Dreaming of the ultimate American Southwest road trip but not sure where to start?
With so many jaw-dropping parks, scenic byways, and quirky desert towns, planning the perfect route can feel overwhelming, but I’ve got you covered.
After driving over 3,000 miles through the Southwest myself, I’ve mapped out a 31-day itinerary that hits every highlight and a few hidden gems you won’t find on most lists.
From the towering hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and the vast expanse of Grand Canyon National Park, to the red rocks of Sedona and the cultural heartbeats of Santa Fe and Albuquerque, this trip captures the best of the region’s landscapes and local flavor.
Whether you’re camping under the stars at KOAs, hiking iconic trails in Zion National Park and Monument Valley, or tasting your way through Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives–featured restaurants, this journey blends adventure, history, and small-town charm.
You’ll even find tips for adjusting your itinerary if certain parks or attractions are closed, so it’s flexible no matter the season.
Get ready for a month-long adventure through deserts, canyons, and mountain passes — including the secret spots we found with no crowds at all.
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Bucket List American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary
Our honeymoon road trip was supposed to be the ultimate adventure.
One full month exploring the rugged beauty of the American Southwest.
We planned a 31-day route through the Four Corners states: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah.
The goal was to see as much red rock desert, mountain scenery, and small-town charm as we could pack into four weeks on the road.
But like so many 2020 plans, things didn’t go quite as expected.
As the pandemic unfolded, closures and restrictions meant we had to adjust our itinerary and what was meant to be a 31-day trip turned into 21 days instead.
In this post, I’m sharing both versions of our honeymoon itinerary: the original month-long plan and the modified route we ended up taking.
Many of the places we missed that year, we’ve since gone back to visit on later road trips, so I’ve included links to those updated travel guides throughout.
Whether you’re planning your own Southwest road trip or just want some inspiration for your travel bucket list, this itinerary covers some of the most breathtaking and unforgettable destinations in the region.
Day 1: Drive From LA To Yuma & Tucson
Our Southwest honeymoon adventure officially began in Anaheim, since that is where we were living at the time.
The plan was to hit the road by 9 am, make a midday stop in Yuma, and then continue on to Tucson for our first night of camping.
The original plan looked like this:
- Depart home around 8–9 a.m.
- Drive about 4 hours to Yuma, Arizona
- Stop for gas and lunch
- Spend 1–2 hours sightseeing in Yuma — visiting The Camel Farm, Yuma Territorial Prison Park, and St. Thomas Yuma Indian Mission
- Continue another 3 hours to Tucson
- Have dinner in town or at our campsite
- Stay overnight at Gilbert Ray Campground
But like most road trips, things didn’t go exactly according to plan (in the best way).
Here’s what actually happened:
We got up at 7 a.m., packed the car, and hit the road by 8:40.
After topping off the gas tank, we made it to Yuma around 12:30 p.m. and decided to skip sightseeing this time and enjoy lunch instead at Prison Hill Brewing Company in historic downtown Yuma — a great local spot with craft beer and hearty food.
We filled up the tank again before getting back on the road.
By 5 p.m., we pulled into Gilbert Ray Campground just outside Tucson, found our campsite, and spent about 30 minutes setting up our tent and locating the bathhouse.
We cooked a simple dinner on our camp stove, watched the sun dip below the desert hills around 7 p.m., and called it a night by 8.
It was the perfect, low-key start to our month-long Southwest honeymoon, one that set the pace for the adventures to come.
Where To Stay: Gilbert Ray Campground
If you’re visiting Tucson or Saguaro National Park, Gilbert Ray Campground is one of the best (and most affordable) places to stay.
Located just outside the west entrance of Saguaro National Park, this scenic desert campground offers beautiful views of the surrounding cactus-studded hills, especially at sunrise and sunset.
It’s peaceful, clean, and feels remote, yet it’s only about 20 minutes from downtown Tucson.
The campground offers both tent and RV sites, each with a picnic table and access to restrooms with flush toilets and showers.
Reservations are required and can be made online in advance, but rates are surprisingly budget-friendly compared to most campgrounds near national parks.
If you want to wake up surrounded by towering saguaros and still be close to Tucson’s restaurants and attractions, Gilbert Ray Campground is the perfect base for your stay.
If you prefer a hotel stay, check out Varsity Clubs of America Tucson!
Day 2: Saguaro National Park
On our second day, we planned to spend the entire day exploring Saguaro National Park, which is actually split into two separate sections that frame the city of Tucson: the West (Tucson Mountain) District and the East (Rincon Mountain) District.
You can check out the exact details of our Saguaro National Park visit in our one day itinerary post.
Both sides showcase the iconic saguaro cactus forests, but each has its own trails, drives, and unique desert landscapes.
Original plan:
- Breakfast at the campground
- Drive 10 minutes to the West District
- Hike the Desert Discovery Nature Trail
- Drive the Bajada Loop Drive (6 miles), stopping at the Valley View Overlook (0.8-mile out-and-back) and Signal Hill Petroglyphs
- Lunch in Tucson and top off gas
- Drive about an hour to the East District
- Drive the Cactus Forest Loop (8 miles)
- Hike the EcoNature Loop Trail (0.25 miles) and the Freeman Homestead Trail (1 mile)
- Optional: Micah Peak hike
- Dinner in Tucson or at the campground, back by 6 p.m.
What actually happened:
We got up at 7 a.m., had breakfast at the campground, and hit the road by 8:35 a.m.
The west side activities went smoothly, and by 10:30 a.m., we had completed the Desert Discovery Trail, Bajada Loop, Valley View Overlook, and Signal Hill Petroglyphs.
Instead of a sit-down lunch, we decided to check out downtown Tucson while topping off gas, and grabbed lunch at Whataburger, a must-try for us since there weren’t any locations near home.
By 12:30 p.m., we were at the East District, where we drove the Cactus Forest Loop and hiked the Micah View Trail (1.4 miles) along with the Eco Trail.
We skipped the Freeman Homestead Trail, but still soaked in plenty of desert scenery.
By 3:30 p.m., we were back at Gilbert Ray Campground, having completed our day, and spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the campsite.
Even though we didn’t stick strictly to the original plan, it was a perfect balance of sightseeing, hiking, and downtime and it gave us a real taste of what makes Saguaro National Park so special.
If you need more to do with the free time, here are some other things we recommend in the Tucson area that we’ve done on other road trips:
The Ultimate Elgin and Sonoita Wine Tasting Guide
Affordable Things To Do In Tucson
The Best Hidden Gem Restaurants In Tucson
The Best Things To Do In Tombstone
Where To Stay: Gilbert Ray Campground
We planned to stay at the same campground at the end of the night, just so we didn’t have to pack everything up again in the morning or have to set up the tent again for the 2nd night in a row.
Day 3: Gila Cliff Dwellings & Las Cruces
On day three, we were heading east from Tucson toward New Mexico, with the Gila Cliff Dwellings as our main stop before finishing the day in Las Cruces.
You can check out our full experience at the Gila Cliff Dwellings in our one day itinerary post.
Original plan:
- Breakfast at the campground and top off gas before leaving
- Depart Gilbert Ray Campground by 9 a.m.
- Drive nearly 5 hours to the Gila Cliff Dwellings, stopping in Silver City to top off gas
- Explore the cliff dwellings
- Drive about 3 hours to Las Cruces for the night
- Camp at Las Cruces KOA and have dinner at the campsite
- Sunset was at 7:22 p.m., giving us plenty of daylight for travel and exploration
What actually happened:
We were up by 7 a.m., packed the car, and hit the road by 8 a.m.
The drive to Silver City was long, but we stopped to refuel before tackling the more remote stretch to the cliff dwellings.
We arrived at the Gila Cliff Dwellings around 2 p.m. and walked the one-mile loop to explore the historic Mogollon cliff dwellings before heading back to the parking area just after 3 p.m.
Instead of a sit-down dinner, we grabbed a quick bite at a truck stop in Las Cruces, a mix of Country Pride and Taco Bell, before heading to Las Cruces KOA around 7 p.m.
Where To Stay: Las Cruces KOA
This campsite had electric hookups, which gave us a chance to charge our devices and even do a little work in the evening.
After a long day of driving and hiking, we were in bed by 9 p.m., ready for the adventures ahead.
While we were here we saw something shiny sticking out of the ground & it looked like something that fell off a necklace or some other sort of jewelry.
Once we cleaned it off, we saw that it was an image of the Archangel Zadkiel (not one of the archangels recognized in Catholicism, but by others), who represents freedom, benevolence, and mercy.
So we got some floss and hung it in our car, where it still is today!
Day 4: Old Mesilla Village & El Paso Mission Trail
Our original plan for day four was to visit White Sands National Park, just about an hour from Las Cruces.
The park can be a little unpredictable, though, since it sometimes closes for military activities.
If it had been open, we planned a full day exploring the park: sledding down the dunes (you can rent a sled or bring your own), hiking the Native Plant Garden Trail, driving the 16-mile Dunes Drive, and walking the Interdune Boardwalk, Playa Trail, and Dune Life Nature Trail.
The idea was to end the day in El Paso, about 45 minutes away.
What actually happened:
We woke up around 7 a.m., had breakfast at the campsite, packed up, and were on the road by 9:15 a.m.
Since we already knew White Sands would be closed, we pivoted to our contingency plan.
Our first stop was Old Mesilla Village in Las Cruces, a charming historic district with adobe buildings, boutique shops, and local art, a perfect place to stretch our legs and enjoy the local culture.
After that, we drove over to El Paso and explored the El Paso Mission Trail, which highlights several historic Spanish missions in the area (I have a full blog post dedicated to this trail if you want the full details).
For lunch, we tried Taco Cabana, a regional favorite, and for dinner we tried Famous Dave’s, a BBQ spot that’s dispersed around the US, but doesn’t have any locations near where we live.
Where To Stay: Palace Inn El Paso
That night, we stayed in a hotel, the Palace Inn in El Paso, which was a nice change from camping.
Click Here To Book Your Palace Inn El Paso Stay Today!
Since then, we’ve stayed at a few other hotels around El Paso, so here are some other recommendations in different areas around town.
Hampton Inn El Paso/East
Hampton Inn El Paso/East is just 3 miles from the El Paso Mission Trail, so it’s really convenient if you end your day in that area.
We love to stay at Hampton Inns when we travel because it’s Hilton’s cheapest brand, while still being safe and clean and high quality.
Hampton Inn rates also include complimentary breakfast and complimentary parking.
Click Here To Book Your Hampton Inn El Paso/East Stay Today!
Hilton Garden Inn El Paso/University
Hilton Garden Inn El Paso/University is the best place to stay if you want to be closer to downtown or closer to UTEP.
This one is actually my overall favorite hotel we’ve stayed in when visiting El Paso.
Hilton Garden Inn is marketed more toward business travelers, so it’s a little bit pricier and doesn’t include complimentary breakfast, but it’s right across the street from a ton of food places.
Click Here To Book Your Hilton Garden Inn El Paso/University Stay Today!
Hilton Garden Inn El Paso Airport
Hilton Garden Inn El Paso Airport is where I recommend staying if you’re flying in and out of El Paso and would like to be closer to the airport for logistic reasons.
Click Here To Book Your Hilton Garden Inn El Paso Airport Stay Today!
Day 5: Guadalupe Mountains National Park & Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Day five was set to be a full day exploring Guadalupe Mountains National Park and then heading to Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico for day 6, but we ended up doing all of it in one day.
You can check out the full itinerary of these two parks in our weekend getaway itinerary.
Original plan:
- Camp at Pine Springs Campground upon arrival (first-come, first-served)
- Hike several shorter trails rather than tackling only one long hike, including:
- Pinery Trail at the Headquarters Visitor Center
- Smith Spring Trail (2.3 miles, 1–2 hours) at Frijole Ranch Trailhead
- Manzanita Spring Trail (0.2 miles)
- McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail (1 mile)
- Indian Meadow Nature Trail (0.6 miles) in the Dog Canyon area
- Sunset was at 7:13 p.m., so the goal was to arrive back at the campground by 6:45 p.m.
What actually happened:
We woke up at 6 a.m., packed up, and hit the road by 7:30 a.m., topping off gas along the way.
Arriving around 9:15 a.m. (or 10:15 a.m., depending on your time zone, some of our clocks changed partway through the drive but not all of them did), we quickly realized the Pinery Trail access at the Visitor Center was closed.
So we went straight to the Smith Spring Trail, which was too windy for a full hike, so we didn’t stay long.
We still managed to hike the Manzanita Spring Trail and the McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail, soaking in the desert scenery and the views of the surrounding peaks.
We skipped the Dog Canyon area because it required a two-hour drive.
Since we still had most of the day ahead of us, we decided to head over to Carlsbad Caverns early.
With the caverns themselves closed for the day, we explored the park’s entrance area, walking the Overlook Trail (about 500 feet) and driving the Scenic Loop Road (9.5 miles).
Just outside of the park is a charming strip with a couple of gift shops, a Mexican restaurant, and even a post office, so it’s a perfect lunch stop.
By the time we reached Carlsbad KOA, the winds were over 25 mph, making it impossible to set up our tent.
The campground staff graciously allowed us to leave early, so we decided to skip camping and continue on our road trip.
That evening, we drove north to Albuquerque, stopping in Roswell along the way to check out the alien-themed attractions and take in the town’s quirky charm.
We arrived in Albuquerque around 9 p.m., marking the end of a day full of unexpected changes and adventurous detours.
Where To Stay: Carlsbad KOA
So assuming that the weather permits, you’ll want to stay locally in Carlsbad whether you squeeze both of these parks into the same day or if you spread them out over two days, like we originally planned.
Day 6: Petroglyph National Monument & Old Town Albuquerque
If you follow the original itinerary, this day is supposed to be a full Carlsbad Caverns National Park day.
But instead, we were already in Albuquerque check out the Petroglyph National Monument, which we have a full itinerary of in another blog post.
Original plan (if Carlsbad Caverns had been open):
If the weather at Guadalupe Mountains had been better and Carlsbad Caverns were open, day six would have been devoted entirely to exploring the caverns.
We had planned to:
- Drive about 30 minutes from Guadalupe Mountains to Carlsbad Caverns
- Attend a 9 a.m. ranger-led tour inside the caverns
- Explore either the Big Room or the Natural Entrance, or both if time allowed
- End the day by returning to Carlsbad KOA for camping
Adjusted itinerary (what actually happened):
Because we were already in Albuquerque due to the previous day’s weather and campground challenges, we started the day with breakfast at our hotel before heading out to Petroglyph National Monument, located on the edge of the city.
We explored three trails at a leisurely pace:
- Boca Negra Canyon Trail – a short stroll to see petroglyphs up close
- Rinconada Canyon Trail – about 1 hour and 20 minutes of walking and exploring the rock art
- Piedras Marcadas Canyon Trail – also around 1 hour and 20 minutes, perfect for taking your time to admire the carved images
The hikes were not strenuous, so we could focus on observing the intricate petroglyphs scattered across the volcanic rocks.
Afterward, we returned to the hotel to regroup and have lunch, then spent the afternoon wandering Old Town Albuquerque, taking in the adobe architecture, shops, and historic charm of the area.
Where To Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown
We’ve stayed in Albuquerque a few times when passing through the area, so I have a couple different hotels I’m going to recommend during your time here.
The first one is Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown, which is a little east of downtown, but close to a ton of restaurants and shops.
It’s still only about 15 minutes from the Petroglyphs and 10 minutes from Old Town, so it’s very close to everything!
Click Here To Book Your Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown Stay Today!
During this trip in particular, we actually stayed at Homewood Suites Albuquerque Uptown, which I also recommend!
Day 7: Albuquerque
If we were following the original itinerary, we would have woken up at Carlsbad KOA and made the drive north to Albuquerque, taking our time to explore Roswell along the way.
Stops might have included the UFO Museum, photo ops with the town’s many alien statues and flying saucers, and any other quirky attractions that caught our eye.
The drive to Albuquerque would have taken about three hours in total.
Once in Albuquerque, we would have visited Petroglyphs National Monument (as already outlined) and enjoyed dinner in town.
Originally, we had planned to stay at the Albuquerque KOA, but it ended up being closed.
What actually happened:
Since we were already in Albuquerque, we started the day with breakfast at our hotel before hitting the city’s highlights.
We visited the Spaceship House, wandered through Nob Hill, and explored Old Town Albuquerque, a charming area full of adobe architecture, boutiques, and historic sites.
Lunch was at Garcia’s Kitchen, which we absolutely loved.
We found it because it was recommended by the Food Network.
Indian tacos and sopapillas are two of our favorite dishes, and this spot did them perfectly.
Now we always make a point to try them wherever we travel.
After lunch, we moved to a different hotel in Albuquerque to be in a new part of town and set ourselves up for the next portion of the trip.
For dinner, we stopped at Twisters, a local fast-food favorite known for its Indian tacos and it’s one of those stops we always make when passing through Albuquerque.
If you’re looking for more to do in Albuquerque, we’ve also visited the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, which offers a fascinating look at the history of nuclear science, weapons, and energy in the U.S.
It’s a unique stop and a great addition to any Albuquerque itinerary.
Where To Stay: Hampton Inn University Midtown
Another hotel we’ve stayed in when visiting Albuquerque is Hampton Inn University Midtown.
It’s a little closer toward downtown than the last one, but only about 5 minutes away.
Pretty much everywhere we’ve stayed is right off the highway for convenience.
Click Here To Book Your Hampton Inn University Midtown Stay Today!
During this trip in particular, we actually stayed at Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque North/Rio Rancho, which I also recommend!
Day 8: Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway & Pecos National Historical Park
After a few days of shuffled plans in Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains, and Albuquerque, day eight was the point where our itinerary finally got back on track with the original plan.
Original plan:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Return to Petroglyphs National Monument for any trails we hadn’t yet completed
- Visit Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument (about an hour outside Albuquerque), if open
- Hike the Cave Loop Trail (1.2 miles) and Veterans Memorial Trail (1 mile)
- Drive to Santa Fe (approximately 45 minutes)
- Lunch and dinner on the road or in Santa Fe
What actually happened:
We left our hotel in Albuquerque and spent the morning driving portions of the Turquoise Trail Scenic Byway, a beautiful route connecting Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
Kasha-Katuwe had been closed for months already with no signs of opening, so we moved on Albuquerque right away.
Along the way, we tried the Singing Road, which originally played “America the Beautiful” if driven at the exact speed limit.
We circled back a few times, laughing at our attempts to hit it just right.
It has since been paved over due to the cost of the upkeep, so I’m glad we were able to try it when we did!
Our next stop was Pecos National Historical Park, one of the most underrated sites we’ve ever visited.
We explored the park and then walked the Glorietta Civil War Battlefield Trail, a 2.25 mile trail that took about an hour and 20 minutes.
It actually started snowing while we were on the trail, but it wasn’t too cold and made the scenery even more magical.
Lunch was a late one at Dion’s, a regional New Mexico chain, where we shared an Italian sub and a meatball sub.
Both were delicious and the perfect refuel after our hike.
We checked into the DoubleTree in Santa Fe, of course enjoying the free cookie, and skipped a full dinner since our late lunch had filled us up.
Instead, we grabbed a couple of snacks from Sonic, though we’d usually recommend taking advantage of Santa Fe’s incredible local cuisine instead.
This day was a perfect mix of scenic drives, light hiking, and local flavor, making it one of our favorite transitional days as we headed further north in New Mexico.
Where To Stay: Doubletree by Hilton Santa Fe
Doubletree by Hilton Santa Fe is centrally located to everything we wanted to do in the area and obviously we love the cookies.
Even though we weren’t here for very long, we were impressed with the property because the architecture and design were so unique.
Click Here To Book Your Doubletree by Hilton Santa Fe Stay Today!
Day 9: Santa Fe & Santuario de Chimayo
Originally, we wanted to spend the morning at Bandelier National Monument, but it was closed, so that was the only plan that changed with our original itinerary for today.
But, it allowed us to visit a historic hidden gem most people have never heard of!
Original plan:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive one hour to Bandelier National Monument
- Hike the Main Loop Trail (1.2 miles) — the popular trail with the cliff dwellings and wooden ladders
- Add on the Alcove House Trail (1 mile) on the return portion
- Lunch back in Santa Fe
- Explore Canyon Road and the Santa Fe Plaza
- Drive to Hilton Buffalo Thunder
- Dinner near the hotel
What actually happened:
When we arrived, Bandelier National Monument was closed, which happens periodically throughout the year due to weather or maintenance.
So, we pivoted our plans and started the morning with breakfast at Lotaburger, a local New Mexico chain we absolutely love!
It’s one of those “must-stop” spots whenever we’re in the state.
After breakfast, we spent the day exploring Santa Fe Plaza and Canyon Road, two of the city’s most iconic areas.
The Santa Fe Plaza has been the heart of the city for over 400 years and it’s surrounded by historic adobe buildings, shops selling local art and jewelry, and traditional New Mexican restaurants.
Meanwhile, Canyon Road is Santa Fe’s world-famous arts district, lined with more than 80 galleries and studios featuring everything from Native American pottery to modern art.
Before leaving the area, we also visited the La Cieneguilla Petroglyph Site, a short, scenic stop just outside of Santa Fe where hundreds of ancient rock carvings are etched into the black volcanic cliffs.
It’s an easy, underrated site to explore and a great way to connect with the region’s deep ancestral history.
From there, we took a scenic drive to El Santuario de Chimayó, a historic Catholic pilgrimage site nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The chapel, built in the early 1800s, is known for its sacred “holy dirt,” which many visitors believe has healing powers.
It’s a deeply peaceful and spiritual stop, even if you’re not religious, and one of New Mexico’s most cherished cultural landmarks.
Where To Stay: Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino & Resort
We ended the day at Hilton Buffalo Thunder, just north of Santa Fe, where we spent the evening relaxing.
The resort features Pueblo-inspired architecture, Native art throughout the property, and great amenities for unwinding after a few busy travel days.
You can check out our full review of the resort in this blog post.
Click Here To Book Your Hilton Buffalo Thunder Casino Resort Stay Today!
Day 10: Taos & Great Sand Dunes National Park
Our original plan for this day was a full adventure across northern New Mexico and into southern Colorado.
After breakfast at our hotel, we planned to top off our gas, drive two hours north to cross the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge (a steel bridge that stretches 600 feet above the Rio Grande River) and then continue another two hours to Great Sand Dunes National Park.
There, we intended to grab one of the first-come, first-served campsites, go sledding on the massive dunes, and hike the short Montville Nature Trail before watching the sunset over the sand.
What actually happened still turned out to be an incredible day!
We began with a drive to Taos, where we explored the historic Taos Plaza and Bent Street, both filled with local art galleries, adobe architecture, and cozy shops that capture the heart of northern New Mexico’s culture.
From there, we drove to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, one of the highest bridges in the U.S., offering views of the deep canyon carved by the river below.
Crossing into Colorado, we stopped at Sand Dunes Recreation to rent sand sleds before heading into Great Sand Dunes National Park, where we spent the afternoon sledding down the tallest dunes in North America.
It’s currently about $20 a day to rent the sand sleds or you can bring your own.
I have a full detailed itinerary for this park in this other post.
Where To Stay: Quality Inn & Suites West Pueblo
Instead of camping that night, we decided to drive a little farther north and stay in Pueblo, Colorado, wrapping up a long but rewarding day surrounded by incredible scenery and bucket-list experiences.
Quality Inn & Suites West Pueblo is where we decided to stay.
It’s probably the lowest budget type of hotel we’ve ever stayed in, but that’s all that exists in that area.
It was clean and safe, just not as high quality as we tend to stay in.
Click Here To Book Your Quality Inn & Suites West Pueblo Stay Today!
Day 11: Red Rock Canyon & Garden of the Gods
The original plan for this day was to have breakfast at our hotel, top off our gas, and drive about 2 hours and 45 minutes north to Colorado Springs.
Once there, we were going to explore Garden of the Gods, one of Colorado’s most famous free attractions known for its towering red sandstone formations and incredible mountain views, before camping for the night at the Colorado Springs KOA.
What we actually ended up doing was even better!
We began our morning with a visit to the Pueblo Riverwalk and downtown Pueblo, a charming area with a scenic waterfront and historic architecture that made for a peaceful start to the day.
From there, we continued north to Red Rock Canyon Open Space, where we hiked both the Contemplation Trail and the Sand Canyon Trail, two beautiful routes that offer sweeping views and fewer crowds than nearby Garden of the Gods.
We then headed over to Garden of the Gods, exploring its rock formations and scenic loops.
I have a full blog post itinerary for visiting both Red Rock Canyon and Garden of the Gods if you’d like to dive deeper into those stops.
For lunch, we went to The Skirted Heifer, a local favorite featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, where the standout “Hangover Burger” definitely lived up to the hype.
Where To Stay: Colorado Springs KOA
That evening, we set up camp at the Colorado Springs KOA, where we were treated to a surprise snowstorm overnight!
Even though several inches fell, we stayed warm and cozy in our tent, proving that with the right gear, a little snow can make for a pretty magical camping experience.
Day 12: Glenwood Springs, Breckenridge, & Vail
In our VERY early trip plans we were going to add 2 days here to explore Rocky Mountain National Park, but by the time we finalized our plans, we already knew it was going to be closed, so we decided to visit the ski towns instead.
The original plan for day twelve was a long drive through the Rockies, starting with breakfast at the campground and then a 4½-hour journey to Glenwood Springs, with stops at iconic ski towns along the way, Breckenridge, Vail, and Beaver Creek, before camping for the night at Glenwood Springs KOA.
What actually happened turned out to be just as scenic, albeit a little more comfortable!
We left around 8:15 a.m. and made a breakfast/lunch stop at Just Be Kitchen in Denver.
JP had the breakfast platter, while I tried the chicken and dumplings.
Everything there is 100% gluten-free, seed oil-free, paleo-friendly, keto-friendly, diabetic-friendly, no refined sugar, and Whole30 compliant and it’s been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!
After refueling, we drove first to Breckenridge, a charming mountain town full of colorful Victorian buildings and quaint shops.
Next up was Vail, my personal favorite.
With its European-style alpine village vibe, Vail is simply stunning with cobblestone streets, cozy cafés, and picturesque mountains at every turn.
We wandered around, stopped for hot cider, and indulged in some ice cream while soaking in the scenery.
Where To Stay: Holiday Inn Express Glenwood Springs
Due to snowy and unpredictable weather, we decided to skip camping that night and stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Glenwood Springs.
It was a welcome cozy stop after a day of mountain driving and exploring, and it allowed us to rest up for the next leg of our road trip.
Click Here To Book Your Holiday Inn Express Glenwood Springs Stay Today!
Day 13: Aspen & Snowmass Village
Remember that the early stages of this part of our road trip we were planning to be in Rocky Mountain National Park for 1-2 days and then spend 1-2 days exploring the ski towns throughout Colorado.
So, since the national park was closed at the time, it just gave us more time to explore the ski towns.
Original Itinerary:
- Breakfast at our Glenwood Springs KOA campsite
- Spend the morning at the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, one of the most unique spa experiences in the U.S. – this natural geothermal steam bath is set inside underground caverns.
- Drive to Aspen to explore the world-famous ski town and its surrounding mountain scenery.
- Continue along the route to visit other nearby ski towns before returning to Glenwood Springs for the evening.
What Actually Happened:
The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves were unfortunately closed during our visit, so we adjusted our plans and drove straight to Aspen.
The town was beautiful, sophisticated, upscale, and surrounded by snowcapped peaks, but I still preferred the cozy, European-alpine charm of Vail from the day before.
Aspen, though, definitely earns a solid second place in terms of mountain town vibes.
We stopped at White House Tavern, where we had the most random but delicious snack combo, deviled eggs and cookies, two of our favorites!
Later, we grabbed some pasta from Mezzaluna, a cozy Italian spot in downtown Aspen, before continuing our drive through Snowmass Village.
We didn’t stop to walk around, but the drive itself was scenic and worth doing just to take in the views.
We ended the day back in Glenwood Springs, where we had dinner at The Pullman (yes, it’s located right in town), which turned out to be a perfect end to a relaxing, food-filled day exploring some of Colorado’s most famous ski towns.
Where To Stay: Glenwood Springs KOA
I shared previously that we ended up staying at Holiday Inn Express in Glenwood Springs, but that our original plan was to stay at the KOA.
So if you’re camping – whether it’s tents, RVs, or cabins, the Glenwood Springs KOA is the place to stay!
Day 14: Park City & East High School
In the early days of our road trip plan, these next 2 days were supposed to be in Moab, visiting Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
Since both were closed, we decided to shift our route and explore northern Utah instead before eventually circling back through Moab.
Original Plan:
- Breakfast at the Glenwood Springs KOA campground
- Explore anything we hadn’t done yet in Glenwood Springs, Aspen, or the nearby ski towns
- Drive about 4 hours to Moab, stopping in Grand Junction for lunch
- Dinner in Moab
- Camp at the Moab KOA
What We Actually Did:
Morning: Before leaving Glenwood Springs, we took the short hike up to Doc Holliday’s Gravesite.
The trail is only about a mile, but it’s mostly uphill and winds around the hilltop.
If you’ve ever seen the movie Tombstone, it’s a really neat piece of Old West history to visit.
Drive to Park City: We hit the road for about a five-hour drive to Park City.
Along the way, we didn’t make any major stops, just grabbed lunch at Arby’s, since it was quick and convenient.
Along the way, you’ll actually pass by Dinosaur National Monument, which we didn’t visit on this road trip, but we visited on another one, and I highly recommend it!
Salt Lake City Stop: Once we got to the Salt Lake area, we made a fun stop at East High School, the actual filming location for High School Musical!
It still looks exactly like it does in the movies, and you can take photos out front.
Such a nostalgic stop if you grew up watching those films.
Where To Stay: Provo KOA
We stayed at the Provo KOA, which had beautiful mountain views in the background but wasn’t up in the mountains, so it was much warmer than our recent stays!
We cooked dinner at our campsite using our portable burner stove and caught up on some laundry while we were there.
On long trips like this, it’s important to plan for a few nights where you can relax and reset a bit.
Day 15: Salt Lake City & Golden Spike National Historical Park
Remember the original plan was to be down in Moab on this day, so we were going to spend a full day at Arches National Park.
Since we shifted our route north instead of heading to Moab, we decided to explore more of northern Utah and visit one of the state’s most historic sites.
What We Actually Did:
Morning: We left our campsite around 8:15 a.m.
Before hitting the road, we took a quick drive around BYU’s campus and downtown Salt Lake City, including Temple Square, just to get a feel for the area.
Even if you’re not staying long, the architecture and mountain backdrop make it worth a short visit.
From Salt Lake City, we drove north to Golden Spike National Historical Park, located at Promontory Summit.
This is where, on May 10, 1869, the transcontinental railroad was officially completed, joining the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads and connecting the East and West coasts of the U.S. for the first time.
Today, you can see replica steam locomotives, walk along sections of the original railroad grade, and visit the Visitor Center to learn about the event’s massive impact on American expansion.
It’s a surprisingly fascinating stop, especially if you enjoy history or engineering landmarks.
There’s also a short stop nearby called the Chinese Arch that is a short walk from the side of the road that is worth checking out.
Lunch at Pie Dump: On our way to the next stop, we ate at Pie Dump in Garland, Utah, a cozy, retro spot that was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
They’re known for their homemade rolls, pies, and caramel-drenched doughnuts that were highlighted on the show.
It’s the kind of old-school local gem that feels like stepping back in time.
Where To Stay: Camp Brigham City KOA
We camped at the Brigham City KOA, which is set in a peaceful, rural area surrounded by farmland.
It’s definitely an underrated KOA, quiet, scenic, and a nice change from the more crowded campgrounds we’d stayed at earlier in the trip.
That said, this night brought some intense weather, strong winds and rain that made me nervous about the trees around us swaying in the storm.
After a while, we decided to move into the SUV to sleep, which ended up being surprisingly comfortable.
It was one of those “just roll with it” travel moments that becomes a funny memory later.
Day 16: Driving & Rest Day
The original plan for this day was to be in Moab, exploring Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park before spending another night at the Moab KOA.
However, since those parks were closed during our trip, we shifted our route slightly north and used this day as a much-needed rest and driving day.
What We Actually Did:
After several days of full itineraries and long drives, this ended up being one of the more relaxed days of our Four Corners road trip.
We started the morning with a simple breakfast at our campground.
We packed up camp and hit the road around 9:00 a.m.
About an hour into the drive, we stopped at JCW’s, a regional fast-food chain popular around the Salt Lake City area.
We tried their Ranch Bacon Burger and Pastrami Burger, both of which were incredible, along with a side of crispy onion rings.
If you’re road tripping through Utah and want something quick but satisfying, I definitely recommend making a stop here.
After lunch, we continued our drive south toward Green River, which is about halfway between Salt Lake City and Moab.
The drive itself was easy and scenic, with plenty of wide-open desert landscapes and mountain views in the distance.
If you’re recreating this itinerary and want to spend more time in Salt Lake City, you could easily spend time exploring top attractions include Antelope Island State Park, the Utah State Capitol, the Natural History Museum of Utah, and Red Butte Garden.
Where To Stay: Green River KOA
We arrived at the Green River KOA by late afternoon and decided to take the rest of the day to unwind.
We had a little bonfire at our campsite, caught up on some work, and just enjoyed the slower pace after so many busy sightseeing days.
This campground was perfect for regrouping before heading back into more active parts of the trip.
Day 17: Moab & Durango
Originally, this day was going to mark the grand finale of our time in Moab before heading toward one of the most iconic stops of our American Southwest road trip, the Four Corners National Monument.
From there, we had planned to stop in Cortez for gas and lunch at Main Street Brewery, then continue to Mesa Verde National Park for the afternoon.
At Mesa Verde, we wanted to explore the ancient cliff dwellings, hike the short overlook trails, and take in the incredible archaeological history of the area.
Afterward, we planned to drive about an hour and fifteen minutes to Durango, have dinner in town, and stay overnight at a local hotel.
Somewhere along this route, we also planned to visit Dewey Bridge, a historic suspension bridge located northeast of Moab.
It’s a quick and worthwhile detour if you’re traveling between Arches National Park and Interstate 70, as it’s one of the area’s most unique landmarks and once served as an important river crossing for early settlers.
What We Actually Did:
We started the day with breakfast at our campsite in Green River.
From Green River, it was a short drive to Moab, where we stopped for lunch in town.
We ordered a chicken parmesan panini, salad, and root beer, simple but delicious after so many days of camp cooking.
Even though most attractions were closed, it was nice to walk around Moab’s downtown area and take in the red rock views that make this such a special destination.
After lunch, we continued on to Durango, Colorado.
The drive itself was scenic, with a mix of red cliffs, open desert, and mountain views along the way.
We arrived in Durango in the late afternoon, checked into our hotel, and spent the evening relaxing after another travel-heavy day.
Where To Stay: Hampton Inn Durango
We stayed at the Hampton Inn Durango, which is a great option for anyone visiting the area.
Hampton Inn is known for its high-quality, comfortable rooms at an affordable price, along with complimentary breakfast and free parking, perfect for road trippers who want convenience without breaking the budget.
The hotel’s location is also ideal for exploring downtown Durango, nearby restaurants, and outdoor attractions.
Click Here To Book Your Hampton Inn Durango Stay Today!
Day 18: Aztec Ruins National Monument
This is the day of our itinerary where we get back on track with our original plan, so it’ll be much easier to follow.
Original Plan:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Drive 45 minutes to Aztec Ruins National Monument
- Drive about 15 miles to Farmington and stay at Home2 Suites
What We Actually Did:
We had breakfast at our hotel, topped off gas, and drove to Aztec Ruins National Monument.
The site features a paved pathway around the ruins, with some areas reconstructed, and offers a self-guided audio tour so you can explore at your own pace.
For a detailed itinerary of everything to see here, check out my full blog post dedicated to Aztec Ruins.
After visiting the ruins, we had lunch at Si Señor, enjoying flautas, a burrito, and sopapillas, and yes, we couldn’t resist sopapillas again!
From there, we drove to Home2 Suites Farmington for the night.
Where To Stay: Home2 Suites Farmington
Home2 Suites Farmington is a budget-friendly, modern hotel with complimentary breakfast and parking.
It’s one of the newer, trendier Home2 locations, making it a great option for teams, school groups, or friends traveling together who want a comfortable, practical place to rest while exploring the area.
Day 19: Chaco Culture National Historical Park
We started the day with breakfast at our hotel before driving about an hour and a half to Chaco Culture National Historical Park.
The drive in is mostly on dirt roads, so having an SUV or truck is ideal because standard cars may struggle in some spots.
The park itself is fairly remote, which makes it feel incredibly peaceful and isolated.
Once inside, you’ll find a visitor center and a single main road that leads to the various ruins, each with small parking areas where you can explore on foot.
We visited all of the major sites, including Una Vida, Hungo Pavi, Chetro Ketl, Pueblo Bonito, and Casa Rinconada, walking around and taking in the incredible history.
Remarkably, we saw only three other people the entire time, making it a truly serene experience.
For a full detailed review of our visit, check out my separate blog post dedicated to Chaco Culture.
Because it’s in the middle of nowhere, pack snacks or a picnic lunch, and make sure to eat a hearty breakfast beforehand.
After exploring, we drove about three and a half hours to Holbrook, Arizona, where we stayed at the Holbrook KOA.
For dinner, we went into town to Cracker Barrel before settling in for the night at the campground.
Where To Stay: Holbrook KOA
Holbrook KOA is a convenient and comfortable place to stay when visiting the area, especially since lodging options near Holbrook are limited.
It offers spacious campsites, clean facilities, and a quiet setting, making it a practical choice for road trippers exploring Chaco Culture National Historical Park or traveling along Route 66.
Day 20: Winslow & Petrified Forest National Park
At this point in our Southwest road trip, many of the destinations we had originally planned for the next 10 days were either closed or no longer feasible due to the pandemic.
Because of this, we decided to head to Sedona and regroup before making plans for the remainder of the trip.
Most of these originally planned stops, like Petrified Forest National Park, we’ve since visited on other road trips, so I’ll still share both the original itinerary and our later experiences at those destinations.
For example, I have a full blog post covering a full day itinerary in Petrified Forest, which is just about 30 minutes from Holbrook.
Original Plan:
- Visit Petrified Forest National Park
- Return to the same KOA in Holbrook for the night
What We Actually Did:
We left the Holbrook KOA and made a quick stop in Winslow, Arizona to snap a photo at the Standing on the Corner mural and monument, a classic Route 66 icon.
From there, we drove to Sedona, where we stayed at Casa Sedona, which I highly recommend for its beautiful setting and comfortable accommodations.
We had lunch at Picazzo, enjoying a pepperoni and sausage pizza and mac and cheese facili pasta, then spent the rest of the day relaxing and taking in the stunning red rock scenery of Sedona.
Where To Stay: Casa Sedona Inn or Bell Rock Inn
Casa Sedona Inn – This charming boutique inn is perfect for a relaxing stay in Sedona for adults only!
The grounds are beautiful, with lush landscaping and peaceful courtyards, and the rooms are comfortable and well-appointed, making it feel like a quiet retreat right in the heart of the red rocks.
Click Here To Book Your Casa Sedona Inn Stay Today!
Bell Rock Inn – A more affordable option just outside of town, Bell Rock Inn offers accommodations that are slightly more than a studio, with a full kitchen and open layout (the bedroom isn’t fully closed off).
It’s perfect for travelers who want a practical, budget-friendly base while exploring Sedona and the surrounding areas.
Click Here To Book Your Bell Rock Inn Stay Today!
Day 21: Canyon de Chelly & Monument Valley
This day officially marked the end of our Southwest road trip.
We started the morning in Sedona, then began the drive home, stopping briefly at a safari park along the way for a quick visit.
After that, it was mostly a long drive back to Anaheim, roughly six to eight hours.
This is one of the only sections of the remainder of our road trip that we still haven’t visited!
Original Itinerary Continuation:
If we were sticking to the original plan starting from Holbrook, Arizona, the next stops would have been:
Canyon de Chelly National Monument – About two and a half hours from Holbrook, with both North and South Rim Drives featuring 10 overlooks along the way.
Highlights include the White House Trail, and you should plan 2–4 hours to explore the park fully.
Lunch on the road as you head toward Monument Valley, roughly an hour and a half away.
Monument Valley – Be sure to stop at Forrest Gump Point, the famous spot where he decides to stop running in the movie, and drive the 17-mile Tribal Park Loop.
End the night camping at The View Campground or staying at the hotel in Monument Valley.
Make sure to catch the sunset, as the valley is famous for its stunning evening colors.
Day 22: Grand Canyon National Park
Whether you stayed at The View Campground or a hotel in Monument Valley, start the day early to watch the sunrise over the valley.
From there, it’s about a three-hour drive to the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Once you arrive, you can have lunch at the Grand Canyon, then explore the park by taking the shuttle to different overlooks or walking along the Rim Trail to soak in the views.
This day is best reserved for fully immersing yourself in the Grand Canyon, taking in as many overlooks, trails, and viewpoints as possible.
You can check out my full blog post on the Grand Canyon itinerary for detailed recommendations and ideas for making the most of your visit.
Accommodations Options:
While we had originally planned to camp at the Grand Canyon or stay at one of the lodges on the Rim, we knew some areas might be closed.
Alternatives include the KOA in Flagstaff, just outside the Grand Canyon, or staying in Page, Arizona.
Where To Stay: Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
Personally, I’ve stayed at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel twice, located right at the base of the entryway to the South Rim.
It’s a convenient and comfortable option, and you can even take the train up to the Grand Canyon, complete with entertainment and a champagne toast, for a unique experience.
Click Here To Book Your Grand Canyon Railway Hotel Stay Today!
Day 23: Antelope Canyon & Page, Arizona
Ideally, if you stayed at the Grand Canyon, catching sunrise there is a must, but plan to leave by 6:30 a.m. at the latest.
The drive to Antelope Canyon takes about two and a half hours, so you’ll want to allow extra time for check-in, traffic, or weather delays, aiming to arrive around 9:30 a.m..
The plan would have been to take the 11 a.m. Upper Antelope Canyon tour, which lasts about 90 minutes, followed by the Lower Antelope Canyon tour at 2:30 p.m..
Keep in mind there’s a cash fee to enter the Navajo land where the canyon is located, plus a small ticket exchange fee, so check updated pricing ahead of time.
At the time we planned to visit it would have been $10.
It’s a good idea to eat a large breakfast and bring snacks, as the tours take up most of the day.
After exploring the canyon, lodging options in Page, Arizona include the Hampton Inn, known for affordable comfort and complimentary breakfast, or the Covered Wagon at Lake Powell, a charming converted campsite that offers a unique, boutique-style experience.
Round out the day with dinner in Page and then watch the sunset at Horseshoe Bend, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the area.
This full day allows you to experience the beauty of Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and the surrounding desert landscapes all in one day.
Day 24: Horseshoe Bend & Zion National Park
Originally, this day was planned as a full adventure starting with sunrise at Horseshoe Bend followed by a rafting tour on the Colorado River.
Check-in for the rafting experience is typically around 9:30 a.m., and the tour lasts from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., including lunch on the river.
After the tour, you’ll want to top off your gas tank before driving approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to Zion National Park.
The original plan included staying at a Zion campground, which offers a truly immersive experience inside the park.
For winter travelers, a cabin inside Zion is phenomenal, offering comfort, scenic views, and easy access to the park trails.
Alternate lodging options outside the park include Cedar City KOA, which is convenient if you’re coming from this route, or Hurricane KOA, which is also a great choice.
On this day, you wouldn’t be doing much in Zion itself; it’s mostly about arriving, settling in, and having dinner after your long travel and rafting day.
For full Zion itineraries, whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, or focusing on hiking the Narrows, you can check out the other posts I’ve written for more detailed planning.
- Hiking The Narrows At Zion National Park: Ultimate Guide
- The Best Zion National Park One Day Winter Itinerary
- The Best Zion National Park One Day Summer Itinerary
Day 25: Zion National Park
For this day, the focus was all about hiking the Narrows.
On a previous winter trip, we had explored the Lower Emerald Pools, the Overlook Trail, and part of the Scenic Drive, but the Narrows requires a different approach, so this day was dedicated to venturing as far as possible without needing a permit.
You can check out my dedicated post on hiking the Narrows, which includes full details on what to expect, gear recommendations, and preparation tips.
I’ve also linked my summer and winter Zion itineraries so you can see alternative ways to spend a one-day visit depending on weather and season.
- Hiking The Narrows At Zion National Park: Ultimate Guide
- The Best Zion National Park One Day Winter Itinerary
- The Best Zion National Park One Day Summer Itinerary
If you’re hiking the Narrows all day, bring lightweight snacks like tuna and cracker kits, protein bars, chips, and plenty of water or Gatorade.
This helps keep your pack manageable while staying fueled.
For gear, my blog posts go into detail on essentials such as water shoes and a hiking stick, plus tips for navigating the river safely.
At the end of the day, lodging options include Red Canyon Cabins, about 35 minutes away, or Cannonville Bryce Valley KOA if you want to start positioning yourself for a scenic drive toward Bryce Canyon the following day.
Your choice depends on availability and whether you prefer to stay put or move closer to Bryce.
Day 26: Bryce Canyon National Park
A little background: the first time we tried to visit Bryce Canyon, it was during a winter trip from Zion, but there was too much snow to explore the park.
This road trip was our second attempt, and while we still didn’t make it to Bryce Canyon on this particular trip, we did visit on a later road trip when we were covering more national parks.
I’ll link our full day itinerary for Bryce Canyon so you can see how to experience it fully.
From Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon is about two hours away.
You can drive the park’s perimeter, explore some of the iconic hikes through the canyon, and visit the scenic viewpoints.
We had originally planned to camp on-site at the Bryce Canyon National Park campground, which is first-come, first-served, and enjoy lunch and dinner either at the lodge or at the campsite.
Another option would have been the Cannonville Bryce Valley KOA.
On our eventual visit to Bryce Canyon, we stayed at Panguitch KOA, which has since closed or been rebranded, so be sure to check current ownership if you want a similar experience.
Insider tip: On the drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon, stop at Thunderbird Restaurant, famous for their homemade pies and hearty food.
It’s a great spot to refuel before heading into the park.
Day 27: Capitol Reef National Park
On this same road trip where we visited Bryce Canyon, we actually ended up visiting Capitol Reef National Park on the same day.
The original plan was to drive the Burr Trail from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef, which is about two hours, and grab lunch along the way.
We had also planned to stay at the Wonderland RV Park, about 15 minutes from the park.
Instead, we stayed at the Fruita Campground, which is conveniently located inside Capitol Reef National Park.
It’s a great spot to base yourself for exploring the park and adds the benefit of being right near some of the main attractions.
Inside the park, there’s so much to do like hike to the Dome, explore the scenic drive, check out petroglyphs, or visit the apple orchards.
There’s also a bakery in Fruita that makes fresh pastries, breads, and other treats each morning.
If you aren’t there early, they often sell out, so plan ahead.
I’ll link our full Capitol Reef itinerary for a detailed guide on everything you can do for a full day in the park.
Day 28: Great Basin National Park
On this same road trip where we visited Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef (our “Great American Road Trip”), we also stopped at Great Basin National Park.
This day involved a 3 hour and 45 minute drive to Great Basin.
The park itself is split into two main experiences: exploring the caverns underneath and driving up the mountain into the woodsy areas to take in scenic overlooks of the basin and valley.
The original plan was to camp at the park, which, like many national parks, is first-come, first-served, and have dinner at the campsite.
When we visited, we weren’t able to explore the caverns, possibly due to seasonal closures, but still enjoyed the beauty of the park’s mountain roads and overlooks.
After visiting Great Basin, we drove to Las Vegas to officially end the trip, which is also pretty much how we planned this honeymoon road trip to be.
Day 29: Cathedral Gorge State Park & Las Vegas
On the final day of your road trip, after exploring Great Basin National Park, embark on a scenic journey to Cathedral Gorge State Park.
Located approximately 2.5 hours northeast of Las Vegas, this hidden gem offers a surreal landscape of slot canyons and hoodoos, perfect for light hiking.
Highlights at Cathedral Gorge State Park:
- Moon Caves Trail: Wander through narrow, chilly corridors where sunlight barely filters in, resembling melted wax dripping off a candle.
- Miller Point Trail: Offers a higher vantage point of the valley’s otherworldly spire-like rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion
- Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal amidst the park’s unique landscape, with picnic tables available for visitors.
After your visit, continue your journey south to Las Vegas, which is about a 4.5-hour drive from Cathedral Gorge.
Upon arrival, consider our comprehensive guides to Las Vegas accommodations, attractions, and dining, visit our Las Vegas travel page.
Day 30: Las Vegas
After a month of camping, national parks, and road-tripping through the Southwest, Day 30 is your chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Since you’ve already been exploring the outdoors for weeks, this is more about indulging in city life: the nightlife, restaurants, hotels, and architecture.
Living in Anaheim, we often treated Vegas as a weekend getaway, so this day was just a fun capstone to the trip.
Activities in Las Vegas
- 129 Best Birthday Freebies in Las Vegas
- The 40 Best Things To Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling
- Is Las Vegas Safe? (+ 10 Tips To Stay Safe)
- Why You Should Attend A Timeshare Presentation On Your Vegas Vacation
- The Best Couples Weekend Getaway in Las Vegas
- The 53 Best Things To Do in Las Vegas Off The Strip
- AREA15 Las Vegas Ultimate Guide
- The Neon Museum Las Vegas
- 5 Fun Day Trips To Take From Las Vegas
- Are There Beaches In Las Vegas? + 15 Best Pools
- 9 Fun Things To Do In Las Vegas In October
- Does It Snow In Las Vegas?
Restaurants to Try
- Las Vegas Happy Hours
- 25 Best Cheap Restaurants in Las Vegas
- The 10 Best Drinks in Las Vegas
- The 27 Best Las Vegas Desserts
- The 20 Most Romantic Restaurants in Las Vegas
- 25 Best Italian Restaurants in Las Vegas
Places to Stay
- Bellagio Hotel & Casino Review
- Delano Hotel Review
- Horseshoe Hotel & Casino Review
- Paris Hotel & Casino Review
- Polo Towers Accessible Room Review
- Polo Towers Studio Efficiency Review
- Polo Towers Two Bedroom Review
This day is all about pacing yourself, revisiting favorites, or exploring something new.
There’s no strict plan here – it’s just the perfect way to wrap up your month-long adventure.
Day 31: Hoover Dam & Oatman & LA
The final day of your Southwest road trip is mostly about making your way home, which from Las Vegas is roughly a four-hour drive back to Anaheim (or wherever your home base is).
If you’re not quite ready to leave the adventure behind, you can add a few stops along the way.
A classic detour is Hoover Dam, which is about 30–40 minutes from Las Vegas and makes for a quick, scenic stop.
Another fun option is Oatman, Arizona, a tiny historic western town on Route 66 famous for its wild burros that roam the streets, old western storefronts, and staged gunfights – it’s a quirky, memorable spot if you’ve never been.
Other than that, this day is simply about reflecting on your journey, enjoying the drive, and safely returning home after a month of camping, national parks, scenic drives, and hidden gems.
It’s a great day to savor the memories, listen to your favorite road trip playlists, and plan your next adventure!
Road Trip Budget Breakdown
Miscellaneous was mostly camping equipment and the occasional car wash and the $89.99 for activities was the national park pass that covered all the national park sites we visited.
We intentionally chose an itinerary that was cost effective – with all the national park sites and other public sites that are free or can be visited with a pass.
Choosing to camp most of the trip was also a cost effective option – though I will add that at the time of this visit we were in the Hilton Friends & Family discount program where hotel rates were 50% off the regular price when they had extra rooms to fill.
We also used rewards points sometimes and stayed at a couple hotels that weren’t Hilton branded since they didn’t have any in a couple locations.
|
Day |
Food |
Gas |
Activities |
Misc. |
Lodging |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Day 1: Drive to Tucson |
$17.80 |
$46.36 |
$0 |
$244.20 |
$21.93 |
$330.29 |
|
Day 2: Saguaro |
$25.10 |
$26.86 |
$89.99 |
$16.50 |
$21.92 |
$180.37 |
|
Day 3: Gila Cliff Dwellings |
$18.00 |
$25.26 |
$0 |
$0 |
$36.12 |
$79.38 |
|
Day 4: El Paso |
$45.50 |
$16.81 |
$0 |
$0 |
$85.66 |
$147.97 |
|
Day 5: Guadalupe Mountains |
$27.41 |
$27.10 |
$0 |
$0 |
$58.08 |
$112.59 |
|
Day 6: Albuquerque |
$18.59 |
$21.19 |
$0 |
$0 |
$58.08 |
$97.86 |
|
Day 7: Albuquerque |
$53.59 |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
$58.47 |
$112.06 |
|
Day 8: Pecos |
$25.13 |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
$57.08 |
$82.21 |
|
Day 9: Santa Fe |
$86.16 |
$15.13 |
$0 |
$8.00 |
$130.72 |
$240.01 |
|
Day 10: Great Sand Dunes |
$37.00 |
$28.42 |
$40.05 |
$0 |
$58.02 |
$163.49 |
|
Day 11: Garden of the Gods |
$16.03 |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
$53.77 |
$69.80 |
|
Day 12: Colorado Ski Towns |
$66.60 |
$8.13 |
$0 |
$29.53 |
$88.98 |
$193.24 |
|
Day 13: Colorado Ski Towns |
$74.59 |
$28.50 |
$0 |
$0 |
$88.98 |
$192.07 |
|
Day 14: Salt Lake City |
$14.41 |
$24.04 |
$0 |
$0 |
$34.98 |
$73.43 |
|
Day 15: Salt Lake City |
$34.43 |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
$33.54 |
$67.97 |
|
Day 16: Salt Lake City |
$22.16 |
$23.06 |
$0 |
$26.14 |
$39.99 |
$111.35 |
|
Day 17: Moab |
$54.34 |
$19.57 |
$0 |
$0 |
$43.61 |
$117.52 |
|
Day 18: Aztec Ruins |
$55.75 |
$23.33 |
$0 |
$0 |
$65.92 |
$145.00 |
|
Day 19: Chaco Culture |
$27.49 |
$19.72 |
$0 |
$0 |
$33.19 |
$80.40 |
|
Day 20: Sedona |
$54.95 |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
$157.54 |
$212.49 |
|
Day 21: Drive Home |
$23.00 |
$48.63 |
$44.00 |
$0 |
$0 |
$115.63 |
|
TOTALS |
$798.03 |
$402.11 |
$174.04 |
$324.37 |
$1,226.58 |
$2,925.13 |
Conclusion: Bucket List American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary
That’s it for our American Southwest / Four Corners road trip itinerary!
I think the full 31 day trip we originally planned would’ve been epic, but the 21 days we were able to complete was also epic on it’s own.
We went on to visit a lot of the missed destinations on later trips – including our Great American Road Trip where we visited a lot of the Utah National Parks, Yellowstone, Mt Rushmore, and more.
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