7 Road Trips That Showcase the Beauty of the Southwest
If you’re after an adventure that combines history, exploration, and a variety of activities, the American Southwest has it all. These 15 road trips will give you a little bit of everything. Get ready to hit the road and explore some of the most iconic destinations in the region!
Nevada: Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire
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This route is located in the heart of Las Vegas. The journey quickly takes you to some of the most beautiful deserts in the country. Before reaching the Valley of Fire State Park, you’ll pass through the Red Rock Canyon with the red sandstone formations.
Utah: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef
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Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is a 122-mile route connecting Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Park. The scenery along the way has towering rock spires, narrow slot canyons, and vast landscapes. Keep your camera handy because every curve brings a new view begging to be captured.
Colorado: Colorado National Monument to Rocky Mountain National Park
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This route offers a transition from desert canyons to alpine environments. Start with a hike through the canyons of Colorado National Monument, then make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park for alpine adventures. It has something for everyone, whether you’re into whitewater rafting or simply soaking in the vistas.
Texas: San Antonio to the Gulf Coast
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Texas may be big, but this coastal road trip perfectly introduces the state’s culture and natural beauty. It’s got the famous River Walk and the Gulf Coast. Don’t forget to check out the peaceful Mustang Island for some much-needed beach time.
New Mexico: Taos to the Bisti Badlands
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The drive between Taos and the Bisti Badlands is not quick, but the changing terrain offers a strong cross-section of the state’s natural features. Early on, the route includes a section of the Rio Grande near Taos, where whitewater rafting is common during spring and early summer. Continuing west, the landscape shifts into the forested highlands of the Jemez Mountains before reaching Valles Caldera, a large volcanic depression known for its open grasslands and seasonal wildlife activity. The final stretch leads to the Bisti Badlands, a remote area marked by eroded rock formations and minimal infrastructure.
Arizona: Grand Canyon to Monument Valley
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No Southwest road trip list would be complete without the Grand Canyon. But after being mesmerized by the views, why not continue your journey to Monument Valley? You can also stop at Vermilion Cliffs for an equally beautiful experience. This way, you’ll experience the vastness and grandeur of the desert.
California: Southern Coast to Mojave Desert
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Leaving San Diego behind, the scenery changes fast—first it’s suburbs and low hills, then dry ridgelines and stretches of scrub. Around Anza-Borrego, the land opens up into wide desert basins. Keep driving and the terrain flattens out even more, giving way to the Mojave’s quieter stretches. It’s not a long route in miles, but the shift in mood and climate is noticeable.
Nevada: Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam
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Just a short drive from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is one of the country’s greatest engineering examples. Before you get there, detour through Red Rock Canyon and the nearby Lake Mead National Recreation Area, where you can kayak, hike, or enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Colorado River.
Utah: Arches to Canyonlands
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Arches and Canyonlands are two of Utah’s best-known parks, and for good reason. This road trip lets you experience both in one go. If you’re hiking to Delicate Arch or just enjoying the views from Needles Overlook, you will be treated to some of the best desserts in the country.
Colorado: Telluride to Ouray
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If you’re looking for a mountain adventure, this drive from Telluride to Ouray, known as “The Switzerland of America,” will take you through the alpine. The route offers views that are out of this world–jagged peaks, mountain towns, and picturesque waterfalls. Make a stop in Ouray to enjoy the town’s famous hot springs.
Arizona: Sedona to Flagstaff
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This shorter, but no less stunning, trip starts in Sedona, where the red rocks will leave you speechless. From there, head north to Flagstaff, a town known for its proximity to the San Francisco Peaks. You’ll encounter diverse landscapes, from the famous Sedona vortexes to the pine forests around Flagstaff.
Texas: Padre Island to Corpus Christi
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For a truly Texan experience, head down the coast to Padre Island, known for its beaches and birdwatching opportunities. After some time in the sand, go to Corpus Christi, where you can visit the Texas State Aquarium or enjoy sunset along the bay.
New Mexico: Santa Fe to White Sands
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Santa Fe is all about culture and history, which makes it a great starting point for your Southwestern road trip. After exploring the art galleries and adobe buildings, drive to White Sands National Park for gypsum dunes.
California: San Diego to Palm Springs
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From the breezy beaches of San Diego, head inland to Palm Springs. Along the way, you’ll pass through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. It’s a great spot to admire wildflower blooms or just bask in the quietness of the desert before reaching the glitz of Palm Springs.
Utah: Zion to Monument Valley
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Zion National Park is one of the most popular parks in the Southwest, and you will understand why once you visit. The cliffs, canyons, and views here are unforgettable. Continue your journey to Monument Valley and witness the famous buttes and mesas that have become the ultimate symbols of the American West.