Creating the perfect road trip itinerary can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. We are here to help with the perfect road trip itinerary from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.
The three-day trip has plenty of spots you can stop at and recharge as you travel 280 miles from start to finish. There are lots of sights to see on your journey, but we have found the best ones that will help you map your route and get the most out of your trip.
Stop 1: Springs Preserve
Before you hit the open road, make time to stop at Springs Preserve. The stunning area features botanical gardens and walking trails; you will feel miles away from Vegas even though it’s only 10 minutes away. You will get a taste of the Mojave Desert that awaits you, so be sure to stretch your legs and get ready for the journey ahead.
Stop 2: Hoover Dam
After a 40-mile drive, you will make it to the Hoover Dam. Its huge size and engineering genius are something to marvel at. You can walk along the top of the Hoover Dam, where you’ll enjoy the stunning views of the river below. There are viewing points along the way to the dam, too, where you can stop and snap some pictures of this gorgeous spectacle.
If you have time, you can book a tour inside the dam as well. You will learn about its history, how it changed the regional landscape, and more. It’s a wonderful place to explore and learn about local history. If you visit during the summer, make sure you come with water and sunscreen as it gets very hot.
Stop 3: Lake Mead
Lake Mead is only six miles away from Hoover Dam, but the beautiful reservoir might as well be a million miles away as it offers its own distinct charm. It is a good place for paddle-boarding and kayaking, but you don’t need to get out on the water to enjoy this destination. There is lots of space for you to relax by the shore, enjoy a picnic, and soak up the calm environment before you hit the road again.
Stop 4: Boulder City
Boulder City is a small town, but there is plenty to explore. You can stop in at the cafes, where you can grab a coffee and refuel after your drive. Boulder City was previously built for workers building and working on the Hoover Dam, and simply walking around offers some insight on the town’s historic past. If you really want the full story, the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum is a worthwhile stop to learn about the town and the workers who lived there.
Stop 5: Valley Of Fire State Park
After a 62-mile drive, you will head into some desert landscape with the Valley of Fire State Park. Its red sandstone formations give the park its name, sculpted by nature over millions of years. They are a remarkable sight to behold, so be sure to allow ample time to stop and explore.
It is a good place to stay overnight, too, with plenty of campervan-friendly campsites nearby. Make sure you head out on the Fire Wave Trail while you are here — it’s especially exceptional in the early afternoon with the red rocks glowing under the sun.
Valley Of Fire State Park / Photo by Tom Delanoue on Unsplash
Stop 6: Mesquite
After another hour’s drive, you will reach Mesquite. The small town is packed full of character, with something for everyone to enjoy. The Wolf Creek Golf Club is three miles away and is home to some of the most beautiful courses in the country. It is a great place to hit a few balls or even take in the views and enjoy a drink at the club.
You can take advantage of the bars and restaurants in Mesquite, too, and many feature live music as an added bonus. Mesquite also features interesting shops that are perfect for grabbing souvenirs. No matter what you’re after, you’ll find something to admire about this spot.
Stop 7: St. George
Forty miles away is St. George, a friendly town where you can recharge your batteries and enjoy the views of the scenic red cliffs. The Red Cliffs Desert Reserve is a perfect spot to explore, along with the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site. You can enjoy the dinosaur prints up close, a fun activity for anyone but an especially exciting time for kids.
Stop 8: Zion National Park
Here, you will find yourself fully immersed in nature, with some hiking trails that will allow you to explore more of Zion National Park. There are hiking trails of all abilities to enjoy, with the Rim Trail being one of our favorites. It is a fairly easy stroll and is suitable for most experience levels. If you want a challenge, tackle the Angel’s Landing hike. No matter which hike you decide on, you won’t regret your stop in Zion National Park.
Stop 9: Glen Canyon Dam
Before arriving at the Grand Canyon, make sure to visit another dam. The Glen Canyon Dam created Lake Powell, and here you can learn about the impact it had on the area. There are plenty of tours if you’d like to learn about the history and even more opportunities to enjoy the stunning views.
Stop 10: Grand Canyon National Park
Finally, you will reach the end of your journey and arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park. We recommend starting on the South Rim for the best views in the park before heading to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. They provide visitors with useful information on how to make the most of your time here and have great tips for some of the best, most famous spots to enjoy.
The Grand Canyon / Photo by Omer Nezih Gerek on Unsplash
Start Planning Your Road Trip Today
A trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon can be exciting, with plenty of stops to keep things interesting. Now that you know where to go, it’s time to start planning. We recommend hiring a campervan to make the most of your road trip. You can find the best rates on campervan hire in Las Vegas here to see when your journey could start.