Ultimate Southwest National Parks Adventure
Journey Through USA
This American Southwest route starts in vibrant Las Vegas, where the thrill of the city meets world-famous entertainment. As you travel northeast, dive into the remarkable natural beauty of Utah with stops in St George, Kanab, Escalante, and Moab. Each location works as a base for national parks, scenic byways, and legendary hiking spots, blending urban energy with the tranquility of nature—perfect for families, adventurers, and photography lovers alike. The trip is known for accessible planning, scenic campgrounds, and unforgettable landscapes in every direction.
Cultural Sites
Natural Beauty
Perfect For All
About This Roadtrip
This road trip is a true showcase of the American Southwest, perfect for those with an adventurous spirit or love for wide-open spaces. It's ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to photograph dramatic landscapes. From the lights of Las Vegas, you’ll journey through Utah’s iconic national parks, discover remote gems, wander unforgettable trails, and find plenty of options for camping or cozy stays. Every day brings new opportunities to connect with America's most inspiring natural wonders.
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Starting Station: Tampa Airport (TPA)
Trip Duration: 6 days
Mileage Distance: 887 km
Perfect For: Families, Adventure, Photography, Nature
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Reddit Reviews
· Las Vegas offers a wide range of accommodations, entertainment, and is a great starting point for national park adventures.
· St. George is a convenient and accessible stop, especially for RV travelers, and a base for exploring Zion and Bryce Canyon.
· Kanab is centrally located for visiting major parks and offers flexible camping and boondocking options.
· Moab is a highlight for its proximity to Arches and Canyonlands, scenic drives, and plentiful free camping options.
· Travelers should plan for weather conditions, especially in winter when routes to St. George may be affected.
· Permits for attractions like The Wave near Kanab can be difficult to obtain.
· Moab and surrounding areas can be extremely hot in summer, making strenuous hikes challenging.
· This roadtrip route is highly recommended for its blend of vibrant city life in Las Vegas and access to some of the most scenic and diverse national parks in the Southwest. Each city serves as a strategic base or stopover, offering unique attractions, convenient accommodations, and opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. Travelers consistently praise the flexibility, accessibility, and unforgettable landscapes encountered along the way.
👍 88 % positive|👎 12 % negative
Begin Your USA Adventure
Set off from Las Vegas to discover a route that’s equal parts excitement and serenity. With Abbycar, you’re primed for a journey through unforgettable parks and friendly towns—where every stop brings fresh inspiration. Whether you crave outdoor thrills, iconic landscapes, or the simple joy of the open road, your next great American journey begins here.
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Where To Stop
Road Trip Stops
This journey features five fantastic stops, each opening doors to top attractions and unique landscapes. Discover what makes Las Vegas, St George, Kanab, Escalante, and Moab essential stages along your American Southwest adventure.
1
First stop
Las Vegas USA
Start your journey soaking in the energy of Las Vegas, home to The Strip—a dazzling stretch of world-renowned hotels, entertainment, and dining. From iconic casinos to high-profile shows, The Strip offers an experience like no other and is the perfect launch point before trading city lights for Utah's red rock beauty.
Based on 200000 reviews
(4.6/5)
2
Second stop
St George Utah USA
St George serves as an excellent base for visiting Zion National Park, where visitors are immersed in dramatic canyons, scenic trails, and towering rock formations. Ideal for families and outdoor lovers, this area combines the comforts of a welcoming town with immediate access to southern Utah’s top natural attraction.
Based on 8500 reviews
(4.8/5)
3
Third stop
Kanab Utah USA
Kanab unlocks access to The Wave, a world-famous sandstone rock formation renowned for its surreal striped patterns. Securing a permit is a challenge, but even nearby hikes reward visitors with stunning views. Kanab itself is a friendly base for park hopping and guided tours, surrounded by red cliffs and scenic desert.
Based on 1200 reviews
(4.9/5)
4
Fourth stop
Escalante Utah USA
Escalante’s Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument delivers some of the Southwest’s most remote, untouched scenery. Visitors find quiet trails, unique rock formations, and fantastic slot canyons. It’s perfect for those seeking solitude, stargazing, and a slower pace between iconic parks.
Based on 409 reviews
(4.8/5)
5
Fifth stop
Moab Utah USA
Finish your journey in Moab, gateway to Arches National Park—famous for its incredible stone arches and scenic desert drives. With easy access to hiking, biking, and endless photo spots, Moab is a favorite among adventurers and families alike looking to soak up the best of the Southwest.
Based on 11101 reviews
(4.8/5)
All you need to know before you go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, renting a car or campervan is common and practical for this route. Standard car licenses are accepted, and there are many rental options in Las Vegas. Travelers recommend checking insurance, tire conditions, and rental policies, especially if crossing state lines or visiting national parks.
Yes, there are a wide range of accommodations from hotels and motels in Las Vegas to campgrounds, RV parks, and free camping options on BLM land near Moab, Kanab, and Escalante.
Key attractions include the Las Vegas Strip, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks (from St. George and Kanab), Grand Staircase-Escalante and scenic Highway 12 (from Escalante), and Arches and Canyonlands National Parks (from Moab).
Travelers should plan for variable weather, especially in winter when some routes to St. George may be affected by snow. Summer heat in Moab can be intense, so avoid strenuous hikes during peak temperatures. Remote areas near Escalante and Kanab require planning for gas, tires, and supplies.
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