There’s a road trip winding through Nevada, Utah, and Arizona that quietly outshines almost every other route in the country. Six national parks, four state parks, and a string of hidden gems along the way, all packed into one unforgettable itinerary. If you’ve ever wanted a trip that feels like it belongs on a bucket list, this one deserves the spot.
How Long Should the Trip Be?
While it’s technically possible to complete this itinerary in 10 days, giving yourself at least 14 days makes a real difference. There’s simply so much to explore along the way that rushing through it would mean missing out on some of the best parts.
When to Go
Spring and fall tend to be the sweet spot for this route, since summer brings intense heat and heavier crowds. That said, winter has its own quiet charm here too, with several spots offering a beautiful, snow-dusted version of the same dramatic landscapes.
A Few Helpful Tips
Before setting off, it’s worth picking up an America the Beautiful Pass at the very first park entrance station. It covers entry into every national park along the route and typically saves money compared to paying individually at each stop. And of course, wherever the trip takes you, leaving no trace behind keeps these places beautiful for the next traveler.
The Route: Starting and Ending in Las Vegas
This loop begins and ends in Las Vegas, making it easy to plan flights in and out. Here’s the full route, in order:
Valley of Fire State Park
Zion National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Capitol Reef National Park
Moonscape Overlook
Goblin Valley State Park
Canyonlands National Park
Arches National Park
Potash Road
Valley of the Gods
Monument Valley
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Grand Canyon National Park
Family Friendly From Start to Finish
One of the best parts of this route is that every stop along the way is genuinely family friendly, with no long or dangerous hikes required. That makes it an ideal trip whether it’s just you and a travel partner or the whole family piled into one car.
Some road trips are good. Others completely change how you see a part of the country. This one falls firmly into the second category.