3 Things To Do On A Road trip Between Las Vegas and Zion: Take The Scenic Route
A lot of people with fly into Las Vegas when they are starting their trip to Zion National Park. You might think the fun stops at Vegas (if you stop there for a day like we did) and continues once you finally get to Zion. However – there’s a ton to do on the road trip in between the two! This journey will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States, with opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and adventure along the way.
When you leave Las Vegas, the glittering lights of the crazy city quickly turn into the Nevada desert. This transition marks the beginning of an extraordinary road trip that encompasses both natural beauty and historical marvels.
First Stop, Hoover Dam
Starting in Las Vegas, you’ll hit the road and head east towards the desert landscape of Nevada. As you leave the city behind, you’ll pass by the Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel that spans the Colorado River and provides hydroelectric power to the Southwest. Take a detour and explore the dam’s visitor center, where you can learn about its construction and history.
Head up either Highway 93 or I-11 to the Hoover Dam, the most iconic stop on your Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip itinerary. This dam is one of the most famous New Deal projects and took almost five years to build. It was a symbol of technological progress in the mist of the Great Depression.
The dam was built to harness the vast power of the Colorado River and provides hydroelectric power to Arizona, Nevada, and California. When the dam was finished in 1935, it was the largest in the world. It no longer holds that record, but it is still an impressive site to see. At the Visitor Center, you can learn about the history and science of the dam and see a 360 view of the dam and Lake Mead as well as models to help you learn about how it works.
The Hoover Dam is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas!
From the Hoover Dam, a popular stop is to continue on towards the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The drive to the South Rim takes about 4 hours, but the views of the canyon are well worth it. We actually did this on the way back from Zion (I was too eager to get there) and stopped at Valley of Fire State Park on the way.
Valley of Fire State Park
Located just 55 miles north of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is the oldest State Park in Nevada. Filled with red rock, at sunrise and sunset it feels like the whole park is on fire.
After you’ve soaked in the grandeur of Valley of Fire, it’s time to head north towards Zion National Park. The drive takes about 3 hours, and along the way, you’ll pass through the iconic Route 66 town of Seligman, Arizona. This quaint town is a step back in time with vintage neon signs and classic cars lining the streets.
As you approach Zion National Park, the scenery becomes more and more dramatic. The red rock formations and towering cliffs of the park are a sight to behold, and the hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the rugged landscape up close. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a must-do, offering stunning views of the canyon walls and the Virgin River below.
Arizona State Line
About halfway between Las Vegas and Zion, Interstate 15 passes through the northwest corner of Arizona. The remote region between Grand Canyon and Utah’s southern border, called the Arizona Strip, is one of the LEAST populated places in the United States.
Now that you’re going, check out my Ultimate Guide To Zion National Park for the fun adventures while you’re there!
While in Zion National Park, make sure to hike the famous Angels Landing Trail. This challenging trail takes you to the top of a towering rock formation, offering panoramic views of the park and surrounding area. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the breathtaking views make the effort well worth it.
Another must-see in Zion National Park is The Narrows, a slot canyon carved by the Virgin River. You can hike through the canyon, wading through the river at times, and experience the narrow walls towering above you. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience.
After your adventures in Zion National Park, it’s time to head back to Las Vegas. On your way back, make the stop to either the Grand Canyon/Valley of Fire – whichever you didn’t do on the way.
This road trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park is an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. From the glittering lights of the city to the rugged beauty of the desert and the towering cliffs of the park, you’ll experience the best of what the American Southwest has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Our road trip from Las Vegas to Utah was awesome – taking scenic drives like this are some of our favorite things in the world. You will love it, too!
The Ultimate Guide To
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is one of the most unique and beautiful places on earth, in my opinion. In this guide I’m sharing all the information needed to plan your dream Zion National Park trip and resources to help you make the most of your time in the park!
