restful night.

On day five, venture north to the iconic Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a mesmerizing landscape of sandstone buttes and mesas featured in countless movies and photographs. Start at the visitor center to learn about the area’s geology and Navajo culture. Then, embark on the 17-mile Valley Drive, a self-guided tour that winds past some of the park’s most famous landmarks, such as the Mittens, the Three Sisters, and John Ford’s Point.

Next up you have an optional adventure!

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider heading to the nearby Valley of the Gods . This lesser-known destination features striking sandstone formations and a serene atmosphere, perfect for hiking or taking a scenic drive.

While it lacks the amenities of Monument Valley, the Valley of the Gods offers an opportunity to connect with the breathtaking beauty of the Southwest in a more intimate setting. Savor a meal at The View Restaurant, which offers a variety of Navajo and American dishes, along with stunning panoramas of the valley.

Alternatively, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the dramatic scenery.

Return to Monument Valley and take in the unforgettable sight of the sandstone formations glowing in the warm hues of the setting sun. For dinner, enjoy a traditional Navajo meal at one of the nearby trading posts, such as the historic Goulding’s Trading Post.

Tomorrow you’ll be exploring some of the nearby, photogenic attractions, so pack your camera !

Spend the night in Monument Valley for a truly immersive experience. The View Hotel offers comfortable rooms with unparalleled views of the iconic landscape.

Alternatively, opt for a unique stay at a traditional Navajo hogan, like those offered by Tear Drop Arch Bed & Breakfast or Monument Valley Tipi Village.

Begin day six with a drive to Page, Arizona, home to the mesmerizing Antelope Canyon. This slot canyon, famous for its smooth, flowing sandstone walls and dramatic shafts of light, can only be visited via guided tours . Choose between the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon , each offering a unique experience.

Be sure to book your tour well in advance, as spots fill up quickly!

Continue your day of exploration by visiting the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend . A short hike from the parking area leads you to an overlook with awe-inspiring views of the Colorado River as it winds around the distinctive rock formation.

Afterward, head to Lake Powell , a vast reservoir offering endless opportunities for water-based activities, such as boating, fishing, and swimming. After your Antelope Canyon tour, head to one of Page’s local eateries for a satisfying meal.

Big John’s Texas BBQ and the Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge are popular options, offering a variety of flavors to suit any palate.

As the day comes to a close, dine at one of Page’s delicious restaurants. Enjoy a hearty meal at the State 48 Tavern or savor Italian cuisine at the family-owned Bonkers Restaurant .

Tomorrow, you’ll be driving down to Grand Canyon National Park for the next part of your 7 day Arizona road trip!

Rest up for your final day of adventure at one of Page’s comfortable lodging options. For a touch of luxury, consider the Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell or the Lake Powell Resort .

Budget-conscious travelers can choose the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page at Lake Powell or the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Page – Lake Powell Area.

On the final day of your Arizona road trip, set out early for the grand finale: the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park. Enter the park through the South Rim , where you’ll find the visitor center, numerous overlooks, and trailheads. While you’re here, I also recommend reading my Phoenix to Sedona to Grand Canyon itinerary blog!

Make sure you have your America the Beautiful Pass !

Start your day with a stroll along the Rim Trail , which offers unparalleled views of the canyon and is suitable for all fitness levels.

After lunch, explore more of the park’s natural wonders by hiking part of the Bright Angel Trail or the South Kaibab Trail . Both trails descend into the canyon, offering unique perspectives on its grandeur.

Remember to allow ample time for your return hike, as the ascent can be challenging. If you want to see a great view, stop at Ooh Aah Point on South Kaibab Trail!

If you prefer a more leisurely activity, take a scenic drive along the Desert View Drive, which features multiple viewpoints and the striking Desert View Watchtower. For a memorable dining experience, consider having lunch at the historic El Tovar Dining Room, which offers a variety of dishes and panoramic views of the canyon.

Alternatively, grab a bite at the Bright Angel Lodge or the Maswik Food Court.

As the sun sets on your unforgettable Arizona adventure, find a spot along the rim to take in the breathtaking sight of the canyon bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve created throughout your journey.

Tomorrow, you’ll head to your departure location!

Spend your final night in Arizona at one of the South Rim’s lodgings. For a historic experience, book a room at the iconic El Tovar Hotel or the rustic Bright Angel Lodge . Other options within the park include the Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, and Maswik Lodge.

Alternatively, consider staying in the nearby town of Tusayan, which offers a range of accommodations, such as The Grand Hotel or the Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon .

On the final day of your adventure, plan to depart from either Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport or Flagstaff Pulliam Airport , depending on your travel preferences and flight options. If you’re flying out of Flagstaff, consider exploring the charming downtown area and grabbing a bite at Tourist Home All Day Café or Diablo Burger before your departure.

If your departure is from Phoenix, make sure to allow enough time for the approximately 3.5-hour drive from the Grand Canyon South Rim . You can stop in Sedona or Flagstaff along the way for a meal and a chance to reminisce about your unforgettable 7 day Arizona road trip itinerary!

If you have more time, check out Edge of the World, Flagstaff before you leave!

And that concludes your trip!

Arizona Road Trip Add-Ons

If you want to extend your Arizona itinerary 7 days, consider adding these extra destinations and activities. From exploring neighboring Utah’s national parks on a road trip to discovering additional hidden gems within Arizona, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to make your trip even more unforgettable.

By adding these extra destinations and activities to your Arizona road trip, you’ll be able to explore more of the region’s diverse landscapes and delve deeper into the rich history and culture of the area.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: Located in northern Arizona, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a lesser-known gem with stunning sandstone formations, including the famous Wave. A permit is required to hike to the Wave, and it’s a challenging, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Utah National Parks: Extend your road trip to visit Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks : Zion , Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. These parks offer breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and thrilling outdoor activities such as hiking, canyoneering, and scenic drives.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: Situated near the Arizona-Mexico border, this national monument showcases the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Drive the scenic Ajo Mountain Drive or hike one of the many trails to admire the diverse cactus species and desert landscapes.

Jerome: A historic copper mining town, Jerome offers a glimpse into Arizona’s past. Perched on the side of Cleopatra Hill, the town is filled with art galleries, museums, and eclectic shops. Don’t miss a visit to the Jerome State Historic Park for insights into the town’s mining history.

Kartchner Caverns State Park: Explore the fascinating underground world of Kartchner Caverns, an extensive limestone cave system with guided tours showcasing its stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park: Discover the world’s largest natural travertine bridge at this state park near Payson. Hike the park’s trails to witness the impressive natural bridge and surrounding lush vegetation, or enjoy a peaceful picnic in the park.

Whether it’s extending your trip to Utah or venturing into Arizona’s lesser-known attractions, these add-ons will create a truly unforgettable experience!

Final Thoughts on Arizona 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary

Embrace the beauty, culture, and adventure that this desert state has to offer in this epic 7-day Arizona road trip. From exploring the mysteries of the Superstition Mountains to marveling at the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, this itinerary will provide memories that last a lifetime.

As you journey through this breathtaking state, don’t forget to indulge in the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the spirit of the Southwest. Happy travels!

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I'm a burrito loving explorer who got fired from corporate America and turned that into my dream career as a photographer and blogger. Now I'm here to help you explore life's magic. Thanks for stopping by!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

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

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

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

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

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

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

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

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

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

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

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

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

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

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

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

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

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

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

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

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

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

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

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

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

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

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

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

Don’t overextend yourself.

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

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

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

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

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

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

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

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

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

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

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

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

300+ miles.

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

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Bend Country Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

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

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

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

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

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

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

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

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

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

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

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

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

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

Road Trip Length

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

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

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

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

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

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

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

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

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

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

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

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

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

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1640 miles.

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

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

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

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How to Plan an Amazing Arizona Road Trip (7-14 Days)

How were we so late to the Arizona party? Despite both having been to Arizona MULTIPLE TIMES before, we were radically unprepared for the sheer beauty that we experienced over the course of our Arizona road trip. We spent around two weeks in Arizona, and already started making plans for our return. Because there is SO MUCH to do and see in Arizona that it’s honestly a little overwhelming.

We originally had plans to go all over the state, but ended up having to cut our trip a little short. Which turned out to be a good thing, because it forced us to focus in on the things we really wanted to do and see while we were in Arizona.

We used our experience road tripping in Arizona – along with the hours of research that went into planning our own trip – to put together this guide to planning an amazing Arizona adventure.

In it, you’ll find the logistics – when to go, where to fly in, etc etc – along with our favorite stops in Arizona and exactly what to do and see while you’re there.

We think that you should spend your time going deep (or, as deep as you can go with 2-3 days) in each of the stops you make rather than trying to see everything in one trip. The latter approach means you’re spending 4-5 hours a day in the car, which, honestly, sucks.

Instead, spend your time exploring hiking trails, stuffing your face with food and drinks, and seeing some of Arizona’s most spectacular landscapes.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days in Arizona?

Arizona is huge, and if you’re trying to hit all of the different corners of the state, you’ll need at least two weeks .

If you have less than that, we’d strongly recommend focusing your Arizona road trip itinerary on three main areas : Phoenix and the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, and Grand Canyon National Park.

You will need at least seven days – more would be better – to do Phoenix, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon.

We’ve written the road trip itinerary below for seven days, but have suggestions for what to do with extra time that are equally as detailed as the 7 day itinerary below – you can find them at the end of this guide.

• With a few extra days – 10 or so – you can add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park.
• With 14 days, add the southern loop through Tucson , plus Page and Zion National Park , ending your time by flying out of Vegas. 

Monument Valley, which is spectacular, is FAR from most of the places on this itinerary. For example, it’ll take you three to four hours to get there from the Grand Canyon.

Other than the drive, which is beautiful, there’s nothing else to really do there, so we don’t think it really makes sense to take a huge detour to get there . In fact, it would be a better addition to a broader Arizona / Utah road trip on your way to Moab .

Instead, we’d STRONGLY recommend focusing your time on the corridor between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, immersing yourself in the spectacular landscapes along the way rather than spending all day in the car.

Where to Start and End Your Arizona Road Trip

For most people, a loop that starts and ends in Phoenix, Arizona is going to be the best way to do this road trip.

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which generally has a good selection of flights from around the country (and even the world, in some cases). Click here to check flight prices into Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport for your dates.

The benefit of doing this as a loop is that you won’t have to pay a one-way rental car fee.

From the furthest points on the itinerary below – either Page or the Grand Canyon South Rim – it’s about a four hour drive back to the airport.

Plan on booking the earliest possible flight into Phoenix, and the latest possible flight out to maximize your time.

Note : The exception to doing this as a loop is if you have 14 days and decide to add on Zion National Park at the end. Then, it would actually be better to end in Las Vegas – about two and a half hours or 172 miles from Zion.

Do You Need to Rent a Car for this Road Trip?

In short, yes. You’ll need to rent a car for the entirety of this itinerary. We’d recommend picking up and dropping off at the same place – Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix – to avoid a one-way rental car fee if you can. 

We like using Kayak for booking rental cars because they aggregate all the different car rental sites to help you find the best price. Make sure to rent from a reputable company – Hertz, Enterprise, National, or Avis, which you can do by using Kayak’s helpful filters.  Cl i ck here to check prices for rental cars in Phoenix.

A Complete 7 Day Itinerary for a Road Trip in Arizona

Now that we’ve got all the logistics out of the way, time to get into the exact itinerary we’d recommend. 

Day 1: Fly in and Explore Phoenix

A lot of people pick up their rental car and head straight for either Sedona or Tucson, depending on what route you’re taking.

However, we think there are a few things to do in Phoenix that are well worth a day of your time.

We’d spend your first day, night, and second day in the Phoenix area, focusing on the many outdoor activities nearby, most notably the Superstition Mountains, which were a highlight of our Arizona trip. Then, on your second night, head up to Sedona and sleep there so you can get an early start the next morning.

What to Do in Phoenix

There are a couple of things worth doing in Phoenix itself on your first day in Arizona – we’ll cover the Superstition Mountains on day 2 of this itinerary.

• The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is worth a stop to see all sorts of desert flora – over 50,000 different kinds! There are multiple loops that take you on a journey through the plant life of the Sonoran desert, which will give you a great foundation for the rest of your trip (“Hey Alysha! It’s a teddy bear cholla cactus!”).
• Speaking of Papago Park, Hole in the Wall is a short climb that takes you to a perfect spot to take in your first Arizona sunset! Unlike places on the west coast, there’s no marine layer or clouds in the sky to ruin the evening glow – sunsets in Arizona are spectacular.
• There are a surprising number of great hikes within 45 minutes of Phoenix. Camelback Mountain is seemingly right in the middle of town, and gives you sweeping views of the surrounding area from the summit, which is reached with a 2.5 mile out-and-back trail that is basically straight up. Tom’s Thumb is another great hike that takes you to a saddle with panoramic views – it’s a little further out to the north of town, but is worth the journey in our opinion.
• Get coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab , who has the best coffee in Phoenix (in our opinion, anyway) and has created a mini empire in southern Arizona.

Where to Stay in Phoenix

We were walking through Uptown Phoenix on our way to Cartel Coffee – some of the best coffee in Phoenix – when we found ourselves in the courtyard of a hip-looking hotel.

That hotel was Rise Uptown , and we wish we would have stayed there. It’s a great location for exploring Phoenix, and the rooms are spacious and beautiful. Plus, there’s a nice pool, and Cartel Coffee is essentially in the lobby. 

In general, we’d recommend staying somewhere between Downtown and uptown, between the two highways that run north-south (51 and 17).

Here are a couple of other good choices in Phoenix.

• Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix : Great value with bright-colored rooms and charming décor. Plus, it’s super affordable! It’s also near the freeway that you’ll take out to the Superstitions, which puts you in a great location for exploring.
• Aloft Phoenix Airport : Location is nothing special, but it’s convenient for the airport, and it’s an affordable choice with nice rooms and a pool.
• The AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore : A little more on the boutique end of the spectrum, this hotel is beautiful, and is well-located in the Biltmore area of Phoenix, which is a perfect home base for exploring the city and surrounding area.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Superstition Mountains

Stay in Phoenix for the night, and head out early to the east, where you’ll find the Superstition Wilderness, a highlight of our time in Arizona. You can explore most of the main part of the western end of the park in a morning, which is exactly what you’re going to do here.

Head to Lost Dutchman State Park , which will be your base for exploring, and park at either the Treasure Loop or Siphon Draw Trailheads . There’s a day use fee of $10 to enter the park.

There are a couple of established hikes in the park, but we created our own by putting together multiple hikes into one big loop.

Start with the eastern part of the Treasure Loop Trail , which winds its way up to the ridge. From there, rather than heading back down via the Treasure Loop Trail, take the Prospector’s Ridge Trail to the west until it intersects with the Siphon Draw Trail . From that intersection, take the Jacob’s Crosscut trail back to the trailhead.

All-in, it’ll be around four miles, and you’ll see the Superstition Mountains and a ton of desert flora and fauna along the way.

On your way back into Phoenix, stop in Mesa, Arizona for a couple of our favorite spots in the Phoenix Metro Area. 

• Get coffee at Mythical Coffee , which is actually in Gilbert, but is roughly on the way. This is the best coffee in the Phoenix area, we think. An alternative would be Peixoto Coffee , which we like because they own a coffee farm in Brazil (or more accurately, are owned by a family who also owns a coffee farm in Brazil) and highlight the coffees from their farm in their shop. 
• Need to refuel post-hike? There are two great gluten free spots in Mesa, which we’d recommend whether you have Celiac Disease (like me) or not. First is Spooky Swirls , a cupcake shop (they make all sorts of baked goods) that makes fun, themed cupcakes that are not only beautiful, but they’re also delicious. We got a Baby Yoda cupcake (see below), that didn’t quite survive the Arizona heat, but was delicious either way. The second spot is Intentional Foods Cafe , which is a 100% gluten free restaurant that is also free of eight other allergens, so it’s perfect if you or any of your traveling companions have food sensitivities. Get the donuts and the fries. 
• Last, but certainly not least, head up to Cider Corps , a veteran-owned cidery in Mesa to try some local cider. I believe (I could be wrong) that they are Phoenix’s only cider bar! They have a nice outdoor patio if it’s cool enough, otherwise they have a high-ceilinged, light-filled indoor space. Plus, CIDER SLUSHIES! You can bring outside food, so we’d recommend grabbing lunch and heading here to eat and sip on some cider. 

Days 3 & 4: Sedona

Drive Time from Phoenix: 2 hours / 115 miles

Sedona is gorgeous. We did Sedona and Zion on the same trip (see our recommendations for 14 days below to see how we did it), and in a lot of ways, they’re very similar. You’ll find red rock walls and towering buttes with lush greenery in the canyons below.

Another thing that makes them similar? The crowds.

We were in Sedona in April, and it was a zoo. Think hundreds of cars parked at the most popular trailheads, and roads to trailheads closed because the trailhead is full.

Still, it’s a beautiful place, and as long as you know what you’re getting into before you get there, you’ll enjoy your visit.

What to Do in Sedona

Sedona, like Bend, Oregon, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There’s all sorts of fantastic hikes (psst! We have a guide to our favorite hikes in Sedona ), 4×4 offroading, areas to spend a summer day lounging at the river, and more. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Sedona.

Crescent Moon Picnic Area : At this park on the south side of town, you’ll have some of the best views of Cathedral Rock that you’ll find anywhere in Sedona. Plus, there’s a river, so bring a picnic, a blanket and some towels, your swimsuit, and make an afternoon of it. 

Drink Mind-blowing Chai at the Chai Spot : This was unexpected. As I was scrolling Google Maps getting myself oriented, I realized that there was a chai shop in Sedona called the Chai Spot . Not only do they make INCREDIBLE chai (get the butter chai, it’s creamy and rich and delicious), but their story is worth looking into as well. It’s a social project that focuses on economic empowerment of women and education of children in Pakistan. The inside of the shop is colorful and vibrant, and the outdoor patio is a welcome refuge from the heat – it’s the perfect spot for chai lovers (like Alysha) to relax in Sedona. 

Hiking in Sedona: There are an incredible number of great hikes in Sedona. So many, that we have a whole separate post highlighting the best hikes in Sedona – if you want to spend most of your time on the hiking trails, you should absolutely go read that. We really enjoyed the West Fork of Oak Creek , which is a beautiful meander through a lush canyon with towering red rock walls. You cross the river 13 times, but none of the crossings are particularly hard, especially if you have waterproof shoes on. The Boynton Canyon Trail and Soldier Pass Trail were our next two picks, though you need to read our hiking guide to figure out the parking situation for Soldier Pass, which is a bonafide nightmare. Devils Bridge is cool, but you’ll probably have to wait in line at the top for a picture, which isn’t our cup of tea. 

Sunset Spots: Arizona sunsets are amazing. Catch sunset at Airport Mesa , which is one of the most popular spots (there were literally hundreds of people there when we were there) or the top of Cathedral Rock , which requires a steep hike to reach. Another good option that should be less crowded is Bell Rock . Make the climb about halfway up the south side of the towering rock formation and find a nice spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’ll light up the red rocks of the valley in front of you as it does. 

Wine Tasting: I bet you didn’t expect to see wine tasting on an itinerary for Arizona, did you? The Verde Valley Wine Trail is just outside of Sedona, in nearby Cottonwood and Corndale (~30 minutes from Sedona by car) and a trip out there would make for a great afternoon activity after a morning hike. Head to Oak Creek Vineyards for wine flights and small plates (also dog + kid friendly!), or Arizona Stronghold Vineyards (no reservations, tables are first-come-first-served) for a delightfully rustic tasting experience just outside of Cottonwood. If you don’t want to make the journey out of town, head to Art of Wine in Sedona and get a flight of the Arizona reds or whites, depending on what you’re into. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are a couple of options in Sedona in terms of style and budget. You could stay in a hotel or resort, which will give you a nice refuge from the heat if you’re visiting in the summertime (or the cold if it’s winter or early spring). Or, you could camp at one of the campgrounds along 89A just north of Sedona. 

Hotels in Sedona

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, you’ve got a pretty impressive number of options. 

We like Sky Ranch Lodge , which is walkable to the best sunset spot in the area at Airport Mesa. It’s where we’d stay if we were planning a trip to Sedona and weren’t living in our van.

They have a beautiful, lush property that has a patio with a great view of Sedona, and rooms are spacious. Plus, they’re certified sustainable by the Sustainability Alliance of Arizona!

Plus, a free shuttle to areas within five miles of the hotel means you won’t have to deal with parking at some of the most popular trailheads like the Soldier Pass Trail (though you should be careful, because cell-service is nonexistent in some parts of Sedona). It’s also walkable from the airport, which is a nice bonus if you’re flying in. 

The other spot we’d recommend looking at is Junipine Resort , which is along 89A north of town and offers a quieter, more private place to stay. We drove past it on our way to our campground and were intrigued. Sure enough, it looks like an amazing place to stay!

It’s along the banks of Oak Creek, they’re certified sustainable, and they have “Creekhomes” that have plenty of space and a full kitchen. It’s only 10-15 minutes outside of Sedona, and is perfect if you’re in search of a bit of tranquility, which you might not find if you’re staying in downtown Sedona. 

Camping in Sedona

If you want to camp, there are a bunch of campgrounds north of Sedona along Highway 89A. We’ll cover three of them, starting with the closest to Sedona and ending with one that’s about 15-20 minutes outside of town that we stayed at and really liked. 

Manzanita Campground : Right along the creek in a nice shady spot, this is the closest campground to town, which also means it’s the most competitive. There are only 18 sites, 11 of which are reservable in advance. Seven sites are first-come-first-served, so plan on getting there early in the day to secure a spot. More info here . 

Cave Springs Campground: With 84 sites, this is the biggest campground in the area. You must make reservations in advance (at least three days before you show up), and there’s usually availability (though we’d recommend grabbing a spot well in advance for the month of April, which is high season in Sedona). More info here .  

Pine Flat Campground : This is the one we stayed at, and 18 of the 54 sites here are reservable in advance. It’s a nice campground, though it is right along the road (though all of them are, really). Try to get a site on the side of the campground that’s along Oak Creek – that’s on the west side of the road, and the west side of the campground (look at a map and you’ll see what I mean). More info here . 

Days 5 & 6: The Grand Canyon

Drive Time from Sedona: 2 hours / 115 miles

We think 2 days in the Grand Canyon is the perfect amount of time to explore the rim, take the scenic drive out to the East Entrance of the park and Desert View, and do one of the difficult but spectacular hikes that take you below the rim.

There’s plenty to do and see to fill a few more days if you have extra time on this road trip and you’re particularly interested in the Grand Canyon – like the North Rim, or backpacking to the floor of the canyon – but we think your time is actually better spent elsewhere unless you’re up for a long drive around to the North Rim, or a long overnight backpacking trip.

So spend a couple of days exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is plenty of time to see the highlights.

What to Do in Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

Like we mentioned above, there are three things we think are “must-do” at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

• Hike the Rim Trail : All along the Rim Trail, you’ll have spectacular and ever-changing views of the vastness of the canyon below. We like the stretch from Mather Point to the Bright Angel Trailhead, which is a 3.1 mile hike that is mostly flat with plenty of viewpoints along the way. Don’t miss Mather Point , Yavapai Point , and the Yavapai Geology Museum . This hike is best done in the early morning before 10am, which is when the crowds start to show up, or within an hour of sunset for stunning light on the canyon.
• Scenic Drive out to Desert View : This drive is amazing, with about a half-dozen viewpoints that are worth stopping at along the way. You’ll have a different perspective on the canyon from the eastern end, and it’s the only part of the rim road that you can drive in a private vehicle (except between December and February, when the road out to Hermit’s Rest is open to private vehicles). Start two hours before sunset, stopping at the viewpoints along the way, and ending at Desert View to take in the usually-stunning Arizona sunset.
• Get below the Canyon Rim : Like Bryce Canyon , one of our favorite national parks in the United States, the best way to really get a feel for the Grand Canyon is to hike down into it. You’re sure to appreciate the scale of the canyon if you have to make the climb up the canyon walls, gaining several thousand feet over the course of your journey! The two most popular trails are the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail. The Bright Angel Trail is more of a way to get all the way to the canyon floor, which you won’t be able to do in a day hike. We’d recommend taking the South Kaibab Trail out to Skeleton Point , which is 6 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet on the way back. Shorten it to 3 miles / 1,100 feet by turning around at Cedar Point instead.

The hikes below the rim are not for the faint of heart – you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and salty snacks.

The interior of the canyon is often 20+ degrees hotter than the rim, which means you’re going to be at risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, particularly in the summer months. Do not underestimate the difficulty of these hikes.

It’s probably better to underestimate your abilities rather than overestimating them, in this case.

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

There are three places we’d recommend staying on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, and it largely depends on your budget and style.

If you’re camping, stay at Mather Campground , which is within walking distance (~1 mile one-way) of the main Visitors Center and the Marketplace. We stayed here and although it’s a massive campground, it’s relatively nice with flush toilets, shaded sites, and good water. Honestly, we were surprised at how nice it was.

Staying inside the park on the Rim is a great option, but like most national parks, you’re going to pay a little extra for the convenience of having the Grand Canyon literally out your front door (in most cases). Along the rim, the best options are going to be El Tovar Hotel , the Bright Angel Lodge , and the Maswik Lodge .

Staying outside of the south entrance of the park (which is the best place to stay outside the park), is going to be cheaper, but means a little bit of a journey to get to the rim of the canyon, and often a line at the park entrance (though, not if you get there early enough!).

We’d recommend looking in the town of Tusayan (15 minutes from the rim), which is just outside the South Entrance, or Grand Canyon Junction (30 minutes to the rim), which has a better selection of places to stay, but is a little further out. Here are three places to check out:

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon Junction): Bucket list-worthy glamping! If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, check out their safari tents in the desert.
• Red Feather Lodge (Tusayan): Located a few minutes from the entrance to the park, this is a solid value with simple rooms in a perfect location. Plus, relatively affordable!
• Holiday Inn Express or Best Western Premier (Tusayan): Two well-rated, good value hotels just outside the south entrance. Not a whole lot of bells and whistles here, but a pleasant place to use as a home base for exploring the Grand Canyon.

Williams and Flagstaff will have you driving for an hour (or more) each way to and from the rim of the Grand Canyon, and we wouldn’t recommend staying there if you can avoid it.

Day 7: Drive to Phoenix & Fly Home

The drive back to Phoenix is going to take you about four hours from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Plan on booking an afternoon / evening flight to give yourself plenty of time for the drive back.

Longer Itinerary Options (10 & 14 Days)

If you have a full 10 days or even two weeks, you’ll unlock more possibilities for your trip.

Here’s how we would spend 10 days and 14 days in Arizona.

How to Spend 10 Days in Arizona

With 10 days, we think you should add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park on the front end of your road trip, and Page, Arizona on the tail end after the Grand Canyon.

For this version of the itinerary, pick up your rental car in Phoenix and head south to Tucson, where you’ll spend the first 2-3 days. Then, continue on the road trip above as written. On the second-to-last day, head up to Page.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, drive to Tucson
• Day 2: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 4: Drive to Phoenix, afternoon in Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains, drive to Sedona
• Day 6: Sedona
• Day 7: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon
• Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park + Drive to Page
• Day 10: Page + Drive to Phoenix + Head Home

Tucson and Saguaro National Park

Southern Arizona is a vastly different landscape than northern Arizona, which is what the 7 day itinerary above focuses on. With more time, you’ll be able to dip your toes in the southern Arizona water (just kidding, this is the desert!), but you won’t be able to see it all.

For your introduction to southern Arizona, we think you should focus on the area around Tucson.

What to Do in Tucson

There are two main focuses for your time in Tucson – Saguaro National Park (there are two parts!) and Mt. Lemmon .

Saguaro National Park

First, you should know that there are two parts of Saguaro National Park that straddle Tucson, one on either side. They are the Rincon Mountain District , which is on the east side of Tucson, and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. 

Stop at the Visitor Center in each part of the park to grab a map, fill up your water, and get ready to explore. There is nowhere to get food or drinks other than water within the park, so you’ll want to pack a lunch and plenty of snacks. 

Here are some things to do in each region of the park. 

In the Tucson Mountain District, which is smaller in area but has a higher density of cacti and is therefore more popular: 

• Drive the 5 mile Bajada Loop scenic drive , which is a loop consisting of Golden Gate Road and Hohokam Road. It’s unpaved, but is passable by all vehicles. Drive it counterclockwise, starting with Hohokam road and ending on Golden Gate. This is a great way to explore the park, especially if you make stops at the Valley View Overlook Trail (extend it a bit by combining it with the Wild Dog Trail ) to get up close and personal with a ton of cacti, and the Signal Hill area, where you’ll find petroglyphs at the top of the hill. 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike , do the hike up to Wasson Peak either from the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead (7.5 miles / 1,600 feet of elevation) or via the Hugh Norris Trailhead (8.9 miles / 2,400 feet of elevation gain). 
• Stop at the Red Hills Visitor Center to walk the short loop through the cactus garden and pick up some maps and park information. 
• The Desert Discovery Center , which is outside the park’s southern boundary, is worth a stop either on the way in or out to learn about all the flora and fauna in the desert. 

In the Rincon Mountain District, which is the bigger but less popular part of the park on the east side of Tucson (If you only have time for one, we’d recommend the Tucson Mountain District. However, if you have time for both, this section of the park makes for a nice combination with Mt. Lemmon, since there’s only really about a half day worth of things to do and see here.):

• The number one thing you should do is drive Cactus Forest Loop Drive , which is a huge loop that takes you through the majority of the park. It is paved, and well worth the time. Stop at the Freeman Homestead Nature Trail , the Loma Verde Trail (do a loop with the Squeeze Pen Trail for a nice stroll through the desert), and the Cactus Forest Overlook . 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike, there are a bunch of great options leaving from the Broadway Trailhead at the northwest corner of the park and the Douglas Spring Trailhead along the northern boundary. 

Then, head to Mt. Lemmon for a completely different perspective on Tucson and the surrounding area. 

At 9,159 feet above sea level, Mt. Lemmon is a completely different place than Tucson. It’s likely going to be 20-30 degrees cooler, which means different ecosystems thrive here on the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

To put it in perspective, the average high temperature in July in Tucson is 100 degrees F. On Mt. Lemmon, it’s 76 degrees. 

Would you believe me if I told you there’s a SKI RESORT on Mt. Lemmon?

You should definitely drive all the way to the top – Summerhaven. It’s 26 miles, and the landscape gradually shifts over the course of the journey. At the top, you’ll be in the woods. In Arizona. Which is an odd feeling when just an hour or two ago you were driving through Saguaro National Park, home of a bazillion cacti. 

Stop by Windy Point Vista and San Pedro Vista on the way up for great views of the surrounding area. 

There’s a bunch of things to do and see in the town of Summerhaven at the top, whether you want to hike or just peruse shops, but we think the drive itself is by far the best part about Mt. Lemmon.

If you’re looking for a great, relatively easy hike, head out to the Mt. Lemmon Fire Lookout Station. It’s 2.1 miles round trip with 360 feet of elevation gain, and you can make a nice loop of it by returning via the Meadow trail. 

Where to Stay in Tucson

There are exactly zero campgrounds to stay at in Tucson, so your only options are going to be hotels and vacation rentals. Since you have two nights, you have your choice between staying in a hotel, which will provide more convenience and flexibility but less space, and vacation rentals, which give you more space and usually a kitchen, but less flexibility.

If you’re looking for a hotel, stay at Hotel McCoy , a cool hotel on the outskirts of town that’s perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park, or the Tuxon or the Graduate Hotel , which are both closer in to town and the amenities in Tucson.

Page, Arizona: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Page is a good home base for exploring two now Insta-famous sights in Arizona: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend .

I know Page as the jumping off point for renting a houseboat on Lake Powell, which my family has done twice now. Other than those three things, there’s not a whole lot going on, which makes it a perfect half-day addition after the Grand Canyon.

We’d recommend leaving the Grand Canyon on the afternoon of your last day to make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset. Keep in mind, you’ll be with hundreds of your new closest friends – it’s a popular spot. You’ll need to get there early if you want a prime location.

Then, the next morning, get up early and head to Antelope Canyon . It’s on Navajo land, and is only accessible via guided tours, which take between one and a half to two hours. Grab an early 8am departure, which will give you plenty of time to head back to Phoenix afterwards and catch your flight home (or start the drive home, if you drove).

Where to Stay in Page

Stay at the Desert Canyon Inn , which is where we had booked a room before we had to cut our trip a bit short. They have basic apartments – complete with kitchens! – in a perfect location in downtown Page.

What to Do in Arizona With 14 Days

With a full two weeks, you’ve got options. At a high level, you could either make a big loop, including Monument Valley and Page, or you could tack on Zion National Park at the end of your trip, and fly out of Vegas.

For this itinerary, head south to Tucson first, then spend two days in Phoenix before heading up to Sedona, on to the Grand Canyon, then to Page for a night before heading to Zion National Park, which is technically in Utah, but close enough, right?

Note that we’re skipping Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley. It’s not that they aren’t cool and worth seeing. It’s that we think you’re better served focusing on western Arizona here, and making a return trip to explore eastern Arizona. 

Otherwise, you’ll spend WAY too much time driving – and those drives are not particularly scenic, though there are some nice spots along the way – and not enough time actually exploring. 

For reference, it’s going to take you four and a half hours to go from Tucson to Petrified Forest National Park, another three or more hours to go from there to Monument Valley, and another two hours to get to Page. All in the span of about 36 hours, because there’s really not that much to do along that route. 

We think your time is better spent immersing yourself in Tucson, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon (and Zion). Some might disagree, but that’s our perspective. 

Here’s what that itinerary looks like:

• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park + Mt. Lemmon
• Day 4: Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains (sleep in Phoenix)
• Day 7: Sedona
• Day 8: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon in evening
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 10: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 11: Page (Antelope Canyon morning + Horseshoe Bend sunset)
• Day 12: Drive to Zion
• Day 13: Zion 
• Day 14: Drive to Vegas and Fly Home (stop at Valley of Fire if you have time)

Wondering what to do in Zion National Park? We’ve got you covered. 

• How to Plan a Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary
• Where to Stay at Zion National Park

The Best Time to Road Trip in Arizona

Essentially, we’d say “anytime other than the summer.” But ideally spring and fall – March and April, and September and October being the best months.

We spent three weeks on this road trip in the spring in April, and it was very, very pleasant. In Phoenix, it’s still going to be warm, but not unbearable just yet – think 80’s and 90’s during the day. In higher elevation Sedona and the Grand Canyon, it’ll be slightly cooler, even downright cold in the Grand Canyon at night.

In the fall , it’s going to be similar, with relatively warm temperatures in Phoenix and southern Arizona that start to cool off as you head north into the higher elevation parts of the state.

The winter is also a decent time to visit, particularly in southern Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson). However, you could run into snow in Sedona and the Grand Canyon, which can put a damper on your trip.

Summer in Arizona is going to be borderline unbearable, with temperatures regularly over 100 degrees, and huge crowds of people – particularly families with kids out of school – flocking to places like the Grand Canyon. You’ll need to book things well in advance if you visit during the summer, and be prepared for incredibly hot weather.

More Arizona + Utah Travel Guides

If you liked this guide, you’re going to love our other Arizona and Utah travel guides.

Phoenix : Plan a perfect weekend in Phoenix , and figure out where to stay in Phoenix.

The Grand Canyon : Planning a trip that includes the Grand Canyon? We’ve got you covered with a guide on exactly how to plan an amazing Grand Canyon itinerary and how to find the perfect place to stay .

Sedona : Plan the perfect weekend getaway to Sedona , and learn everything you need to know to go hiking in Sedona .

If you’re making your way into Utah , you’ll want to read our guides to:

• Zion ( 2 day itinerary and where to stay )
• Bryce Canyon (the best hikes and how to spend one day in Bryce Canyon )
• Moab ( a perfect itinerary , the best hikes in Arches , and the best places to stay and things to do )

Plus, our 10 day Utah National Parks road trip is a super detailed guide to exploring Utah, if you’ve got the time. Otherwise, save it for later.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

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20 Best Road Trips from Phoenix, Arizona

If you live in Phoenix - or are just visiting the Valley of the Sun - a road trip out of town could be the next thing on your action-packed agenda. Hitting the road in the southwest United States can open up a world of new adventures and luckily, you won't be short of amazing adventures to choose from.

From short day drives through the cacti-dotted Sonoran Desert to longer road trips exploring some of America's most beloved national parks, awe-inspiring national monuments, inspiring scenic byways and fantastic city breaks, we've got you covered.

The following is our list of the 20 best road trips from Phoenix starting with the shortest and working our way up in terms of the time it takes to get there. Make sure you look all the way down - some of the best destinations are that little bit further away!

Best road trips from Phoenix

Day trips from Phoenix (under 3 hours each way)

1. Tucson, AZ

1 hour 40 minutes from Phoenix (110 miles)

Why you should visit: The Old Pueblo as the locals affectionately call it is "the other big city" in Arizona although Tucson is also commonly known as America's biggest small town and is famous for its saguaro cacti.

How to get there: As you drive down the I-10 to Tucson, Saguaro National Park will be to your right as you approach. The famous huge cacti of the Sonoran Desert are everywhere here and can reach heights of over 40 feet (12 m) over their lifespan which can last 150 years or longer.

Our highlights: Make a stop at the (very good) Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum which has a botanical garden and various animals including birds of prey.

Then, just before you enter the city, you'll get to Old Tucson. This is a classic Western movie set that is open to visitors as a family theme park when it's not being used as a movie backdrop.

Tucson itself is a rich mix of architecture and culture. There are a lot of old colonial buildings that make Tucson feel almost European, but the Pueblo-style architecture and the unique local mix of Mexican and traditional Apache-influenced food styles are unmistakably Arizona.

2. Rim Country, AZ

2 hours from Phoenix (110 miles)

Why you should visit: A road trip from Phoenix to Mogollon Rim, which is a 2,000-foot tall ridge that runs for some 200 miles through Arizona, is one of the most scenic drives that is close to the city.

How to get there: To get to see the rim and the nature around it, head up the Beeline Highway (Route 87) to the town of Payson.

Our highlights: It's only going to take a couple of hours to get there, but you'll notice a lot of change as the dusty Sonoran Desert makes way for lush pine forests and rivers the closer you get to Rim Country.

The area is part of the Tonto National Forest. Remember that it's going to be much cooler on top of the ridge than it may be in Phoenix and even below the ridge, the plateau is at a height of 5,000 feet (1,500 m) above sea level which is a lot higher than the Phoenix metro area.

Once you've stopped in Payson, keep on driving up towards the towns of Pine and Strawberry. The Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is on the way and has some great hiking options - bring your boots and water.

Bonus: Look out for javelinas that live here - these small animals look a little like wild boars and are impossibly cute. If you see one, the rest of the family is usually somewhere about too!

3. Sedona, AZ

2 hours from Phoenix (120 miles)

Why you should visit: If you're in Arizona, it is almost compulsory to go to Sedona and see the amazing red rocks that dominate the landscape. This road trip from Phoenix will take you to an oasis in the middle of Arizona's desert landscapes.

How to get there: The drive up to Sedona from Phoenix is simple - the I-17 will take you most of the way before you turn off onto Highway 179 for the last stint.

Our highlights: There are a few things you can see on the way - two junctions before your turn is the Montezuma Castle National Monument (see #4 below).

As you approach Sedona, you might want to visit the very unusual Chapel of the Holy Cross that is built into a red rock cliff - it looks spectacular from the bottom and has even better views from the top.

Once you get to Sedona, you can go in virtually every direction and find the amazing red rocks. Slide Rock State Park is to the north of the city, Red Rock State Park to the southwest and a large wilderness area with the Devil's Bridge to the northwest.

Red Rock Scenic Byway is the highway you've driven to get from Phoenix to Las Vegas. Some of the best-known rock formations, such as Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, are right along the Highway and you can see them from the road or follow a short hiking trail to get closer.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Phoenix to Sedona

4. Prescott and Jerome, AZ

2 hours 50 minutes from Phoenix (150 miles)

Why you should visit: A relatively short drive out of Phoenix, the towns of Prescott and Jerome are a great road trip if you want to mix seeing spectacular nature, a few historic sites and local culture.

How to get there: Start off by taking the I-17 out of Phoenix and come off 90 minutes later in Camp Verde to make a stop at the Montezuma Castle National Monument.

Our highlights: Montezuma Castle is a ruin of an old fort that was built into the sheer rock cliff by the Sinagua people in the 12th century. It's a relatively easy hike up to see the ruins and a great start to the trip.

From there it's a half hour drive up to Tuzigoot National Monument along the Verde River. This is another historic ruin of a large pueblo construction that had over 100 rooms sitting on top of a mountain ridge.

The small town of Jerome is the next step along Route 89A with an optional stop at the Verde Canyon Railroad for a trip on a classic train.

The Ghost King Mine and Ghost Town just above Jerome is a little kitsch but still an awesome stop with a number of old rusted out pickup trucks and derelict buildings. The road that leads up to it is a great drive too - you can keep on going up the twists and turns if you like a scenic drive.

Last but not least is Prescott - this is a much bigger city than Jerome but there is a lot going on with frequent events in the historic district around Courthouse Square.

5. Flagstaff and Meteor Crater National Monument

2 hours 50 minutes from Phoenix (190 miles)

Why you should visit: Flagstaff is known to be one of the best places to base yourself in as you explore some of the most famous national parks (think Grand Canyon!) and monuments like Meteor Crater,

How to get there: Flagstaff is all about the outdoors and to get there from Phoenix, all you have to do is jump on the I-17 north in Phoenix and follow it until the interstate ends and merges with the Historic Route 66 in Flagstaff a little over 2 hours later.

Our highlights: The city is vibrant and young - 1 in 3 of the residents are students or staff at Northern Arizona University and you can feel the vibe as you walk around the historic Downtown or stop at one of the dozens of coffee shops for a drink.

Flagstaff sits on the edge of the Colorado Plateau and is 6,910 feet (2,106 m) above sea level which is a lot higher than Phoenix so expect the weather to be very different too.

The huge Meteor Crater is about 30 minutes drive out of Flagstaff. It was formed 50,000 years ago when a meteorite crashed into the Earth creating a 3,900 ft (1,200 m) wide and 560 ft (170 m) deep crater. You have to scale a 148 ft (45 m) tall rim just to peek inside - well worth the detour before heading back to Phoenix.

Bonus: If you want to climb even higher, the Arizona Snowbowl is just outside Flagstaff to the north. You can drive right up to it and take a chairlift up Agassiz Peak to get a great view. In the winter, the whole area unsurprisingly becomes a ski resort so it's a great destination all year round.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Weekend trips from Phoenix (3-5 hours each way)

6. Mount Lemmon and the Sky Island Scenic Byway, AZ

3 hours from Phoenix (150 miles)

Why you should visit: The Sky Island Scenic Byway can be found in the hills just outside Tucson but the drive up and the views down are so spectacular, it really had to have its own entry on this list.

How to get there: If you don't want to visit Tucson on the way, it is well worth driving down the I-10 just to scale Mount Lemmon.

Our highlights: The road goes by many names - officially called the Catalina Highway, you might find it referenced as the General Hitchcock Highway or the Mt Lemmon Highway as well.

The Sky Island name comes from the unique mountains that stand in the middle of the desert, seemingly not part of a mountain range with no other major peaks nearby.

The route up Mount Lemmon is long and challenging so strap in. You'll be climbing 6,000 feet (1.8 km) on the way up and the road is 27 miles long which will take some time given the constant twists and turns.

You might be surprised by the fact that the road is also free - there's no tolls to pay unless you're planning to camp.

Our travel tips: Make sure you're prepared for the changing conditions - the huge difference in elevation will mean that you pass through different weather on the way up and the saguaro cacti at the bottom get replaced by pine forests.

While daytime temperatures in the summer may be in the 100 degrees Fahrenheit at the bottom, it can fall below 70 degrees in Summerhaven at the top of Mount Lemmon.

7. Lake Havasu, AZ

3 hours 10 minutes from Phoenix (190 miles)

Why you should visit: Lake Havasu is an artificial lake that was created in the Mojave Desert when the Colorado River was dammed in the 1930s. Driving over the London Bridge is an experience in itself!

How to get there: To get to Lake Havasu from Phoenix, you'll need to follow the I-10 west, cut across to the Colorado River from Hope along Route 72 and then follow Route 95 north along the river to Lake Havasu City.

Our highlights: The lake has all the typical water-based activities and is particularly well known as a fishing destination. The large amount of bass in the lake attracts fishermen from far and wide and it holds regular big fishing contests.

One highly unusual sight in Lake Havasu City is the London Bridge. This is the old London Bridge that was dismantled in London in 1968 when it began sinking into the riverbed clay to be replaced with a newer structure. Out of all the bidders in the world, Lake Havasu City won an auction to buy the bridge.

After every single brick was carefully dismantled and labelled, the entire bridge was shipped to Arizona and carefully reconstructed - it certainly looks out of place but that's exactly why you should go and see it!

8. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

3 hours 10 minutes from Phoenix (220 miles)

Why you should visit: Joshua Tree is one of two National Parks (along with Grand Canyon) that are a little further away from Phoenix and both take a little over 3 hours to get to. Other than the small Saguaro National Park just outside Tucson (see #1 above), these are the closest two to Phoenix.

How to get there: Getting to Joshua Tree National Park from Phoenix is mighty easy - follow the I-10 for 220 miles right out of Phoenix heading west and then turn off towards the Cottonwood Visitor Center a few miles off the interstate.

Our highlights: Joshua Tree National Park is named after the unique trees that grow across the Mojave desert. These trees that can survive the extreme heat of one of the hottest deserts in the world have thick "arms" that stretch upwards and make them look like people - hence the name.

There's no shortage of National Forests near Phoenix - Coconino, Apache-Sitgreaves, Tonto, and Prescott National Forests are all within a 2-hour drive of the city, so you can stop by any of these on your way to Joshua Tree National Park.

There are some good and not very strenuous hiking trails to explore and in spring the desert has a desert flower bloom which is worth seeing - especially as the temperatures are a lot milder.

Our travel tips: If you're coming in the summer, you should aim to do your hikes before 9 or 10am as the daily temperatures will get hot - June to August average highs are over 100 degrees Fahrenheit!

9. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

3 hours 20 minutes from Phoenix (230 miles)

Why you should visit: Grand Canyon is not just Arizona's but probably America's best-known natural feature and with only a short road trip keeping you from seeing it for yourself, how can you not go and see the huge crack in the desert?

How to get there: The routes up past Sedona and Prescott both take about the same amount of time - you might want to head up one way and come back another with halfway stops in Prescott and Jerome (see #4 above) on the way up and Flagstaff (#5) or Sedona (#3) on the way back down.

Our highlights: Although there is a fair few places you can go to see the Grand Canyon, the Grand Canyon National Park is probably your best option and not only because it is the closest.

The views from Grand Canyon Village are some of the best and there are good facilities and places to eat there as well.

South Kaibab and Grand Angel Trails allow you to descend into and cross the Canyon and others follow the rim in either direction to get to a different viewpoint.

Bonus: If you do want to drive a little further to the North Rim, you can do so via Route 89 and you'll get to visit the spectacular Vermillion Cliffs National Monument on the way, but it'll take twice as long to get there so you'll need to plan for a much longer road trip!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

10. Palm Springs, CA

4 hours 10 minutes from Phoenix (280 miles)

Why you should visit: Palm Springs is known as a place where the sun always shines - sitting on the edge of the Mojave Desert in the Coachella Valley, the weather is bright and sunny virtually every single day.

If you fancy spending some time by the pool and quickly moving through the intense heat from one air-conditioned place to another, you can get to Palm Springs in a little over 4 hours.

How to get there: The directions for the road trip from Phoenix to Palm Springs are simple - get on the I-10 headed west in downtown Phoenix and come off 260 miles later as you're passing right through Palm Springs. Simple enough!

Our highlights: If you want to get out and about and escape the heat, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will take you up to Mount San Jacinto State Park. It's a rotating tramcar which means every seat gets all the views in turn and at the top, you'll find a bar and a restaurant with views down into the valley.

There are two trails that lead from here - the Long Valley Discovery Trail (which is actually a short loop) and the Round Valley Trail which (together with other trails further along) can take you all the way up to the peak of Mount San Jacinto.

Our travel tips: Remember that it's a big difference in height and the temperature at the top can be 30 degrees cooler than down in the valley - if you're visiting in spring or fall, you might want to bring a light jacket with you.

The combination of it being the hottest desert in the world and being sunny means that summers tend to be seriously hot - we're talking daily highs of 108 degrees Fahrenheit on average through the months of July and August.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Phoenix to Palm Springs

11. Salton Sea, CA

4 hours 10 minutes from Phoenix (270 miles)

Why you should visit: If you want your road trip from Phoenix to come with a big serving of weird, you need to drive to the Salton Sea in southern California.

How to get there: Getting to the Salton Sea from Phoenix is extremely easy - simply follow I-10.

Our highlights: This large lake was created by accident when engineers working on an irrigation project on the Colorado River made a few miscalculations and water began flowing out of the river and into the Salton Basin. By the time they fixed the problem 2 years later, a huge lake was formed.

As the land where the lake was created was a dried-out salt flat (the area used to have a large salt mine industry), the water is saline and has almost twice the salt concentration of the Pacific Ocean.

The Salton Sea was a popular resort destination until the 1950s but quickly fell out of favor and today you can find lots of abandoned resorts, abandoned beaches and rusted-out infrastructure.

One of the main local sights is Salvation Mountain, which was built by a local resident with various verses from the Bible inscribed on it to spread the word of Jesus.

Another is the Borrego Springs Sculptures a little further away towards San Diego - these are giant metal structures depicting a huge serpent, fighting dinosaurs and other scenes in the middle of the desert.

We did warn you about the weird factor!

12. Las Vegas, NV

4 hours 30 minutes from Phoenix (300 miles)

Why you should visit: Everybody has got to visit Sin City at least once and given it's just a jaunt across the desert from Phoenix, it's a great option for a road trip, especially if you want to try your luck at the tables or admire the glitzy neon signs of this city that never sleeps.

How to get there: Many doing this drive from Phoenix to Las Vegas go for the Interstate option going north along the I-17 and I-40 - the roads are good and there's plenty of places to stop.

Our highlights: US Route 93 is definitely the way you should go and it might just be one of our favorite stretches of road of all time. Not that it is particularly exciting to drive - it mostly goes completely straight through the desert that gradually changes from the saguaro cactuses and red dust of the Sonoran Desert to the more rocky and yellow hues of the Mojave.

But the towns along this stretch show exactly how bored the people building the highway were. Along with Bagdad and the town of Santa Claus, you'll pass through a town called Nothing. There is literally Nothing there - here's me trying to do a scenic photo.

What you end up doing in Las Vegas famously stays in Las Vegas, but on a serious note - there are a lot of options!

If you like a flutter, this is the undisputed gambling capital of the world and from endless rows of slot machines to huge poker rooms, there's something for everyone.

Other than gambling, you've got a big selection of evening shows and some of the country's best restaurants. Be careful to pick one that matches your budget - some of the prices can escalate quickly!

Bonus: If you do a slight detour, you can check out Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam as you approach Las Vegas and if you set off early on the way back, you could go via the Grand Canyon (#9 above) or visit the red rocks of Sedona (#3) on your way.

Our travel tips: We personally prefer staying at the newer end of the Strip - hotels like Aria and Cosmopolitan have a much more modern feel at reasonable rates (you'll pay a big premium at the Bellagio) and there's slightly less focus on gambling (the Cosmo unusually doesn't have a casino).

READ MORE - Road Trip from Phoenix to Los Angeles

13. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT

Why you should visit: This part of south Utah wilderness was the last to be mapped in the United States and still remains almost completely untouched with amazing landscapes and unique rock structures perfect for exploration.

It was declared a National Monument only in 1996 and later scaled down in size by ex-President Trump, but there is still a lot within the National Monument area to see and do.

How to get there: Head north via Flagstaff to the town of Page in northern Arizona. Here you can stop to take a look at the Grand Canyon's Horseshoe Bend which is an incredible 180-degree bend in the canyon with an overlook that has the perfect view.

Our highlights: You will enter the Monument as you cross the border into Utah and approach Big Water but to reach some of the best sights, you'll need to loop all the way around to the town of Escalante and drive south from there.

Stop off at the Toadstool Hoodoos just off Highway 89 as you're going around.

Although Bryce Canyon sits right on the edge of the National Monument and Zion Park is just outside (see #19 below), those are best kept to a separate road trip unless you really have a lot of time o your hands to combine them all into one big wilderness adventure.

As you drive down from Escalante, you'll come across the Zebra Slot Canyon, Devil's Garden, Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon and the Jacob Hamblin Arch all along the same road.

Our travel tips: Although it'll take you about four and a half hours to enter the National Monument, it'll take you the same amount of time on top to loop all the way around and drive down to the Jacob Hamblin Arch so plan your visit based on how long you've got to spend on the road.

Long weekend trips from Phoenix (5-8 hours each way)

14. Monument Valley, AZ and UT

5 hours from Phoenix (320 miles)

Why you should visit: Monument Valley is a spectacular desert valley with huge distinctive sandstone buttes that is about 5 hours away from Phoenix.

How to get there: Located on the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley is located to the north of Phoenix, so head out of the city on I-17 and keep on US-89 and then US-160 to reach there.

Our highlights: Unlike many of the other options on this list, Monument Valley is not a National Park because it is located within the Navajo Nation Reservation and the land cannot be Federally owned and managed.

Although the Grand Canyon, Death Valley and Zion National Parks are all within reach of Phoenix and all on this list, Monument Valley might just top them all for the sheer otherworldly feel that you get when you see these rocks for the first time.

If time is on your hands, you can take a slightly slower but much more scenic route up to Monument Valley and make more stops along the way.

Take the Beeline Highway up to Payson in the Tonto National Forest (#2 above) and then drive through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest towards the Petrified Forest National Park. This is not so much of a forest as a barren rocky landscape, but it has some really fascinating fossils and remains of a forest that once stood here which you can explore.

Then keep on driving north to Canyon de Chelly which is also on the Navajo Nation territory. It may not be well known as the Grand Canyon or other landmarks in Arizona, but it is a really beautiful canyon with many sheer cliffs and rocks that you can go hiking through.

15. San Diego, CA

5 hours 20 minutes from Phoenix (360 miles)

Why you should visit: If you want to go to the Pacific Coast to spot some sea lions and spend some time enjoying the beach along with the mild weather that comes with it, San Diego is the closest and easiest option to get to.

How to get there: Once you get out of Phoenix along the I-10, follow the I-8 that runs south through Yuma and close to the border with Mexico all the way into San Diego.

Our highlights: The scenery along this drive is pretty spectacular even though you're following an interstate route - you'll pass through saguaro groves, rocky desert landscapes and even sand dunes that make you feel like you've driven into the Sahara.

When we were doing this drive, we were amazed at the variance in the different types of desert and the gradual change as you approach San Diego.

San Diego boasts a moderate climate all year round which is exactly why so many people who live in Phoenix flock to America's Finest City during the impossibly hot summer months.

You can take a stroll through the historic Gaslamp District, spend some time in Coronado or see the sights of Balboa Park that include the world-famous San Diego Zoo, botanical gardens and a few top museums.

The beaches on Point Loma are great for an afternoon walk all the way to the Cabrillo National Monument with its historic lighthouse and views back over San Diego and down to Tijuana in Mexico.

Bonus: Make sure you go see the La Jolla neighborhood and the La Jolla Cove that is home to a group of sea lions - you'll be able to see them most days relaxing on the rocks.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Phoenix to San Diego

16. Los Angeles, CA

5 hours 30 minutes from Phoenix (370 miles)

Why you should visit: If you have more time or want to explore the neighborhoods, beaches and amazing sights of a big city, Los Angeles is only marginally further away than San Diego.

How to get there: The road trip from Phoenix to Los Angeles is incredibly simple even if it's the best part of 400 miles' worth of driving - hop on the I-10 and sit there until you cross the Los Angeles River and find yourself in downtown L.A.

Our highlights: You can spend a weekend in the City of Angels or 2 weeks and still have only seen a fraction of what this city has to offer.

Although many cities claim to cover a big area, the combined urban area around Los Angeles might just be the largest we've ever come across as neighborhoods, towns and cities from Pasadena all the way to Laguna Beach all seamlessly merge into each other.

Tick off the compulsory visit to the Hollywood sign (great views across Los Angeles from up there) and see the stars on the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard.

Then go see Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip and get lunch in Santa Monica if you want to see where the rich and famous of the city spend their time.

Culver City is a vibrant neighborhood that is not as popular as it should be, and Venice Beach is amazing for people watching from the Boardwalk and relaxing to the sound of the waves rolling in.

If you have kids, Disneyland in Anaheim and Universal Studios in Hollywood are perfect for a day out and to get away from the hustle and bustle, you can drive further up the coast to Malibu to enjoy a morning on a quiet beach followed by a hike in the Santa Monica Mountains right behind you.

17. Death Valley National Park, CA and NV

6 hours 40 minutes from Phoenix (410 miles)

Why you should visit: If you thought Phoenix was hot in the summer, a road trip to the Death Valley National Park in California may change your perspective on what really hot means.

How to get there: The route from Phoenix to Death Valley will take you right past Las Vegas - it's about 2 more hours on the road after you've left Vegas in the rearview mirror.

Our highlights: Although it's a hot and arid desert, there are a lot of different landscapes and parts of Death Valley. It's the largest National Park in the United States if you don't count Alaska and there are dried-out lake beds, mountains and even sand dunes.

If you get to the Racetrack Playa (large dried-out lake), you might see the phenomenon of sailing rocks. These are large and very heavy rocks that appear to move around the basin on their own leaving a track behind them.

The truth is that they actually do move themselves during the winter months when Death Valley gets to freezing point overnight but despite the physics, it still looks odd.

Bonus: We actually would recommend not visiting Death Valley in the summer - the daily highs from June to August average out at 120 degrees Fahrenheit - you won't be able to do much hiking in the afternoon.

18. Albuquerque and Santa Fe, NM

7 hours 30 minutes from Phoenix (480 miles)

Why you should visit: The cities of Albuquerque and Santa Fe in northern New Mexico are a long drive, but a really interesting destination for a week-long road trip from Phoenix.

How to get there: The best route from Phoenix to Albuquerque is to head up Beeline Highway through Tonto National Forest towards Payson (See #2 above if you want to stop here) and then drive through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest to Holbrook.

Our highlights: Albuquerque has a big city feel to it - there's a busy downtown with businesspeople in suits going about being busy. You'll find a small Old Town, but there's not a huge amount there and it feels a little too touristy for my liking.

Although Santa Fe is only an hour away from Albuquerque, you'll notice it feels very different. As an old colonial city, the layout is more traditional, there's more of an art and culture scene from the Wheelright Museum of the American Indian (a little drive out of downtown) to the endless art galleries along Canyon Road.

Our travel tips: The pretty forest-covered hills will make way for dry desert for the rest of the journey along I-40 - bring bottled water in the car with you!

Longer trips from Phoenix (Over 8 hours each way)

19. Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, UT

8 hours 20 minutes from Phoenix (480 miles)

Why you should visit: Yes, it's a long way to drive to these two National Parks, but Zion might just be my personal favorite among the National Parks in Southwestern United States and that's quite a feat given the competition from the likes of Yosemite, Death Valley and Grand Canyon.

How to get there: Zion National Park sits in the southwestern part of Utah and you'll have to drive right past the Grand Canyon (#9 above) and along the edge of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (#13).

If you can stretch your road trip, we'd definitely include those in the itinerary. Sedona (#2) and Flagstaff (#5) are also en route and great for a halfway stopover point.

Our highlights: Not only is Zion National Park spectacular with its green canyon scenery, but the trails here are outstanding - you'll have paths that have been carved through sheer rock cliffs and overlooks that will leave you speechless.

For the more adventurous hikers, there are routes that will really challenge - the Narrows is a 16-mile one-way trek that will take you up through a tough canyon and includes wading chest-deep in the cold river water and squeezing through narrow cracks between rock faces!

Bryce Canyon is just over an hour further north. It's a small National Park that is famous for having a unique type of rock formation which has created large amphitheaters with many tall rock hoodoos that are densely packed inside that look like an audience.

Our travel tips: You can hike around the perimeter and look down but remember to bring an extra layer - the rim gets up to 9,000 feet high (2,700 m) and it can be much cooler than Phoenix even at the peak of the summer.

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.

20. Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, UT

9 hours 30 minutes from Phoenix (550 miles)

Why you should visit: Canyonlands and Arches National Parks are the furthest road trip destination on our list and it will probably take you a couple of days' worth of driving to get there.

How to get there: But the route up from Phoenix offers so many amazing places to stop on the way up and down, that this might just be the perfect option - Prescott & Jerome (#4 above), Sedona (#3), Flagstaff (#5), Grand Canyon (#9) and Monument Valley (#14) are all along the fastest route and a slightly different route down can lead through Tonto National Forest (#2 in our list).

Our highlights: Arches and Canyonlands are on either side of the small city of Moab. It's not a big place and can get very busy during the summer months when tourists from across the United States come to stay when visiting the National Parks.

If you do come in the summer, check for camping options as an alternative - it also stops you from having to do the long drive in the morning to get into Canyonlands if you're already staying there!

Arches is the smaller park and much closer to Moab. It also has a few fairly easy trails where you can park close to the rock formations and this means there are a lot more visitors here.

Our travel tips: 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.

If you're coming all this way, definitely go visit both with America the Beautiful National Parks pass and if you have a decent 4x4 vehicle, spend a day driving around the Rim Road that circles Canyonlands and can get you to parts that most other visitors never see.

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Road tripping from Phoenix? Here are 6 destinations to set your sights on

With its dry, sunny weather and picturesque surroundings, Phoenix, Arizona , is a popular year-round destination with plenty of fun attractions. For travelers eager to get out of the capital, though, there are also many great spots within driving distance of the Valley of the Sun.

Explore the surrounding trails, incredible natural landscapes and smaller cities just beyond Phoenix. They offer iconic views and plenty of history — if you're anything like me, learning the backstory of a destination is an important part of any trip.

Whether you want to discover a new favorite destination, or you're itching for a scenic escape after spending too much time inside over the past two years, here are six of our favorite road-trip destinations for a day trip or weekend getaway from Phoenix.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.

1. Gold Canyon, Arizona

Distance from Phoenix: 1 hour

What to do in Gold Canyon

If you're interested in getting some exercise while discovering the region's history, head to the Hieroglyphic Trail. This moderate trail, located in the Superstition Mountains, measures 1.5 miles each way. It leads to a steep valley where you can take in sweeping views of the landscape, as well as ancient petroglyphs from Hohokam natives who called the region home about 1,500 years ago. After you work up an appetite, pop into Wahoo's Restaurant & Bar, located on Topaz Drive in Gold Canyon, for beer-battered mushrooms and the namesake three-pound burger with house-made jalapeño cream cheese and bacon.

Related: Going on road trips this summer? Consider using these credit cards

Where to stay in Gold Canyon

Gold Canyon has a few places to bed down, but one of our favorites is Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa. The hotel features two 18-hole golf courses, Dinosaur Mountain and Sidewinder, and offers beautiful views of the Superstition Mountains. Rooms start at $265 per night. You can easily relax and unwind here after a day of hiking and golfing — just be sure to book with a credit card that will help you maximize your travel purchases, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve (3 points per dollar) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2 points per dollar).

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a great pick for golf fans

2. Flagstaff, Arizona

Distance from Phoenix: 2 hours

What to do: Located northeast of Phoenix, this town is popular among hikers. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon or a long weekend thanks to its cool breweries (grab a pint at Lumberyard Brewing Company) and coffee shops (refuel at Kickstand Kafe). Travelers can also use Flagstaff as a comfortable overnight stop before venturing on to the Grand Canyon, which is only about two hours away.

Like Gold Canyon, Flagstaff is surrounded by trails. Head east to Walnut Canyon, with its sheer, vertical cliffs, to see endemic plants and animals, such as mountain firs, canyon wren and elk. It's the perfect place to enjoy meaningful time outdoors if you've been working from home.

Related: 10 tips for anyone taking a road trip this summer

W here to stay: To get a taste of downtown Flagstaff, stay at the Hotel Monte Vista . Open since the mid-1920s, the Hotel Monte Vista sits just off historic Route 66. Guests can grab a drink at the cocktail lounge which was disguised as a newspaper publishing house during Prohibition. Room rates start around $100 per night.

If you'd prefer to book a stay with points, Marriott has four properties located right in Flagstaff. Just be sure to compare the cash rates before emptying your points balance, since rates start at $139.

Related: How to redeem points with the Marriott Bonvoy program

3. Palm Springs, California

Distance from Phoenix: 4 hours

What to do in Palm Springs

Honestly, who doesn't want to escape to California for a long weekend these days? Quirky Palm Springs is the perfect road-trip destination for travelers seeking a sunny escape with excellent golfing, great food and stunning midcentury modern architecture. Tee up at the reopened Escena Golf Club, where you can also elbow up for California-fusion fare.

Related: 9 great restaurants for families in Palm Springs

If golfing isn't your thing, venture out to Cabazon Outlets, a sprawling shopping paradise perfect for travelers looking to snag a deal at a bevy of shops ranging from Oakley and Merrill to Tommy Bahama and Brighton.

Related: 6 tips for surviving a road trip with a large family

Where to stay in Palm Springs

Spend the night at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel , where rates can get as low as 31,000 IHG points or less than $300 per night. Guests will enjoy spaces filled with midcentury furnishings, though the rooftop pool is the property's crown jewel.

For Marriott loyalists, the Triada Palm Springs, Autograph Collection has a central location and rates from $275 or 40,000 points on off-peak nights. Just beyond Palm Springs, the clifftop Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage will set you back 50,000 points on off-peak nights. Cash rates can drop as low as $250, but can exceed $600 per night.

4. San Tan Valley, Arizona

What to do in San Tan Valley

For a family-friendly adventure, visit Schnepf Farms, an organic farm where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables. With 300 acres, Schnepf Farms is the perfect place to enjoy fresh air and naturally grown, pesticide-free produce (peppers, cucumbers, kale and green onions, among others). They are especially known for their peaches, and picking season is usually in May.

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If you're into clean eating, check out the Queen Creek Olive Mill. You can tour the grounds and learn how to make extra virgin olive oil, the best uses for it in the kitchen and why it's so healthy.

Related: 10 airlines that let you get your regional foodie fix

San Tan Valley also has incredible trails and peaks to explore, including the Goldmine Trail. The trail is relatively steep and takes you to the highest point in San Tan Mountain Regional Park, Goldmine Mountain.

Where to stay in San Tan Valley

Schnepf Farms offers several RVs and Airstreams available for rent for travelers searching for a weekend glamping trip. Some rentals come with outdoor seating and uninterrupted mountain views. Most rentals start at $198 a night, and you can't beat the location.

5. Coyote Buttes North, Utah-Arizona border

Distance from Phoenix: 5.5 hours

What to do in Coyote Buttes North

Though quite a ways north of Phoenix, this stunning area is worth the drive — and a far cry from your home office. Visitors will be drawn to The Wave , a natural phenomenon in the Coyote Buttes North area along the Utah and Arizona border. This copper-and-tan-banded rock formation attracts photographers from around the globe.

Expect a six-mile round-trip hike to and from The Wave. You can hike there with a guide, but if you plan to navigate the trail on your own, a map and compass or GPS is recommended. Only a certain number of permits are available each day to hike to The Wave, so it's important to plan in advance.

Related: 8 survival tips for wilderness hikes

You can also explore around Kanab, Utah , while you're in the area. As the name implies, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park features vibrant sand dunes known to move as much as 50 feet per year. So even if you've been before, the view will be slightly different every time you return.

Related: The best U.S. state parks

Where to stay in Coyote Buttes North

The Grand Circle Bed and Breakfast is a charming place to stay, with easy access to beautiful trails in the area. Rates start at $120. This is just one of multiple hotels in the Canyon Collections group. Others include the Canyons Boutique Hotel, Canyons Lodge and Quail Park Lodge. There's also a Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Kanab for IHG loyalists. Rates start around $120 and IHG members can redeem a reward night for as low as 20,000 points.

Related: Transferring ultimate rewards points to IHG

6. Tucson, Arizona

What to do in Tucson

The West is full of beautiful national parks , but one of the most iconic symbols of the West is the cactus — and Saguaro National Park is full of them. Declared a national monument in 1933 by Herbert Hoover, the park has a long history. Learn about cacti in the gardens on the east and west sides of the visitor center, and take in beautiful sunsets on the Tanque Verde Ridge Trail (a half-mile hike) from the Javelina Rocks pullout on the east or from the Gates Pass on the west side. Sample Sonoran hot dogs (bacon-wrapped franks) which are a Tucson staple, or head to The Neighborhood for their award-winning Michelada.

Where to stay in Tucson

Camping at the Saguaro National Park is an option, but plan ahead because it's first come, first served. Vehicles cannot access the campsites, so visitors must hike there. Camping permits start at $8 per campsite per night.

Looking for something a bit more upscale? Stay at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa, located in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. With views of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this Westin property has an ideal location with even better views. For a standard room, Marriott Bonvoy members would need 30,000 points per night during off-peak dates, and cash rates may be an even better value, starting as low as $189.

Related: The best hotel credit cards for 2022

Voyages with Val

7 Day Utah Arizona Road Trip- Southwest National Parks Itinerary

When you think of an  American Southwest road trip  what comes to mind? My mind instantly goes too long stretches of highway surrounded by the beautiful desert landscape. America’s stunning natural beauty is on display all around you, and there is a feeling of pure freedom that can only come from being on a road trip with endless possibilities for adventure. Utah and Arizona contain some of the best and most unique views in all of North America, and a road trip is the best way to experience them. Plan a  7-day Utah and Arizona road trip  from Las Vegas through National and State Parks unlike anywhere else. This week-long Southwest road trip itinerary will take you from  Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, Moab, Bryce Canyon,  and  Zion National Park. The itinerary below has a list of the best hikes, things to do, and places to stay near each of these National Parks and towns.

Map of Utah and Arizona National Parks Road Trip

The  Utah Arizona road trip map  above begins in Las Vegas and travels through the iconic sites of the Southwest. Travel from  Las Vegas  to the  Grand Canyon  to watch the sunrise over the canyon. You will then travel to  Page, Arizona  to hike through Antelope Canyon and view Horseshoe Bend. You can take a detour through Monument Valley on your way to  Moab  to spend some time in the  Arches and Canyonlands National Parks . Finally, you will head back West through  Bryce and Zion National Parks. 

The whole 7-day trip will take over  1000 miles  and  20 hours of driving , averaging around  1 to 5 hours  of driving a day. This will leave you plenty of time to hike and sightsee at each stop.  Rent a car or van  from Las Vegas to make sure you can make your days flexible.

7 Day Arizona Utah Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon National Park

• Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Distance: 279 miles
• Drive Time: 4 hours 24 minutes

Begin your Southwest Road Trip heading from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park . You will likely want to head to the South Rim which is more accessible and better for a short trip than the North Rim. On your way to the Grand Canyon, you will drive parallel or on the Historic Route 66 for sections leading up to Williams, Arizona. Williams is known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.” It is the last major town before you take AZ-64 the rest of the way to the Grand Canyon.

The entrance fee for the Grand Canyon is $35 per vehicle , valid for 1 week. However, if you will be visiting more than three National Park in a year (and you will be visiting 5 on this itinerary!) it is worth it to buy the $80 America the Beautiful Pass which allows entry to all National Parks and Recreational Land for one year.

Most of the parking is near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center if you are not staying at one of the lodges near the Grand Canyon Village. There are a variety of bus routes to take you from the Village and Visitor Center to the trailheads along the South Rim and the nearby community of Tusayan which has hotels and places to eat if you are not staying inside the National Park.

Sunset and Sunrise Spots at the Grand Canyon

Depending on when you arrive at the Grand Canyon you can watch the  sunset along the South Rim . If you arrive too late for sunset, you can also check out these places early in the morning to watch the  sunrise over the Grand Canyon . 

• Mather Point – This is the most popular place to watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon. However, this place can get extremely crowded due to its proximity to the Visitor Center. If the actual point is crowded you can walk further along the South Rim Trail until you find a spot that catches your eye. 
• Yavapai Point – There is a small parking area near Yavapai Point, but you can also hike a little over half a mile from Mather Point along the Rim Trail. 
• Yaki Point – Yaki Point is another viewpoint for sunset or sunrise at the Grand Canyon. You will need to take the Kaibab Rim Shuttle Route from the Visitor Center to the overlook, which starts at 4:30 AM and runs until just after sunset. 
• Hopi Point – Hopi Point is one of the overlooks on Hermit Road. In the winter you can drive your own car to the overlooks on Hermit Road. However, from March through November, there is a shuttle route you must take along the road. 

Grand Canyon South Rim Day Hikes

The most obvious thing to do in the Grand Canyon is to go hiking! Walk along the rim or hike down partway into the canyon to see some of the best views in the US and take in the majesty of the canyon. Below are a few  trails at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim . 

• Ooh Aah Point – 1.8 miles, 684 feet
• Cedar Ridge – 2.8 miles, 1,102 feet
• Skeleton Point – 5.8 miles, 2027 feet
• Grand Canyon Rim Trail – The entire Rim Trail is  13 miles long , but many hike for just a short section to take in the magnificent views of the Grand Canyon. The Rim Trail is paved and  allows leashed dogs . 
• Bright Angel Trail –  15.3 miles, 4478 feet, Difficult – The Bright Angel Trail starts at the Grand Canyon Village and continues down to the bottom of the canyon. Like South Kaibab Trail you can hike just part of the trail and turn around. A popular route is to hike to the  1.5 Mile or 3 miles Resthouse . 
• Shoshone Point Trail –  2.2 miles, 154 feet, Easy – This is a short, easy trail that leads to a fantastic view of the Grand Canyon with some picnic tables. There is some parking right near the trailhead right off  Desert View Drive . 

Other Things To Do in Grand Canyon South Rim

There is more to do in the Grand Canyon than hiking! Below are a few more things to do on the South Rim including places to see that you don’t want to miss!

• Hermit Road Viewpoints – Take the shuttle to more jaw-dropping views including  Maricopa Point Powell Point, Mohave Point,  and  Pima Point . December through February you can drive your own car to these viewpoints. 
• Bike Along Hermit Road – Don’t feel like hiking or taking the shuttle? You can rent a bike or eBike and bike along the  7 mile  Hermit Road instead. You can bike one way and take the shuttle back. Rent your bike right next to the Visitor Center at  Bright Angel Bicycles .
• Yavapai Museum of Geology – Located in Grand Canyon Village, Yavapai Geology Museum has large panoramic windows that allow you to look out and learn about the geology of the canyon. 
• Desert View Watchtower – This  7 story watchtower  is an icon of the Grand Canyon. The parking for the tower is just past the East Entrance to the park off Desert View Road. The upper levels of the tower are closed to the public but you can take in the views around the tower and visit the trading post and market nearby. 

Where To Stay Near the Grand Canyon

Hotels near the grand canyon.

• Bright Angel Lodge
• El Tovar Hotel
• Red Feather Lodge

Camping Near the Grand Canyon

• Mather Campground
• Grand Canyon Camper Village
• Ten-X Campground

Day 2: Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona

• Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona Distance: 139 miles
• Drive Time: 2 hours 26 minutes

On the second day of your Utah and Arizona Road Trip, get up early to watch the sunrise at one of the great viewing locations along the Grand Canyon mentioned above. You can either spend more time at the Grand Canyon or head to Page Arizona to have more time to spend during your one day in Page .

To get to Page from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon , head East on AZ-64 before continuing North on US-89 for a total of 139 miles. Page, Arizona is not a large town by any means, but what it lacks in size it makes up for by the sheer number of things to do and see in the area. This is one of the only days on your Southwest Road Trip not spent primarily in a National Park, but you will still see many iconic Southwest formations from slot canyons to the iconic Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell, you will not soon forget your day in Page.

Antelope Canyon

Upper Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon should be at the top of any  itinerary for Page . There are two sections:  Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon . Upper Antelope Canyon is the more well-known one and what many prioritize in a short time frame. 

The  Upper Antelope Canyon  is located within Navajo Nation and access is only allowed with an  authorized tour guide . Tour companies include  Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours ,  Antelope Canyon Tours ,  and  Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours . Most tours are an  hour and a half  long, although some may be longer. Prices for a tour are typically around  $100  per person (as of 2022). However, the price is well worth it to see and hike among the iconic wavy slots and gaze on the light beams that streak in.

Lower Antelope Canyon

If you want to see Antelope Canyon a little different or more adventurous way you can instead plan on visiting  Lower Antelope Canyon . Much of the Lower Canyon still is part of the Navajo Nation and requires a guide. However, there is another less-known section that can  only be accessed by a kayak  or other small boat. 

Kayaking into and then hiking the Lower Antelope Canyon is a great experience if you want to explore at your own pace with  fewer crowds . In total transparency, the views are not known for being quite as iconic as the Upper Antelope Canyon, but it is still a beautiful and unique slot canyon! This is what we did upon visiting Page, and I don’t regret it one bit. 

You are not required to book a tour guide for this, but it is still recommended if you are not experienced with the area and possible dangers.   Lake Powell Adventure Company  is one such tour company that will rent you the kayak and guide you through kayaking and hiking portion of the canyon. These tours do tend to be longer than the Upper Antelope Canyon tours (around  4 hours ) so reserve ahead of time and plan accordingly. 

Horseshoe Bend

On your way into Page from the Grand Canyon, you will drive right past  Horseshoe Bend . Stop on your way in, or backtrack later in the day to witness this Southwest landmark. The parking lot is only  5 miles  from Page so it is a quick drive from the town. 

It is important to know that there is a  $10 fee  for the parking lot to help keep the trail and viewpoint clean and maintained. The trail to the bend is only a  0.7-mile hike  on a wide, mostly paved path. There are even several small spots with overhangs if you need a short break. Despite the short distance you should still protect yourself from the sun and  bring plenty of water  since this trail is completely exposed to the elements. 

While Horseshoe Bend is worth visiting at any time of day the best time will be sunrise or sunset . At sunset, the canyon will be going into the shade, and you can see the sunset to the West. At sunrise, it will still be cool out and the bend will slowly light up. 

Other Things To Do in Page, Arizona

If you have a bit more time, there are many other things to do in Page Arizona.

• Lake Powell-  Lake Powell was formed by the  Glen Canyon Dam  and there is any number of water activities you can participate in on the lake. 
• Vermilion Cliffs National Monument – The Vermillion Cliffs are 40 miles from Page. The most famous trail here is  The Wave , which requires a lottery to obtain permits. However, there are still plenty of other hikes and trails to see. 
• Rimview Trail – The Page Rimview trail encircles much of the town of Page and is an easy  10-mile loop  that you can hike, bike, or run around. 

Read More: Best Things To Do with One Day in Page

Where to Stay Near Page

Hotels in page, arizona.

• Best Western- View of Lake Powell
• Lake Powell Resort
• Country Inn & Suites

Camping near Page, Arizona

• Camping near Glen Canyon Recreation Area
• Wahweap RV and Campground
• Page Lake Powell Campground

Day 3: Page to Moab

• Page, Arizona to Moab, Utah Distance: 269 miles
• Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Get an early start to the third day of your week-long Southwest road trip. Today you will head North from Arizona into the equally scenic Utah. The fastest route from  Page to Moab  is to head South on AZ-98 before taking US-160 and US-191 for the remainder of the drive. 

However, if you can spare a few minutes, you can take a detour on  US-163  to drive through  Monument Valley . Monument Valley is located right on the Utah-Arizona border as part of the  Navajo Nation . You may recognize this place from the iconic Forest Gump scene filmed right on US-163. 

The  17-mile long  Valley Drive   is a dirt road with many overlooks that you can stop at and enjoy the scenery. There is a small fee to take the drive, and it takes  2 to 4 hours  to complete. If you can’t make the drive, you can still get quite the view of the monuments along US-163 as you drive through. 

Once you make it to Moab, Utah, you can spend your time adventuring around Moab or hiking nearby. If you only have time for one thing in the afternoon in Moab, I would recommend heading to  Dead Horse Point State Park . Here you can hike part of the rim trail or just watch the sunset from the viewpoint. 

You can also head straight to one of the National Parks. Read below for more  things to do in Arches National Parks, Canyonlands National Park, and Moab . 

Best Moab Hiking Trails

Moab is a hiker’s paradise . Some of the best trails are obviously within the nearby Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, but there are also plenty of other hikes to explore near Moab. 

• Dead Horse State Park Rim Loop –  5 miles, 908 feet, Moderate-  This may well be the best trail near Moab not in a National Park. Dead Horse State Park is 33 miles from Moab, not far from Canyonlands. The rim trail encircles the plateau of the park. You can also drive to the overlooks for views that rival any National Park. 
• Corona and Bowtie Arch Trail –  2.4 miles, 482 feet, Moderate – This trail leads to two magnificent arches near Moab. This is slightly less crowded than some of the other arches within the National Park. Enjoy this arch at sunset for an especially beautiful view.
• Mill Creek Trail –  1.8 miles, 65 feet, Moderate –  This trail is not far at all from Moab, a bit to the South of the town. This trail follows along Mill Creek through a canyon to a small waterfall and swimming hole.

Other Things To Do in Moab

If you’ve had enough hiking on your trip, Moab has endless other outdoor activities to explore. If you leave Page early in the morning, you should have just enough time to spend an afternoon experiencing one of these other things to do in Moab .

• Off-Roading Tour–  There is so much great off-roading in Utah and the Southwest it would seem a shame not to experience it.  Highpoint Hummer   and   Moab Tour Company  are just two of the many companies in Moab that offer  rentals and guided tours  on 4WD vehicles.
• Mountain Biking – If two-wheel vehicles are more your speed, then instead go for a mountain bike ride on one of the many biking trails in Moab. Moab has everything from   easy to extremely challenging mountain bike trails for whatever your skill level.
• Drive along the Colorado River – Utah State Route 128 goes along the  Colorado River , starting near the entrance to Arches National Park. This  45-mile road  is also known as the  Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway . Drive part or all of this scenic drive and take in the red cliff walls and scenic desert views.
• Rafting – If you have had enough driving on your road trip, you can also experience the Colorado River by rafting down it!  Moab Adventure Center  has several trips from multiple days to half-day adventures.  Red River Adventures  also offers several rafting options.

Where to Stay Near Moab

Hotels in moab.

• Red Cliffs Lodge
• Sunflower Hill Inn
• Castle Valley Inn

Camping Near Moab

• Kayenta Campground  
• Wingate Campground
• Horsethief Campground

Day 4: Arches & Canyonlands National Parks in One Day

• Moab to Arches Distance: 5 miles
• Arches to Canyonlands Distance: 26 miles
• Drive Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

The fourth day of your week-long Utah-Arizona Road Trip will be one of the busiest. You can either plan to spend one day in Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park, or you can split your time and see both  Arches and Canyonlands in one day . 

To see both parks in one day, plan on  starting at sunrise .  Delicate Arch  is one of the most popular trails, so if this is a must-see on your itinerary, plan on getting to the trailhead as soon as possible. Afterward, visit as many of the other trails on the list as you can before heading to Canyonlands.

Canyonlands National Park is less visited than Arches, but still quite popular, so be prepared to wait in a line to enter if you are visiting during a popular time of year. It is a  26-mile drive  of scenic Utah land between the parks. Below are some of the  best hikes in Canyonlands National Park  to check out. You can also drive to a lot of overlooks in the park that don’t require much hiking including  Orange Cliffs Overlook, Green River Overlook, and Shafer Canyon Overlook . 

Read More: Canyonlands vs. Arches: One Day in Arches or Canyonlands National Parks

Best Hikes in Arches National Parks

Arches National Park is one of the most recognizable National Parks in Utah. It is full of great hiking trails that lead to amazing arches in the park. Below are some of the best hikes for just one day in Arches .

• Delicate Arch –  3.2 miles, 629 feet, Moderate – Delicate Arch is undoubtedly the most popular and iconic hike in Arches National Park. Hike  Delicate Arch at sunrise  to ensure you can get a parking spot and to see the beauty of the arch. 
• Double Arch –  0.6 miles, 95 feet, Easy – You can’t miss Double Arch in Arches National Park. This is an easy trail to two of the biggest arches in the park. you can climb up between the two arches. 
• Windows and Turret Arches Trail –  1.2 miles, 154 feet, Easy-  In the same parking lot as Double Arch is the trailhead to Windows and Turret Arches. You can hike the entire loop or just the 0.5 miles to the arches. 
• Sand Dune Arch –  0.3 miles, 108 feet, Easy – Sand Dune Arch is a quick hike to one of the most unique arches in the park. 
• Landscape Arch –  1.9 miles, 252 feet, Easy-  This is part of the much longer Devil’s Garden Trail, but if you are planning to visit both Arches and Canyonlands in one day, you will likely not have time to hike the entire trail. Instead, you can hike the 1 mile each way to Landscape Arch, the longest Arch in Arches National Park

Best Hikes in Canyonlands

Canyonlands has some of the best views near Moab . There are several sections of this National Park, but the area most people visit is Island of the Sky , a plateau overlooking the surrounding canyons. Check out some of the hikes in Canyonlands for great views.

• Mesa Arch –  0.7 miles, 88 feet, Easy –  This is a great sunrise alternative to Delicate Arch if you want to start your day in Canyonlands instead of Arches. 
• Grand Viewpoint Trail  – 1.8 miles, 160 feet, Easy-  This is easily one of the best hikes in Canyonlands. The entire trail has jaw-dropping views over the canyon. 
• White Rim Overlook Trail –  1.8 miles, 160 feet, Easy-  This trail leads to a gorgeous overlook of the canyon. There are also several day-use areas at the parking lot with picnic tables for a lunch spot.

Read More: Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park

Where to Stay Near Canyonlands & Arches

If you are staying near Moab, you can stay in the same hotel or campground for two nights. In addition to the locations above, below are a few more campgrounds near Canyonlands and Arches .

Camping Near Canyonlands & Arches

• Willow Flat
• Devils Garden Campground
• Campgrounds along the Colorado River

Day 5: Moab to Bryce National Park

• Moab to Bryce Canyon Distance: 249 miles
• Drive Time: 4 hours 13 minutes

After your day in Moab,  road trip over to Bryce Canyon National Park . This drive will take you a little over  4 hours to complete . Start early so you can maximize your  one day in Bryce!

My recommendation would be to choose a hike inside the canyon and head straight there upon arriving. For a not too long or difficult hike with amazing views, I would strongly recommend the  Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop . If you are looking for a longer hike there are a few alternatives listed below. 

After your hike, if you have time, you can drive down the  18-mile Scenic Drive  and stop at the viewpoints that take your interest. Bryce is not a very big park, so this itinerary will let you see a lot of what the park has to offer in just one day. 

Stay for sunset  to watch the evening light make the orange and red hoodoos glow. Stay even longer to stargaze in this  International Dark Sky Park . The stars will dazzle you, uninterrupted by any significant source of light nearby. 

Read More: One Day in Bryce Canyon

Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon

Bryce is a park you absolutely must hike in. The hoodoos are beautiful to see from the viewpoints, but infinitely more impressive when you hike between them. Here are some of the  best hikes to viewpoints  and  trails into the canyon . 

• Navajo & Queens Garden Loop-   2.9 miles, 646 feet, Moderate-  This loop begins at either Sunset or Sunrise Point and travels down into the canyon. This trail features an iconic Bryce photo spot of the switchbacks leading down into the canyon and a view of  Thor’s Hammer .
• Peekaboo Loop –   5.3 miles, 1453 feet, Moderate – If you want a slightly longer hike, do the Peekaboo Loop. This starts at Bryce Point or Sunset Point. The trail ascends and descends several times and takes you through several tunnels in the rock so the views “Peekaboo” out at you. 
• Fairyland Loop –  7.8 miles, 1545 feet, Moderate – Fairyland Loop is even longer than Peekaboo Loop, beginning at Fairyland Point or Sunrise Point. This trail descends into the canyon and follows along the rim for 8 miles total.
• Lower, Mid, & Upper Inspiration Points –  0.6 miles, 134 feet, Easy – It is a stretch to call the walk to these viewpoints a hike, but the path is quite steep. You can drive or take the shuttle to the drop-off for these three lookouts, each slightly higher than the next. 
• Sunset to Sunrise Point –  1.1 miles, 82 feet, Easy – Only half a mile each way, this hike along the rim is an excellent option if you or your family members cannot hike and are limited to  paved roads . There are also several benches along the rim that you can stop at and enjoy the view. 

Scenic Drive in Bryce Canyon

After hiking, take a  scenic drive  down the length of Bryce. A shuttle will go as far as Bryce Point in the summer, but you will need your own vehicle to drive the entirety of the road. Below are a couple of the popular spots on the scenic drive. 

• Sunrise & Sunset Point
• Inspiration Point
• Bryce Point
• Swamp Canyon
• Piracy Point
• Natural Bridge
• Agua Canyon
• Ponderosa Canyon
• Rainbow Point

Where to Stay Near Bryce

Hotels near bryce.

• Stone Cany on Inn
• Bryce Canyon Lodge

Camping Near Bryce

• North Campground
• Sunset Campground
• Under Canvas Bryce Canyon

Day 6: Bryce & Zion National Parks

• Bryce to Zion Distance: 72 miles
• Drive Time: 1 hours 19 minutes

This day on your  Arizona Utah itinerary  is light on driving and heavy on hiking. Get up early and complete any last hikes or views you want to see in Bryce before driving to Utah’s most popular National Park.

The drive from  Zion to Bryce  takes about an  hour and a half  and is a distance of  73 miles . You will enter Zion through the East Entrance, and travel through the  Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel,  a one-mile tunnel through Zion’s canyon. After the tunnel, there is a series of steep switchback roads to drive down to reach the base of the canyon. 

Spend the remainder of your day hiking in Zion! There is a shuttle that travels through the canyon to a series of shuttle stops with trailheads located off them. See below for some of the best trails in Zion Canyon to hike including  Angel’s Landing, Canyon Overlook,  and  the Narrows . Choose one long hike or several small ones to trek on your first day in Zion. Alternatively, book a  horseback riding tour  or  bike rental  to travel through the canyon.

Read More:  2 Days in Zion National Park Itinerary

Best Trails in Zion Canyon

Zion is one of the best National Parks for hiking. There are so many great trails in Zion , below are just a few to consider during your two days in Zion.

• Angels Landing   Trail –  4.4 miles, 1604, Difficult – Angel’s Landing is the most popular trail in Zion. Well known for its dangerous section at the summit that requires holding onto chains. Starting in 2022, this last section will require a  lottery permit . Without a permit, you can still hike to the scenic Scout’s Landing lookout. 
• Canyon Overlook Trail –  1.0 mile, 187, Moderate – This short hike has a great payoff with a lookout over Pine Creek Canyon and Zion Canyon. 
• Riverside Walk –  1.9 miles, 193 feet, Easy – Riverside Walk is an easy paved path through the canyon, alongside the Virgin River. 
• The Narrows –  Varies, Difficult – The end of the Riverside Walk trail leads to steps down into the Narrows. This trail involves walking on the bed of the river, wading through the water. Unfortunately, it is not accessible all year round and must be hiked when the river is low and calm. Make sure to check conditions before you go, as  flash floods are very dangerous  and have the potential to kill unaware hikers.
• Watchman Trail –  3.1 miles, 1636 feet, Moderate – Watchman Trail leads to an overlook over Springfield. The trailhead is near the Watchman and South campgrounds, and it is a great hike for sunset. 
• Observation Point via East Mesa Trail –  7 miles, 702 feet, Moderate – This is an alternative to Angel’s Landing if you want the views down the canyon similar to Angel’s Landing but without the terrifying chains section. 4WD or AWD is recommended to get to the trailhead.
• Lower Emerald Pools –  1.4 miles, 127 feet, Easy – This is another easy trail that leads to some pools that have small waterfalls during the rainy season. 

Other Things to do in Zion

This is towards the end of your National Parks Road Trip, so your feet may be getting tired of hiking. In which case, check out one of the other  things to do in Zion National Park !

• Horseback Riding in Zion Canyon – For a true Western experience, reserve a  horseback riding tour  through the canyon along the Virgin River. 
• Zion Brew Pub – This is a great spot for lunch or dinner, right outside the park. You can have a beer and burger on the patio next to the river. 
• Biking the Pa’rus Trail – You can rent a bike from  Zion Outfitters  or in Springdale and bike along the 3.5-mile Pa’rus trail that follows the Virgin River from the Visitor Center.

Where to Stay Near Zion

Hotels near zion.

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott
• Flanigin’s Inn

Camping Near Zion

• Watchman Campground
• Lava Point Campground
• South Campground

Day 7: Zion to Las Vegas

• Zion to Las Vegas: 166 miles
• Drive Time: 2 hours 41 minutes

On the last day of your Utah Arizona Road Trip, you will head out from Zion back towards Las Vegas . This drive is 166 miles and takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes , so you will still have plenty of time to spend in Zion or checking out other sites on the way.

Begin your day by finishing up any last hikes you want to do in Zion. If you can get the permits, this would be a great day to hike Angel’s Landing . Start early and finish your trip strong with one of the best hikes in Utah!

There are several interesting stops between Zion and Las Vegas. Snow Canyon State Park and Valley of Fire State Park are two great stops to your itinerary and don’t add too much extra distance to the drive. Leave early to give yourself plenty of time in these State Parks.

Of course, you can also get back to Las Vegas early, and spend the day at the many restaurants, casinos, and attractions in this iconic US city. No matter how you spend it, make the most of the last day of your Southwest Road Trip!

Things to do Near Zion & Las Vegas

Zion and Las Vegas have many other scenic places between them or nearby, only requiring a slight detour. Stop by a few of these other beautiful, natural places on your road trip to Las Vegas.

• Snow Canyon State Park-  The beauty of Utah is not just limited to its National Parks. Utah’s state parks are a sight to see as well and Snow Canyon is one of the best. Snow Canyon is  only an hour  from Zion, making it a  great last stop on your   Southwest National Parks Road Trip. Admire the steep canyon walls and hike, climb, or ride on the many trails and  slot canyons  in the park.
• Kolob Canyon – While technically still part of Zion National Park, the Kolob Canyons are a much  less visited  portion of the park. It is a  43-mile drive  to get to this portion of the park from the main entrance, but well worth your time. The hikes here and nearby offer some amazing canyon views.
• Valley of Fire State Park-  The Valley of Fire State Park has some of the best views in all of Nevada. This State Park is only a short detour from the route from Zion back to Las Vegas. Some of the best trails include  White Domes Trail and Fire Wave Trail.

Alternative Itinerary- 5 Day Utah Arizona Road Trip

If you have less time you can still see a lot with only 5 days in the Southwest . Plan of leaving from Las Vegas and visiting the Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion on this week-long road trip. This shortened itinerary gives you one day in the Grand Canyon, and two in both Bryce and Zion. You can also make a quick stopover in Page 

• Day 1:  Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• Day 2:  Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon
• Day 3:  Bryce Canyon National Park
• Day 4:  Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park
• Day 5:  Zion National Park back to Las Vegas

Alternative Itinerary 2: 5 Day Utah National Parks Road Trip

Another option for just a 5-day trip is to road trip to all of Utah’s “Mighty 5” National Parks . You will see so much of Utah’s beauty and be able to make a second trip to visit Arizona. See below for a week-long Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary : 

• Day 1:  Visit Canyonlands & Arches National Parks
• Day 2:  Moab to Capitol Reef National Park
• Day 3:  Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon
• Day 4:  Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks
• Day 5:  Zion National Park to Las Vegas

Tips for Planning a Utah-Arizona National Parks Road Trip

• Download your maps ahead of time or print them off. There is not much service in or between many of the Southwest National Parks.
• Stay updated to park conditions!  Each National Parks website has up-to-date information on trail closings, park facilities, and health and weather warnings.
• Make your reservations ahead of time!  These National Parks are popular tourist destinations, so expect accommodations to book early, especially during the late spring, summer, and fall. Most campsites take  reservations 6 months in advance .
• Leave No Trace!  This is essential when hiking in any wilderness area, but it is especially important in National Parks, which are some of the most heavily trafficked hikes in the United States. Wandering off-trail can also  harm delicate desert landscapes  that can take many years to grow back.  Carving or vandalizing rock  is becoming increasingly common, and should not be done under any circumstance. Behavior like this leads to  increasing restrictions of national land  and damages the landscape in ways that cannot be undone,  destroying centuries-old formations .
• Enter the park early in the morning!  This is a jam-packed itinerary and entering the National Parks early will allow you to see and do as much as possible. Entering at or before sunrise is also a great way to beat the crowds and enjoy nature in relative solitude, a rarity in some National Parks. 

How Many Days for a Southwest Road Trip?

You may be wondering- How long should I plan for a Southwest National Parks Road Trip? 

I would recommend  at least a 5-day or 7-day itinerary  for your Utah and Arizona road trip, but stay longer if you can! Of course, if you only have a long weekend, you can still make a quick journey to one or two of these parks and have a great time. No matter how long you spend, you are sure to want to come back for more!

Read More: Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks

When to Road Trip to Utah and Arizona

Spring and Fall are the best time  to visit Utah and Arizona if you are wanting the  best weather . In Fall and Spring, the temperatures average in the  50s to 80s , with some variation depending on elevation. Because the weather is good at this time, you can expect  large crowds  during these times as well. 

A  winter road trip  through the Southwest will be cold, but you will also have more solitude than other times of the year. Some parks may have  areas closed based on snow , so make sure to check park conditions regularly if you visit in winter.

Summer  in Utah and Arizona is hot with temperatures exceeding  over 100 degrees ! The National Parks can also get crowded since kids are out of school for summer. If you visit in summer, be prepared for the sun and heat with lots of water and knowledge of how to avoid heatstroke!

Arizona & Utah National Parks Packing List

Below see my packing list for a Utah and Arizona Road Trip! The weather can change in an instant in the desert, and you’ll want to make sure to have clothes and equipment for all-weather, so pack properly.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

• Water-  Water is your best friend in the desert! Make sure to bring enough and then some for your group.
• Snacks – If you will be hiking all day and burning a lot of calories, make sure to bring some protein-packed snacks and lunch as well.
• Sunscreen – It is always a good idea to use sunscreen to block the harsh sun!
• Sun Shielding Hat – My hat is my favorite hiking gear. A wide-brimmed hat will help keep the sun off you.
• Winter Hat-  Morning can be cold in the desert at any time of year. A   knit hat  is great to have in your bag for early mornings or windy days.
• Moisture-Wicking Shirts – Any shirt will do, but the best  hiking shirts  are made of natural or synthetic moisture-wicking material that is breathable and dries quickly.
• Athletic Shorts/Pants – I personally tend to wear   hiking leggings   more than shorts. If you are hiking in the winter,  Carhartt  makes great thick women’s leggings.
• Lighter Jacket or Wind Jacket – Layering is always a good idea when hiking, and I put a  spare windbreaker  or   light jacket  in my backpack in case the wind picks up.
• Winter Coat – This may depend on the time of year you go, but I was glad to have my  puffy coat  when waiting for sunrise at the Grand Canyon and Bryce, even in late March.
• Hiking Boots or Trail Runner –  Hiking boots  help keep your footing on rock and reduce the impact on your feet.
• Hiking Socks – Also, bring  good socks  to reduce the risk of blisters!
• Backpack – A  good daypack  can make your hike so much more enjoyable. Properly distributing weight can ease your trip and allow you to bring all the essentials above!
• Headlamp – If you are going to be camping or hiking for sunrise, be sure to bring a  headlamp  and batteries.

You May Also Like

• How to Plan a National Parks Road Trip
• Best Canyonlands Hikes
• Sunrise at Delicate Arch
• Utah National Parks Ranking

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

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

The American Southwest.

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

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate American Southwest Road Trip

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

Where Is The American Southwest?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finding Camping Spots In The American Southwest

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

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

Where Do I Start My Southwest Road Trip?

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

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

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

The Utah National Parks Trip

Starting Point:  Las Vegas, Nevada.

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

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

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

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

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

The Southern California Loop

Starting Point: Los Angeles or San Diego, California

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

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

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

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

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

The Grand Canyon / Desert Loop

Starting Point: Las Vegas, Nevada

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

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

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

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

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

The Mega American Southwest Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

All The Best Stops On A Mega Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

1. Alabama Hills

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Death Valley National Park

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

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

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

Highlights of Death Valley National Park:

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

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

3. Valley of Fire State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Zion National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Hikes and Attractions In Zion National Park:

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

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

5. Bryce Canyon National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Capitol Reef National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some iconic things to do in Cathedral Valley:

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

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

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

7. Canyonlands National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Arches National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Monument Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

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

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

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

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

Antelope Canyon

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

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

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

Horseshoe Bend

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

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

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

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

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

11. Grand Canyon National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Experience a Grand Canyon National Park Sunset

12. Sedona, Arizona

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Joshua Tree National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Gorgeous Places To See In The American Southwest

14. San Diego, California

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

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

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

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (La Jolla, California)

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

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

California State Beaches

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

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

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

Our 10-Day Southwest Road Trip Route

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

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

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

Day 1: Alabama Hills, California

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

Day 3: Valley of Fire, Nevada

Day 4: Zion National Park

Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 6-8: Sedona, Arizona

Day 9: Joshua Tree National Park

Day 10: Torrey Pines, San Diego, California

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Around The Southwest USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RENTAL CARS:

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

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

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

Looking For A Camper Van or RV?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Isn’t The End…

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

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

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

10 Amazing Destinations in the American Southwest

The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip

How To Spend One Day In Death Valley National Park

5 Amazing Hikes In Sedona, Arizona You Need To Explore

How To Find Movie Road In Alabama Hills, California

The Ultimate Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary

How To See Big Sur, California In One Day

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

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

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

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