Best Road Trips from Las Vegas

Published On: May 16, 2024Categories: Outdoors5.5 min read

Living in Las Vegas isn’t just about the glitz, the best local restaurants, and the beauty of the Strip and Las Vegas Arts District; it’s about having access to some of the most incredible road trips in the American West. Whether you’re itching to witness the jaw-dropping beauty of the Grand Canyon, yearning for the tranquility of the beach, the charm of historic towns, or craving the peace of the mountains, there’s a road trip calling your name. 

In fact, there’s just so much adventure out there. How could you not want to see everything? So, let’s dive into some of the best road trips from Las Vegas, from quick day trips to leisurely weekend getaways! 

Grand Canyon National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: About a 4.5-hour drive

Alright, so what if this is low-hanging fruit? The Grand Canyon deserves the attention! In fact, you could pretty much say that no road trip list is fully complete without this marvel anyway.  It’s a natural wonder that never fails to take your breath away. Just think about it for a moment; there are picture-perfect sunsets, hiking trails that lead to hidden gems, and moments of pure wonder await you. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply someone who enjoys soaking in the beauty of nature, a trip to the Grand Canyon is an absolute must.

Death Valley National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: Just about 2 hours away

For those who crave more adventure and extreme landscapes, Death Valley National Park could very well be the ultimate destination. It’s known for its scorching temperatures (plenty of horror stories back up its name) but also thanks to its stunning desert vistas. Death Valley is like nowhere else on Earth. If you decide to go, you can explore surreal salt flats, colorful canyons, and rugged terrain that seems straight out of a movie. Just remember to pack plenty of water and sunscreen!

Zion National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately a 2.5-hour drive

While there’s always something to see and do in Las Vegas, sometimes it’s just refreshing to escape the hustle and bustle—so what better place than Zion National Park? The towering cliffs and serene canyons truly make Zion a paradise for all outdoor lovers. Give yourself the chance to hike to iconic viewpoints, float down the Virgin River, or just soak in the sun in peace in the lush greenery.  This park is probably the perfect distance from Las Vegas, making it ideal for a spontaneous day trip or even a relaxing getaway. 

Valley of Fire State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: Just about an hour away

Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest state park, and that alone deserves a lot of attention! If you haven’t been there already, then what are you doing? Plan your road trip ASAP! The vibrant red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and hidden slot canyons await you. If you love taking pictures and videos for social media, then this area is so dreamy; it’s basically a playground! 

There are plenty of unique rock formations just waiting to be photographed, the winding trails are ideal for any adventure seeker, and there’s just magic that really makes the desert come to life. Hands down, you have got to add this to your road trip list. 

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Only a 30-minute to 1-hour drive

If you’re looking to escape the city for a couple of hours, then look no further. Lake Mead is just a short drive away. The water here just sparkles, and the rugged shoreline will make you awestruck. While it may not be as well known as some of the other locations above, this still deserves some attention. In fact, it basically offers some pretty nice opportunities for fun, too, especially if you want to reconnect with nature without straying too far from home. 

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 30 minutes

Just a stone’s throw away from Las Vegas, you’re going to find this stunning conservation area that boasts red sandstone cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking visits. What’s not to love there? If you’re not in the mood to hike, then that’s completely fine because you can explore the scenic drive loop or just pull over and unwind amidst the beauty of the Mojave Desert. So, if you’re looking for a serene nature retreat for a few hours, then look no further; you’ll totally forget how close Las Vegas is! 

Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 3 hours

Alright, so this might be further away, but so what? It’s definitely a must-see for everyone! In fact, the experience of Joshua Tree National Park is otherworldly! It’s home to the iconic Joshua trees (also known as Yuccas), rugged rock formations, and the star-filled skies. Basically, it doesn’t even feel like you’re in the US. You’re going to feel like you’re on another continent! If you want to immerse yourself in the serenity of a desert, then this is the one that you’re really going to want to go to. It’s just so enchanting that you can’t skip out on this. 

Great Basin National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: Approximately 4 hours

If you’re up for a longer road trip, maybe even a weekend trip, then this could be a great destination. There are underground caves just waiting to be explored, the summit of Wheeler Peak is jaw dropping, and if you’re ever up for stargazing, then this just so happens to be one of the darkest skies in the country! 

A New Adventure Awaits Living in Las Vegas

Living in Las Vegas opens the door to a world of road trips that are just waiting to be explored! Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of desert landscapes, the charm of historic towns, or the wonder of natural wonders, there’s pretty much a road trip for every adventure who’s itching to leave home. 

And hey, speaking of home, let’s not forget about the Solstice apartment complex. This post isn’t just about travel; it’s about helping you envision life in your new home. We’re giving you a taste of what’s possible and what it’s like to live in a place where adventure is right at your doorstep. So come in, settle down, and let the journey begin! Contact us today to learn more about how our leasing agents can help you.