Desert Canyons to Alpine Peaks
A journey from the desert heat of Los Angeles and Las Vegas through the iconic canyons of Utah to the high-altitude peaks of the Colorado Rockies.
Los Angeles → Las Vegas → Zion → Bryce Canyon → Moab → Aspen → Denver
Neon Lights and Desert Horizons
Start your journey leaving the LA basin early to beat the Cajon Pass traffic. Once you hit the high desert, the landscape opens up into the vast Mojave.
Los Angeles
Pick up the car and grab a heavy breakfast in Silver Lake or Echo Park before hitting the I-15 North.
Seven Magic Mountains
A quick stretch of the legs at these neon-colored boulder towers. It’s a surreal pop of color against the beige desert floor and makes for a great "we're officially on the road" photo.
Las Vegas Strip
Check in and head to the Bellagio Conservatory or catch the fountains. Since we're keeping it chill, skip the smoky casinos and walk the LINQ Promenade for some street food.
The Gateway to Zion
Leaving the glitz behind, the red rocks of Utah start to appear as you cross the Virgin River Gorge—one of the most scenic stretches of interstate in the US.
Mesquite
A good spot for a quick fuel-up and a casual lunch before the scenery gets wild.
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Hop on the park shuttle. It’s the only way to see the main canyon this time of year.
Riverside Walk
An easy, flat paved path that follows the Virgin River deep into the Temple of Sinawava. You’ll be surrounded by thousand-foot hanging gardens and weeping walls.
Hoodoos and High Altitudes
Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway this morning—the tunnel is legendary, and the switchbacks on the other side look like another planet.
Checkerboard Mesa
A quick pull-off to see the unique cross-bedding in the sandstone that looks like a giant grid.
Bryce Canyon City
Grab a hearty "cowboy" lunch here before entering the park. You're at 8,000 feet now, so it'll be significantly cooler than Zion.
Sunset Point
This offers the iconic view of the Silent City and Thor’s Hammer. Walk a small section of the Rim Trail toward Inspiration Point for the best perspectives of the orange hoodoos.
The Loneliest Road to Red Rocks
Today is about the drive itself. You’ll head across Highway 12 and I-70, crossing through some of the most remote and beautiful territory in the lower 48.
Panorama Point
A perfect halfway break. It’s a short walk from the car to a 360-degree view of the "Waterpocket Fold" geological wrinkle.
Green River
Stop at a local spot for a burger and try some famous Utah "fry sauce." It's a classic road trip pitstop.
Park Avenue Trailhead
Just inside the park entrance, this viewpoint looks like a skyline of stone skyscrapers. It's a low-effort, high-reward view to end the day.
Arches and Canyon Vistas
Moab has two world-class parks at its doorstep. We'll hit the highlights of both without any grueling hikes.
The Windows Section
See North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch all in one easy 1-mile loop. It’s the highest concentration of massive arches in the park.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Often called the "Grand Canyon of Utah," the view of the Colorado River goose-neck 2,000 feet below is breathtaking and requires almost no walking.
Grand View Point Overlook
Located in the Island in the Sky district, this is the spot for sunset. You can see for a hundred miles across the carved-out canyons.
Into the Heart of the Rockies
Say goodbye to the red desert and hello to the snow-capped peaks. The drive into Colorado follows the Colorado River for a good portion of the trip.
Glenwood Springs
Grab lunch in this historic town. If you have time, the vapor caves or a quick dip in the hot springs are great for road-weary muscles.
Maroon Bells
The most photographed peaks in North America. You'll likely need to take the shuttle from Aspen, but the walk from the drop-off to the lake is very short and flat.
Aspen
Walk the pedestrian malls and enjoy the upscale mountain vibe. Even if you aren't shopping, the window shopping and people-watching are top-tier.
The Continental Divide to Denver
The final stretch takes you over the roof of the Rockies. If the weather is clear and it's summer, take Independence Pass; otherwise, stick to the scenic I-70.
Independence Pass
Stand on the Continental Divide at 12,095 feet. There is a paved path to a lookout that makes you feel like you're on top of the world.
Vail Village
A perfect spot for a final "fancy" lunch. The Bavarian-style architecture makes for a lovely stroll along the creek.
Denver
Arrive in the Mile High City. Head to Union Station for a final celebratory drink in the beautifully restored Great Hall.
- Bring layers! You'll go from 100°F (38°C) in the desert to potentially freezing temperatures at the mountain passes in the same week.
- For Zion and Maroon Bells, check reservation requirements for the shuttles at least a few weeks in advance—they sell out fast.
- Day 6: 5h 17m driving — plan rest stops