Looking to take a Las Vegas road trip? Excellent idea! Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World, is a fantastic place to start a road trip, as there are many incredible things to see and do in the vicinity.
With just four days at your disposal, you can take a Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip and enjoy some of the country’s most stunning landscapes and scenic drives. You’ll get to hike epic trails, enjoy gorgeous vistas, and maybe even try canyoneering, paddling, or some other sort of outdoorsy adventure.
RVs For Rent Near Las Vegas
Of course, the best way to take a Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip is in an RV. Traveling in an RV allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the American Southwest and truly escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world.
Not sure where to begin planning your Las Vegas road trip RV adventure? Below is an itinerary for the ultimate four-day RV road trip from Las Vegas.
Day 1: Las Vegas to Zion National Park
The first day of your RV adventure will take you to Zion National Park, a natural wonderland of red cliffs, narrow canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park only takes around three hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the park.
Once you arrive, set up camp at one of the park’s campgrounds—we really like Watchman Campground, but you need reservations—and then take a hike to see some of the park’s most famous landmarks, such as the Narrows. If you’re feeling adventurous, try canyoneering, rock climbing, or kayaking (don’t forget your kayak). No matter what you do, you’re sure to love exploring such a beautiful place!
Note: You will need to ride the complimentary park shuttle to see much of this park, so be sure to check the schedule and plan accordingly.
Day 2: Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park
On the second day, pack up your RV and head to Bryce Canyon National Park, located about two hours east of Zion. Bryce Canyon is famous for its hoodoos (tall spires of rock that tower over the canyon floor), and we’re betting you’ll be just as impressed by them as we are.
Set up camp in North Campground (again, be sure to make a reservation) and then take a hike along the canyon rim. Alternatively, you could go on a horseback ride through the stunning landscape. Either way, make sure to stop by the visitor center to learn more about the park’s geology and history.
If you have time, watch the sunset from Sunset Point, where you can see the hoodoos bathed in a warm, golden light.
Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park to Lake Powell
The third day of your road trip takes you to Lake Powell, a massive reservoir located on the Colorado River. The drive from Bryce Canyon to Lake Powell takes around two and a half hours, and it is well worthwhile to see this amazing place.
Once you arrive, set up camp at the wonderful Wahweap RV & Campground. Next, take a dip in the clear blue waters of the lake or rent a boat to explore the numerous canyons and coves. Hiking and rock climbing are also popular activities in the area, and you can even take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape (binoculars are recommended).
Day 4: Lake Powell to Grand Canyon National Park
On the final day of your road trip, head to the Grand Canyon, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. The drive from Lake Powell to the Grand Canyon takes about two and a half hours and you will want to get an early start in order to ensure you have as much time in this magical park as possible.
First, set up camp at one of the park’s campgrounds, such as Mather Campground (reserve your site here). With that out of the way, you can take a hike along the South Rim Trail, a must-do for all visitors. If you’re feeling adventurous, go on a mule ride to the bottom of the canyon or take a helicopter tour for a truly unforgettable experience. Finally, we highly recommend waking up early enough to catch the sunrise and watch this amazing place come to life.
This four-day RV Las Vegas road trip takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. You will venture from the red cliffs of Zion National Park and the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon to the clear waters of Lake Powell and gorgeous vistas of the Grand Canyon.
Of course, if you’re going to head out on a Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip RV adventure, you’re going to need an RV. Lucky for you, we have tons of amazing Las Vegas rental RVs available, meaning you can choose the perfect rig to suit your road trip needs!
BONUS Road Trips Near Las Vegas
While the primary itinerary covers popular destinations, exploring alternative routes can offer unique experiences:
- Valley of Fire State Park: Located about an hour northeast of Las Vegas, this park is renowned for its vibrant red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs. It’s an excellent spot for hiking and photography.
- Death Valley National Park: Approximately two hours west of Las Vegas, Death Valley boasts diverse landscapes, including salt flats, sand dunes, and canyons. Despite its name, the park is teeming with life and offers unique geological features.
- Joshua Tree National Park: Roughly three hours south of Las Vegas, this park is known for its unique Joshua trees and striking rock formations, making it a haven for hikers and rock climbers.
Tips for a Successful Road Trip
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, keep these tips in mind:
- Vehicle Preparation: Before departing, ensure your RV is in good condition. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and confirm that all systems are functioning properly.
- Weather Awareness: The Southwest can experience extreme temperatures. Monitor weather forecasts regularly and be prepared for sudden changes, especially in higher elevations.
- Reservation Planning: Many national and state parks require reservations for camping. Book your sites well in advance to secure your spot, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Las Vegas Road Trips
Q: What is the best time of year to embark on this road trip?
A: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal times for this itinerary.
Q: Are there any entrance fees for the parks mentioned?
A: Yes, most national and state parks charge entrance fees. Consider purchasing an “America the Beautiful” pass, which grants access to all federal recreation sites for a year.
Q: Is it necessary to have a 4WD vehicle for road trips by Las Vegas?
A: The primary routes and attractions in this itinerary are accessible via paved roads, so a standard vehicle is sufficient. However, if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path areas, a 4WD may be beneficial.
Q: How can I find reliable camping spots along the route?
A: Utilize resources like the National Park Service’s official website and recreation.gov to find and reserve campsites. Additionally, apps like Campendium and AllStays provide user reviews and information on various camping options.
