4 corners road trip itinerary

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Trio of Fantastic Four Corners Road Trips

December 25, 2023 By //  by  Christa Sadler

In the late summer and early fall, it’s hard to beat a road trip through the four Corners region, the place where the states of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet. In one loop, you can experience everything from Rocky Mountain vistas to red rock canyon country and crazy weird badlands, and from historic mining towns to native villages, ancient archeological sites, and even river rafting if you feel like it.

Any time of the year is great to visit this area, but late summer and early fall are fantastic; you might be lucky enough to experience a desert monsoon storm sweeping over the landscape, and the temperature has usually cooled down from summer.

In the high country, you might catch the fall colors starting and the air just seems clearer and the sky bluer than at other times of the year. There is abundant camping, as well as some great lodges and hotels to stay in throughout the region.

4 Corners: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah

Travel in the 4 corners region is generally remote and secluded, with sweeping vistas, mesa tops, historic sites and culture to soak in along the way. There are attractions worth checking out throughout Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. It all comes together at the 4 corners monument where the states join together.

There are a lot of routes you can take through this region depending on your interests, how much time you have, and what kind of vehicle you’re driving. And since all four states have a huge number of incredible natural and cultural sites to visit , limiting yourself to an area within roughly a 100-mile radius of the actual Four Corners is a good way not to get started on a six-month adventure—unless of course that’s what you’re after!

The following three suggested loops focus on different aspects of the region, but obviously, you should mix and match as you like. Each loop takes a minimum of about a week, and longer is definitely better so you can see more. Each loop starts in Durango, Colorado , but you can start from many other places.

The Crazy Cool Natural Wonderland Loop

Approximately 750 miles (not including side trips or the durango-silverton railroad).

The Four Corners region is known for unbelievable landscapes and natural features, and this loop focuses on these areas. Beginning in Durango, you should definitely start with a ride up the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad . This 3.5-hour (one way) ride takes you along the Animas River Gorge through some of the most spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery anywhere. You can take a bus back down if you don’t want to ride the train both ways (and save some time).

If you have a chance, stay at the old Strater Hotel in downtown Durango—it was built in 1887 and it’s pretty cool—and it has a great hot tub.

From Durango, head south on Highway 550 to Aztec, New Mexico and continue on 371 to the Bisti Badlands . This weird and wonderful badland landscape is a great place to just wander and enjoy the crazy rock shapes against the sky.

From Bisti, head back north on 371 to Farmington, and west on Highway 64 across the Navajo Indian Reservation to Kayenta, Arizona (along the way, make sure you take a short detour at Teec Nos Pos to visit the actual Four Corners Monument Tribal Park ). The landscape along this drive is arid and stark, but it has a beauty all its own. Red mesas hover in the distance, and you’ll pass the impressive spire of Shiprock, an ancient volcanic neck that juts from the earth west of Farmington.

At Kayenta, turn north on Highway 163. In less than an hour, you reach Monument Valley, the landscape where numerous John Wayne westerns were filmed. You can stop for food and shopping (or the night) at the old Goulding’s Lodge (affiliate link), and take a tour through Monument Valley with a Navajo guide. This iconic landscape is world-famous, and definitely not to be missed.

At the northern end of Monument Valley, you cross the San Juan River at the little town of Mexican Hat, Utah. The San Juan Inn (affiliate link) is a great place to stop for a Navajo taco or even to stay the night. Definitely take pictures of “the Hat,” as it’s called, which looks like an upside-down sombrero in stone, and take a short drive on 316 to Goosenecks State Park .

The view from this overlook is of the San Juan River in a canyon far below, curving back on itself in several huge “goosenecks.” In this strange place the river travels eight miles but uses only about two miles to do it.

From here, you can drive north on Highway 261, using the famous “Moki Dugway” to get to the top of massive Cedar Mesa. The Moki Dugway is not for the faint of heart! It’s an extraordinary dirt road that switchbacks steeply up the side of the mesa until it reaches a breathtaking view of the landscape at the top. It’s great for passenger cars, but a little unnerving for cars towing trailers (although not impossible).

From here, head north across the top of Cedar Mesa to Highway 95. At the junction, you can take a short detour to the left to visit Natural Bridges National Monument, where you can hike around some of the most beautiful natural stone bridges (basically arches that span a creek) in the region.

From here, head east on 95 past the famous Bears Ears to Blanding, Utah, where you’ll turn north on Highway 191. If you don’t want to drive the Moki Dugway, just take the loop through the gorgeous red rocks and strange shaped stone spires of Valley of the Gods , which will drop you back out on Highway 163, and you can head north to 191 and Blanding that way.

At Blanding, be sure and stop at The Dinosaur Museum on the south edge of town, and then head north on 191. You’ll pass the high peaks of the Abajo Mountains near Monticello, and then drop into a breathtaking red-rock landscape from which you can access Canyonlands National Park at the Needles Outpost.

There’s great camping at the Needles, and the landscape can’t be beat. It’s a maze of red canyons with the Colorado and Green Rivers far below. If you have the energy, definitely hike out to the Confluence Overlook, where you can see the two great rivers join.

Back on 191, head north to Moab. From Moab, you can access Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, and take the gorgeous La Sal Mountain Loop Road through the La Sal Mountains and over to Castle Valley, and back to town along the River Road. There are so many things to do in Moab that it’s hard to pick only one or two. Plan on spending at least a couple days here!

From Moab, head south again on 191 to La Sal Junction, then east on Highway 46. This keeps you off of the main interstates, and accesses more amazing landscapes. You’ll drive across the Paradox Valley at the Colorado towns of Paradox and Bedrock , then over to Naturita on Highway 90.

Pick up Highway 145 near Redvale and drive southeast to Telluride , another jaw-dropping landscape where you can do everything from hike and ski to enjoy the town’s day- and nightlife. At the right time of year, generally in mid to late September, the aspens on the slopes of the mountains here are glorious, and well worth a picnic in the trees.

From Telluride, drive through the mountains on Highway 145 to Dolores and then down to Mancos and back to Durango that way. It’s a gorgeous drive, with plenty of opportunities to get out and walk, or just stop and enjoy the breathtaking views. If you have a high clearance four-wheel drive vehicle, you can try the amazing Ophir Pass , which drops you out on Highway 550 just north of Silverton , and you can drive south to Durango that way.

The Adrenaline Loop

Approximately 460 miles (not including side trips and depending on which roads you choose).

There are a lot of opportunities to do some very fun recreating in the Four Corners region, some of it pretty heart-pounding. Whether it’s hiking, canyoneering, river running, mountain biking or something else, you’ll find plenty of chances to get your adrenaline level up on this loop.

In Durango, wet your feet with a day trip rafting on the Animas River , which runs right through town. This river has super fun little rapids and you’ll be in a paddle boat, so you’ll be involved!

From Durango, drive west on Highway 160 to Cortez . Along the way, there is some great mountain biking at Phil’s World —a super fun 18-mile course filled with lots of character.

From Cortez, continue over to Bluff, Utah. At this little town, you can start a San Juan River trip of anywhere from one to 10 days, depending on the time you’ve got. The San Juan is a great river, and even if you only do the 26-mile day trip, you’ll see some incredible scenery.

Once you get off the San Juan, head north on highway 191 to Moab. Stop along the way at the Needles Outpost for some hiking or backpacking in the bizarre and beautiful landscape there. From Moab you can hike long miles in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, mountain bike the famous Slickrock or Porcupine Rim trails (among many others), or jump on the Moab Daily on the Colorado River .

If you are a climber, there’s Fisher Towers east of town, and Indian Creek has world-famous crack climbing. The La Sal Mountains have wonderful hiking, and gorgeous colors in the autumn.

Follow the previous loop’s route back through Naturita and Norwood to Telluride, where you can work on climbing some of the 14ers nearby, including Mount Sneffels, often considered Colorado’s most beautiful mountain. Then you can head back to Durango and go sit in that hot tub at the Strater Hotel!

The Meet the Neighbors Loop

Approximately 550 miles (not including side trips and depending on the roads you choose).

The Four Corners is an important landscape for the ancient peoples of the region, and is currently home to the Navajo and the Ute Mountain Ute tribes . You could spend years exploring the archeology and culture of the area, so this loop is designed to give you a taste of what the region has to offer.

From Durango, head west on Highway 160 to Mesa Verde National Park . Mesa Verde is home to dozens of archeological sites dated from about 11,000 years ago to about 700 years ago. Most famous are the spectacular cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans, ancestors of today’s Pueblo Indians of New Mexico.

You can also visit Ute Mountain Tribal Park , part of the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation. This less-visited park also has impressive cliff dwellings, and you can spend some time with Ute Mountain Ute tour guides and get to know the land through their eyes.

From Mesa Verde, head to Cortez and visit the Crow Canyon Archeological Center . They have abundant information on the archeology of the Cortez and Mancos Valleys, which were heavily occupied hundreds of years ago.

From Cortez, head north and west to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument . The Monument contains the highest known density of archeological sites in the United States, with an estimated 30,000 sites stretching back 10,000 years. Be sure to visit the Canyons of the Ancients Museum in Dolores before you head to the monument itself.

Just west of Canyons of the Ancients is Hovenweep National Monument , a group of five Ancestral Puebloan villages that were occupied between 700 and 800 years ago. It’s famous in the region for the incredible craftsmanship of the stone walls of the buildings and towers. You can get to it by driving through Canyons of the Ancients from Pleasant View , CO on Highway 491.

From Hovenweep’s west entrance, make your way towards Bluff, Utah (there are a few different routes, all of them fun). You can stop at the Sand Island Campground just outside of Bluff to dip your toes in the San Juan River and explore an extensive wall of ancient rock art behind the campground.

Stay on 191 and head south to Mexican Water, and continue down 191 to the town of Chinle, Arizona, gateway to Canyon de Chelly National Monument . Canyon de Chelly is cooperatively managed by the National Park Service and the Navajo Nation. It is a spectacular landscape of sheer-walled canyons and cottonwood-lined washes that house rock art panels and ancient dwelling sites.

The region has been occupied without interruption for around 5,000 years and your Navajo guides will tell you the stories of their people, the most recent arrivals to the canyons. It is a great place to learn about Navajo culture as well as the ancient inhabitants of the region.

From Chinle, continue south on Highway 191 to Highway 264 and head east towards Ganado, where you should definitely check out Hubbell Trading Post National Historical Site , another important part of the Navajo culture in the area.

From here, you will make your way east towards Chaco Culture National Historical Park , New Mexico. There are several ways to get to the south end of the park, which is the main entrance, but it’s easy to stay off Interstate 40 and use the back roads through the Navajo Nation .

At Chaco, you can spend quite a while exploring this important ancient city. Chaco was the center of population in the region, with many outlying towns built to support the religious and cultural happenings there.

From Chaco, you can drive north to Aztec Ruins National Monument near the town of Aztec. This site was one of the many outlying villages that supported Chaco, and archeologists have found ancient roads that run between them.

From Aztec, it’s a straight shot up 550 back to Durango and that hot tub…or the  hot springs resort .

These routes are best to travel in the late summer or fall, since some of them include high passes that are closed or hard to travel in the winter, or you may want to wander off on dirt roads that are impassable in the rainy season. Please adjust your schedule according to the season, and make sure you check road conditions before you leave!

Also remember that Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and the Navajo Reservation are on Daylight Savings Time, while any part of Arizona outside the Navajo Nation is not. This can mess with your schedule if you don’t find out which time zone you are in!

Whatever the season, it’s hard to beat a trip through the Four Corners region; all you really need is a tank of gas and a sense of adventure. And maybe a camera.

After you’re finished road tripping through the Four Corners region, consider planning a trip to one of Colorado’s other surrounding states , 7 in total that border Colorado (including the 4 Corners). Other neighbor states include Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Wyoming.

About Christa Sadler

Christa Sadler is an author, geologist, and wilderness and river guide, who writes from Flagstaff, Arizona—when she's actually at home.

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Four Corners Road Trip: The Best Stops On The Trail Of The Ancients

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The only National Scenic Byway in the United States dedicated solely to archaeology, the Trail of the Ancients stretches 480 miles through the Colorado Plateau. Showcasing archaeological, cultural, and historical sites, the byway leads through some of the most spectacular ancient ruins of the Desert Southwest. 

The Ancestral Puebloans, also known as Anasazi, lived on the Colorado Plateau for hundreds of years. Remains of their civilization pepper the Four Corners area along this route. Cliff dwellings and other structures, pottery shards, and rock art stand witness to their long-gone civilization, part of the landscape you are driving through. Besides these archaeological sites, you’ll drive through stunning vistas in a desolate landscape showcasing colorful rock formations in stark contrast to their surroundings. 

Though I’ve driven along this route with my family many times over the years, exploring both archaeological and geological sites along the way, I still enjoy it every time. We like to take about a week to explore the sites along the Scenic Byway, but you can take more or less time, depending on your preferences. No matter how long you spend along the Trail of the Ancients, you’ll step back in time, creating adventures for a lifetime. Below you’ll find some of the major stops along the route. 

The town of Cortez in Colorado is the perfect jumping point to start your Trail of the Ancients adventure. The small town offers plenty of dining and lodging choices and a few archaeological and cultural sites to visit. 

The Cortez Cultural Center offers a wealth of information about the Ancestral Puebloans and their modern-day descendants. The center also manages the Hawkins Preserve, home to Hawkins Pueblo, featuring the outline of several rooms, protected by a roof. A paved trail through the preserve leads to the ruins and through a high desert landscape. 

Another attraction of Cortez connecting to the ancients and the modern-day native tribes is the Notah-Dineh Trading Post, and its museum, showcasing original and unique Navajo, Ute, and Pueblo artifacts. 

The largest and best-known archaeological site in the area, Mesa Verde , rises over 8,000 feet above its surroundings, hiding the most spectacular cliff dwellings in the world. Multi-room villages carved into the steep rock walls showcase the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans and offer clues to their civilization. 

You can visit several ruins on the mesa top on your own, but to explore the most spectacular multi-room cliff dwellings, you need to join a ranger-led tour. In 2021 you can only buy tickets for these tours online on the Recreation.gov site . They are available up to 14 days in advance.

Though the cliff dwellings are the highlight of the park, you’ll find plenty to explore even if you don’t make it on a tour. Gorgeous views of the Four Corners area, hikes in pinion pine forests, and mesa-top archaeological sites make the visit worthy. I prefer spending two days in Mesa Verde National Park , which makes for a leisurely visit, especially if adding a cliff dwelling tour. 

Staying at the Far View Lodge or camping at the Morefield Campground offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. 

Canyons Of The Ancients

Designated as a Monument through Presidential Proclamation on June 9th, 2000, the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument contains the highest number of known archaeological sites in the U.S. The cultural landscape, preserving sites of the Ancestral Puebloan culture has over 8,300 recorded sites, including villages, great kivas, cliff dwellings, field houses, sweat houses, and petroglyphs. 

Stop at the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum, where you’ll find hands-on interactive exhibits showcasing the culture and history of the Ancestral Puebloan people. In the museum, you’ll see artifacts and records from excavations in the Four Corners area. A replica pithouse offers a glimpse into the lives of an early Pueblo household. 

Just outside of the museum, the paved, half-mile-long Escalante trail leads up the hill to the Escalante Ruins, an ancient village dating from the 1100s. Along the trail, and from the top, enjoy views of the surroundings, and interpretive signs talk about the history and geology of the area. 

Lowry Pueblo

About a 45-minute drive from the Visitor Center, Lowry Pueblo is the most significant site in the Canyons of the Ancients. Known for its four painted kivas inside a “big house,” Lowry Pueblo offers a pleasant stop along the route. A short walk from the parking lot leads to the main structure comprising 40 rooms and eight kivas. You can walk through these interconnected rooms and stop to look at the painted kivas. Though you won’t see the paintings (they are displayed at the museum), you’ll notice plaster on the lower walls of the kivas. 

Outside, stop at the Great Kiva, one of the largest and most significant in the area. One of the earliest buildings of the village, it was used for generations and remodeled often, according to the interpretive sign.  

Hovenweep National Monument

Driving farther along the Trail of the Ancients, you’ll reach Hovenweep National Monument on the Colorado-Utah border. Preserving six prehistoric villages built between 1200-1300, Hovenweep was once home to about 2,500 people. The most spectacular and easiest to reach sites are clustered along the Little Ruins Canyon near the Visitor Center. 

A paved trail leads to the overlook at the edge of the canyon, where you have a splendid view of the full site. To explore it more closely, take the flat, wide, two-mile-long Square Tower Loop trail. You can start in either direction, but my family and I like to walk towards the Hovenweep Castle. The trail follows the rim until the end of the canyon, then leads back on the opposite side, where it passes through a few other large towers and structures until it crosses the small canyon back to the main paved trail to the visitor center. 

Hovenweep has a few campsites, where you can spend the night and experience some of the best dark skies if you are up for some stargazing. 

Edge Of The Cedars State Park and Museum

Past Hovenweep, the Trail of the Ancients continues in Utah, where the first site worth stopping at is the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum . Here, you’ll find the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery in the Four Corners region, and explore the Edge of the Cedars Pueblo, a village inhabited between A.D. 825 and A.D. 1225. While exploring the Pueblo, you can climb into a kiva through a ladder, and walk through the site on a paved, interpretive trail. Besides the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts temporary exhibits and programs for adults and children. 

Butler Wash Ruins 

The cliff dwellings of Butler Wash ruins are visible after a short half-mile walk from a parking spot right off the highway. Once sheltering a small community of Ancestral Pueblo people, the cliff dwellings date from the 1200s. They are not restored, giving you a chance to see them in their natural setting.  

Mule Canyon Tower Ruins

About a mile from the stop at Butler Wash, you’ll find a gate and a rough side road leading to the Mule Canyon Tower ruins. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, you can follow it, otherwise park at the gate, and walk the half-mile to the ruins. Occupied around 1100, the site comprises seven towers on the rim of the canyon. 

Natural Bridges National Monument

The next stop along the scenic road is Natural Bridges National Monument , showcasing three of the world’s largest natural bridges. Named Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu, they honor the Ancestral Puebloan people who once made this area their home. 

You can view all three bridges from the overlooks, but you’ll also find trails leading into the canyon you can take for a closer look. Besides the gorgeous arches, you can also visit the Horse Collar ruins, one of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan sites in the area.  

Valley Of The Gods And Goosenecks State Park 

You may not find obvious archaeological sites in these sites, but the natural wonders are stunning. You’ll drive among sandstone monoliths in the area fittingly called Valley of the Gods , on a 17-mile dirt and gravel road, just off the highway. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, the drive is absolutely worth it, especially if you end up in the area around sunset. 

Goosenecks State Park is worth another stop, where you’ll witness millions of years of geological history as you watch the deep canyon the San Juan River cut through the desert floor.  

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

You’ll recognize the famous Monument Valley stretching in front of you as you drive towards the Arizona border. Its assortment of sandstone monoliths in all shapes and sizes is astounding, even seen from the road. 

Stand by the visitor center of the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park for a stunning panorama of the Valley filled with these iconic rock formations. And if you book a tour with a Navajo guide, you can drive into the valley and enjoy them up close. 

Besides the unforgettable views, the park offers an opportunity to experience the modern Navajo culture, and explore ancient ruins of the Ancestral Puebloans. 

This is a place of stunning beauty, but also the home of the Navajo (Diné) people. Respect their privacy and customs, and follow the rules of the Navajo Nation. Be careful not to wander across residential areas; stay on designated trails or with your tour guide. 

Note: The Navajo Nation reopened for visitors on July 12th, with restrictions. Tribal Parks are open with 50 percent capacity, so book ahead if you are planning to visit. Masks are required to be worn by everyone, regardless of vaccination status.

Ancient civilizations in the United States are often stunning places of beauty and help deliver deeper insight into our country’s history:

• 6 Best Places To Experience Native American history in Oklahoma
• A Native American’s Take On American Thanksgiving
• 7 Places To Explore America’s Native American Heritage

Emese Fromm is a Phoenix-based freelance travel writer, translator, and language instructor. Besides TravelAwaits , you can find her travel articles in Lonely Planet, Roadtrippers Magazine , Matador Network, and GoNOMAD, among other publications. A native Hungarian from Transylvania (Romania), Emese grew up surrounded by multiple cultures and speaks several languages. Three decades after leaving Romania, this background still helps her appreciate and connect with people of different backgrounds, which shows up in her articles, which highlight the culture, history, and legends of the places she visits. Besides writing for online travel magazines, she publishes a travel blog, teaches Hungarian as a foreign language, and works as a freelance translator.

Grand Circle Road Trip: Experience the Southwest Four Corners Region

Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

6 national parks – 1,452 miles – 4 states.

The area of the United States that includes northern Arizona, northwest New Mexico, southern Utah, and southwest Colorado is often known as the “Grand Circle” of the southwest. The Four Corners region of these states provides a concentration of some of the world’s best National Parks, ancient ruins of civilizations gone by, deep canyons, wildlife, and wind weathered sandstone formations. The best way to get around this area is by car. A road trip through the Grand Circle will bring you to spectacular sites Arizona’s wondrous Grand Canyon, the famous Cliff Palace dwellings, the spikey hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, and even the underground caves of Great Basin National Park.

Arches National Park

Thousands of natural sandstone arches in the eastern utah desert.

Near the Colorado – Utah border lies Arches National Park. Thousand of sandstone arches have been created via a long process of erosion. A large salt bed just underneath Arches pushed up the rock sandstone layer thousands of years ago, causing the layer to become exposed to the windy, dry elements of the Utah desert. Over time, wind and water-carved strange formations like famous Delicate Arch, or the world’s longest arch, Landscape Arch.

Arches is adjacent to the town of Moab. This small town is the ideal stopping point on your road trip to see both Arches and Canyonlands. Like most of the southwest, this area can be extremely hot in the peak summer months, so plan light early morning and late afternoon hikes during that time of year.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Explore the hoodoos and rock formations of bryce.

As your journey around the circle continues, you’ll enter the region of southeast Utah and the Bryce-Zion region. These two parks are almost always coupled together in trip booking because of their proximity. Bryce Canyon is a large amphitheater, a product of water and wind erosion, that has resulted in thousands of red-orange rock spires called hoodoos.

The rocks of Bryce are best seen during dawn or dusk, as the colors best complement the rocks. This park can get very busy during the peak summer months as kids get out of school, so plan your trip before mid-June or after Labor Day if possible.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

The deep canyon of colorado’s gunnison river.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison was just made a National Park in 1999, so it’s a rather recent addition to the National Park system. A giant slice in th earth can be found at Black Canyon, with the Gunnison River a massive 2700 feet below. The deep, black marbled walls look very different than other canyons in the area. The top of the canyon is surrounded by grass and trees, and the width of the canyon almost makes it hidden from a distance.

Black Canyon is nearest to the towns of Aspen and Grand Junction in southeast Colorado, tourist attractions in their own right. Wineries and skiing resorts keep those areas bustling with activity all year and would make an enjoyable side trip on your Grand Circle route.

Canyonlands National Park

Vast, wide canyons and incredible hiking in moab’s canyonlands.

The scenery goes on for an eternity into the horizon, and it almost seems imaginary. You can’t help but be reminded of prehistoric times in this vast, deserted land that’s been carved over millions of years by the Colorado River into four distinct areas. The regions are Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the regions of the river. Some of the best mountain biking and hiking in the country can be found here, as well as photography.

Canyonlands is located in southern Utah, near Arches National Park, and just outside of Moab. Plan to spend a day at Canyonlands itself, and also a day at Arches. The parks are too big to glance over in just an hour or two, and are best experienced through hiking.

Chaco Culture National Historic Park

The protected puebloan four corners area of new mexico.

New Mexico ‘s Chaco Culture Historic Park preserves the rich Puebloan people’s culture . The area has thousands of historical buildings built by this culture, impressively aligned to astrological cycles of the sun and moon. Tour the ruins of the massive Pueblo Bonita, or view over a million Chaco artifacts at the Chaco Culture Museum Collection in Albuquerque .

The Chaco Canyon area was inhabited until the land experienced a drought, and the people migrated to different areas. This was between 1150-1400 AD before Spanish explorers came to the continent.

Grand Canyon

The most famous attraction within the grand circle.

The beautiful Grand Canyon is one of the wonders of the world and the perfect destination on your Grand Circle road trip. This National Park contains the majority of the gorge, but the northern rim affords even more dramatic panoramic views. The southern rim is largely viewable via major roads that run near the rim, with pull-offs and scenic roads to explore, hike, and camp.

The Northern Rim is a remote destination, and at least 1/2 day drive from the southern rim. Hooking around the canyon, you will see some of the great views of Marble Canyon and skirt close to Lake Powell along the way.

Great Basin National Park

A land of big extremes in southwest nevada.

Great Basin National Park is located on the Utah border in Nevada and is an area of great extremes. The massive Mount Wheeler sits over 2.5 miles above sea level and is capped with snow much of the year. At the base of the mountain, the land turns into an arid desert. Beneath the ground, an elaborate system of caves of stalagmites and stalactites grow from the ceilings and floor of Lehman Caves .

Mesa Verde National Park

View the ancient ruins of cliff palace in colorado.

Near the southwest corner of Colorado’s border, the Mesa Verde National Park area was preserved to protect the ruins of Cliff Palace, and the other surrounding Puebloan ruins of the area. Sitting high atop a mesa, the area is remote and was not protected until the early 1900s. Before that time, the ruins were prone to much pillage and vandalism. Today, the ruins have been partially restored and cleaned to resemble the way they looked prior.

Zion National Park

Southern utah’s enclosed canyon carved by the virgin river.

The Virgin River has done some spectacular work, leaving us with the giant canyon of Zion , in southern Utah. The canyon extends deep within the mountain range surrounding the river, as it gets slimmer and slimmer as it heads into the section known as “The Narrows.” This section is one of the ultimate challenges for hikers, as parts of it may require swimming.

The canyon extends outside of the park boundaries into nearby Springdale Utah, which has extraordinary views of the canyon walls and red rocks. Directly before or after your trip to Zion, you will most likely want to head to Bryce Canyon , which is only around 72 miles away.

Capitol Reef National Park

Central utah’s untouched waterpocket fold.

Deep in the heart of Utah lies Capitol Reef National Park , a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth’s crust. This elevated plateau-like area is recognizable from quite some distance, as the flat desert rises from the ground abruptly. Canyons, domes, and buttes can be found in this undisturbed southwestern gem. Few roads lead through the actual park, except State route 24. This makes the park a true representation of what Utah looked like long ago, and remains. You won’t find crowds making your stay uncomfortable since the majority of the park is accessible only by hiking.

Monument Valley

The famous four corners navajo landscape.

Whether you’ve been there or not, it’s most likely that you’ve seen Monument Valley on television advertisements or in magazines. The gigantic “mitten” buttes lie in the desert expanse known as Monument Valley (which actually isn’t really a valley). The tall sandstone buttes have been carved by wind erosion over thousands of years to their current towering shapes.

Getting to Monument Valley is an easy straight ride, but a long one. On Highway 163 in Arizona, the area is northeast of the Grand Canyon, and south of Canyonlands.

Glen Canyon Recreation Area

The man-made lake derived from the colorado river.

Glen Canyon Recreation Area is an artificially created damned up a section of the Colorado River that has formed the giant Lake Powell. With little to no vegetation, the area is unique in appearance for its crystal clear blue water and contrasting bright red rocks. The area is a huge attraction for Arizona and Utah residents for boating, with marinas directly on the lake. The artificial lake is evaporating, with the shoreline receding. North of Grand Canyon and south of many of Utah’s National Parks, the area is definitely worth the visit for its beautiful appearance and boating.

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Utah’s 1.7 million-acre wilderness.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument was just declared in 1996 as a National Monument. The area is 1.7 million acres of fossil-rich territory, with high cliffs, low canyons, and desert wildlife. The monument can be seen on a drive to Bryce Canyon along the backroads and explored by foot. The area is well known for its multicolor sandstone walls, which have stripes of red, purple, brown, yellow, and white, indicating different periods of time in the earth’s history.

Antelope Canyon

The spectacular slot canyons of page, arizona.

Arguably, Antelope Canyon is one of the most photogenic areas of the southwest. These narrow corkscrew slot canyons are part of the Navajo nation and are divided into two sections, Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Beams of light shine down into the canyon during the middle of the day during the summer months, as the walls display beautiful red and brown earth tones.

The Upper Canyon is where you can witness these beams of light, while the Lower Canyon is less visited and a more strenuous hike. Flash floods are a threat in this canyon, so precautions must be taken to avoid rainy days, even when rain has fallen recently in the area.

Canyon de Chelly

The protected arizona region of navajo nation.

Canyon de Chelly is an area of Navajo Nation of Arizona , including Canyon de Chelly, del Muerto, and Monument canyons. The area is part of the NPS, however, the Canyon de Chelly floor is only accessible through guided ranger hike. The main attraction of the park is towering Spider Rock, a huge rock tower in the middle of Canyon de Chelly.

Sunset Crater National Monument

Rich volcanic history at the arizona cinder cone of sunset crater.

If you hadn’t known better, you would think that the cinder cone of Sunset Crater National Monument had just erupted last year. The last known eruption occurred around 1064 AD, making the rock very young at only 950 years! Located north of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater National Monument is located close to the Petrified Forest National Park, and Grand Canyon.

Marble Canyon

The colorado river’s gateway to the grand canyon.

Marble Canyon is part of Grand Canyon National Park and is famous for its Navajo bridge , which spans the gap of the Colorado River, allowing Route 89A to pass over it. The Grand Canyon starts just down the river. The walls of the canyon look like stacked bricks, with a near-vertical wall that heads down to the canyon.

Petrified Forest National Park

Visit the amazing prehistoric petrified logs of this arizona national park.

In the northeast of Arizona, you won’t find any living trees in the Painted Desert badlands of Petrified Forest National Park. Millions of pieces of petrified wood line the desert floor, some large, some small. This area was once a lush tropical region, and also a bed of volcanic activity. The logs from some of these trees (which are extinct in the northern hemisphere) over time were washed into ravines and buried under volcanic ash and gravel. Other volcanic rock replaced the buried wood, and over millions of years, became the petrified wood (which is actually now rock) that you can see in the park. Remarkable brightly “painted” hills line the outside of the desert area. Also in the park is the Agate House, a Native American house made of petrified wood, and petroglyph panels dating back to approximately between 1000 A.D. and 1300 A.D.

Valley of the Gods

The isolated and rustic four corners mesas in utah.

Looking for a true, rustic southwest experience off the beaten path? You can’t get much more rugged or rough than the Valley of the Gods. Small canyons, buttes, cliffs, and sandstone mesas can be found in this deserted area which can only be accessed via a 17-mile long dirt road north of Bluff, Utah.

Havasu Falls

The grand canyon’s famed beautiful crystal clear blue waterfalls.

Havasu Falls is a set of waterfalls found near the Grand Canyon . The colorful brownish-orange rocks contrast beautifully with the crystal clear blue-green water, which is tinted by algae. The area can be accessed via a long hike to the remote area, but is well worth the strain!

Window Rock

The headquarters of navajo nation.

Window Rock is the headquarters of present-day Navajo Nation and the scenic landmark of the giant sandstone rock seen below. The sandstone has a giant window in the middle of it and has the town of Window Rock named after it. It can be found on the Arizona – New Mexico border, northeast of Flagstaff, and northwest of Albuquerque.

Goblin Valley

The sandstone hoodoos of the strange goblin valley.

Like Bryce Canyon and Cedar Breaks, Goblin Valley is comprised of thousands of rock formations called hoodoos. In this case, the hoodoos are small in comparison to Bryce and Cedar Breaks but make for an impressive hike and interesting experience. Goblin Valley is a state park in central Utah, near Capitol Reef National Park and the Green River. The sandstone “goblins” make for excellent photography and a moderate hike.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes

The colorful dunes of coral pink sand dunes state park.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in southern Utah may rival the dunes of Death Valley. These pink sandhills were formed from the eroded cliffs that surround the valley, and are a popular attraction for ATV riders. The warm reddish pink tones are best photographed later or earlier in the day when the sun will warm the colors even further.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

The tall chimney formations of kodachrome.

Only miles east of Bryce Canyon you will find the impressive sandstone chimneys of Kodachrome Basin State Park. This is an easy stop on your Grand Circle road trip that won’t take a lot of time to complete. These chimneys are thought to be the result of geysers that solidified with hard rock, as the soft sandstone around it withered away, leaving the chimney.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

The beautiful red cliffs and amphitheater area of southern utah.

Cedar Breaks National Monument is an easy drive from Cedar City. The colors of the amphitheater are remarkable, and it’s another easy stop on your trip throughout the Grand Circle. The hoodoos and rock spire formations are similar to Bryce Canyon, but often not as crowded. Cedar City has many accommodations and hotels to choose from as you plan your trip to Bryce and Zion .

A Map of Some of the Major Grand Circle Destinations

As seen on the map:

A. Grand Canyon B. Sunset Crater National Monument C. Petrified Forest National Park D. Canyon de Chelly E. Chaco Culture National Historic Park F. Mesa Verde National Park G. Black Canyon of the Gunnison H. Arches National Park I. Canyonlands National Park J. Capitol Reef National Park K. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument L. Bryce Canyon M. Cedar Breaks National Monument N. Zion National Park O. Great Basin National Park

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Four Corners Road Trip: Three Days in the Spring

Want a camping option during your Four Corners road trip? Check out this itinerary

One of the significant advantages of starting road trips at the Four Corners National Monument is the variety of road trip themes available.

If national monuments are your thing, there are plenty to choose from. If you want to see magnificent cliff dwellings, that can be arranged. If you want to experience a variety of climates and natural beauty, it’s all around you.

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And if your goal is to add stamps from every National Parks visitor center in the Southwestern United States, well… okay. Not all these locations have them, but you’ll get to see some colorful rock formations along the way, and maybe even learn a little about Navajo culture.

For this Four Corners road trip itinerary, we will map out a three-day round trip excursion in the Spring, taking in some natural wonders, with a mix of hotels and camping (if you choose).

On this road trip, you’ll see the rock formations of Monument Valley, the curved rock walls of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, and finally, the hidden gem of Canyon De Chelly.

So, from our starting point at the Four Corners Monument at the junction of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, let’s get on the road!

Day 1: Four Corners National Monument to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park

Leaving the Four Corners region, you’ll have three options for getting to Monument Valley on the Arizona/Utah border. Each takes about an hour and 45 minutes. 

Along the way, you’ll probably start recognizing landscapes from movies you’ve seen. Depending on your pop culture preferences and personal demographics, you may feel compelled to quote John Wayne in The Searchers , Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump , Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis in Thelma & Louise , or Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper in Easy Rider, all of which were filmed at least partially in the area.

Monument Valley is under the jurisdiction of the Navajo Nation, and you have the option to enlist one of their guides when you visit if you want to get a better understanding of the rich history and cultural significance of the formations you’ll be seeing (beyond their use in TV and films).

Granted, you don’t have to spring for a ranger-led tour, but doing so also gives you access to areas like Mystery Valley and Hunts Mesa, which are off-limits to those on a self-guided tour.

So what are you going to see? In the simplest terms, you’ll be winding your way through the 17-mile Valley Loop Drive, featuring 11 sandstone rock formations towering 400 – 1000 feet above the desert floor, with names like East and West Mittens, Merrick Butte, Three Sisters, and John Ford’s Point.

The high season for Monument Valley is during the warmer months, from Spring to early Fall. Summer can get incredibly crowded, and the lines for taking photos in front of the more famous and picturesque rock formations get a bit long.

But this should be fine in the early Spring, and booking one of the guided tours will help you avoid the crowds.

How can a great day in Monument Valley get even better? By sleeping there. Accommodations in the Valley include hotel rooms with a view or campsites (RV and wilderness) with an even better view. Be sure to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

After a night of stargazing from your room or campsite, imagine enjoying your morning cup of coffee while experiencing the sunrise over the beautiful landscape of the valley, watching the sky change color while shadows enhance the natural features of the rock formations. Bring a camera, or simply enjoy the moment as it unfolds.

Day 2: Monument Valley to Antelope Canyon

After you’ve finished your coffee, it’s time to head south towards Page, Arizona, and Antelope Canyon.

Like Monument Valley, this slot canyon is also under the purview of the Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation , and a tour guide is required. There are no self-guided tours. This policy helps preserve the canyon’s delicate structure and environment for future generations, as well as educates explorers of the Four Corners region about the area’s significance to the Navajo culture.

Still have your camera handy? You’ll probably want it for this tour. The Upper Canyon, known as ‘Tsé bighánílíní’ in Navajo, meaning ‘the place where water runs through rocks,’ is famous for its light beams and water-sculpted rock walls. The Lower Canyon, called ‘Hazdistazí,’ or ‘spiral rock arches,’ is more challenging but rewards visitors with its intricate, narrow passageways.

The interplay of light and shadow and the canyon’s flowing shapes and rich colors create a surreal environment for photographers and nature lovers.

You’ll want to book your guide in advance and also be mindful of changing weather conditions. Weather in the desert in the Spring can change quickly and can get a little dangerous, which is another good reason to have a knowledgeable guide with you.

Horseshoe Bend

The final stop on today’s geological tour is Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River. It’s only about a ten-minute drive from Antelope Canyon and is not to be missed if you’re in the area.

Horseshoe Bend is a section of the Colorado River that twists around 270 degrees and offers spectacular views, as shown in the picture above.

Access is free, and getting to the viewing area is straightforward. It’s about a 3/4 mile walk to the overlook, about 1,000 feet above the river.

Then, you can spend the night in or near the city of Page, where your choices for accommodations will range from outdoor camping sites to 5-star resorts.

Day 3: Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona

For today’s natural wonders, you’ll head east towards Canyon de Chelly . Depending on your route, the trip should take about 2.5 – 3 hours. Aim for Chinle, Arizona, and you’ll be headed in the right direction.

Canyon de Chelly is the oldest continuously inhabited canyon on the Colorado Plateau and is part of the Navajo Nation. Its gorgeous natural beauty and secluded location offer an alternative to a certain, much-more-popular canyon to the west. (Some might even refer to that one as a Grand Canyon.)

There are many ways to enjoy Canyon de Chelly. If you arrive early enough in the morning, head to the North Rim to explore the overlooks along the North Rim Drive. If it’s later, you’ll want to include the South Rim Drive in your afternoon wandering, as those overlooks are better for photography at that time of day. Each drive will take about 2 hours, depending on how long you linger at each overlook.

Guided tours are also available from a ranger or a local Navajo guide. You’ll get to see ancient ruins from the ancestral Pueblo people, cliff dwellings, and Spider Rock, an 800-foot spire jutting up from the canyon floor. At the time of this writing, no self-guided tours are available other than the South and North Rim Drives.

For overnight accommodations, there are camping sites within Canyon de Chelly or hotels in Chinle.

There are still plenty of other sites to see in the Four Corners region. If you have the time, you may want to continue exploring the Colorado Plateau, check out a National Scenic Byway, more spectacular cliff dwellings and wildlife watching, or various archaeological sites and hiking trails. There’s so much to choose from!

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Scenic Four Corners Region Road Trip

There’s nothing like a road trip through the four corners region! In one loop, you can experience scenic landscapes, visit famous landmarks and monuments, and hike some trails. In addition, you’ll drive through beautiful vistas that showcase colorful rock formations. 

While you can go on this road trip any time of year, we suggest going late summer or early fall, once the weather cools down a bit. Plus, you may be able to catch some fall colors! 

A road trip through the Four Corners region is amazing adventure with some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country . By the end of this trip you will have made it through Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah, and will end back in Colorado, once again. Your trip will give you the opportunity to see all that the Southwest has to offer, and create lifelong memories. 

Seasons to Travel:

Fall, Spring, or Summer

States Covered:

To start your four corners rod trip, you’ll first go to Mesa Verde National Park. Mesa Verde National Park is a beautiful and historic park located in southwestern Colorado, USA. The park is known for its well-preserved cliff dwellings, which were built by the Ancestral Pueblo people over 700 years ago. These cliff dwellings are some of the best-preserved examples of ancient architecture in North America, and they offer visitors a unique glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there long ago.

In addition to the cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and elk.

One of the best ways to experience Mesa Verde National Park is through a ranger-led tour. These tours provide a more in-depth look at the park’s history and architecture, and they allow visitors to access areas of the park that are otherwise off-limits.

Overall, Mesa Verde National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient history, archaeology, or outdoor recreation. With its stunning views, fascinating history, and endless opportunities for adventure, Mesa Verde National Park is truly a national treasure.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic train that runs through the beautiful San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The train travels from Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton, offering stunning views of the rugged mountain landscape along the way.

The train follows the same route that was used to transport gold and silver from the mines to the smelters over a century ago. Today, the train is a popular attraction for visitors to the area, offering a unique and nostalgic way to experience the beauty of the region.

The train offers a variety of train rides, ranging from half-day excursions to full day trips. Some of the most popular trips include the historic steam train ride from Durango to Silverton and the Cascade Canyon Express.

The Durango Train is a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty and history of the San Juan Mountains. Whether you’re a history buff, a train enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and scenic adventure, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a must-see attraction in southwestern Colorado.

Aztec Ruins National Monument is a historic park located in northwestern New Mexico, USA. The park is home to a variety of well-preserved ruins and structures that were built by the ancestral Puebloan people over 900 years ago.

The centerpiece of Aztec Ruins National Monument is the Great Kiva, a large circular structure that was used for religious and ceremonial purposes. Visitors can also explore a number of smaller ruins, including the West Ruin and the Aztec West Great House.

In addition to the ruins, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and a variety of birds. The Aztec Ruins National Monument also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.

What’s a Four Corners Road Trip without visiting the the famous Four Corners Monument?

The Four Corners National Monument is a unique park located in the southwestern United States, where the states of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah meet. The park is home to a granite monument that marks the exact point where the four states intersect, making it the only place in the United States where four states meet at one point. 

Visitors can stand in all four states at the same time, taking photos and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The monument is also home to a number of vendors selling handmade crafts and jewelry.

Monument Valley is a beautiful and iconic landscape located on the border between Arizona and Utah, USA. It is known for its towering sandstone rock formations, which rise up from the desert floor and create a stunning and otherworldly backdrop.

The valley is part of the Navajo Nation, and visitors can explore the area through guided tours led by local Navajo guides. The tours offer a unique and informative way to experience the landscape and learn about Navajo culture and history. You can also take a self-guided tour of the valley with a 17 mile valley drive.

Some of the most famous formations in Monument Valley include the Mittens, Elephant Butte, and the Three Sisters. Visitors can also explore the valley on foot through a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to its natural beauty, Monument Valley has been featured in countless films, television shows, and advertisements, making it an iconic symbol of the American West. Visitors can even stay in one of the many traditional Navajo hogans located throughout the valley.

Overall, Monument Valley is a must-see destination for anyone interested in natural beauty, Native American culture, or the history of the American West. With its stunning rock formations, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure, Monument Valley is truly a national treasure.

Goosenecks State Park is a small but stunning park located in the southeastern corner of Utah, USA. The park is named for its unique and beautiful natural feature, a series of deep, winding canyons that have been carved out by the San Juan River over millions of years.

Visitors to Goosenecks State Park can enjoy breathtaking views of the canyons from a number of overlooks located throughout the park. The overlooks offer stunning views of the winding river below, as well as the rugged and beautiful landscape that surrounds the park.

With its beautiful canyons, rugged landscape, and endless opportunities for adventure, Goosenecks State Park is truly a hidden gem of the American Southwest.

Moki Dugway is a unique and adventurous route located in southeastern Utah, USA. It is a steep and winding dirt road that ascends the face of Cedar Mesa, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape along the way.

The Moki Dugway was originally built in the 1950s as a way to transport uranium ore from Cedar Mesa to processing plants in nearby towns. Today, it is a popular destination for adventurous travelers looking to explore the rugged beauty of southeastern Utah.

The road climbs over 1,200 feet in just three miles, and features a series of hairpin turns and switchbacks that can be challenging for drivers who are not used to steep and narrow roads. However, the views from the top are well worth the effort, with stunning panoramas of the surrounding canyons and mesas stretching out for miles in every direction. 

If you are driving in a large vehicle, like an RV, we suggest skipping this stop and moving on to the Valley of the Gods.

If the Moki Dugway is too difficult of a road to drive on, we suggest visiting the Valley of the Gods as an alternative. 

Valley of the Gods is a stunning landscape located in southeastern Utah, USA, known for its towering sandstone formations and beautiful red rock cliffs. This area is much less well-known and far less crowded, making it a perfect destination for those looking for a more peaceful and secluded outdoor experience.

Visitors can explore the area on foot, by car, or on horseback, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The valley features a number of natural formations, including towering buttes, mesas, and spires, as well as a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyotes, and a variety of birds.

The area is also rich in Native American history and culture, and visitors can explore a number of ancient ruins and rock art sites located throughout the valley. Many of these sites are sacred to local tribes, and visitors are asked to treat them with respect and reverence.

Hovenweep National Monument is located on the border between southeastern Utah and southwestern Colorado, USA. The park is named for its impressive collection of ancient Puebloan ruins, which date back to the 12th and 13th centuries and offer a glimpse into the daily lives and cultures of the Ancestral Puebloan people who once inhabited the region.

Visitors can explore a number of ancient structures, including towers, kivas, and dwellings, many of which are still standing despite centuries of exposure to the elements. The structures are spread out across the park, and visitors can explore them on a number of hiking trails that wind through the rugged and beautiful landscape.

We recommend hiking the Square Tower loop trail to see Square Tower, Hovenweep Castle, and Hovenweep House. The trail starts at the visitor center, and is about two miles roundtrip.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is a unique and expansive park located in southwestern Colorado, USA. The park is home to an impressive collection of ancient Puebloan ruins, as well as a variety of natural features, including canyons, mesas, and desert landscapes.

Visitors can explore a number of ancient structures, including cliff dwellings, kivas, and petroglyphs, many of which date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The structures are spread out across the park, and visitors can explore them on a number of hiking trails. 

We suggest taking a short hike down to the Painted Hand Pueblo to see a tower pueblo built on top of a large rock outcropping and assorted ruins.  The views of the surrounding landscape are also impressive, including the view of Spirit Rock looming in the far distance.

The last stop on your road trip is the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park is a protected area located in southwestern Colorado, USA, and is owned and operated by the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. The park is home to a variety of cultural and archaeological sites that are of great significance to the Ute Mountain Ute people and offer visitors a unique and authentic experience.

Visitors to the park can explore a number of ancient structures, including cliff dwellings, kivas, and petroglyphs, many of which date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The full day tour (which we highly recommend) visits four magnificent cliff dwellings. It requires a three-mile walk on unpaved trails and scaling ladders.

The park offers visitors a chance to learn about the tribe’s ancient past and modern way of life, and to experience the natural beauty of the American Southwest. If you’re interested in history, culture, and outdoor recreation, Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park is definitely worth a visit.

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The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Harley Adventures through the Four Corners

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Have you thought about a Four Corners road trip by motorcycle? There’s a subset of active boomer travelers who enjoy exploring on a Harley or BMW. That includes Diane White who is here to share her first-person experience exploring the United States’ Four Corners region by motorcycle

The active, independent travelers hit the open road recently to explore the beautiful Four Corners on a rented Harley while dodging “deteriorating weather conditions” along the way. Thanks to Diane for sharing her tips and itinerary for a Four Corners motorcycle ride that explores New Mexico , Arizona, Utah and Colorado.

Are motorcycles not your thing? Don’t stop reading! This Four Corners itinerary is fun in your car or RV, too.

Table of Contents

Four Corners Road Trip on a Harley

At ages 73 and 64 (in 2015), my husband Jim and I try to do what we like best whenever opportunity arises and while we are still able. That’s why we love active independent travel. Three words sum up our style: freedom, flexibility, and fundability. We’re opportunistic and favor affordable last-minute options.

An unexpected speaking engagement for me in Albuquerque, New Mexic o sparked the idea of an 8-day motorcycle ride through the Four Corners of the U.S. We had just one week’s advance time to put it together.

Jim raised the bar by requiring two nights at the Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim Lodge . We both snickered at such a crazy idea. Everyone knows you’ve got to reserve a year ahead there!

Planning a Four Corners motorcycle tour

Jim picked up the phone anyway and moments later reported that the notoriously 100%-booked lodge had only two unreserved nights left all year . Then he grinned. “Guess when?” Incredibly, those two remaining dates were exactly what we needed.

Since we didn’t want to ride our Harley from South Carolina to New Mexico, the next potential deal-breaker was a rental. Jim raised a skeptical eyebrow.

“It’s summer. Everybody wants to ride now. Don’t count on finding anything , much less what we want.” But he got on the phone anyway. Soon I heard, “All your bikes are rented except ONE? Oh well…what is it…”

Jim’s frown flipped to a bemused smile. Hanging up, he exclaimed, “You won’t believe this!” Miraculously, the only bike left was a brand new Ultra Glide, perfect for cruising 1,500 miles of mountains, canyons and plains.

Yes!! Let the boomer biker adventure begin!

Not so fast. Jim’s smile vanished when he discovered our motorcycle insurance policy didn’t cover rentals. Oops. Add-on coverage from the Harley rental dealer cost a budget-busting $600. Double oops!

Undeterred, we began shopping insurance companies. Within thirty minutes Jim secured a new policy with automatic rental coverage for $500 a year less than we’d been paying. We were back on track—and those premium savings would fund a nice chunk of trip expense, too.

We had scored our mandatory Grand Canyon North Rim stay , a bike, rental bike insurance, and an unexpected cash windfall.

Next task was deciding the rest of the Four Corners itinerary. Jim mapped a route with daily ride distances under 300 miles, made a few more hotel reservations online , and we were good to go.

Well, except for one thing.

Packing bags for an 8-day motorcycle trip

Packing presented more of a challenge than you might suppose. For one thing, we don’t like checking bike bags because they aren’t designed with airline baggage handling mayhem in mind. For another thing, August is monsoon season in the Four Corners.

Our bike luggage had to house eight days’ clothing, shoes, meds, digital necessities and toiletries plus two bulky helmets and two sets of rain gear . We needed clothes for activities ranging from riding and hiking to fine dining.

Since we’ve had our share of boomer body aches and pains from dragging overstuffed motorcycle bags through airports, packing light was imperative. Our tour pack and saddlebag inserts would be packed with the minimum possible versatile, lightweight, and easily cleaned items.

If checking instead of carrying on, choose good heavy-duty quality. Consider taping pocket flaps and zipper guides securely. Those clever space-saving expandable pockets and zipped-on extensions are vulnerable to damage when handled roughly.

Renting the Bike

Rental bikes cost more than even luxury rental cars, so expect a little sticker shock. Some dealers may offer compensatory perks like courtesy van service to and from the airport. Ours saved us at least $50 on cabs, for instance.

This dealer also provided free storage for excess or unneeded belongings during the rental period. That could be a wise alternative to dangerously overweight saddlebags.

Picking up our 2015 Ultra Glide at Albuquerque’s Thunderbird Harley-Davidson proved easy. Everything was in order and ready for our arrival.

Jerry, the rental manager, took care to determine proper vehicle “fit” before handing over the keys. After Jim aced a basic riding test, and we both signed a document stating Thunderbird’s equipment was acceptable, off we went.

Boomer Travel Tip

Use our road trip planner to make the most of your next road trip adventure.

8-day Four Corners road trip itinerary

Starting from Albuquerque : Our first ride day was intentionally short. We were a bit tired from travel already, beginning a route we didn’t know, and with new-to-us riding equipment. This trip also reminded us how important it is to allow adjustment time for weather and unforeseen factors.

We had prepared for an afternoon in sunny 100+ degree heat by applying good sunscreen lotion, wearing polarized sunglasses , and completely covering our limbs.

We were surprised by 25-knot winds that shoved and punched us like schoolyard bullies, though. One especially fierce gust nearly knocked Jim’s helmet off. Thankfully, his chinstrap held. Take note—riders in this area should add gusty conditions to their mental list of potential road hazards.

Our first afternoon ride is also memorable for the flower-strewn roadside memorials we passed every mile or so. Such reminders of potential highway perils are not uncommon along American highways these days, and boomer bikers like us know what risks we accept in exchange for the joy of riding free.

However I soon found myself so distracted that I couldn’t admire the dramatic New Mexico scenery! Eventually I pinned my gaze to the back of Jim’s jacket until we left densely populated areas behind.

Riding the first corner: New Mexico

Riding in high heat and strong winds nearly wore these two boomers out by the time we reached Farmington, NM near dusk. But where the GPS pinpointed our destination bed and breakfast, the Silver River Adobe Inn , we saw nothing but a fire station. Uh-oh.

Now what? When in doubt, ask!

The husky black-haired young fireman we approached pointed towards what looked like the edge of a cliff. “Down there,” he advised, casting a doubtful eye at our shiny-new Ultra Glide laden with baggage.

One glance sent Jim’s eyebrows skyward. Here’s the thing about spontaneous last-minute trip planning: in the rush to make reservations on a hotel website, it’s easy to skip helpful details like special directions and road conditions . All we knew was that whatever awaited at the end of this steeply descending and twisty gravel road had better justify the effort of delivering 1,300 pounds of Harley and riders to its door unscathed.

Jim gingerly eased us down to a clearing that contained a small Airstream travel trailer nestled within a gaudy thicket of six-foot-tall sunflowers. Even in rural New Mexico, this was probably not our B&B!

A peek beyond the sunflower patch revealed the handsome cedar plank house that actually was our lodging for the night. Our comfortably furnished room offered lovely views of the gleaming San Juan River. We also loved its cozy porch, where the friendly house cat visited as we enjoyed a restorative cocktail.

Early next morning, innkeepers Diana and David served delicate, tasty plate-sized pancakes smothered in fresh strawberries, blueberries and Diana’s homemade syrup. At 8:30 we emptied our coffee cups for the last time and left, sorry we could not stay for more of David’s stories of his family’s long history in this beautiful secluded Four Corners region .

Reaching the second corner: Arizona

We rode 302 miles to our next overnight stop, which is among the Four Corner’s most popular: Arizona’s historic Jacob Lake , often called the “gateway to the Grand Canyon.” One could easily break this ride into two or even three days because the route passes many tempting natural wonders.

We disciplined ourselves in order to complete a Four Corners loop in eight days—and a stop isn’t really needed to ooh and ahhh at dramatic Shiprock or register the majesty of the Monument Valley Loop Drive .

We did pause to take in the gorgeous views at Navajo Bridge , and our cruise through Arizona’s jaw-droppingly beautiful Vermillion Cliffs (wish there had been time to explore the White Pocket ) was as slow as we could safely manage.

At Jacob Lake Inn , we enjoyed the simple comforts of a 90-year-old log cabin. After eight hours in the saddle, tossing back a cold beer with feet propped on the rough wood railing of our miniscule porch was a welcome respite.

Our eyes had feasted all day and now it was our stomachs’ turn. Jacob Lake Inn’s rustic exterior belies an excellent restaurant and bakery operation within. Dinner options are sophisticated and well prepared. Try the bison!

Under no circumstances should you pass up the bakery’s famous warm-from-the-oven cookies. We bagged a dozen on our way out the next morning after downing a scrumptious hot breakfast.

From Jacob Lake we dawdled along a short 45-mile route to the much-anticipated Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge.

Don’t let anyone tell you National Parks offer little by way of comfortable affordable lodging and fine dining—this facility delivers both. Our lucky last-minute Frontier Cabin supplied good quality bedding plus fluffy thick towels and brand-name toiletries in a sparkling-clean compact bathroom.

As for food, the North Rim Lodge offers everything from hot dogs to five-course dinners and good wine. The Inn’s full bar mixes excellent drinks for Happy Hour sipping pleasure. We discretely enjoyed ours seated on the lodge’s enormous stone porches overlooking those incomparable Grand Canyon vistas.

Others can write more authentically than I about the full range of adventures available to Grand Canyon National Park visitors. I can attest that two days merely whet an appetite to sample them all. We’ll certainly be back.

Rounding the third corner: Utah

From the North Rim we cruised 100+ miles into Utah’s Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Pleasantly uncrowded and well-kept two lane roads climb through wooded mountains and high valley scenery for several hours.

Have a good meal before leaving the Grand Canyon and take enough water and snacks to sustain the moderately long day’s ride through pristine forest and lush farmland valleys. You won’t be seeing any fast food stops along this route!

Both Zion and Bryce are spectacular must-see natural wonders. They’re so close together it’s possible to briefly explore both in one rather long day. We chose instead to spend our whole time budget wandering among the elaborately carved hoodoos of Bryce Canyon this trip.

After the Grand Canyon North Rim’s verdant peaks and cliffs, ascending the Grand Staircase to Bryce Canyon’s Mars-like starkness seems a little unreal.

If your time and fitness permit, descend  steep winding footpaths to a canyon floor so deep it appears cloaked in darkness from the top. Give it a try! You’ll be rewarded by a surreal ant-like journey that twists and turns between the red-and-orange feet of a gargantuan silent sentinel army.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon earns its reputation for rustic elegance. After four days of hard riding, walking, and muscling heavy bags on and off the Harley, we were thankful for a spacious modern hotel room.

The cushy king bed boasted spa-style linens so fresh and fine that every ache floated away. We slept like babies all night—a lucky break, as it turned out.

Early the next day we loaded up the bike once more and roared towards Capitol Reef National Park . This lesser-known national park introduced us to spectacular sights only found within a 100-mile geologic monocline (wrinkle of the Earth). It was the northernmost stop on our Four Corners itinerary, as well as its highest point at 8,960 feet above sea level.

After an interesting and educational stop at the park’s museum we took a break to register at our hotel, the newly renovated Capitol Reef Resort , around 3:30 PM. I approached the young desk clerk with my helmet, gloves and jacket still on and proffered a credit card. Strangely, he hesitated.

“Riding a Harley, are you?”

“Yes, we’ve just come from Bryce Canyon.”

“Have you checked the weather?”

That is not a question one takes lightly when posed by a local. My active boomer travel antennae tingled.

“Um, not for a while now, why?”

Nodding towards the glass door beyond which Jim waited astride the bike, he continued, “My whole family rides. I know the roads out of here real well—and I wouldn’t care to try them in the big storm coming. Can you stay one more night?”

That is another question I didn’t want to hear on Day 6 of this particular 8-day ride. I thanked the clerk for his warning and went outside to consult with Boss Hog, who checked weather radar on his smartphone and promptly decided,

“Bag it. We’re riding on to Blanding. If we leave right away we should get there by 8 PM and figure a place to stay.”

Farewell, Capitol Reef National Park—we put safety first. Boomers with a taste for motorcycle adventures soon become humble followers of the Weather Gods. Today they were signaling us to move on! Plus, now we have a great reason to come back for the longer stay such a unique part of America’s park system deserves.

This was when the prior night’s long refreshing sleep proved a real blessing: Jim still felt rested and alert for the challenge of nearly 300 miles that included many dizzily swooping 15% grade downslope stretches. We quickly discovered why riding out of Torrey, UT towards Blanding is best attempted on dry roads with excellent visibility.

As the sun inched towards the mountainous horizon behind us, we marveled at the beauty of this route known as the Trail of the Ancients . The red rock formations changed colors as golden shafts of light from the setting sun moved up their faces before sinking into purple splendor.

Much of the time, we were the only vehicle of any kind traveling through some of Utah’s most isolated and unpopulated country.

We had planned to take most of the following day to do this passage justice, but our need to outrace the oncoming storm reshuffled priorities. We had to reach Blanding by nightfall. On the other hand, we weren’t about to lose our chance to drive the Natural Bridges National Monument scenic drive on the way.

Dusk descended as we began a slow 15-MPH circuit of the park’s nine-mile narrow one-way road looping past incredible works of Nature. Even in the gloom these giant natural bridges impress and astound.

We could smell oncoming rain throughout our remaining 54 miles to Blanding. Enveloped in fine mist, we searched for a motel in easy walking distance of a local diner (our favorite alternative to chain eateries).

Blanding’s Gateway Inn perfectly fit the bill—low key, clean, and with a nice diner just across the large parking lot. We ate and rested well, glad for clean, comfortable shelter.

Racing through the fourth corner: Colorado

We reluctantly accepted the inconvenient fact that deteriorating weather conditions suggested returning to Albuquerque a day earlier than planned. That meant we now only had one day available to visit the last of our Four Corners.

Our strategy involved rain gear, moderate speed, and an early start at first light to elude the advancing storm’s most dangerous torrents and lightning.

We gambled on the shortest route even though its first half included lightly traveled local roads ill-suited to cruising in torrential rain. If our weather forecast was correct, we’d get a little wet but not doused and no serious flood threats would develop until after we had left that area.

Despite early fog and occasional showers, this day’s ride was one of my favorites. Highway 191 quickly took us south to the Dine’ Bii’tah Scenic Byway (Highway 162) winding through Navajo country at the juncture of Utah and Colorado. We had the entire glorious drive to ourselves.

I could barely decide which way to look: up to massive cumulus clouds slowly darkening to awesome thunderheads, or out at sweet-scented mesa lands that bordered our road.

It was all too beautiful to miss. This is yet another part of the Four Corners we’ll want to revisit at far more leisure.

Our boomer travel philosophy

The older we get, the more Jim and I respect the virtues of building in extra time to meet travel deadlines and minimize stress. Boomer travelers tire faster, need more rest, and are a little less resilient than back in the day.

Such realities don’t discourage us from taking active do-it-yourself trips, but they do change how we prioritize our activities. That’s why we returned to Albuquerque and dropped off the rental bike at midday instead of day’s end.

We lounged by the hotel swimming pool, had a leisurely early dinner, and got a good night’s sleep. Thunderbird H-D’s courtesy shuttle delivered us to the airport the next morning relaxed, refreshed, and already eager to plan another bike trip through America’s frontier lands next summer.

Wyoming , here we come!

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Sandstone buttes known as the Mittens tower over the desert floor in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Arizona.

Travel to the American Southwest's Four Corners

See trip details for the Southwest's Four Corners, one of 30 suggested family trips from National Geographic.

Arizona Guide

Colorado Guide

New Mexico Guide

More Family Trips

One of the most iconic experiences on a drive through the United States’ southwest is a stop at the Four Corners Monument. You can put each of your limbs in a different state—Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. Of course, there is plenty to do in the corners of all four states. From Flagstaff, Arizona, take I-40 to the Petrified Forest National Park and get a glimpse of the multi-colored fossilized wood. The colors of the Painted Desert are sure to impress. Then head to Canyon de Chelly National Monument to experience the cliff dwellings, where indigenous peoples lived for nearly 5,000 years. Hike the White House Ruins trail, the only one for which you do not need a guide. To experience another scenic area around the Four Corners, take the San Juan Skyway through Colorado.

Where to Play

Climb ladders and shuffle through tunnels of Mesa Verde National Park’s famous Puebloan cliff dwellings in Colorado. The Far View Lodge, located in the park, has rooms with views into four states (Note: The Lodge is open from mid-April through mid-October). A couple hours’ drive away, Telluride is a great place to stop. Park the vehicle at Carhenge and take the free ski gondola to the mountain peak. At the base of the canyon, access 30 miles (48 kilometers) of hiking and biking trails near Mountain Village, which provides great vistas but lacks Telluride’s character. At Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah, hike the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail. It’s five miles (eight kilometers) round-trip with a waterfall along the way. You can take a (cold) dip in the pool under the fall, too.

At Day’s End

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Staying overnight in Mesa Verde? From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, ranger-led talks on various topics are held every night at Far View Lodge and the Morefield Amphitheater. Check the website for times, www.visitmesaverde.com/play/upcoming-events.

Information about accommodations in Mesa Verde National Park can be found at www.visitmesaverde.com .

Based on articles from National Geographic Traveler and compiled by Stephanie Robichaux

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• FAMILY TRAVEL
• NATIONAL PARKS

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Grand Circle Road Trip Itinerary

This post may contain a few affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through them I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Want to see the amazing National Parks of Arizona and Utah, and a few extras in two weeks? This road trip itinerary takes you through The Grand Circle, which is a region in the southwest United States including Utah’s big 5 National Parks of Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion, plus the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and Valley of Fire state park in Nevada!

2 Week Grand Circle Itinerary Summary:

• Day 1: Las Vegas to Williams AZ
• Days 2 & 3: Grand Canyon South Rim
• Day 4: Monument Valley
• Days 5 & 6: Four Corners and Mesa Verde
• Days 7 & 8: Arches & Canyonlands
• Day 9: Capitol Reef
• Day 10: Bryce Canyon
• Days 11 & 12: Zion
• Day 13: Valley of Fire
• Day 14: Las Vegas, travel home

If you don’t have two weeks, this itinerary can be modified easily to ten days by taking out the days to Monument Valley, Mesa Verde, and Valley of Fire. You could also drive straight from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon in one day if you want.

10 Day Grand Circle Itinerary:

• Day 1: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim
• Day 2: Grand Canyon South Rim
• Days 3 & 4: Arches & Canyonlands
• Day 5: Capitol Reef
• Days 7: Bryce Canyon
• Day 8 & 9: Zion
• Day 10: Las Vegas, travel home

Now time to come along for an adventure tour of the amazing southwestern United States! 🙂

Las Vegas to Williams AZ

Las Vegas is a great starting point for a trip of the Grand Circle because it’s easy to get flights to and rent a car , which is what we did.

Staying in Boulder City instead of Las Vegas was a quieter overnight option , and waking up in the morning and seeing beautiful Lake Mead was so nice! You can get breakfast or stock up on groceries in town, and see some sights before hitting the road.

Sites to check out in Boulder City include:

• Hemenway Park – a pretty little local park, nice place for a picnic and to see big horn sheep!
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area – You do need to buy a pass to get into Lake Mead if you want to visit, but since you’ll be visiting many National Parks on this trip, I highly recommend picking up the National Park’s Annual pass here if you don’t already have one! There shouldn’t be much of a line to get it like there can be at the Grand Canyon.
• Hoover Dam – (we took a walk on the Hoover Dam bridge for free , getting a beautiful view of the dam, instead of taking the tour which would have taken much longer)

The drive from the Hoover Dam to Williams was easy highway driving totally approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. We made a lunch stop in Kingman, and when we finally got to our destination for the night we had a fun time walking around and exploring a little of the town of Williams on Route 66 !

You can read more details of the full drive to the Grand Canyon here .

Grand Canyon South Rim

Days Two and Three.

The drive from Williams to the south rim of the Grand Canyon is only an hour long. After that, you’ve got the rest of the day and all of the next to explore one of the wonders of the natural world! The Grand Canyon is breath taking!

We had almost 2 full days at the south rim. I would have preferred a third, but if you’re not into hiking then 2 days should be enough. You’ll be able to see all the viewpoints and stops, museums, gift shops, etc. with 2 days for sure. Even one full day is good for an overview if that’s all the time you have.

Things to check out at the south rim include:

• Mather Point – Make this your first stop! It’s right next to the main visitor’s center(which should probably be your second stop 😉
• Desert View Watchtower
• Take the shuttle bus out to Hermit’s Rest and other viewpoints
• Tusayan Ruins Museum and historic site
• Go on a day hike down Bright Angel Trail
• Take an easy walk along the South rim where there are art galleries, restaurants, and views galore!

Monument Valley

The drive to Monument Valley from the Grand Canyon was an easy 3 hours through dry desert landscapes. Monument Valley is located on Navajo lands, and is not an actual National Park. But it’s an impressive sight nonetheless, with towering “monuments” of red desert sandstone jutting out through the arid, flat lands.

The Navajo here have their own visitor’s center, museum, and even guided tours on jeep or horseback, or you can take your own car and drive the gravel road through the monuments. They do charge a fee to get into the main area.

I would say one day here is good enough for a visit. There’s enough things to do filling up a whole day , with time to sit and relax a little. Also if you’re up for camping-or glamping, I highly recommend it! We had one of the most beautiful nights of our trip sitting under the stars at a camp fire, playing music, and then watching the sun rise over the monuments the next morning!

Four Corners & Mesa Verde National Park

Days Five and Six.

Being in this part of the country, and with the Four Corners Monument so close by, I knew we had to stop and visit it. It’s really out in the middle of nowhere, so if standing in four states all at once thrills you, go there!

Getting there from Monument Valley was about an hour and a half, and you only need an hour or two max to visit. You get your photo taken at the four corners, and there’s a lot of Native American vendors to shop at around the perimeter.

Continuing on to Cortez, Colorado , the town just outside of Mesa Verde, took another hour drive. All said, with driving times and the stop at the Four Corners, took up half a day.

We split our time at Mesa Verde National Park from the afternoon on the first day, and morning on the second. We were able to see all the sites on Chapin Mesa , one of the two major sections of the park, and also take a tour of Balcony House.

Going on a tour of one of the cliff dwellings is a must at Mesa Verde!

There was still Wetherill mesa, and other cliff dwelling houses we could have toured, but we just didn’t have the time. I would recommend 2 full days for Mesa Verde. But one day was fine if you just want to get an overview of the place like we did.

After our tour of Balcony house the morning of day six, we continued on and drove on towards Moab for the rest of our day.

Arches & Canyonlands National Parks

Days Seven and Eight.

Both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks are right outside of the town of Moab, Utah. Moab is THE place you want to stay at when visiting these parks. It’s full of adventure seekers and there are even state parks around like Dead Horse Point adjacent to Canyonlands that you may want to check out if you have more time.

We gave ourselves 2 full days here, one for each park.

At Arches, we saw almost all the major sites , and hiked to the iconic landmark of Delicate Arch , as well as Landscape Arch .

The section of Canyonlands we visited was Isle in the Sky district (the park is made up of 3, with this one being the main part and most popular). We had so much fun at this park! It’s not as crowded or famous as Arches, but it’s absolutely beautiful, don’t miss it!

We drove and stopped at all the viewpoints, hiked the short trail to Mesa Arch , and then went to Grand View point to see the sunset.

So one day at each park was enough for a good taste of what these beautiful places are like.

Capitol Reef National Park

One of the lesser known National Parks, Capitol Reef was quite stunning, and I have to wonder why it’s so overlooked! It’s smaller than the others, and with one main road makes it easy to see the sites in one day.

Getting there from Moab was a 2.5 hour drive, not too long, so driving didn’t take up much of the day, and we had the rest of it to see the park.

With one day spent at Capitol Reef , we were able to view the petroglyphs and historic sites, have a picnic lunch near the river and apple orchards, stop in the gift shop and buy some delicious mini pies! You must get some of those deserts! Drive all the way down Capitol Gorge dirt road, and then even hike the Tanks Trail. It was a fun filled day!

We spent the night at an Airbnb in the town of Torrey which is the closest town outside of the park. There are of course some hotels there as well.

Bryce Canyon National Park

If I had another day on this trip, I would dedicate it to Bryce. Hands down. But, that’s because I like to go on hikes, to really explore places as much as I can. If you’re not into hiking, one day at Bryce is enough to see all the views and go on a short hike.

Driving to Bryce From Torrey was incredibly beautiful! We took the famous Utah Scenic route 12 , and I can’t recommend it enough!

We had an incredible day visiting Bryce Canyon , getting to all the scenic viewpoints along the drive, and hiking half of the Fairyland loop trail. It was so beautiful, and I don’t regret it, but this is where I do wish I did some more research beforehand (or simply had more time). If I knew better I think I would have chosen the Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trails. Simply because from the pictures I saw throughout the years afterwards, I SO want to go back and do that trail!

In a way though, it’s nice having reasons to go back to all of these places 🙂

Zion National Park

Days Eleven & Twelve.

Day eleven was taken up driving to Zion from Bryce , which was another beautiful scenic drive, especially on getting to Zion because you drive through part of the park, and there are tunnels and views galore!

We were staying overnight in the town of Hurricane, which was farther away from the park than what I would have liked, but only 30 mins so not too bad. Word of advice, book early if you want to stay in the towns close by !

The next day we got up, but not as early as I would have liked. Another word of advice: get to Zion early if you want a parking space x.x We spent about another half hour or more driving around looking for one. Finally we found a spot near the campground parking lot, and we walked a part of the Pa’rus trail, and got on the park shuttle to see the rest.

There’s many things to see and hikes to do at Zion . With one full day we did that small hike on the Pa’rus, visited every shuttle stop, hiked the lower and upper Emerald Pools Trail, and continued on to the Kayenta trail, hiked up to see the Weeping Wall, and also did the 1 mile River walk to the start of the Narrows.

We didn’t have time for any of the major hikes like Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, or Observation Point, but we got a great overview of the park! Of course if one of those hikes is important to you, you can simply spend the day doing that instead.

But for us…another time hopefully! 🙂

Valley of Fire State Park

I had no idea this place existed before planning this trip. When making plans, I look for places inbetween the major stops, to give ourselves a break driving and find other things of interest.

Valley of Fire is a gem , and just outside of Las Vegas!

We had such a fun day there, just as much fun as any of the National Parks!

We drove from Zion to Valley of Fire on our last day, and spent the whole day in the park. Doing as we usually do; stopping at the visitor’s center(you do have to pay a fee to get in), getting a map, driving the roads and stopping at all the landmarks if possible. As well as hike a few small trails.

You can easily fill up your whole day here with plenty of stuff to see. Just be sure to pack a lunch with you and plenty of water! There are no food stands in the park.

We dropped off our rental car, which we conveniently got right at the Las Vegas Airport , and flew home.

Ok, so you may have to count an extra day or two for travel in this itinerary. For our trip it was 13 days with 2 days travel, but that also depends on the flights you get, and how long it takes you to get to Las Vegas. If you’re from the East coast and you catch an early flight, you can definitely do the drive from Las Vegas to Williams on day one.

All said and done, this was a great trip, and I’d do it again any time! I hope these details can help you out planning your own trip 🙂

Let me know in the comments below if you have any alternate Grand Circle Trip itineraries, or special places along the way that are worth checking out!

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15 thoughts on “grand circle road trip itinerary”.

Thank you for sharing. I’m planning a similar itinerary but renting an RV. Do you think it is doable in february? I’m worried about snowing driving conditions. Thank you in advance for any comment on that subject.

Hi, I’d definitely be wary if you go in February. There can be a lot of snow and road closures around the Grand Canyon and elsewhere. The park itself could close. If you have decent weather with little snow fall though it could be very beautiful, and no crowds! So only plan then if you have flexibility to cancel or go elsewhere.

Hi, your site has been very helpful in planning our future trip. I was wondering if you could provide any feedback/suggestion on the below draft itinerary. Thanks

Day 1 (Tues.): Fly into Las Vegas, drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

Day 2 &3 (Wed. & Thurs.): Explore GCNP: (3 nights – Bright Angel Lodge)

Day 4 (Fri.): Drive to Lake Powell/Antelope Canyon (2 nights – Home2 Suites) • Antelope Canyon Boat Tour

Day 5 (Sat.): Lake Powell/Antelope Canyon • AM – Upper Antelope Canyon Tour — PM – Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Day 6 (Sun.): Drive to Arches NP (2 nights – Moab Springs Ranch or Red Cliff) • Drive the park, Devil’s Garden Trail

Day 7 (Mon.) • Ranger guide hike: Fiery Furnace, Off-Road Hell’s Revenge Tour

Day 8 (Tues.): Drive to Capitol Reef National Park (1 night- Broken Spur Inn?) • Drive Capitol Gorge

Day 9 &10 (Wed. & Thurs.): Drive to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (2 nights -Escalante Yurts) • Hike the Lower Calf Creek Falls, Devil’s Garden, Willis Creek Slot Canyon, Escalante Natural Bridge, Hell’s Back Bone & Peekaboo Tour

Day 11 (Fri.): Drive to Bryce NP (1 night – Bryce Lodge) • shuttle to Inspiration Point, walk Rim Trail to Bryce Point/Mossy Cave Trail

Day 12 (Sat): Drive to Zion NP (2 nights – Zion Lodge) • Explore Park

Day 13 (Sun.): Zion: Narrows Bottom Up/Emerald Pool Hike:

Day 14 (Mon.): Drive to Las Vegas – return rental car (1 night)

Day 15 (Tues.): Fly back to MD

Hi, glad you could find it useful! Your itinerary looks great! It does a few things differently than I did but there’s nothing wrong with that. Going to Lake Powell/Antelope canyon is a great alternative to Mesa Verde, and I did consider going there instead on our trip, but will have to wait for next time! The only things I’d consider maybe differently is if you’d rather go to Canyonlands instead of having 2 days in Arches(Canyonlands is equally as beautiful), and also at Bryce you might want to do a short hike down into the canyon to see what it’s like https://cameraandacanvas.com/bryce-canyon-one-day/ But if you’re only looking at doing easy hikes it is best to stay above. I hope you have a good trip!

Thanks so much…just what I was looking for! Hope to do something similar in 2024.

Is there a way to contact anyone about these trips. Can’t find email or phone number.

Hi, these are just trip itineraries I went on personally and wrote about to help others. I don’t take personal phone calls or offer more advise than small questions, like others have asked here in the comments.

Hi. Love the itinerary. We are planning for a road trip but would like to include Page, AZ for Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe bend. What would you advise. We will be travelling with 2 kids ages 11 &7. Thank you!

Those would also be great places to visit! It really depends on how much time you have for your trip. If you have an extra 1 or 2 days or more you could definitely include Page/Antelope in this itinerary before you drive onto Monument Valley. Or you can substitute the trip to Page instead of Mesa Verde. Antelope Canyon also requires reservations so check their website when you’re planning.

I love the idea of this tour of Parks, We have a 29 foot travel trailer, would we be able to find spots to overnight at these parks or close to them? Not sure how that works, not knowing if there are RV parks in the area. Thanks for your suggestions. Laurie

Hi, yes I’m certain you could find spots in or near the parks with a trailer as many people bring their RV’s. You’ll have to be careful on certain roads however, such as on the way from Bryce to Zion, you’ll want to follow a certain road which I mention in my article here: https://cameraandacanvas.com/driving-bryce-canyon-to-zion-national-park/ Before you make your trip just look up campground around each national park you want to visit to find good spots for RV’s, they will be there!

This itinerary is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you for sharing! Could you recommend any places to stay along the way? And what time of year did you make this trip?

Hi, I’m so glad it could help you! I made the trip at the beginning of October, the weather was beautiful then and it wasn’t too crowded! As for places to stay, as you scroll through this article, I do make recommendations on the different locations to stay at(and in more detail in the links about each place).

Such great information, thanks for sharing. It looks like you had a great time! It sounds like I need a month to explore over there because I love to hike too!

Yes a month would be a great amount of time! The 2 weeks that we had was enough to get a good feel for each place, but if you really want to explore and do more hikes and see other parts of the park, you’d at least need a month 🙂

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Driving To Monument Valley And Four Corners From Las Vegas

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove 

When you fly into Las Vegas you get a bird’s eye view of the American Southwest. You look across the desert and you can imagine yourself out there, lost, looking for direction. Take it easy, that rental car of yours probably has a GPS system and the highways are pretty easy to find. So if you feel like you want to see America, Las Vegas is the perfect place to base your adventurous journey.

You’ll check into your posh hotel and then embark on a few days of exploring.

Grab a map, some energy bars and plenty of water because with so many National Parks to see you will find it hard to pick just one.

The wide open spaces of the Southwest are best described in the images that can be captured in and around Monument Valley. The dessert opens up like an ocean of sandstone with tiny ships dotted along the horizon. The towers look like sailboats with a full sail and a timeless existence set against the deep blue of the sky above and the ​ever-changing reds of the earth they sit on. The tapestry that is this desert landscape deserves more attention but so few tourists make their way onto those highways from places like Las Vegas and Phoenix and Colorado. That is good news for you, so get in a car and explore the spaces outside of Las Vegas.

More Road Trips From Las Vegas

• Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park
• Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park
• Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park
• Las Vegas to Arches National Park
• Las Vegas to Mesa Verde National Park
• Las Vegas to Four Corners National Monument
• Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park

Four Corners Monument and Monument Valley from Las Vegas 454 miles – 7 hours of driving Driving directions via Google maps

Wow! You will not stop saying it. You’ll look across the desert and see these towers, these monuments and you’ll be impressed. Stop along the highway and pick up some sand and let it run through your fingers. It’s so red, it’s soft in some spots like fine sand and grainy in other places like gravel. The area is fascinating because of the geology but you’ll meet the Navajo people and then the culture of the valley really draws you in.

How is the drive from Las Vegas to Four Corners Monument and Monument Valley?  This would seem like a long drive to see some rocks, but the truth is if you combine it with a stop at Mesa Verde or a roundabout return to the Grand Canyon you can easily appreciate the extra time in the car. I’m a rock guy so this area and especially Monument Valley at dusk is on my top ten lists of places I have been able to visit.

If you can find a campsite in the area try sleeping under the stars before you head back to Las Vegas. The late afternoon sun makes for a dramatic shift to darkness and the sunrise is an explosion of colors that only the southwestern desert can deliver. 

Things To See Driving from Las Vegas to Four Corners Monument and Monument Valley  Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Kanab, Utah Four Corners Monument Monument Valley

Need Las Vegas updates? Follow me on Twitter @ZekeQuezada

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Archaeology Road Trip: 10 Days in the Four Corners Region

By Kassia Lawrence

For the ultimate archaeology road trip through the Four Corners region, look no further! From the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park to the petroglyphs at Chaco Canyon, the sandstone spires in Canyon de Chelly, and plenty of other incredible dwellings, hikes, and sites in between, this 10-day itinerary is the southwestern archaeology itinerary of a lifetime.

There are multiple options for getting to Mesa Verde Country ! If you are flying, you can fly into the Cortez Municipal Airport and rent a car. If you are driving and have a few extra days, we recommend exploring the San Juan Skyway as well – Colorado’s most scenic drive! This itinerary will follow parts of the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway with added stops on the way. 

While this is the route we recommend, you can always skip or add days as you see fit! If you don’t have enough time to see it all, please come and visit again! 

Day 1: Mesa Verde National Park

For your first stop on your archaeology road trip, start in Cortez. From here, you will head into Mesa Verde National Park , so make sure to grab a hearty breakfast and lots of snacks and water before leaving town. Stop by the Visitor and Research Center on your way in to grab a map and chat with park rangers about the history of the Ancestral Puebloans who made this landscape their home.

Mesa Top Loop Road

After the Visitor Center, head to the Mesa Top Loop Road on Chapin Mesa. This is a six-mile drive with short, easily-accessible paved trails viewing 12 archeological sites. Some of our favorite stops on the drive include Square Tower House Overlook, and views of Cliff Palace from Sun Point View. The Mesa Top Loop Road is an amazing place to see not only incredible cliff dwellings, but the evolution of architecture for the Ancestral Puebloan people!

Pro tip: Download the audio tour , A Pueblo Perspective on Mesa Verde, and listen while you drive throughout the park. 

Once you’ve driven the Mesa Top Loop Road, head back toward the Far View Area.

Far View Sites Complex

From here you will continue your self-guided tour of the park. The Far View Sites Complex includes Far View House, four other villages, and a dry reservoir. The unpaved 3/4-mile easy trail is a great way to view the villages and the beautiful surrounding landscape, and trailside signs will guide you on your archaeology-rich walk. After a full day exploring Chapin Mesa, enjoy a lovely evening staying at the Far View Lodge or camping at the Morefield Campground (both located in the center of the park). In the summer there are often evening programs held by park rangers at the Morefield Amphitheater. Be sure to check with the Visitor Center for current times.

Day 2: Mesa Verde National Park & Mancos, CO

For your second day, start out with a ranger-assisted tour of Long House on Wetherill Mesa. Tour tickets can be purchased at recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777, and can be purchased 14 days in advance. These tours sell out quickly, so we recommend planning ahead. Long House will show you the quieter side of Mesa Verde. It will also showcase spectacular architectural features that are not often found in other Mesa Verde archaeological sites. This tour is 60 minutes long, and involves hiking 2.25 miles roundtrip and climbing two 15-foot ladders within the site. 

Bonus Archaeology Road Trip Stop: Explore the Step House on Wetherill Mesa on a self-guided tour. Give yourself about an hour for this 1.6-mile roundtrip hike. You will see pithouses, cliff dwellings, and petroglyphs nestled just under the mesa rim.

After your tour, it’s time to head to Mancos for some delicious food and drinks and a wide variety of accommodations and lodging . We recommend you stop by Fenceline Cider for a refreshing hard cider. Their ciders are crafted with wild and heritage apples and fruits that thrive in the Mancos Valley and Colorado Plateau.

Day 3: Aztec Ruins National Monument & Farmington, NM

From Mancos, you are going to head south on this southwestern archaeology road trip to Aztec Ruins National Monument in northwestern New Mexico. Puebloan people describe this site as part of their migration journey. Today you can explore 900-year old archaeological sites, hear diverse perspectives from Puebloan people, and walk through the Heritage Garden. Wild plants that people in the Southwest have used for thousands of years are still grown here. Make sure to walk along the Aztec West Self-Guided Trail to see the ancestral Pueblo “Great House” and “Great Kiva”. You can walk into these structures, and see the original mortar and wooden roofing for yourself. After exploring Aztec Ruins, head to Farmington, NM to stay for the evening . 

When in Rome: We encourage you to try some famous New Mexican chile while in Farmington – it won’t be hard to find, and it will be tasty!

Day 4: Chaco Culture National Historical Park

For your fourth day, visit the remote Chaco Culture National Historical Park , also referred to as Chaco Canyon. This stop on your archaeology road trip is isolated and offers few amenities. Come prepared with a picnic lunch, lots of snacks, water, sunscreen, good shoes for walking, and layers. Chaco Canyon is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s no surprise, as its significance is based on its 4,000 prehistoric and historic archaeological sites, representing more than 10,000 years of human cultural history.

We suggest stopping by the Visitor Center first to pick up a map and then driving the nine-mile loop. The Loop Road will give you access to five major Chacoan sites, including Pueblo Bonito (the most celebrated site in the canyon). Each of these sites do require some walking but are wheelchair accessible with assistance. Get ready to be wowed by the peaceful and serene scenery and mind-blowing dwellings, structures, and astronomical pictographs and petroglyphs. 

Looking for a bit more of a hike and want to spot some rock art? Make sure to check out the Petroglyph Trail, stretching between Pueblo Bonito and Chetro Ketl. Remember that these environments and sites are fragile and need to be treated with care. Please stay on the trail and don’t climb on any of the rocks. After you’ve spent the day exploring Chaco, head back to Farmington for the evening. We recommend stopping by the Rambler Taproom for a post-adventure beverage. 

Day 5: Shiprock, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, & Chinle, AZ

Shiprock, nm.

Leave Farmington early in the morning on your fifth day, and head west toward Shiprock , New Mexico. This towering volcanic formation has been sacred to the Navajo people for hundreds of years and is referred to as Tse Bit’ a’i. There is no hiking, camping, or climbing allowed on the peak or the surrounding rock formations. Because driving the dirt road that leads to the pinnacle is also not allowed, visitors are asked to view and photograph Shiprock from either Indian Service Route 13, or from U.S. Highway 491. Please respect the local Navajo community and enjoy this majestic site from afar.  

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, AZ

After spending some time taking photos of the peak, head southwest to Canyon de Chelly National Monument just outside of Chinle, Arizona. This canyon system is a very special place; for nearly 5,000 years, people have lived in these canyons (longer than anyone has lived uninterrupted anywhere on the Colorado Plateau). The Ancestral Puebloans, followed by Hopi and then Navajo, have called Canyon de Chelly their homes. Today more than 40 families live at the bottom of the canyon.

We recommend visiting the Welcome Center for the most up-to-date information on activities in the canyon, and taking a scenic drive along the North or South Rim. You won’t be allowed into Canyon de Chelly without a guid e , so plan ahead or enjoy the views from the rim. Keep an eye out for Spider Rock—an 800-foot sandstorm spire. After you’ve had your fill of red canyon views, head to Chinle for the evening. 

Foodie tip: While in Navajo Nation, make sure to stop and have some traditional Navajo fry bread – it’s always a treat!

Day 6: Monument Valley, Edge of the Cedars State Park & Blanding, UT

On your sixth day, head north toward the border of Arizona and Utah. Your first stop will be Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park . This awe-inspiring landscape was first settled in by the Ancestral Puebloans around 12,000 BCE. They were followed by the Navajo people who still live here today. Take a self-guided tour of the valley on the 17-mile Valley Drive, or take a hike on Wildcat Trail , a four-mile loop that wraps around the West Mitten Butte with great views of East Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte as well. These are the only two self-guided options for Monument Valley. If you’d like something more adventurous or in-depth, we recommend you hire a tour operator .   

After your morning in Monument Valley, continue north to Blanding, Utah. There are plenty of incredible archaeological sites around Blanding to visit. One of our favorite spots is right downtown! Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum has the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery on display in the Four Corners region, and the museum was built at the site of an ancient village. The restored kiva and several other structures are right behind the museum and allow for self-guided exploration. Spend the evening relaxing in Blanding after an action packed day.

Day 7: Butler Wash Ruins & Cortez, CO 

Butler Wash Ruins are just a short drive from Blanding. This cliff dwelling village was built by the Ancestral Puebloans around 1,200 BCE and has four kivas, living quarters, and storage structures. The hike is one mile round trip and shouldn’t take more than an hour. Please be aware, there is no water at this site, so make sure to come prepared with water, snacks, and sunscreen! 

After your hike to Butler Wash Ruins, head east back over the border to Cortez, Colorado. Spend the afternoon wandering through galleries and trading posts in town, enjoying the local art scene .

Bonus Archaeology Road Trip Stop: Before you leave Utah, visit Natural Bridges National Monument ! Drive through the scenic park, and stop if you’d like to hike to Kachina Bridge, Owachomo Bridge and Sipapu Bridge. These were named in honor of the Ancestral Puebloans who lived here. If you are interested in a longer hike, consider the walk out to the Horse Collar Ruin Overlook to catch a glimpse of some well preserved ancient dwellings.

Day 8: Hovenweep National Monument & Crow Canyon Archaeological Center

On your eighth day, head to Hovenweep National Monument just outside of Cortez. This National Monument shows human habitation dating back over 10,000 years to when nomadic Paleoindians came to gather food and hunt game. The towers of Hovenweep (one of the many characteristics that makes this site unique) were built by Ancestral Puebloans by the late 12,000’s. We recommend hiking the Square Tower loop trail to see Square Tower, Hovenweep Castle, and Hovenweep House. The trail starts at the visitor center, and is about two miles roundtrip. To make a longer hike, keep going to the Holly Group where you will be able to see more impressive tower structures (Tilted Tower and Holly Tower). This hike will be around eight miles in length. 

Once you’ve had your fill of winding desert hikes and stunning ancient structures for the day, head back to Cortez. Just west of downtown, stop by the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center and participate in an immersive workshop or to just visit the research facility.

Day 9: Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park

For your second to last day in Mesa Verde Country and on your archaeology road trip, head to the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park . Just south of Cortez, visit for an Indigenous perspective on the area. Tours in this landscape rich with history are guided by Ute Indians. They have a broad knowledge of Ute and Ancestral Puebloan cultures. The tours include Ute history and rock art, surface sites, and cliff dwellings. The full day tour (which we highly recommend) visits four magnificent cliff dwellings. It requires a three-mile walk on unpaved trails and scaling ladders. In order to protect the fragile resources, self-guided tours are not permitted. Visit www.utemountaintribalpark.info or call 970-565-9653 for tour information.

Note: The guided tours in Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park require physical activity for extended periods of time, and are not handicap accessible. Please be sure to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes. Above all, come prepared for an adventure!

After a day spent adsorbing the Indigenous heritage of Ute Mountain, it will be time for a delicious dinner. Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos have an amazing selection of dining experiences with a cornucopia of flavors in every direction. From the original indigenous crops grown here to Southwestern flavors, to the influx of renowned chefs who have made the area home, to the return to farm-to-table tradition, the taste of southwest Colorado will have something for everyone.

Day 10: Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

On the last day of your whirlwind archaeology road trip, close out your trip with Canyons of the Ancients National Monument . This amazing stop contains the highest known archaeological site density in the United States. Stop by the Visitor Center and Museum before you head into the Monument for a map of the area and some direction from a ranger. We recommend you visit the impressive Lowry Pueblo, as this site has 40 rooms, eight kivas, and a Great Kiva. If you want to spend the full day at Canyons of the Ancients, we suggest you also visit Painted Hand Pueblo—a beautiful standing tower perched on a boulder. The pictographs at this site are well worth the trip. As always, these paintings and structures are incredibly fragile, so look but never touch.

Plan your trip today

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Prepared By:

Traveler & Content Creator

Road Trip through Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah

Start / End

Cortez, Colorado

States Covered

National parks and monuments.

Mesa Verde National Park, Aztec Ruins National Monument, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park and Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

Suggested Days

Suggested seasons.

Spring, Summer, Fall

#ThisIsMyRoute

Getting started .

There are multiple options for getting to Cortez! If you are flying, you can fly into the   Cortez Municipal Airport   and rent a car. If you are driving and have a few extra days, we recommend exploring the   San Juan Skyway   as well – Colorado’s most scenic drive! This itinerary will follow parts of the   Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway   with added stops on the way. 

While this is the route we recommend, you can always skip or add days as you see fit. If you don’t have enough time to see it all you may just have to plan another road trip in the future! 

CHAPIN MESA AT MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK

For your first stop on your archaeology road trip, start in Cortez. From here, you will head into  Mesa Verde National Park , so make sure to grab a hearty breakfast and lots of snacks and water before leaving town. Stop by the Visitor and Research Center on your way in to grab a map and chat with park rangers about the history of the Ancestral Puebloans who made this landscape their home.

Mesa Top Loop Road

After the Visitor Center, head to the Mesa Top Loop Road on Chapin Mesa. This is a six-mile drive with short, easily-accessible paved trails viewing 12 archeological sites. Some of our favorite stops on the drive include Square Tower House Overlook and views of Cliff Palace from Sun Point View. The Mesa Top Loop Road is an amazing place to see not only incredible cliff dwellings but the evolution of architecture for the Ancestral Puebloan people! Once you’ve driven the Mesa Top Loop Road, head back toward the Far View Area.

Best Learning Opportunity: Download the audio tour

Far view sites complex.

From here you will continue your self-guided tour of the park. The Far View Sites Complex includes Far View House, four other villages, and a dry reservoir. The unpaved 3/4-mile easy trail is a great way to view the villages and beautiful surrounding landscape. Trailside signs will guide you on your archaeology-rich walk. After a full day exploring Chapin Mesa, enjoy a lovely evening staying at the Far View Lodge or camping at the Morefield Campground (both located in the center of the park). In the summer there are often evening programs held by park rangers at the Morefield Amphitheater. Be sure to check with the Visitor Center for current times.

Best Evening Activity: Morefield Campground Evening Program

Best fine dining in the park: metate room restaurant, wetherill mesa at mesa verde national park & mancos, co.

For your second day, start out with a ranger-assisted tour of Long House on Wetherill Mesa. Tour tickets can be purchased at  recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777 and can be purchased 14 days in advance. These tours sell out quickly, so we recommend planning ahead. Long House will show you the quieter side of Mesa Verde. It will also showcase spectacular architectural features that are not often found in other Mesa Verde archaeological sites. This tour is 60 minutes long and involves hiking 2.25 miles roundtrip and climbing two 15-foot ladders within the site. After your tour, it’s time to head to Mancos for some delicious food and drinks and great spots to spend the evening.

Bonus Archaeology Road Trip Stop: Self-Guided Tour at Step House on Wetherill Mesa

Must-try refreshing beverages: fenceline cider, best americana motel: mesa verde motel, explore local art: artisans of mancos, best dinner spot: chavolo’s mexican restaurant, aztec ruins national monument & farmington, nm.

From Mancos, you are going to head south on this southwestern archaeology road trip to  Aztec Ruins National Monument in northwestern New Mexico. Puebloan people describe this site as part of their migration journey. Today you can explore 900-year old archaeological sites, hear diverse perspectives from Puebloan people, and walk through the Heritage Garden. Wild plants that people in the Southwest have used for thousands of years are still grown here. Make sure to walk along the Aztec West Self-Guided Trail to see the ancestral Pueblo “Great House” and “Great Kiva”. You can walk into these structures, and see the original mortar and wooden roofing for yourself. After exploring Aztec Ruins, head to Farmington, NM to stay for the evening. 

Stay in a Cave: Kokopelli’s Cave

Experience new mexican cuisine: the chile pod, best photo op: the bisti badlands, grab a beer: rambler taproom, chaco culture national historical park.

For your fourth day, visit the remote   Chaco Culture National Historical Park , also referred to as Chaco Canyon. This stop on your archaeology road trip is isolated and offers few amenities. Come prepared with a picnic lunch, lots of snacks, water, sunscreen, good shoes for walking, and layers. Chaco Canyon is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s no surprise, as its significance is based on its 4,000 prehistoric and historic archaeological sites, representing more than 10,000 years of human cultural history.

We suggest stopping by the Visitor Center first to pick up a map and then driving the nine-mile loop. The Loop Road will give you access to five major Chacoan sites, including Pueblo Bonito (the most celebrated site in the canyon). Each of these sites do require some walking but are wheelchair accessible with assistance. Get ready to be wowed by the peaceful and serene scenery and mind-blowing dwellings, structures, and astronomical pictographs and petroglyphs. Remember that these environments and sites are fragile and need to be treated with care. Please stay on the trail and don’t climb on any of the rocks. After you’ve spent the day exploring Chaco, head back to Farmington for the evening.

Go for a Hike and Spot Rock Art: Petroglyph Trail

Shop for diné goods, textiles and crafts: local trading posts, best coffee in farmington: oso grande coffee company, shiprock, canyon de chelly national monument, & chinle, az, tse bit’ a’i or shiprock, nm.

Leave Farmington early in the morning on your fifth day and head west toward Shiprock , New Mexico. This towering volcanic formation has been sacred to the Navajo people for hundreds of years and is referred to as Tse Bit’ a’i. There is no hiking, camping, or climbing allowed on the peak or the surrounding rock formations. Because driving the dirt road that leads to the pinnacle is also not allowed, visitors are asked to view and photograph Shiprock from either Indian Service Route 13 or from U.S. Highway 491. Please respect the local Navajo community and enjoy this majestic site from afar. 

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, AZ

After spending some time taking photos of the peak, head southwest to   Canyon de Chelly National Monument   just outside of Chinle, Arizona. This canyon system is a very special place; for nearly 5,000 years, people have lived in these canyons (longer than anyone has lived uninterrupted anywhere on the Colorado Plateau). The Ancestral Puebloans, followed by Hopi and then Navajo, have called Canyon de Chelly their homes. Today more than 40 families live at the bottom of the canyon.

We recommend visiting the Welcome Center for the most up-to-date information on activities in the canyon, and taking a scenic drive along the North or South Rim. You won’t be allowed into Canyon de Chelly without   a guide , so plan ahead   or enjoy the views from the rim. Keep an eye out for Spider Rock—an 800-foot sandstorm spire. After you’ve had your fill of red canyon views, head to Chinle for the evening or stay at the Thunderbird Lodge in Canyon de Chelly.

Indigenous Guide:  Canyon de Chelly Tours

Learn about the legend: spider rock, must-try local food: navajo fry bread, monument valley, edge of the cedars state park & blanding, ut.

On your sixth day, head north toward the border of Arizona and Utah. Your first stop will be  Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park . This awe-inspiring landscape was first settled in by the Ancestral Puebloans around 12,000 BCE. They were followed by the Navajo people who still live here today. Take a self-guided tour of the valley on the 17-mile Valley Drive, or take a hike on  Wildcat Trail , a four-mile loop that wraps around the West Mitten Butte with great views of East Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte as well. These are the only two self-guided options for Monument Valley. If you’d like something more adventurous or in-depth, we recommend you  hire a tour operator .   

After your morning in Monument Valley, continue north to Blanding, Utah. There are plenty of incredible archaeological sites around Blanding to visit. One of our favorite spots is right downtown!  Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum  has the largest collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery on display in the Four Corners region, and the museum was built at the site of an ancient village. The restored kiva and several other structures are right behind the museum and allow for self-guided exploration. Spend the evening relaxing in Blanding after an action packed day.

Best Photo Op: Forrest Gump Point

Private tour with one of the last navajo code talkers: storytelling with peter macdonald, stay in a cozy cabin: abajo haven guest cabins, butler wash ruins & cortez, co.

Butler Wash Ruins is  just a short drive from Blanding. This cliff dwelling village was built by the Ancestral Puebloans around 1,200 BCE and has four kivas, living quarters, and storage structures. The   hike   is one mile round trip and shouldn’t take more than an hour. Please be aware, there is no water at this site, so make sure to come prepared with water, snacks, and sunscreen!

Bonus Archaeology Road Trip Stop: Natural Bridges National Monument

After your hike to Butler Wash Ruins, head east back over the border to Cortez, Colorado. Spend the afternoon wandering through galleries and trading posts in town, enjoying the   local art scene .

Best Place to Stay: Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch

Learn more about the history & diversity of the area: cortez cultural center ., visit a local vineyard: sutcliffe vineyards, hovenweep national monument & crow canyon archaeological center.

On your eighth day, head to  Hovenweep National Monument just outside of Cortez. This National Monument shows human habitation dating back over 10,000 years to when nomadic Paleoindians came to gather food and hunt game. The towers of Hovenweep (one of the many characteristics that makes this site unique) were built by Ancestral Puebloans by the late 12,000’s. We recommend hiking the Square Tower loop trail to see Square Tower, Hovenweep Castle, and Hovenweep House. The trail starts at the visitor center, and is about two miles roundtrip. 

Once you’ve had your fill of winding desert hikes and stunning ancient structures for the day, head back to Cortez. Just west of downtown, stop by the  Crow Canyon Archaeological Center  and participate in an immersive workshop or to just visit the research facility.

Longer Hike at Hovenweep: Holly Group

Indulge with a pastry: the pie maker bakery, stop for a pint: wildedge brewing collective, ute mountain ute tribal park.

For your second to last day in the Four Corners region and on your archaeology road trip, head to the  Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park . Just south of Cortez, visit for an Indigenous perspective on the area. Tours in this history-rich landscape are guided by Ute Indians. They have a broad knowledge of Ute and Ancestral Puebloan cultures. The tours include Ute history and rock art, surface sites, and cliff dwellings. The full day tour (which we highly recommend) visits four magnificent cliff dwellings. It requires a three-mile walk on unpaved trails and scaling ladders. In order to protect the fragile resources, self-guided tours are not permitted. Visit www.utemountaintribalpark.info  or call 970-565-9653 for tour information.

Note: The guided tours in Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park require physical activity for extended periods of time, and are not handicap accessible. Please be sure to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes. Above all, come prepared for an adventure!

After a day spent absorbing the Indigenous heritage of Ute Mountain, it will be time for a delicious dinner. Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos have an amazing selection of dining experiences   with a cornucopia of flavors in every direction. From the original indigenous crops grown here to Southwestern flavors, to the influx of renowned chefs who have made the area home, to the return to farm-to-table tradition, the taste of southwest Colorado will have something for everyone.

Farm to Table: The Farm Bistro

Beer and a great patio: dolores river brewery, canyons of the ancients national monument.

On the last day of your whirlwind archaeology road trip, close out your trip with  Canyons of the Ancients National Monument . This amazing stop contains the highest known archaeological site density in the United States. Stop by the  Visitor Center and Museum  before you head into the Monument for a map of the area and some direction from a ranger. We recommend you visit the impressive Lowry Pueblo, as this site has 40 rooms, eight kivas, and a Great Kiva. If you want to spend the full day at Canyons of the Ancients, we suggest you also visit Painted Hand Pueblo—a beautiful standing tower perched on a boulder. The pictographs at this site are well worth the trip. As always, these paintings and structures are incredibly fragile, so look but never touch.

Mountain Bike Through the Monument: Canyons of the Ancients Loop

Enjoy the night skies: stargaze among ancient dwellings.

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The Timeless Landscape of the Four Corners

Josephine Matyas Sep 3, 2020 16 min read

T he high desert of the American Southwest (which includes the Four Corners) is a very popular winter destination for Canadian RVing snowbirds. But for the 2020/21 fall and winter, with the boarders closed and the pandemic situation still unfolding, many travellers are finding their visits to the Four Corners region on hold.

At this point in time we don’t know when the border will open, but we are also choosing to err on the side of caution when it comes to health-related risks.

We are looking forward to making it happen when it is safe to do so – and we’re already talking about it and planning for fall and winter 2021/22!

There are moments when I worship our GPS, but overall I admit a predilection for paper maps. I like to see a wide view of the landscape we are driving through and to have it on something tangible; and nowhere is this truer than the Four Corners region of the Southwest. It’s an area so high on our travel list that we have a framed version of the map hanging in our living room.

The Four Corners is the only spot in the United States where four states borders intersect – Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona – in a timeless landscape filled with mountains, mesas, buttes, red rock, high desert and gaping canyons. It’s also home to the most traditional cultures in America: a sacred land to the Navajo, Hopi, Zuni and Ute people who honour the traditions of their ancestors.

This is widely known as Grand Canyon country … but that’s not all there is – not by a long stretch. The majority of visitors make a stop at Grand Canyon National Park, look at the emptiness on the map to the north and east, determine there is nothing there and then point their vehicle in the opposite direction. They drive away having missed starkly beautiful scenery in the very heart of the Southwest.

Roads criss-cross the Four Corners region, some of them blacktop, some dirt washboard, with some that are not RV-friendly (stopping to ask the advice of a local is a good idea, especially for some of the more remote routes). They lead to and from ancient ruins and communities, telling the stories of the Ancestral Puebloans, the Native Americans who lived in villages – pueblos – and from whom many of today’s Southwest tribes are descended. They each have stories to tell – of the ways these great cultures intersected, how migrations occurred, powerful communities disbanded, and new ones grew and flourished, continuing traditions laid down by their ancestors.

There is so much to see and do in the Four Corners that it takes books to list them all: hikes, museums, off-road tours into canyons, archaeological sights, Native American cultural stops, boating and visits to national and state parks. These are some of our favourite spots – most are in Arizona but some are beyond – although by no means an exhaustive list of what’s available.

LAND AND CULTURE ARE INSEPARABLE

The Colorado Plateau (the geological formation making up the Four Corners) is a windswept high desert – and this can mean cooler temperatures in the winter months, making spring and fall excellent times for an RV road trip. AAA publishes an invaluable, detailed road map called Indian Country , available at AAA offices in the Southwest and for sale at local shops. It shows every tiny crossroads community and every small roadway and is our go-to paper map for the entire Four Corners.

It’s also a remote region, so RVers should prepare with extra water and food, a working cell phone and clothes to suit the season. “Desert” does not mean always hot, although it does mean dry. Stores and gas stations can be few and far between. Camping options are a mix of national and state parks, private campgrounds and boondocking, often in spectacular settings where the air is scented with sage and pine.

Julian Smith, author of the MOON guidebook to the Four Corners describes the region as “all about deposition, uplift and erosion.” Layers of sediment accumulated, then lifted towards the sky by energies below ground and then finally moulded by the forces of wind, rain and ice. This was not a fast process: 300-million years of depositing, lifting and eroding formed the jaw-dropping mesas and canyons that punctuate the landscape.

Flagstaff Museum

To understand and appreciate the Four Corners, an excellent starting point is the Museum of Northern Arizona on the outskirts of Flagstaff. Tucked into a stand of fragrant ponderosa pine, the museum is a place of cultural stewardship – it’s a primer to the Colorado Plateau and the geological and biological forces that shaped it as well as the more recent human cultural evolution. The displays at the museum are a snapshot of life on the Colorado Plateau – from the rugs woven by Navajo women and the carved Hopi katsina dolls to the way the biodiversity of the region is changing due to the forces of climate change.

The northeast quarter of Arizona – that area north of Interstate 40 and east of Grand Canyon National Park is filled with driving routes and stops for travellers who are not deterred by an out-of-the-way landscape. Flagstaff is a popular home base for visitors to the Grand Canyon and along with the motels and restaurants it has the full spectrum of services any RVer would need: laundromats, propane fill stations, grocery stores, campgrounds, potable water and dump stations.

SIGHTS ALONG THE WELL-TRAVELLED INTERSTATE

In addition to the excellent museum in Flagstaff, we stopped at the Lowell Observatory , home to The Pluto Discovery Telescope, a solar telescope to view the Sun and an open-air observing plaza with six advanced telescopes to gaze at the night sky. In 2001, Flagstaff was named as the world’s first Dark Sky Community, recognizing its safe lighting practices and moves to reduce light pollution.

Observatory

Sunset Crater

A short drive outside Flagstaff, the nearly symmetrical black lava cinder cone at Sunset Crater Volcano is what remains of an explosion and lava flow occurring almost a thousand years ago. At the time of the eruption, molten rock sprayed high into the air, solidified, and then plummeted to Earth as small cinders and large lava bombs. The easy Lava Flow Trail passes through hardened lava and cinder barrens to the base of Sunset Crater. The 800-year-old masonry pueblo remains at nearby Wupatki National Monument were once home to an ancient people who dry-farmed crops in the shadow of Sunset Crater. According to Native legend, the site’s blowhole in the rock surface where air rushes in and out is where the Earth breathes. There’s a self-guided trail, but tag along and eavesdrop if you see a park ranger leading a guided tour.

Walnut Canyon

Meteor Crater

Not far off Interstate 40 east of Flagstaff, Sunset Crater Volcano ’s well-preserved cliff dwellings were once home to the ancient Sinagua people (named to reflect the people’s ability to live “without water”). We huffed up the steep trail to the dozen preserved cliff dwellings with superb views over piñon, cacti and ponderosa pine-covered slopes. Nearby, about 50,000 years ago (a blink of an eye in geological terms) an asteroid collided with the Earth and the result is Meteor Crater , the first proven meteor crater in the world, and large enough to fit downtown San Francisco across its bottom. The stop at the picture-worthy crossroads in Winslow for a little 20 th -century culture is irresistible (yes, it was immortalized by the Eagles: I’m a standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona ), complete with a red flatbed Ford. Petrified Forest National Park ’s 45-kilometre main drive is a vista of geological wonders captured in the colourful crystal patterns of petrified wood scattered throughout this vast desert park. Legend has it that thieves who pilfer the pieces of petrified wood will be cursed with bad luck. The Visitor Center displays include letters from sorrowful visitors who are returning their cursed pieces of petrified wood.

TURNING NORTH TO EXPLORE THE HEART OF THE FOUR CORNERS

Winslow, Arizona is the point where we make sure our Roadtrek Class B is gassed up and we are fully stocked before we turn north to head into the heart of the Four Corners region. Often bypassed, the dozen Hopi villages – perched on First, Second and Third Mesas – get a fraction of those that flock to larger centres like Phoenix. The mesa villages are authentic destinations for travellers interested in Native American history, culture and archaeology.

The Hopi are an Ancestral Puebloan people who trace their proud heritage to the great cultures that once inhabited the sprawling communities at Mesa Verde, Canyon de Chelly and Chaco Canyon. They have carefully guarded their beliefs and heritage and welcome visitors to their traditional, mesa-top villages and to the Hopi Cultural Center a place that introduces visitors to the deeply-spiritual ways of one of the continent’s oldest civilizations. Shops and small galleries along the Hopi Arts Trail are a way to connect with local artists who produce coiled baskets, brightly-painted katsina dolls, pottery and silver jewellery. These are small communities and it’s important to respect the culture, tradition and lifestyle of the people who live there. Ask before snapping photos; don’t trespass onto private property. Many sacred ceremonies are closed to the public, so it’s best to check first and to follow respectful decorum at all times.

Hubbell Trading Post

An hour east of Second Mesa, the Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado is a National Historic Site. The stone-walled, traditional trading post is the oldest continuously operating trading post in the Navajo Nation, open for more than a century. It’s also a good spot for the serious collector to purchase high quality Navajo rugs, Pueblo katsina dolls, pottery and paintings in a historic location. Even if you aren’t buying, it’s worth the stop to soak in the authentic setting, squeaky wooden floorboards and the long counters displaying the work of world-class artisans.

Canyon de Chelly

Just a short drive north of the trading post, the majestic Canyon de Chelly National

Monument – described as “the most sacred place on Earth” – is a labyrinth of precipitous sandstone gorges, towering rock spires, small forests of Russian olive and pine trees, ancient ruins and fertile farmlands still being worked by Navajo families. Scenic drives and hiking trails line the north and south rims and there is one short public trail to the White House ruin, an Ancient Puebloan village on the canyon floor dating to A.D. 1060. There are few sites in the Southwest as breathtaking as Canyon de Chelly’s Spider Rock, a towering 230-million-year-old red sandstone obelisk rising 229 metres, that legend tells is home to Spider Woman, the holy woman who taught the Navajo how to weave.

There are free ranger-led hikes into the canyon but for a deeper and more detailed exploration of this very special site, we took a jeep tour with an authorized Navajo guide. The park’s Cottonwood Campground has 90 campsites available, each with a picnic table and grill, that can accommodate RVs up to 40-feet in length (including tow vehicles). There are restrooms and a dump station but no showers or hook-ups.

THE FOUR CORNERS BEYOND ARIZONA

Monument Valley

Crossing the northern border of Arizona into Utah brings a jolt of recognition. The spellbinding Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park has been the backdrop for countless movies and television commercials. It’s a dreamlike vista of red sandstone formations, fragile pinnacles, buttes and mesas where land and culture are tightly woven together. Legend says the sandstone spires of Monument Valley mark the bodies of slain monsters. The rutted loop drive is not RV-friendly but Navajo guides show off the best of the mesmerizing landscape on jeep tours into the backcountry. We had beautiful overlooks from our campground at The View ; although there are no hook-ups, full restroom and shower facilities are available to all campers. The historic Goulding’s Trading Post near the entrance to the park has an RV campground with site views over Monument Valley. RV sites have full hook-ups, picnic tables, grills, with access to bathrooms and showers, indoor pool and Wi-Fi.

It’s an easy half-day drive from Monument Valley east through a land of red and orange rocks to the base of Mesa Verde National Park , the only park in the national system based on human activity rather than natural features alone. The park protects the remains of thousands of cliff dwellings, pithouses, kivas (traditional ceremonial rooms) and stone structures, all built 2,600 metres atop the flat-topped mesa in southwest Colorado. It’s a steep, twisty drive to the sights and the campground at the top of the mesa, so best done only by those comfortable with challenging road conditions. At this elevation there is about 20 per cent less oxygen than at sea level. We slowed down, stopped often to rest on walks and hikes. We camped several nights at the park’s Morefield Campground; there are 267 sites but just 15 full hook-up RV sites (reservations required). The campground has an RV dump station, laundry, showers and nearby gas station and grocery store.

At one time, thousands of people lived in the Mesa Verde dwellings – embedded in a brutally challenging environment on the sides of the cliffs. Somehow, between gathering food, water, tending animals and children, they hand-built brick and mud dwellings in the rock face, filled them with articles of clothing and thousands of handcrafted baskets and clay pots. They domesticated dogs and turkeys – whose feathers they used for clothing – and did everything, including transporting water, by hand. They achieved this all without beasts of burden, the horse or the wheel. Then mysteriously they suddenly moved, but did not disappear; their descendants live along the Rio Grande and on the Hopi lands in Arizona.

Why did they migrate to where the geography is harsh and unforgiving, dry and exposed to the elements, teetering on the cliff face, hard to get into and hard to get out of? Why did they suddenly leave generations later after putting so much ingenuity and labour into these elaborate homes and ceremonial kivas? Mesa Verde protects this history and explores the answers to these questions.

The park has kilometres of hiking trails, but stops into Balcony House, Cliff Palace and Long House cliff dwellings can only be visited by taking a ranger-guided tour. There’s a full menu of guided tours – we opted for the ranger-led 151-room Cliff Palace tour as well as the half-day 700 Years Tour, where guides use the architecture of pithouses, kivas and masonry walls to illustrate the changes along a timeline from 600 to 1300 A.D.

The imposing Cliff Palace is one of the park’s 600 cliff dwellings and at 151 rooms is the largest excavated cliff dwelling in the northwest hemisphere. The Ancestral Puebloan people who lived and worked and raised families under these rock overhangs were there for 750 years, three times as long as the United States has been a country.

It’s a short drive from Mesa Verde into northwest New Mexico and one of our favourite sites in North America, Chaco Culture National Historical Park . The elaborate ruins at Chaco’s high desert were once the ceremonial, trade and cultural centre of a great Ancestral Puebloan civilization, creating an even deeper significance for the Southwest Native peoples of today.

It’s a bumpy washboard road in from Highway 57 along 30-km of rough dirt road, cattle guards and lots of ruts. The road is not recommended for larger or low-clearance RVs but if you can make the trip into the park the Gallo Campground it is well worth the effort. The rugged, desert campground has no shade, but sites are outfitted with a picnic table and fire grate (no firewood is available in the park). The campground has water and restrooms but no showers or hook-ups. There is no gasoline, auto repair, food or ice available in the park, so arrive prepared.

Chaco stands alone compared to most other parks, and because of its remote location the UNESCO World Heritage Site receives few visitors. Archaeologists and Archaeoastronomers pinpoint Chaco as the high-water mark in the thriving Puebloan cultures of millennia past. Spread out across the canyon’s wild beauty of rock, piñon and creosote, the excavated ruins are dominated by monumental architecture built with an estimated 50-million slabs of sandstone. Multi-storey buildings with hundreds of rooms called Great Houses were oriented to solar, lunar and cardinal directions. How the Chacoan people managed such sophisticated calculations is one of the site’s great mysteries.

Astronomy clearly played a major role in Chacoan culture. The residents organized their lives around the harvest of corn, squash and beans, being attuned to seasonal patterns by following the progress of the sun, tracking the path of its shadow as it cut across stones erected as astronomical markers. So precise was this ancient calendar that they aligned the massive walls of one Great House, Pueblo Bonito, along the axis of the summer-winter equinox, and then oriented distant buildings and roads to the same coordinates. It is an impressive feat of engineering.

Certified as a Dark Sky Park, the site offers The Chaco Night Sky Program through its permanent observatory. Even without the aid of telescopes, the nighttime sky is an inky black template spotted with millions of pinpricks of light that dot right down to the horizon.

Leaving Chaco is always a sad moment in our RV travels, but this time we were headed just three hours south to Acoma Pueblo , a New Mexican pueblo village also known as Sky City. Acoma is perched on top of a windswept, barren sandstone butte – sometimes described as a 70-acre island thrust 30 storeys above the desert floor – with a solitary cottonwood tree giving precious shade.

Acoma is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. Until the late 1950s, the only way up to Acoma was to climb a rough foot-hole trail zigzagging back and forth through slices in the steep rock walls. The Spanish conquistadors immediately declared the settlement on the bluff as being “a rock with a village on top, the strongest position in all the land.” That didn’t deter them from storming Acoma and inflicting years of injustice, slavery and brutality on the people of Sky City. The decades of conflict, followed by eventual capitulation, introduced Hispanic influences and the Catholic religion into the lives of the Acoma tribe.

Before a road was built to the top, generations of the Acoma people demonstrated their resiliency to survive – hauling tons or earth and rock up the narrow pathway to build the 300 village buildings made of adobe brick and white sandstone blocks, including the San Estevan del Rey Mission. Simple in design and décor, this National Historic Landmark is one of the largest Spanish missions in New Mexico. Built on sacred ground to the spiritual Acoma, the massive church has three-metre thick walls and a wooden ceiling of exposed beams built from timbers carried overland from sacred Mount Taylor, without allowing the men to rest the heavy timbers on the ground at any time in the 13-km trek.

Today, of the six-thousand members of the Acoma tribe, only a few families live on top the mesa full time; although most of the tribe members still own homes in the two and three-storey adobe buildings that line the uneven, dirt pathways of Sky City. A one-hour walking tour of the pueblo is conducted by native Acoma guides and is the only way visitors are allowed on top of the mesa.

At the base of the mesa, the living history of this tribe is told in the Sky City Cultural Center, with one thousand years of Acoma history, artifacts, ancestral remains and teachings on display.

The nearby Sky City RV Park has 42 big rig-friendly RV sites with full hook-ups, dump station, laundry and Wi-Fi.

There are few places in North America with the spiritual nature of the Four Corners region. In these very special stops, both the land and the people have flourished through the arc of time – making it the perfect destination for an RV vacation.

Feature image courtesy of John Weatherby

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Four Corners Tours & Trips

Four Corners is known as the only region in the US where four different states meet. Arizona , Utah , Colorado and New Mexico converge in one main central point and are home to a variety of semi-autonomous Native America nations, out of which Navajo Nation is the most famous.

221 Four Corners tour packages with 5,922 reviews

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7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

It was one of the best tours that I even had. We visited many beautiful places and the tour has the best camping side at the View. I cannot thanks enough for our guide, Hogan. He is very professional, knowledgeable, patient, responsible and kind. I highly recommend this tour!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

Great adventure trip. Guide Joseph is personable and attentive to the needs and quirks of each traveler. His extensive knowledge of the region's geology, history, animals and plant life enhanced our incredible trip. He gave us recommendations for hikes commensurate with individual abilities in Zion and Bryce Canyon national Parks. Joseph led hikes in the spectacular Arches and Canyonlands National Parks where we spent 2 nights in Moab, Utah. Some of our group chose to relax in Moab on the second day, while the rest of the group hiked different trails for more amazing views. Next were the stunning views of Monument Valley and Navajo Nation followed by a snowy Grand Canyon. Optional side trips: Antelope Canyon should not be missed. The Navajo taco dinner was tasty and informative. The hummer tour was unremarkable. Unfortunately, weather grounded the Grand Canyon helicopters.

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks

Fantastic experience - efficient use of time, great itinerary. Well-informed and interesting guide who is also just a great person.

• Christmas & New Year

Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon – 3 days

Tour guide a great humanist able to reach out to all, domestic and foreign, to first form individual friendships that then led collectively to group bonding to experience nature's wonders. All members of our group became friends sharing the influence of our guide who understands human nature the way God would have it.

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

Tour Radar made the booking process easy. Great variety of tours available. I would use this service again.

• Cultural Photography

Western Deserts – 3 days

The Western Desert 3 day tour was fantastic! I really enjoyed the incredible places we visited especially Antelope Canyon and Bryce Canyon and the main highlight throughout the tour was the incredible tour guide Lorenzo who was very knowledgeable and made everyone feel great with his remarkable people skills which connected with the group and myself, he was the x factor that made a huge difference to the experience. Thank you for this tour and experience.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Everything was great. We enjoyed the pacing of our itinerary and our guide Gogee was excellent.

Western USA National Parks Loop

This was a great tour, I highly recommend

LA to Vegas: Grand National Parks

I recently travelled on the Comfort Las Vegas to Los Angeles Intrepid tour - it was just beautiful. Amazing leader, itinerary and experience. Highly recommended!

• In-depth Cultural

USA - The Western Deserts

We have chosen the tour specifically because it was in German and also in other languages shown. Also on our voucher was again confirmed the tour with professional, German-speaking tour guide. Unfortunately, the tour guides did not speak German. We were able to help ourselves a bit with the translation app but we also missed a lot of information. We are very disappointed about this and expect compensation. The tour guides have tried and were very nice also the tour was very nice.

Incredible Canyons of the West Experience 3D/2N (from Las Vegas)

Great tour. Saw 4 national parks in 3 days. Glad we chose the 3 day. Our guide was the greatest and had everything planned perfectly.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sedona, Monument Valley & Antelope Canyon Experience 3D/2N (from Las Vegas)

Roberto -our guide & Joel - our driver were both awesome - very helpful & kind & have a great sense of humour & very tolerant of us seniors. I definitely would recommend the tour and hope to take another tour soon with the same guides. Thank you for a great trip! It was a great experience!

Best of the Canyonlands (7 Days)

This was my first bus tour trip so it was all new to me. There are only a couple things that I think would have made it an excellent trip: 1) Since we were going to the Grand Canyon, I would have preferred to visit either the Pictographs or the Mazes at Canyonlands, and 2) in Arches, a visit to Delicate Arch. Monument Valley was the highlight of the trip for me.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Discover American Canyonlands National Geographic Journeys

Matthew (CEO) was great. As issues/challenges arose (which they inevitably do) Matthew addressed them, and provided options/alternatives, which he presented to the group and the group came to a consensus. A suggestion for Management/Tour Operator, The "meeting" with a Native American who was to talk about his/her Native American culture, should be given "guardrails" and stay within their "Lane". There are those who do not share the presenter's same political viewpoint as the presenter and the presenter should respect that his/her audience may have differing political viewpoint(s) and stay away from brining politics into their presentation. Again Matthew (CEO) was a great ambassador for the Tour Operator and we would definitely take another tour/trip with Matthew!

What people love about Four Corners Tours

Hogan was our tour guide driver, fun fact infotainment, cook, photographer... he was outstanding.

What a lifetime experience everyone needs Jun 2023 • Solo Within 7 days, we drove in 3 states, visited 5 national parks / 2 state parks, hiked 60 miles, made friends from 7 different states/nations, and eventually traveled through the iconic Route 66 back to Las Vegas. What a lifetime experience everyone needs Day 1 - Zion National Park Day 2 - Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3 - Canyonlands National Park Day 4 - Arches National Park Day 5 - Monument Valley Navajo Nation Day 6 - Grand Canyon National Park / Antelope State Day 7- Grand Canyon back to Las Vegas via Historic Route 66 AMAZING!

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The ultimate Four Corners cruise

Steeped in beliefs and stories, this part of the country is utterly spellbinding.

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Created by Kampgrounds of America - May 8th 2017

T here's something almost mystical about the Colorado Plateau. Its extraordinary and distinctive landscape has drawn in countless Native American tribes, pioneers, cowboys, and roadtrippers for centuries. Stories and legends, from Native American beliefs to iconic Westerns, are tied to the land, and the history here is so visceral and palpable, you can't help but feel it in your bones. Use the Four Corners monument as your center as you loop from New Mexico to Colorado to Utah to Arizona, and take advantage of every chance you get to experience as much of the special history here as you can. It can, at times, be challenging to face, but it's something we all should learn about and from.

Muffler Man

Sunny the Big Man, also known simply as the "Muffler Man" of Farmington New Mexico, has been a town landmark since the early 1960s. You'll be able to see him from the road.

But what are Muffler Men? They're 14- to 25-feet-tall fiberglass statues of lumberjacks, Indians, cowboys, and more that were spread all across the country in the early to mid part of the 20th century, usually in order to attract more business to restaurants or shops. The original Muffler Man was created in such a way that it could be easily replicated for a fee. While the original "Muffler Man" was actually a lumberjack holding an ax, Muffler Men also be easily dressed up in new gear, including mechanic clothes (hence the name "Muffler Man") and more.

Sunny the Big Man got his name in 2005; the community voted on his name after his previous owner shut his store down. "Sunny" was added to "the Big Man" after the vote. Stop by to say "Hi" and grab a photo with ol' Sunny!

Click to discover a great deal!

1 Durango KOA Holiday

Located at an elevation of 7,000 feet and sitting atop a mesa, the Durango KOA Holiday is a prime spot for some incredibly cool and relaxing summer nights with family and friends. Kick back and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while taking advantage of the peace and tranquility that the Durango KOA Holiday campground provides.

Enjoy a nightly movie, play a round of mini golf, lounge around in the heated pool, or just hang with the neighbors staying around your tent. Make sure to take a peek out into the horizon and you'll see the beautiful San Juan Mountains. While you're more than welcome to just relax here, if you're looking for a little extra adventure, the popular Mesa Verde National Park is only an hour’s drive away, or you can rent kayaks and spend a day on the lake.

2 Trimble Spa and Natural Hot Springs

The best thing about a road trip is that you can stop off anywhere along the route when you feel the need to treat yourself, and there are plenty of places in the Four Corners region to do just that. The Trimble Spa and Natural Hot Springs is the perfect place to let your worries melt away. Get a variety of premium spa treatments, alternate between two different temperature pools, or really let loose in the only naturally-heated waters available publicly in the Anima Valley. The hot spring waters are rich in minerals and always stay at a relaxingly warm temperature as they flow through the well-heated volcanic fissures. Yep, that's right... a magma-warmed mineral water soak awaits right off the route; what better place to treat yourself after a long day on the road?

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde, which means "Green Table" in Spanish, offers a historic look into the home and land of the ancestral Pueblo people who lived in what is now Mesa Verde National Park. Today, Mesa Verde National Park protects and preserves over 5,000 known archeological sites, as well as over 600 cliff dwellings, massive structures built right into the sides of the mesa, which the Pueblo people used to call home. The NPS has done a great job of not only preserving these antiquities but also interpreting what was left behind for those visiting today. Between guided tours and the visitor center, which is loaded with artifacts uncovered here, natural beauty and history abound in this completely unique national park. With many hiking trails to explore, scenic drives, rich history, and incredible views, you definitely don't want to miss Mesa Verde National Park.

4 Cortez / Mesa Verde KOA

Within driving distance of Four Corners (where New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado meet), the Cortez / Mesa Verde KOA is in the perfect spot to keep you involved in all the action. Make a point to take a walk on the many trails the Cortez / Mesa Verde KOA campground has to offer, or shake off the dust on your fishing pole and go catch a few fish at Denny Lake. You’ll also find tons of entertainment, from a heated pool to horseshoes to basketball courts.

Spend as long as you want exploring what's nearby, and you'll return to comfort at your deluxe cabin, tent, or RV. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can spend a night in a traditional six-person teepee; it's the perfect way to add extra Southwest flair to your adventure.

5 Twin Rocks Trading Post

The Twin Rocks Trading Post, located in gorgeous Bluff, Utah, offers a unique and fun selection of quality handcrafted Native American and Western art. Not only will you be able to pick up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home, you'll get the chance to learn and read about the meanings behind ancient health rituals, tools, and crafts, and hear all about the superstitions and legends behind dozens of creatures and places found on the Western plains. The Navajo culture is rich with art, symbolism, and storytelling, so soak up as much as you can!

Goosenecks State Park

Blanding, UT

As soon as you step foot into Goosenecks State Park in Blanding, UT, you might not want to leave. It's a cliche to describe the views of this place as "jaw-dropping" or "breathtaking,” but they really and truly are. You'll be awestruck by the pure power of the San Juan River as you witness the path it has spent millions of years cutting through solid rocks and mountains. Your views of nature extend for miles, and there's always something to catch your eye. While at Goosenecks State Park, you can spend time hiking the nearby Honaker Trail, taking photos, sightseeing, or stargazing on a clear summer night. The dark skies, lack of light pollution, and unobstructed view of the heavens make for some of the best constellation-spotting in the country! But whether you visit during the day or night, be prepared to be amazed. The views from Goosenecks State Park are often compared to those of the Grand Canyon. Yep... this park is that special.

7 Monument Valley

Monument Valley is allegedly one of the most photographed landmarks, not just in the country, but in the world.... and for good reason. Located in Arizona on the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, it boasts some of the most magnificent sandstone structures you'll ever see, with heights ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet. These buttes are called "mittens" for their unique shape. Not only is the sheer size of the sandstone formations mindboggling, but the surrounding scenery, color, and plant life make the red and brown sand really pop. What you see at Monument Valley is the direct result of the wind, over the course of millions of years, changing a basin into a plateau. It's a powerful place, naturally and spiritually, so when you visit, take your time and remember to be respectful.

8 Navajo Code Talkers Display

A can't-miss stop for any history buff, the Navajo Code Talkers Display recounts the true story of the US government using the Navajo language to encode top-secret messages that were near impossible for WWII enemies to decipher. The Navajo language is a unique tonal language that is very difficult to learn and has few similarities to other commonly-spoken dialects, so the US used the help of several native Navajos to create a communication system that could not be cracked. As the story goes, without the help of the Navajo language and the group of young men who were fluent in it, World World II might not have ended quite the way it did.

In the 1980s, the town of Kayenta opened its first fast food restaurant, which was owned by the son of one of the legendary Navajo Code Talkers. That's why to this day, the little memorial is located in a Burger King. The display is fascinating, and you can always grab a Whopper to eat as well.

Four Corners Monument

Teec Nos Pos, AZ

The Four Corners Monument is the only place in the continental United States where four states touch at precisely the same point. In addition to defining the states of Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, the Four Corners Monument also marks the boundary between Native American governments; the Navajo Nation and the Ute Tribe Reservation meet here as well. Plus, it's a pretty classic roadside stop in the middle of nowhere, and a photo op that you definitely don't want to pass up. There are some local crafts for sale around the monument, and those are worth a browse, too.

Rising up from the flat, dusty, New Mexico desert, it's hard to miss the imposing and mysterious Shiprock. Over 7,000 feet tall, it's no wonder that the strange formation (actually the remains of a 27-million-year-old volcano) attracted the wonder and curiosity of humans for centuries. The rock was sacred to the Navajo people, who called it the "Tsé Bitʼaʼí,” or "the rock with wings.” According to legend, it's all that remains of the giant bird that carried the Navajo from the north to New Mexico. There are plenty of other legends and stories about how the massively tall formation appeared in the desert, each more colorful than the last.

Of course, the rock holds interest for more than just the Navajo people. Since the early 20th century, people have been intrigued by the idea of climbing the Shiprock-- the first ascent occurred in 1939. It's a confuddling and technically difficult climb, with various routes recorded. It doesn't really matter now, since climbing the rock has been outlawed by the Navajo, who own it. The rock is sacred to them. At the end of the day, adventurers who'd like to conquer the rock will have to gaze up at it from below and wonder about the ghosts, bird monsters, or other mythical beasts that might be hidden at its peak.

Having a slice of each of the four corner states, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado, is a wonderful way to explore this region. Whether it's checking out Monument Valley in Arizona, camping in Colorado, learning Native American lore in New Mexico, or sightseeing at Goosenecks State Park in Utah, the four corner states have plenty to offer to the new traveler and experienced pro alike. Plus, how often do you get the chance to literally be in four places at once?

Kampgrounds of America

Behind the Yellow Sign at KOA, we combine the great outdoors with great service. We offer modern sites, facilities and amenities designed to meet the needs of every kind of camper. And with 500+ campgrounds across North America, it’s easy to find an amazing place for camping fun!

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The 5 Days, 4 Corners Trip

5 days in arizona, new mexico, and colorado, the 4 corners trip is a short, extended weekend trip visiting the four corners area of the american southwest. the trip begins and ends in phoenix, and includes a stop at the grand canyon, a drive through the navajo nation, a visit to canyon de chelly, mesa verde national park, and the mountain towns of durango and silverton. a visit to the bisti badlands, el morro national monument, and the salt river canyon are also included., to the grand canyon.

The Grand Canyon at Night (& Early Morning)

From Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

Across navajo land.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Driving Across the Navajo & Hopi Nations: Cameron to Chinle via Rte. 264

Into the colorado rockies.

Farmington, New Mexico at Night

San Juan Skyway – US Hwy. 550 – From Durango to Silverton

Durango, Colorado

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

The new mexico desert.

Wigwam Motel #6 – Holbrook, AZ

El Morro National Monument, Grants & Gallup New Mexico

Bisti Badlands Wilderness Area, NM

Finishing with a scenic drive.

Show Low to Globe, Arizona: Salt River Canyon

Adventures of the 4 JLs

Join our family as we explore the world.

Visiting the Four Corners Monument

The Four Corners Monument is a unique landmark that marks the point where Arizona , Colorado , New Mexico , and Utah meet. If you have ever wanted to photograph yourself standing in four states at once, this is your travel destination!

Located in the Navajo Nation, this monument is surrounded by a small market run by tribal members, with various Native American crafts and souvenirs. This is a fun detour as part of an American Southwest road trip.

The Logistics

Getting to the four corners monument.

Finding the Four Corners Monument on a map is easy. Simply look for the point where Arizona , Colorado , New Mexico , and Utah meet.

Getting to this monument is much harder as it is located on a fairly remote spot along highway 160. There are no major airports convenient to the Four Corners; it’s best done as a small stop on a larger road trip.

We chose to include this monument as part of a very speedy Southwest road trip that started and ended in Phoenix:

• Day 1: Grand Canyon National Park (major sight)
• Day 2: Horseshoe Bend (slight detour)
• Day 2: Monument Valley (slight detour)
• Day 3: Mesa Verde National Park (major sight)
• Day 3: Four Corners Monument (slight detour)
• Day 4: Navajo Nation Museum (slight detour that turned into a travel fail due to an unexpected closure)
• Day 4: Petrified Forest National Park (slight detour)

Cost, Hours, and Services

When I was a kid, visiting the Four Corners Monument was free. That said, times have changed, they now charge $8/person to enter (for a carload full of kids, the value might be slightly marginal).

They also don’t accept any passes like the National Parks Pass, since the Four Corners Monument is owned by the Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation .

The hours vary by season , but you can expect it to open at 8:00am and close sometime between 4:45pm and 6:45pm. If there is a storm, the shops may close early. Closures are typically on Thanksgiving Day, New Mexico Family Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day.

There aren’t many services at the monument; we saw some porta-potties, and the souvenir shops, but we didn’t encounter gas or restaurants nearby.

Activities at the Four Corners Monument

The main activity at the Four Corners is to stand in line a few minutes, and get a photograph of your family without hoards of other tourists in your photos. People were doing various poses across the four states.

After that, you can explore the shops that surround the monument. My son found a Navajo Nation t-shirt that he loved, but there are plenty of options for jewelry and other Native American crafts. It has a bit of a flea market feel, but we found it to be fun!

There really isn’t much else to do, other than continue on to your next point of interest. Still – there is only one place where four US states join and it’s nice to take a quick stop here. Check off this bucket list item if you’re road-tripping near the Four Corners Monument !

Next Up: The Petrified Forest

Keep reading our travel blog for more road trip ideas !

More posts from this American Southwest trip :

Short American Southwest Road Trip Itinerary: 4 Days/5 Nights

A Drive through Petrified Forest National Park

A Day in Mesa Verde National Park

Driving by Monument Valley

A Stop at Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

A Day in Grand Canyon National Park

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19 Stunning Southwest Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

There may be no other region in the USA quite as otherworldly as the American Southwest. And there is absolutely no better way to appreciate that magnificent beauty than via an epic Southwest road trip itinerary!

Unfortunately, for most of us, there’s no way to encapsulate the full magnificence of the region on a single Southwest US road trip (and trust us, we’ve tried to, many times).

Because of that, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to craft this complete guide to the best road trips in the Southwest USA, from iconic classics in Utah to offbeat highlights in Nevada to focused Southwest national parks road trips.

We’ve decided to work with a pretty generous definition of the Southwestern US for this guide, covering road trips in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado, as well as parts of Southern California and West Texas.

Whether you only have a weekend to spare or are planning the Southwest road trip of a lifetime, here are the best Southwest USA road trip routes to consider!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your Southwest USA Road Trip

Utah road trip itinerary ideas, arizona + new mexico southwest road trips, southwest road trip itineraries in colorado, cool nevada road trip ideas, west texas road trip itineraries, multi-state southwest itineraries, read more about visiting the southwest usa.

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Before diving into the best Southwest road trip itineraries below, there are a few tips to be aware of, especially if this is your first time in the region!

Pick up an America the Beautiful Pass.

If you’re planning a Southwest USA road trip itinerary, odds are very high that you’re planning to visit several national parks!

If so, consider picking up an  America the Beautiful Pass , also known as the USA’s annual national parks pass.

For only $80–less for certain groups like seniors and military personnel–the park covers day-use fees to over 2,000 federally managed lands, including all 62 national parks, for an entire year.

It’s one of the best travel deals around and will pay for itself within 3-4 visits to popular US national parks (for example, as of the time of writing, many popular Southwest national parks such as Arches and Bryce Canyon cost between $25-35 per vehicle to visit).

Buy your national parks pass  today!

Beware the heat.

Everyone talks about it, but it really can’t be overstated: the heat in the American Southwest in summer can be life-threatening and is not to be trifled with.

Water, sun protection, and keeping an eye on the weather need to be at the forefront of your mind as you work your way through the region.

If you’re planning a trip during the (long) summer, consider optimizing your schedule so that the bulk of your hiking takes place in the mornings and evenings, too, rather than in the middle of the day.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Southwest USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Shop rental cars for your Southwest road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

You’ll also want to note whether or not to return the car empty or full of fuel.

On the off chance that you’re planning on extending your road trip beyond the US Southwest into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check the requirements for crossing the border as well.

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from  Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy  today!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big road trip in the American Southwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance.

Anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better to be safe than sorry.

You can check prices and inclusions with  Safety Wing  for road trips in the Southwest USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the American Southwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your Southwest US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

Considering the long driving distances between some of the most iconic places in the Southwest, it’s easy to over-plan!

Set realistic expectations for visiting US national parks.

Many of the best national parks in the USA are located in the Southwest–and they are incredibly popular.

Be sure to research individual parks in advance to make the most of your time, as accessing the most iconic attractions often is not as simple as showing up.

Hotels tend to get booked up quickly, some parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, and Zion National Park are now requiring most visitors to book timed entry permits in advance.

Other restrictions can pop up too–for example, Zion National Park requires visitors to use a shuttle rather than private cars to access popular hikes (unless you’re planning a winter trip, that is).

None of this detracts from the beauty of the parks–but it does mean that your experience will be much better if you plan ahead!

Kanab to Escalante

From Rachel & Clark of Seeking Our Someday

The Kanab, UT to Escalante, UT road trip gives way to some of Southern Utah’s most beautiful hidden gems.

These rural areas are filled with some of the most dramatic rock formations that you can find on an itinerary for the Southwest USA. 

Starting in Kanab, use this small town as a home base for visiting several nearby destinations.

Buckskin Gulch, just East of Kanab, is one of the longest slot canyons in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah.

For an incredible day trip from Kanab, hike into this slot canyon from Wirepass Trailhead. Be on the lookout for ancient petroglyphs as you descend into the canyon.

Just north of Kanab are the Moqui Caves. These caves are great to explore for a couple of hours, especially in the afternoon light.

Only 30 minutes outside of Kanab, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to some of the most beautiful sand dunes. These dunes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset. 

On the two-hour drive from Kanab to Escalante, make sure to stop at Bryce Canyon National Park to see the natural hoodoos in the Bryce Amphitheater and check out a few of the coolest things to see in Bryce Canyon NP .

Use Escalante as a second home base to visit more hidden gems in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Some of the most incredible landscapes can be found down Hole in the Rock Road, just south of Escalante.

Make sure to visit Zebra Slot Canyon, a very narrow slot canyon with natural striped rock, along with Devils Garden just a few miles down the road.

Further down Hole in the Rock Road are the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons which are a fun loop hike through two beautiful slot canyons.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip could be done in a long weekend, but there are enough places to visit that we recommend 1-2 weeks to fully experience all of the stops along the way.

New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle

From Becky of SightDOING

Northern New Mexico doesn’t get the attention that the rest of the state does, but travelers willing to take an extra drive will find incredible beauty along the  Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway .

Starting from Taos and going clockwise, you’ll visit the smaller towns of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, and Angel Fire.

This part of New Mexico sits high in the mountains and the route takes you through ever-changing scenery.

Many parts are verdant green, thick with evergreens and aspens.

As the road winds, you’ll also see alpine valleys and lakes, plus the impressive Mt. Wheeler (the highest in the state).

As you drive, you’ll be reminded more of Colorado than the stereotypical desert road trips that are so iconic in the Southwest.

Perhaps as you’d expect in a beautiful destination like this, the primary activities involve the outdoors.

One of the highlights is Eagle Rock Lake, not only beautiful but home to playful otters that you might spot if you’re lucky. The picnic tables make a perfect vantage spot.

Hiking is plentiful: head out into the Columbine Hondo Wilderness for wildflowers in spring or look for waterfalls in Cimarron Canyon State Park.

Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and even skiing in the winter.

It’s not all about the outdoors, though. Visitors can also watch artisans in Questa, pay their respects at the Vietnam Memorial near Angel Fire, brewery hop along the trail, or explore Taos’ history.

Best of all, this New Mexico road trip is wonderful year-round.

Although the driving route is short enough that you can complete it in a day, the area is deserving of a weekend.

Allow plenty of time to stop and explore the parks and mountains along the way and consider even longer if you’re an avid hiker.

Phoenix to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the best weekend trips you can make from Phoenix. 

The  drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon  is only 4 hours and there are several stops along the way.

Montezuma Castle is one of the best preserved Native American Ruins located 94 miles from Phoenix.

It is a 5-story structure built into a recess in a white limestone cliff about 70 feet above the ground and it consists of 20 rooms.

Another great stop is Sedona, which is famous for its red rocks and great hiking trails.

You could easily spend a weekend in Sedona but it is also a great place to stop for some lunch and get out and stretch your legs.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park you will enter from the east and one of the first viewpoints is the Desert View Point and Watchtower.

This is one of the most popular viewpoints in the east and it is your first view of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. 

You can continue heading West to the main visitors center where you can walk the Trail of Time. 

The Grand Canyon Trail of Time is an interpretive walking timeline trail focusing on the highlights of the Grand Canyon so tourists can experience and appreciate the vastness of geologic time, as well as the stories captured by Grand Canyon rock layers and landscapes. 

We recommend three days as a minimum for this road trip.  Some people do this in a day but it is very rushed. 

Spending a weekend there gives you time to make stops along the way and experience the Grand Canyon.

Northern New Mexico

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

The southwestern state is one of the best places in the United States for a culturally immersive trip, incredible food, and beautiful desert landscapes. 

Most New Mexico road trips start and end in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state.

There are so many things to do in New Mexico with kids , or without, and you’ll find many of them in Albuquerque!

Give yourself a couple of days to explore Old Town and visit some of the great museums, like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Be sure to take the tram up to Sandia Peak. The 2.7-mile aerial tramway is the longest in the United States! 

From Albuquerque, head north to New Mexico’s capital of Santa Fe. Known for its adobe-style architecture, this historical city founded as a Spanish colony in the 1600s is as lovely as it is enchanting! 

Just northwest of Santa Fe, outside the town of Los Alamos, Bandelier National Monument is a fascinating look back in time.

In this national monument, you’ll find petroglyphs and cliff dwellings left behind by the Pueblo Indians, the indigenous tribe who originally settled the area. 

For a look at how the Pueblo live today, head to the Taos Pueblo next.

The pueblos one mile north of the town of Taos, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.

People have lived in this multi-story adobe building for more than 1,000 years! You can tour the pueblo, which is open to visitors except when tribal rituals take place.

300+ miles.

Ideally, give yourself about a week for this road trip through Northern New Mexico.

Denver to Aspen Loop

From Lori of Fitz 5 On the Go

The state of Colorado was made for epic road trips.  The scenery is just amazing and pretty non-stop.

Colorado’s many mountain towns are fun and welcoming places to explore and are packed with so many outdoor activities to enjoy.  

There are many great options for planning a loop from Denver.  Some can be done on a day trip, and others are more fun spread over a few days. 

For the most variety and activities in a shorter drive time consider going south to Colorado Springs, loop over to Salida then make your way north through Independence Pass. 

Take some time enjoying Aspen then stop by Glenwood Springs for fun activities before going back to Denver.

Summer or early fall is the best time for this trip before some of the roads are closed due to snow.

First, stop in Colorado Springs, where popular activities include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Incline, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Olympic training center, and the Broadmore.

From there, head to Salida and Buena Vista.

On the way to Salida stop by the Royal Gorge.  This amazing viewpoint is not great for those with a fear of heights but it’s beautiful.

The area has a train, a suspension bridge, and several other activities including a Skycoaster. 

After enjoying a night in Salida, head north toward Leadville.

Leadville can make a nice little stop to explore an old mountain town and get some lunch but the main attraction of the day will be Independence Pass just south of Leadville.  

Driving Independence Pass in the fall  is likely one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

As a mountain road, it is closed in the winter and no large vehicles are allowed.

Independence Pass ends in beautiful Aspen. A stop to Aspen is not complete without seeing the Maroon Bells.

To make your way back to Denver, head north toward I-70 and stop for lunch and activities in Glenwood Springs.

Glenwood Springs has a fabulous hot spring as well as a mountaintop adventure center. 

At minimum plan to stay a night in Salida and one night in Aspen. 

If you only have a weekend then consider cutting the trip in half and making a smaller loop. 

The full loop would be most enjoyable with planning a night in Colorado Springs, 1-2 nights in Salida, and at least 2 nights in Aspen.

The Extraterrestrial Highway

From Audrey of That Backpacker

For a one-of-a-kind southwest road trip that you won’t soon forget,  drive Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

Located in south-central Nevada and spanning a total of 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs, State Route 375 is considered a bit of a pilgrimage for those who believe in alien life!

But even if you’re not a believer, this is still a fun road trip worth doing.

The Extraterrestrial Highway is punctuated by desert landscapes, lonely roads, and some rather unusual attractions.

Some places not to miss include ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks including bottles of Martian soda, the Extraterrestrial Highway sign which is plastered with stickers from intrepid adventurers who have completed the drive, and the Alien Research Center where you can hear stories of paranormal desert activity.

You should also visit the Black Mailbox where people leave all sorts of mementos and letters to aliens, and the Little A’le’inn Motel featuring a pick-up truck towing a UFO and a green alien welcoming all earthlings.

It’s important to note that although Area 51 is also located in the area, it is strictly off-limits.

There are numerous signs to remind you that no video, no photography, and no droning are permitted, so save yourself the trouble.

Though this road trip can be completed in a day, you can break it up with a stay at the infamous Little A’le’inn Motel, home to all things extraterrestrial.

You may also want to consider driving the ET Highway as part of a bigger Nevada road trip with a small detour through Valley of Fire State Park.

Las Vegas to Cathedral Gorge State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Cathedral Gorge State Park is a natural wonder located in Central Nevada near Utah’s border that makes you feel like you landed on Mars. 

The park is located about 3.5 hours by car away from Las Vegas , the nearest big city, and the remote location of this place and lack of facilities, coupled with the lonely drive in the desert make for an incredible experience.

Cathedral Gorge State Park remains an undiscovered gem full of otherworldly views, amazing hiking trails, and great opportunities for photography.

It’s one of those hidden gem Southwest road trips from Las Vegas that no one talks about, and if you want to see it before it gets discovered, you need to do it now. 

Visiting Cathedral Gorge is pure magic at any time of the year.

Unlike many other popular places in the southwest USA, this state park is uncrowded and offers an amazing quiet space with fantastic landscapes.

With no big stores, chain hotels, or restaurants in the area, this is the ultimate getaway for adventure lovers.  

I recommend spending at least one day at the park and camping under the clear dark skies.

However, if you would rather stay at a hotel, the nearby town of Panaca has a couple of accommodations.

Big Bend Country Road Trip

While all of Texas may not culturally fall into the Southwest, the western part of the state does–and a Big Bend Country road trip is among the best road trips in the Southwest USA.

Make your way to the rugged, isolated, and utterly beautiful Big Bend National Park to kick off your trip.

While you’re there, hike the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, ascend into the Chisos Mountains via the Lost Mine Trail , and soak in natural hot springs along the Rio Grande.

From there, head to Big Bend Ranch State Park to experience one of the most scenic drives in the USA.

Head a couple of hours north, and some of Texas’ most beloved small towns are waiting for you, including Alpine, Fort Davis (where you can experience some of the best stargazing in Texas at the McDonald Observatory), Marathon, and Marfa.

With wild beauty, a huge variety of landscapes, great food, and even excellent art installations, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Texas’ Big Bend Country–just be prepared for long driving distances along the way.

About 1000 miles round trip, starting and ending in El Paso.

We recommend setting aside at least one week for this Southwest road trip route.

Classic Southwest USA Road Trip from Page, AZ

From James Ian of Parks Collecting

One of the best road trips in the Southwest USA is a loop from Page, Arizona that takes in a variety of natural and cultural icons.

Starting in Page, head to Monument Valley.

Stop off at the Navajo National Monument, where you can walk on the easy paved 1.3-mile Sandal Trail to the Batatkin Cliff Dwelling overlook for views of your first cliff dwelling on the trip.

After arriving in Monument Valley around noon, head down the Monument Valley road for a self-driving tour. 

The 17-mile scenic drive loops through the valley past many of the major buttes and mesas that make this area so famous.

In the late afternoon, if you still have some energy, hike the Wildcat Trail around West Mitten.

The next day, take a Navajo-led guided tour back into the valley, where you can visit the backcountry and learn more about the Navajo people and culture.

After you leave Monument Valley, take a couple of hours to drive through the beautiful Valley of the Gods before arriving in Moab in the late afternoon. 

Moab is the adventure capital of the world, and you can arrange to go canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, or white-water rafting. Then head to nearby Arches National Park and do all the major hikes in the park.

Next up is a  visit to Mesa Verde National Park , where you will want to spend a couple of days visiting the cliff dwellings, hiking to petroglyphs, and exploring the area. 

After you leave Mesa Verde, stop for a photo at Four Corners, where you can have your limbs in four states at once!

Drive on to Canyon de Chelly, where you will want to spend a full day enjoying the views and hiking down into the canyon.

On the drive from there back to Page, you will pass through the Hopi reservation.

It is worth spending half a day on a tour with a Hopi guide to see more of the area and learn about Hopi culture.

Back in Page, don’t miss the mind-blowing Antelope Canyon and stunning Horseshoe Bend !

I recommend allowing ten days for this trip.

This will give you time to explore each of the parks/ areas and learn more about the cultural and natural environment along the way.

Trail of the Ancients

From Megan of Red Around the World

One of the most unique road trips in the Southwest is the  Trail of the Ancients  through Southeast Utah and Southwest Colorado.

It passes tons of amazing scenery but really features ancient Anasazi ruins throughout the Four Corners Area.

This is a particularly great Southwest road trip itinerary for history buffs and hikers!

Start your road trip in Cortez, where you can start making your way through some of the best places to visit in the Southwest.

Some of the highlights are Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, and Valley of the Gods, but there are tons of smaller stops along the way, too. 

Some of those include Natural Bridges National Monument, Edge of the Cedars State Park, Upper Sand Island Petroglyphs, House on Fire Ruin, Butler Wash Ruin, Goosenecks State Park, Four Corners National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and more.

Diriving Distance

About 300-400 miles, depending on stops.

I would recommend spending about 7-10 days on the Trail of the Ancients.

If you have a full 2 weeks to explore, that’s even better.

Zion National Park to Sedona Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

From Allison of She Dreams in Alpine

If you’re looking for a quick Southwestern road trip that packs a whole lot into a relatively short drive, head from Zion National Park in Utah to Sedona, Arizona.

Although Zion is the start of your road trip, it’s actually hard to leave this magical place.

From the epic Angel’s Landing hike to The Narrows slot canyon, if you’re up for adventure, you will have an amazing time here.

Don’t worry, when it’s time to hit the road, your next stop of Kanab has plenty to offer.

If you’re lucky enough to score permits, hike to the incredible swooping sandstone of The Wave.

Or, take some time to explore the beauty of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Then head east on Highway 89 to Lake Powell, where you can take a rest day or two. Chill in the lake before heading south.

Stop at the photogenic Horseshoe Bend , then make your way to the Grand Canyon .

Bask in the breathtaking views from the rim, or challenge yourself to hike to the bottom – just know that means you also have to hike back out!

Next, make your way to Flagstaff, and enjoy the Southwestern city life in the lively downtown area. Finish your road trip in the red rock paradise of Sedona.

You can hit the trails again on some of the awesome hikes in Sedona , take an off-road Jeep tour, or pamper yourself at a spa.

You’ll definitely be ready for some relaxation by the end of this road trip through the Southwest USA!

With all the incredible outdoor places to explore along the way, you should plan at least a week for this adventurous road trip.

You could easily make it longer if you wanted to spend more time hiking around Zion, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona.

Salt Lake City to Phoenix

From Samah of God and Wanderlust

Absorb the extraterrestrial beauty of the southwest with a road trip from Salt Lake City, UT to Phoenix, AZ.

Salt Lake City is made for the adventurous at heart.

Explore Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, and the Great Salt Lake itself. A scenic mountain backdrop is always included.

Skiing and other snow sports are possible in nearby Park City.

Drive south to Moab and hike your way to the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Camp under the Milky Way in Monument Valley situated on protected Navajo land.

Ride a horse among the red rocks and buttes and pretend to be in the Wild West. Visit Forrest Gump Point at the crack of dawn to avoid the rush of cars.

From here head to Zion National Park and then Page, AZ.

Check the infamous Angels Landing off your list, kayak in Lake Powell, and hike to Horseshoe Bend.

Become mesmerized by the cave formations of Antelope Canyon.

At last, you arrive at the Grand Canyon. It’s magnificent. The Bright Angel trail will guide you right into the Canyon.

Sedona is still to come. It’s the most beautiful city you’ll lay eyes on. Hot air balloons illuminate against the sun’s glow. Devils Bridge and Doe Mountain offer spectacular views.

Phoenix will eventually bring a calm end to your southwest road trip itinerary.

Its mellow, laidback atmosphere will help relax after your breathtaking journey through the southwest.

Road Trip Length

We recommend at least 2 weeks to explore various cities, do activities and make stops along the way.

Las Vegas to Monument Valley

From Hannah of Hannah Henderson Travel

For a point-to-point overview of some of the most popular Southwest road trip stops, drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley!

Your first stop outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam.

This impressive man-made damn along the Colorado River marks the border between Nevada and Arizona.  

Head southeast along Hwy-93 towards Kingman, and be sure to visit the Historic Route 66 Museum.  

If you have time, take a detour and visit Oatman, an old mining town where wild burros (donkeys) roam free throughout the town.

The next leg of the road trip takes you along a small section of Historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman.

Enjoy the kitsch rest stop at Hackberry and eat lunch at the Road Kill Café .  The replica Wild West town in Seligman is a fun attraction for families too.

Continue to head east along the I-40 and then up to the Grand Canyon.  There are Grand Canyon hikes to suit many levels, educational talks, and unparalleled views.

Stay overnight at one of the rim-side cabins and witness the incredible sunset and sunrise.

The final leg of your journey will take you through some of the most captivating  desert landscapes in Arizona , onwards north towards Monument Valley.  

The land becomes more arid and sparsely populated, and you will get picture-postcard views.  

Your final stop is Oljato-Monument Valley, a Navajo Nation Tribal Park.  This valley of red rock formations is a soul-shaking place to end your road trip.  

Three to five days is a good length of time for this road trip between Las Vegas and Monument Valley.  

You can do the journey in 3 days minimum, but 5 days would offer you more time to explore the by-ways and scenic stops along the way.

LA to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

An  LA to Las Vegas road trip  can be done along several different routes, but you can’t go wrong with a route that includes some of the choicest scenery in the Sierra Nevada as well as the spectacular Death Valley National Park in California.

Admittedly, this is a longer route that involves a little bit of a detour, but for travelers with enough time on their hands, this Southwest national parks road trip itinerary cannot be beaten.

Highlights of the itinerary include the scenic Alabama Hills, Lone Pine, and Mount Whitney, and the spectacular sights in Death Valley National Park.

The Alabama Hills consist of beautiful rock formations nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

The national scenic area is popular for hiking, dirt road driving, photography, camping, and night sky viewing.

At Lone Pine, you can also drive the road that goes part way up Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States.

The road is open in the summer and fall until snow accumulations close it.

Of course, you can also hike to the peak, either as a grueling day hike or as an overnighter, with a permit.

In Death Valley National Park, the main sights can be found along the road that runs through the park, the one you will be taking to get to Vegas.

If you do the road trip in the cooler months of the year, you can hike. When it’s hot, you can drive through the park and stop briefly at viewpoints for photos.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are fun for kids and adults.

At Badwater Basin, you can have your photo taken by the sign for the lowest point in North America. Spectacular views await at Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View.

Once you are done exploring the park, it’s a quick drive to Vegas!

We suggest three days or more for this road trip.

With more than three days, you can spend more time hiking, and also explore the northern part of Death Valley National Park.

Denver to Moab

From Julia of The Cure for Curiosity

One of the best road trips in the Southwestern USA takes you from the snow-capped mountains of Denver, Colorado to the red canyons of Moab, Utah. 

During this epic  road trip from Denver to Moab , you’ll be able to see some of the best scenery the United States has to offer.

As you travel, you’ll pass through many charming small towns, complete with great hiking, hot springs, and of course panoramic views.

Start your trip in Denver, the capital of Colorado, and make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here you’ll find some stunning mountain views and world-class hiking.

Continue your trip through the renowned ski towns of Breckenridge and Vail, exploring the quaint city centers and everything they have to offer, from skiing to mountain roller coasters and free gondola rides.

The next stop is Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs as well as the beautiful hike to Hanging Lake.

If you have the time, you can also detour down to Aspen to check out the popular Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America.

From there, make your way through Colorado wine country in Palisade, CO to the Colorado National Monument.

This is the last stop before crossing into Utah and making your way into Moab.

Moab is the perfect end destination for a road trip as you can spend days exploring the local sights that bring droves of tourists to the area, like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

While the drive itself can easily be done in just one day, you’d miss a lot of the fun stops along the way.

It’s best to plan about a week for this road trip to have plenty of time to explore Denver, the stops in between, and Moab.

LA to Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

From Ciara of Wellness Travel Diaries

Los Angeles to Bryce Canyon National Park— a red rock road trip experience — is a beautiful and classic Southwest USA itinerary for those wanting to escape and indulge in the unique rock formations found in Utah.

It’s a serene drive that takes about 8 hours from LA to Bryce Canyon. Add an extra two hours for a detour to Zion National Park

Here’s how to make the best of your time when road tripping from LA to Bryce Canyon and Zion .

Starting in Los Angeles, California hop on the freeway heading north toward Las Vegas. On route, you’ll find Death Valley about an hour or so off the freeway for a quick day trip.

Take another quick pitstop, right off the freeway at Eddie’s World for clean bathrooms and exquisite snacks.

Once you reach Nevada, stay the night in Las Vegas to explore the famous strip where the downtown lights, lit up the midnight sky.

It’s about four hours from LA (depending on traffic), and marks the halfway point to Bryce Canyon.

Continue toward Utah for another 160 miles to reach the first destination: Zion National Park.

Hike the beautiful trails such as Angels Landing (5.4 miles out and back) and Watchman Trail (3.3 miles out and back).

Hop back in the car for another 80 miles to reach the second destination: Bryce Canyon.

Explore the picturesque hoodoos by taking the Rim Hiking Trail (1-11 miles; it’s not a loop so hike the distance you choose) or Fairyland Loop (8 miles out and back).

Pick your route by deciding which park you’d like to visit first, then enjoy!

About 530 miles — this includes the stop in Zion National Park.

While the drive from California to Utah can be done in one day, there are several fun pit stops along this route.

It takes about seven hours to drive from Los Angeles to Zion, and then about two hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon.

To fully explore these natural wonders 6-8 days would be ideal, and allows you to split your time equally between both parks.

Phoenix to Taos to Road Trip

From Polina of Bucket List Places

One of the best itineraries to explore by car in the states is through Arizona and New Mexico.

If you are doing a winter  ski road trip itinerary , this can also be done in reverse starting in Taos.

Fly into Phoenix and rent a car (or RV for even more fun)! Then head south and stop by Saguaro National Park to view the iconic cactus after which the park is named.

From there head to White Sands National Park in New Mexico and sled down some sand dunes.

This park is vast and can be explored for the day or for multiple days if you would like to hike amongst the sand dunes.

Then head to the city to check out Albuquerque’s bustling nightlife.

In contrast, the next stop on the itinerary is Santa Fe, a beautiful historic city that looks like it is stuck in the past.

Stroll the streets and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Visit the delicious restaurants in town or get your culture on at the numerous art galleries.

Your final stop is Taos where you can view the historic Pueblan village, enjoy the delicious restaurants in town, and hang out in the historic town square.

In the wintertime, make sure to hit the slopes! 

We suggest a minimum of one week to enjoy the beautiful destinations on this road trip itinerary. 

Route 66 (Southwest Portion)

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to the east to Los Angeles and Santa Monica in the west, Route 66 is the Great American Road Trip of your dreams.

Of course, when people think of driving Route 66, or the Mother Road as it’s commonly called, they think of diners and motels in the Midwest, but by the time the route crosses the border from Oklahoma into Texas, you’re officially in the part of the drive where southwestern scenery and magnificent landscapes take over.

There’s nothing more iconic than a Route 66 sign in front of a tiny Arizona town or the eye-catching Cadillac Ranch installation in Amarillo.

There are so many  things to see on Route 66 , but in this part of the country make sure to visit Petrified National Forest National Park, take a day trip to the Grand Canyon, and even venture up to Monument Valley.

The total distance of Route 66 is just under 2,500 miles, but you can easily visit only a portion on a Southwest USA road trip.

You can spend months exploring Route 66!

With a week or less, we recommend picking 1-2 states to explore.

San Jose, CA to Escalante, UT Loop

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

The road trip from San Jose to Escalate is an excellent way to get out into nature and have a fun outdoor vacation, and features plenty of of classic Southwestern landscapes along the way.

The drive is about 12 hours plus additional time for stops.

Along the route, you’ll find many parks, camps, Mojave National Preserve, and Las Vegas. 

The little town of Escalante is surrounded by five great national parks of Utah and many recreational areas and national monuments.

You could do day trips to national parks but there are many incredible hikes around Escalante to slot canyons, waterfall trails, and natural formations .

You could easily spend 10 days in Escalante and still have many hikes remaining to be explored.

You would definitely want to do day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park , Burr Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, Dixie Forest, and Arches National Park . 

1640 miles.

10 days will be a reasonable amount of time for this round trip.

Planning a Southwest road trip soon and eager to keep planning?

You can browse all of our USA blog posts here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
• Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 50+ Road Trip Essentials You Need
• 3 Days in Las Vegas: The Perfect Weekend in Vegas Itinerary
• 9 Best Things to Do in Page, AZ (+ Nearby!)

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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