If the idea of spending your entire vacation indoors makes you restless, you’ve come to the right place. Las Vegas is more than just a city; it’s the ultimate basecamp for adventure. It’s a launchpad to some of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest, where you can hike through otherworldly rock formations, kayak on the cool Colorado River, or stand in awe of massive engineering marvels. This is your chance to add some real exploration to your trip. Forget the slot machines for a day and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Here are the absolute best day trips from Las Vegas for anyone looking to answer the call of the wild.
Key Takeaways
- Balance Neon Nights with Natural Wonders: A day trip adds incredible value to your Vegas vacation by offering a refreshing break from the city’s energy. Exploring places like Red Rock Canyon or the Valley of Fire creates a more well-rounded and memorable experience.
- Smart Prep is Your Key to a Great Day: A successful desert outing comes down to a few key details. Decide whether you’ll drive or take a tour, check for timed entry reservations in advance, and always pack more water than you think you’ll need.
- Choose an Adventure That Fits Your Style: The areas around Las Vegas offer something for everyone. You can choose a challenging hike, a historical tour of the Hoover Dam, or a scenic drive, making it easy to find the perfect trip for your interests and energy level.
Beyond the Neon: Why a Day Trip from Vegas is a Must
Let’s be real: the energy of the Las Vegas Strip is electric. The lights, the shows, the endless hum of excitement—it’s a world of its own. But just beyond the city limits lies a completely different kind of magic, one filled with sprawling desert landscapes, stunning rock formations, and serene natural beauty. Taking a day trip is your chance to hit the reset button, breathe in some fresh air, and see a side of Nevada that many visitors miss entirely. It adds a whole new dimension to your Vegas vacation, creating memories that go far beyond the casino floor. You get the best of both worlds: the non-stop action of the city and the peaceful grandeur of the desert.
Swap Casino Lights for Natural Wonders
Trading the glow of a slot machine for the sun setting over red rock canyons is an experience you won’t forget. Las Vegas is perfectly positioned as a basecamp for some of the most incredible outdoor adventures in the Southwest. You don’t need to plan a massive, multi-day expedition to see them, either. Places like the Valley of Fire are famous for their brilliant sandstone, ancient petroglyphs, and petrified trees that look like they belong on another planet. It’s a chance to swap the noise of the city for the quiet of the desert and witness landscapes that have been carved out over millions of years. It’s a powerful reminder of the wild, untamed beauty that surrounds the city.
Find Your Next Adventure
A day trip from Vegas can be whatever you want it to be. Are you looking for a challenging hike, a scenic drive, or a chance to learn some history? You’ve got options. Just a short drive from the Strip, you can explore the iconic engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam or go kayaking on the cool, clear waters of the Colorado River. For those who love to hit the trails, the dramatic cliffs and unique geology of Red Rock Canyon offer endless opportunities for hiking and climbing. These excursions give you a perfect break from the city’s pace, letting you create a balanced trip filled with both excitement and exploration.
8 Incredible Day Trips from Las Vegas
Ready to trade the Strip for a day of adventure? Las Vegas is the perfect home base for exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American Southwest. From fiery red rock formations to iconic man-made marvels, there’s a whole world to discover just a short drive away. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a scenic drive, or a relaxing dip in a natural spring, these destinations offer a refreshing change of pace. Here are eight incredible day trips that will show you a whole different side of Nevada and its neighbors.
1. Valley of Fire State Park
Just an hour from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park feels like another planet. Its stunning red Aztec sandstone formations seem to glow, especially during sunrise and sunset, giving the park its name. Beyond the incredible views, you can find ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) that are thousands of years old. It’s a fantastic spot for sightseeing, and the hiking trails range from easy walks to more challenging treks. To make the most of your visit and see all the hidden gems, consider a guided Valley of Fire tour that handles all the driving and navigating for you.
2. Red Rock Canyon
If you want a quick escape into nature, Red Rock Canyon is your answer. Located just outside the city limits, this conservation area is famous for its colorful sandstone cliffs and a 13-mile scenic drive that offers one stunning viewpoint after another. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with dozens of trails for hiking, spots for rock climbing, and roads for biking. Because it’s so close, you can easily spend a half-day exploring or pack a full day with activities. Private Red Rock Canyon tours are a great way to learn about the area’s unique geology and history from a local expert.
3. Hoover Dam & Lake Mead
Witness one of America’s greatest engineering feats at the Hoover Dam. This massive structure, built on the Colorado River, is truly a sight to behold. You can walk across the dam for free to take in the incredible views of Lake Mead and the river below. Speaking of Lake Mead, this vast reservoir offers a refreshing contrast to the surrounding desert. It’s a popular spot for boating, swimming, and hiking along the shoreline. Combining these two destinations makes for a perfect day trip filled with history and recreation, and dedicated Hoover Dam tours can give you an in-depth look at this historic landmark.
4. Mount Charleston
When the desert heat becomes too much, locals and visitors alike head for the hills—specifically, Mount Charleston. This mountain peak offers a cool, green escape with pine forests, hiking trails, and even a waterfall. During the winter months, it transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, it’s the ideal place for a scenic drive, a picnic, or a hike in temperatures that are often 20-30 degrees cooler than in Las Vegas. It’s a surprising alpine retreat that shows the incredible diversity of the Nevada landscape.
5. Arizona Hot Springs
For a truly unique and rewarding adventure, make the trek to the Arizona Hot Springs. This hidden gem is reached by hiking through beautiful, twisting slot canyons near the Colorado River. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a series of natural hot spring pools perfect for a relaxing soak. The hike itself is part of the fun, offering incredible scenery along the way. It’s an amazing way to connect with nature and experience the raw beauty of the desert. Just be sure to pack plenty of water and check trail conditions before you go, especially in the hotter months.
6. Death Valley National Park
Known for its extreme and otherworldly landscape, Death Valley National Park is a place of stark beauty. It’s home to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, as well as shifting sand dunes, colorful canyons, and rugged mountains. Despite its name, Death Valley is teeming with life and offers incredible opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. The vast, open spaces and unique geological formations make it a photographer’s dream. It’s a longer day trip, but the unforgettable scenery is well worth the drive. Exploring this vast park can be a challenge, so a guided tour is a great way to see the highlights safely.
7. Grand Canyon West Rim
You can’t be this close to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and not see it. The Grand Canyon’s West Rim is the most accessible section from Las Vegas, making it a popular and spectacular day trip. Here, you can walk out on the glass-bottomed Grand Canyon Skywalk for a thrilling view straight down to the canyon floor. The panoramic views of the canyon’s immense scale and layered rock walls are simply awe-inspiring. There are several viewpoints to explore, each offering a different perspective of this natural marvel. A private Grand Canyon tour ensures you have a comfortable and memorable experience.
8. Emerald Cove
If you’re looking for an adventure on the water, look no further than Emerald Cove. This stunning spot on the Colorado River is famous for its brilliant green water, which glows when the sunlight hits it just right. The best way to experience it is by kayak, paddling through a small cave to witness the magical effect. It’s a peaceful and beautiful journey that offers a different perspective of the Black Canyon landscape. This trip is perfect for those who want to combine a bit of physical activity with some truly unforgettable scenery. If you have a specific adventure in mind, you can always create custom tours to build your perfect day.
How to Get There: A Quick Transportation Guide
You’ve picked out the perfect day trip destination—awesome! Now for the next big question: How will you get there? Las Vegas is a fantastic home base for exploring, with tons of incredible natural wonders just a short drive away. Whether you prefer the freedom of the open road or want to sit back and let someone else handle the details, you’ve got options.
Deciding on transportation comes down to your personal style, budget, and how much you want to pack into your day. Do you want to be the master of your own itinerary, or would you rather have an expert show you the ropes? Let’s walk through the best ways to get from the Strip to the stunning landscapes that surround it, so you can choose the right ride for your adventure.
Driving Yourself: Rental Cars & Tips
If you love a good road trip playlist and the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a great choice. Las Vegas has plenty of rental agencies, both at the airport and along the Strip. Driving yourself means you can make spontaneous stops, spend as much time as you want at a particular viewpoint, and set your own schedule. Many amazing outdoor adventures are less than an hour’s drive from the city, making for an easy and rewarding trip.
A few tips if you decide to drive: book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season, to get the best price and vehicle. Always pack extra water, as the desert climate can be dehydrating. And finally, download your maps for offline use. Cell service can get spotty once you leave the city limits, and you don’t want to be left guessing at a critical turn.
Let Someone Else Drive: The Perks of a Guided Tour
Want to see the sights without the stress of navigating, parking, or planning? A guided tour is your best friend. This is the perfect way to simply relax and soak in the scenery while someone else takes care of all the logistics. You won’t have to worry about rental cars, gas, or park entrance fees—it’s all handled for you. Plus, you get the incredible benefit of a knowledgeable guide who can share stories, point out hidden gems, and take you to the best photo spots you might have missed on your own.
Whether you want to see the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam or explore the fiery red rocks of the Valley of Fire, there’s a tour for it. Opting for a private experience allows you to create a fully customizable tour tailored to exactly what you want to see and do, making your day trip truly unforgettable.
Catch a Ride: Using Shuttle Services
Shuttle services are another option for getting to popular destinations. These are typically larger, shared buses that run on a fixed schedule to places like the Grand Canyon or Hoover Dam. They can be a budget-friendly choice if you’re traveling solo or as a pair and don’t mind sharing the ride with other groups.
Keep in mind that shuttles offer less flexibility than a private tour or driving yourself. Your departure and return times are set, and you’ll be on a schedule with the rest of the passengers. It’s a solid, no-frills way to get from point A to point B, but you’ll miss out on the personalized experience and the freedom to explore off the beaten path.
Know Before You Go: Travel Times & Routes
Planning your day trip is much easier when you have a realistic idea of how long it will take to get there. The Las Vegas area offers destinations for every type of timeline, from quick morning excursions to full-day epic journeys. Knowing the drive time will help you decide how early to start your day and how much you can fit in.
Here’s a quick breakdown of one-way travel times from the Las Vegas Strip to popular spots:
- Red Rock Canyon: About 25–30 minutes
- Hoover Dam: About 45 minutes
- Valley of Fire: About 1 hour
- Mount Charleston: About 1 hour
- Death Valley National Park: About 2–2.5 hours
- Grand Canyon West Rim: About 2.5 hours
For shorter trips like Red Rock Canyon, you can easily be back in Vegas for dinner. For longer drives like the Grand Canyon, you’ll want to dedicate the entire day to make the most of it.
When’s the Best Time to Go?
Las Vegas is a year-round destination, and thankfully, so are its surrounding wonders. While there’s truly no bad time to escape the city for a day, each season offers a completely different vibe and set of activities. Picking the right time for your trip depends on what you want to see and do. Are you hoping for perfect hiking weather, or are you trying to escape the desert heat? Thinking about the season will help you plan the perfect day trip, ensuring you’re comfortable and can make the most of your adventure outside the city.
Spring: Perfect Weather for Adventure (March-May)
If you ask me, spring is the sweet spot for exploring the desert. The scorching summer heat hasn’t arrived yet, leaving you with mild, sunny days that are absolutely perfect for being outdoors. This is the prime time for hiking and sightseeing without breaking too much of a sweat. The desert landscape comes alive with blooming wildflowers, adding pops of color to the red rock formations. It’s an ideal season to explore the stunning sandstone of the Valley of Fire or tackle the scenic trails at Red Rock Canyon. You get all the beauty and adventure with comfortable temperatures, making it a fantastic time to get out and explore.
Summer: How to Beat the Heat (June-August)
Let’s be real: summer in the Mojave Desert is hot. With temperatures often climbing into the triple digits, a full day of hiking might not be at the top of your list. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside! The key is to plan your day trip around water. This is the perfect season to visit the massive Hoover Dam and cool off in the refreshing waters of Lake Mead. You can enjoy boating, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore. A private Hoover Dam tour can get you there in air-conditioned comfort, allowing you to see the engineering marvel and then escape the heat with some fun on the water.
Fall: Cool Temps and Stunning Colors (September-November)
Much like spring, fall brings a welcome relief from the summer heat, with temperatures cooling down to a comfortable level for outdoor fun. The air is crisp, the crowds start to thin out, and the golden light of autumn makes the landscape even more breathtaking. This is another fantastic season for hiking and sightseeing, as the conditions are just right for a full day of exploration. The changing colors in some of the higher-elevation areas add a beautiful touch to the scenery. It’s a wonderful time to take a trip out to the Grand Canyon, where the cooler air and softer light make the views absolutely spectacular.
Winter: Crisp Air and Unique Sights (December-February)
Winter offers a completely different and quieter perspective on the desert. The crowds are smaller, the air is crisp and clear, and you might even see a dusting of snow on the surrounding mountain peaks, which is a truly beautiful sight against the red rocks. While it can be chilly, it’s still a great time for a day trip, especially if you prefer a more peaceful experience. Destinations like Red Rock Canyon are often less busy, allowing you to enjoy the trails and scenery in solitude. Just be sure to dress in layers, and you’ll be rewarded with a serene and unique desert adventure that many summer visitors miss out on.
What to Do When You Get There
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, the real fun begins. The areas surrounding Las Vegas are packed with incredible sights and activities, whether you’re looking to break a sweat on a scenic trail, cool off in the water, or capture the perfect photo. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do at these amazing day-trip spots.
Hit the Trails: Best Hikes & Viewpoints
Lace up your hiking boots, because the desert landscapes outside Vegas offer some truly unforgettable trails. For a classic desert hike, you can explore the Valley of Fire State Park, where stunning red rock formations seem to glow at sunrise and sunset. You can follow paths that lead to ancient petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock or wind through unique sandstone shapes like the Beehives and the famous Fire Wave. Closer to the city, Red Rock Canyon has a beautiful 13-mile scenic drive that serves as a gateway to more than 20 different hiking trails. And if you need a break from the heat, drive up to Mount Charleston for cooler air and alpine trails that feel a world away.
Cool Off: Where to Find Water Activities
Yes, you can find water in the desert! Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a massive reservoir where you can swim, boat, or kayak against a dramatic desert backdrop. One of the best activities here is hiking the Historic Railroad Trail, a mostly flat path that takes you through five old railroad tunnels with incredible views of the lake and the Hoover Dam. For a truly unique experience, you can kayak down the Colorado River to find Emerald Cove. This stunning grotto is famous for its brilliant green water, which glows when the sun hits it just right. Since you can only get there by boat, it feels like a hidden gem and makes for an amazing reward after a good paddle.
Get the Shot: Can’t-Miss Photo Ops
Your camera is going to get a workout on these day trips. The Valley of Fire is a photographer’s dream, with endless opportunities to capture the vibrant red sandstone of Elephant Rock and the swirling patterns of the Fire Wave. The ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks also make for fascinating photos. Of course, no trip to the area is complete without seeing the Hoover Dam. This incredible feat of engineering is breathtakingly massive. You can walk across the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge for a fantastic, wide-angle view of the dam, or get up close to appreciate its sheer scale and Art Deco details. It’s an iconic shot that captures a piece of American history.
Step Back in Time: Exploring Historical Sites
Beyond the natural beauty, the region is full of history. The Hoover Dam stands as a monument to American ingenuity, built during the Great Depression in the rugged Black Canyon. Taking a tour gives you a real sense of the incredible effort it took to construct this marvel, which forever changed the American West by providing power and water. For a much older historical experience, the petroglyphs in the Valley of Fire offer a direct connection to the past. These ancient rock carvings, made by early inhabitants of the area thousands of years ago, tell stories of their lives and beliefs. Walking among these historical artworks is a humbling experience that reminds you just how long people have been drawn to this beautiful landscape.
How Much Will It Cost? A Simple Budget Guide
A day trip from Las Vegas is an incredible way to experience the desert’s beauty, and it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little bit of planning, you can manage your expenses and focus on the adventure. The biggest costs will be getting to your destination and any park entry fees, but there are plenty of ways to keep your budget in check. Think about what kind of experience you want—a DIY road trip or a stress-free guided tour—and from there, you can map out a budget that works for you. Let’s break down the typical costs so you know exactly what to expect.
Park Entry Fees & Passes
Most of the stunning natural areas around Las Vegas have an entry fee, which goes toward maintaining the parks. For Valley of Fire State Park, you can expect to pay around $15 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors. If you’re heading to Red Rock Canyon, the fee is about $20 per vehicle for the scenic drive, and you’ll likely need a timed reservation depending on the season. For national sites like Lake Mead or Death Valley, a single-day pass is usually around $25–$30. If you plan on visiting multiple national parks on your trip, consider getting an America the Beautiful pass, which covers entry to all national parks for a full year.
Getting There: Transportation Costs
Your transportation costs will depend on how you choose to travel. Renting a car gives you flexibility, but remember to factor in the daily rental rate, gas, and insurance. Gas prices can be higher in more remote areas, so it’s smart to fill up your tank before you leave the city. If you’d rather not deal with the logistics of driving and navigating, a guided tour is a fantastic option. Our private Valley of Fire tours handle all the transportation, so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the incredible views without worrying about the details.
Budgeting for Activities
Once you’ve paid for entry and transportation, many activities are completely free. Hiking, sightseeing, and taking photos won’t cost you an extra dime. However, some destinations offer special activities that come with an additional price tag. For example, you might want to rent a kayak to explore Emerald Cove or take a specific tour at the Hoover Dam. It’s a good idea to research these costs ahead of time and build them into your budget. When you book one of our Grand Canyon tours, we outline any optional add-ons, so there are no surprises.
How to Save a Few Bucks
There are several easy ways to make your day trip more affordable. Packing your own lunch, snacks, and plenty of water is a huge money-saver, as food and drinks sold near major attractions can be expensive. If you’re traveling with friends, splitting the cost of a rental car and gas makes the trip much cheaper for everyone. Another great tip is to bundle your costs with a tour. A private, custom tour can be surprisingly budget-friendly because it includes your transportation, park fees, and a planned itinerary, helping you avoid unexpected expenses along the way.
Your Day Trip Planning Checklist
A little prep goes a long way in making your desert adventure smooth and enjoyable. Before you head out, running through a quick checklist ensures you have everything you need for a fantastic day. Think of it as your recipe for success, covering everything from what to wear to the snacks you’ll want to have on hand. We’ve broken down the essentials so you can focus less on logistics and more on the incredible views waiting for you.
What to Pack for a Day in the Desert
The desert sun is no joke, so packing smart is key. Start with the non-negotiables: plenty of water, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must for walking on uneven terrain. I also recommend bringing a portable power bank for your phone—you’ll be taking lots of pictures! For longer excursions, like our Valley of Fire tours, it’s wise to pack layers. A light jacket can be a lifesaver when the temperature drops in the evening or at higher elevations.
Do You Need Permits or Reservations?
This is a big one, as some popular spots require planning. For example, if you’re visiting Red Rock Canyon between October and May, you’ll need a timed entry reservation, which you can book online. These can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so it’s best to reserve them a few weeks in advance. Other areas, particularly those on Native American land, can only be accessed with a certified guide. Checking the specific requirements for your destination beforehand saves you from potential disappointment at the gate, which is why our Red Rock Canyon tours handle all the logistics for you.
Staying Safe on Your Adventure
Your safety is the top priority. The most important rule of the desert is to stay hydrated—bring more water than you think you’ll need. It’s also crucial to know your physical limits. The heat can be draining, so don’t push yourself too hard, especially on challenging hikes. Always let someone know your itinerary before you go. If you’re exploring a vast area like the Grand Canyon, sticking to marked trails is essential. This is where a guided experience, like one of our private tours, provides peace of mind, as your guide handles the route and safety details.
Plan Your Snacks and Drinks
“Hangry” is not a good look on anyone, especially in the middle of a beautiful landscape. Pack easy-to-carry, high-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit. Salty snacks are also a great idea to help replenish the electrolytes you lose through sweat. For drinks, water is king. A good rule of thumb is to bring at least one gallon of water per person for a full-day trip. Avoid sugary sodas or energy drinks, as they can actually dehydrate you more. Having your food and drinks ready means you won’t have to cut your adventure short to find a store.
Maximize Your Day: How to Combine Destinations
One of the best things about Las Vegas is its proximity to so many incredible, and incredibly different, landscapes. If you’re short on time but big on ambition, combining a couple of destinations into one day trip is a fantastic way to see more. The key is to pair places that are geographically close and offer a good mix of experiences. Planning the logistics can feel like a puzzle, but getting it right means less time in the car and more time exploring. If you want to take the guesswork out of it, you can always work with a guide to build custom tours that fit your exact wish list. This way, you can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Perfect Half-Day Pairings
Want to pack a lot into a single day without feeling rushed? Pairing two closer destinations is the way to go. A popular and highly recommended combination is visiting Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam. This duo gives you the best of both worlds: the stunning, fiery-red sandstone formations of a natural conservation area and the awe-inspiring scale of a man-made engineering marvel. You get incredible views and a history lesson all in one trip. Another great option is to pair the otherworldly landscapes of the Valley of Fire with the cool, blue waters of Lake Mead for a day of scenic contrasts.
Epic Full-Day Itineraries
If you have a full day to spare and are ready for a true adventure, some of the grander destinations are within your reach. A trip to the Grand Canyon South Rim is definitely possible, but it requires an early start. To make the most of it, plan on leaving Las Vegas around 6:30 a.m. to get there before midday. While it’s a long day, the views are absolutely worth it. On the other hand, some spots are just a bit too far for a comfortable day trip. Parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon involve drives of nearly three hours each way, which doesn’t leave much time for hiking or sightseeing. For these longer journeys, letting someone else handle the driving on a Grand Canyon tour can make all the difference.
The Best Combos for Every Season
The perfect day trip combo can change with the seasons. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for being outdoors, making them ideal for hiking-heavy pairings like Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire. The cooler temperatures allow you to fully appreciate the trails and viewpoints. In the winter, you can find unique adventures like skiing or snowboarding at Lee Canyon on Mount Charleston, which you could pair with a scenic drive. During the hot summer months, think about destinations that offer some relief from the heat. A trip to the higher, cooler elevations of Mount Charleston followed by a tour of the Hoover Dam can be a great way to stay comfortable while still seeing the sights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
I’m not a serious hiker. Are there still good day trip options for me? Absolutely! Many of the most beautiful spots are accessible without a strenuous hike. You can enjoy the 13-mile scenic drive through Red Rock Canyon, stopping at viewpoints for incredible photos. The Hoover Dam is a fantastic sightseeing experience focused on history and engineering, and you can easily walk across it. Even in the Valley of Fire, many of the most famous formations are visible from short, easy trails right off the main road.
If I can only choose one day trip, which one should it be? That’s a tough one, but it really depends on what you’re looking for. For something truly unique and otherworldly that’s relatively close to the city, the Valley of Fire is my top recommendation. The vibrant red rock formations are unlike anything else. However, if you want to see an iconic, world-famous landmark, you can’t beat the Grand Canyon. The West Rim is the most accessible for a day trip and offers that jaw-dropping sense of scale you’ve always imagined.
How much of my day will a “day trip” actually take? It can vary quite a bit. A quick escape to Red Rock Canyon can be done in about four to five hours, including travel time, leaving you plenty of your day for other Vegas plans. A trip to the Hoover Dam or Valley of Fire will likely take up a solid portion of your day, around six to eight hours. For more distant destinations like the Grand Canyon or Death Valley, you should plan on dedicating a full day, typically 10 to 12 hours from start to finish.
Why would I choose a guided tour over just renting a car? Renting a car offers a lot of freedom, but a guided tour is all about maximizing your experience with zero stress. You don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads, finding parking, or planning an itinerary. Instead, you can just relax and enjoy the scenery. A great guide also provides context, sharing stories and pointing out details you’d likely miss on your own, which turns a pretty drive into a much more memorable adventure.
Do I really need to worry about making reservations for these parks? Yes, this is more important than ever. Popular spots like Red Rock Canyon now require a timed entry reservation to manage crowds during their busy seasons, which you have to book online in advance. These slots can fill up, especially on weekends. It’s always a good idea to check the official website for any park you plan to visit a few weeks before your trip to see their current entry requirements.
