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Embark on a 10-day American West road trip, exploring majestic landscapes like Great Basin, Death Valley, and Valley of Fire. Discover breathtaking hikes, iconic views, and unforgettable adventures in nature’s wild playground.
Introduction
The American West is a land of unparalleled beauty and adventure, where vast deserts, rugged mountains, and iconic landscapes beckon travelers to explore. This 10-day road trip itinerary takes you through some of the region’s most spectacular national parks and state parks, showcasing the wild spirit of Great Basin, Death Valley, and Valley of Fire.
Designed for those with an adventurous heart, this journey emphasizes flexibility and convenience by incorporating campervan travel. Renting a campervan from Native Campervans in Denver not only simplifies logistics but also enhances the experience. Equipped with a real bed, kitchenette, and storage for fresh food, the campervan eliminates the need to set up camp each night and provides a cozy refuge from unpredictable weather. With a seamless drop-off option in Las Vegas, it’s the ideal way to explore these untamed destinations.
Over the course of the trip, you’ll hike through surreal landscapes, marvel at some of the darkest night skies in the country, and experience the unique geology and history of these iconic parks. Daily drives are kept under four hours, allowing plenty of time to fully immerse yourself in each destination’s wonders.
Whether stargazing under the expansive desert sky, traversing glacial trails, or exploring ancient petroglyphs, this journey offers a perfect balance of adventure and comfort. With the freedom of campervan travel, every mile brings a new opportunity to connect with the extraordinary beauty of the American West. The road is calling—let’s get started.
Adventure in comfort: Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the American West with a Native Campervan, where every stop feels like home in the heart of nature. Photo: Native Campervans
Day 1: Denver, Colorado to Rocky Mountain National Park
Start your journey in Denver, the gateway to the Rockies. After fueling up with breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, a beloved spot for creative twists on classic breakfast dishes, head two hours northwest to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Your first adventure is the short and scenic Bear Lake Trail, a 0.6-mile loop that winds through a tranquil forest, offering stunning views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain reflected in the lake’s glassy surface. If you’re feeling more ambitious, continue to Dream Lake or Emerald Lake for a moderate hike with unforgettable alpine vistas.
After your hike, cruise along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. This awe-inspiring drive offers sweeping views of the park’s rugged wilderness and opportunities to spot wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep.
Settle in for the evening in Estes Park, a charming town just outside the park. Check into the historic Stanley Hotel, or park your campervan at the nearby Moraine Park Campground for a night immersed in nature. For dinner, savor farm-to-table dishes at Bird & Jim, where locally sourced ingredients shine in creative mountain-inspired dishes.
Finish your day under the stars with a dark-sky program in the park. With minimal light pollution, the night sky here is a dazzling canvas of constellations and the Milky Way—a perfect introduction to your Western adventure.
Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park to Arches National Park
Rise early and enjoy breakfast on the go, thanks to the kitchenette in your Native Campervan. From Estes Park, head west on a four-hour drive to Moab, Utah, the gateway to Arches National Park. Along the way, stop in Grand Junction, Colorado, for a quick bite at Main Street Bagels, a cozy café known for its fresh-baked goods and hearty sandwiches.
Arrive in Moab by early afternoon and park your campervan at Arches Campground or the scenic Red Cliffs Lodge, offering unparalleled views of the Colorado River. Spend the afternoon exploring Arches National Park’s otherworldly landscapes. Hike the Delicate Arch Trail, a 3-mile round trip to the park’s most iconic landmark. For a less strenuous option, the Windows Loop Trail offers an easy walk among massive rock arches and spires.
As the sun sets, marvel at the park’s red sandstone glowing in hues of orange and crimson. Return to Moab for dinner at The Spoke on Center, where you can refuel with gourmet burgers and local craft beer. Relax in your campervan under the stars, enjoying the convenience and comfort it offers after a long day of exploration.
Delicate Arch in Arches National Park near Moab, Utah.
Day 3: Arches National Park to Canyonlands National Park
Wake up to the golden hues of the desert and grab coffee at Moab Coffee Roasters before heading just 30 minutes to Canyonlands National Park, starting with the Island in the Sky District.
Kick off your morning with the Mesa Arch Trail, a short 0.7-mile loop leading to one of the park’s most iconic views. Sunrise is particularly magical here, as the arch frames the canyon below in a fiery glow. Next, head to Grand View Point for a leisurely 2-mile hike offering panoramic vistas of the canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Adventurers can opt for a more challenging exploration along the White Rim Road, either by bike or off-road vehicle, for an up-close experience of the park’s rugged beauty. Pack a picnic lunch from your campervan to enjoy at Upheaval Dome, a unique geologic feature that remains a mystery to scientists.
End the day back in Moab with dinner at Desert Bistro, a fine-dining restaurant offering Southwestern-inspired dishes like elk medallions or wild-caught trout. Spend another night at Red Cliffs Lodge or camp at Dead Horse Point State Park, soaking in the desert’s tranquil beauty.
Backpacker looking at beautiful sunset from inside of the False Kiva Canyonlands National Park Moab, Utah.
Day 4: Canyonlands to Bryce Canyon National Park
After breakfast in your campervan or at Moab Diner, begin the scenic four-hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. The journey winds through Utah’s dramatic desert landscapes, with a possible stop at Capitol Reef National Park for a short hike or a quick look at its stunning red rock formations.
Arrive at Bryce Canyon National Park by early afternoon and park your campervan at North Campground, conveniently located near the visitor center. If you prefer a bit of luxury, check into The Lodge at Bryce Canyon, nestled within the park and offering rustic elegance.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Navajo Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile descent into Bryce’s iconic amphitheater filled with towering hoodoos. Highlights include the mesmerizing Wall Street section, where towering rock spires surround the trail, and the impressive Thor’s Hammer formation. For an easier option, take a walk along the Rim Trail, offering incredible views from Sunrise Point to Inspiration Point.
As the day transitions into evening, Bryce’s unique landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. Enjoy dinner at the nearby Stone Hearth Grille, which features upscale, locally inspired dishes with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Return to your campsite or lodge for the evening and prepare for a stargazing program hosted by park rangers. As a designated International Dark Sky Park, Bryce Canyon offers one of the best opportunities to marvel at the Milky Way and countless constellations.
Drift to sleep in your campervan, surrounded by the serene quiet of Bryce Canyon’s unique desert beauty.
Natural bridge rock formation in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah.
Day 5: Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park
Start the day with a sunrise hike along the Rim Trail for one last look at Bryce Canyon’s ethereal hoodoos bathed in morning light. Afterward, grab breakfast at Bryce Canyon Pines before driving two hours to Zion National Park, where sandstone cliffs and lush valleys await.
Upon arrival, park your campervan at the Watchman Campground, a scenic and centrally located site perfect for exploring Zion. If you prefer a more traditional stay, check into Zion Lodge, the only lodging within the park, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to trails.
Spend the afternoon tackling one of Zion’s most famous hikes: Angels Landing. This 5.4-mile round-trip trail is both thrilling and challenging, featuring steep switchbacks and narrow ridges with jaw-dropping views of Zion Canyon. For a less demanding option, hike the Emerald Pools Trail, a family-friendly trek leading to shimmering pools and cascading waterfalls.
Cool off in the late afternoon with a wade through The Narrows, a slot canyon hike where the trail is the Virgin River itself. Rent water shoes and a walking stick from an outfitter in Springdale to enhance your experience.
End the day with dinner at Zion Canyon Brew Pub, where wood-fired pizzas and craft beers are served with stunning canyon views. Back at your campervan or lodge, relax under the stars, reflecting on Zion’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
Conquer Zion’s Angels Landing Trail: a thrilling hike with breathtaking views, steep climbs, and unforgettable adventure.
Day 6: Zion to Capitol Reef National Park
After breakfast at Oscar’s Café in Springdale, known for its delicious breakfast burritos, set out on a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive to Capitol Reef National Park. Stop at Panguitch Lake for a quick break or photo opportunity, surrounded by peaceful alpine scenery.
Park your campervan at Fruita Campground, located in the heart of the park near historic orchards. If you prefer a lodge, the Capitol Reef Resort offers options ranging from cozy cabins to glamping tents with incredible red rock views.
In the afternoon, drive the Scenic Drive, a 7.9-mile paved route showcasing Capitol Reef’s towering cliffs and colorful sandstone formations. Stop at the Hickman Bridge Trail, a 1.8-mile round-trip hike leading to a natural sandstone arch, or explore Grand Wash, an easy trail that takes you through a dramatic slot canyon.
Visit the Gifford Homestead, where you can learn about the area’s pioneer history and enjoy a fresh fruit pie made from the park’s orchards. For dinner, head back to the Capitol Reef Resort’s Pioneer Kitchen, offering hearty dishes like bison meatloaf or rainbow trout.
Spend the evening stargazing in this International Dark Sky Park. The Fruita Campground offers an ideal vantage point to watch the Milky Way stretch across the sky, a magical way to end your day.
Capitol Dome in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah.
Day 7: Capitol Reef to Great Basin National Park
Wake up to the serene beauty of Capitol Reef National Park and enjoy a quick breakfast in your Native Campervan or grab something to-go from the Gifford Homestead, where fresh pastries and coffee make for a delightful start. Then, begin your scenic four-hour drive west to Great Basin National Park, crossing into Nevada’s rugged wilderness.
Arrive in Great Basin National Park by early afternoon and park your campervan at the Lower Lehman Creek Campground, a peaceful spot nestled among the junipers and pines with views of the towering peaks. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Lehman Caves, a spectacular system of marble caves adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and rare formations like cave shields. Join a guided tour to learn about the geology and history of this unique underground wonder.
Afterward, drive up to Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, where the road winds through alpine forests and ends with views of Wheeler Peak, the park’s towering 13,065-foot summit. For a short and easy hike, explore the Alpine Lakes Loop Trail, a 2.7-mile trek that takes you past two stunning glacial lakes surrounded by rugged mountain terrain.
Dinner is a DIY affair, cooked in your campervan at the campground, or you can venture into the nearby town of Bakerfor a simple but satisfying meal at Kerouac’s Restaurant, known for its locally sourced ingredients and creative menu. End the day stargazing—Great Basin National Park is one of the darkest places in the U.S., offering unparalleled views of the Milky Way.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
Day 8: Great Basin to Death Valley National Park
Rise early to greet the day in the crisp alpine air of Great Basin. After a hearty breakfast in your campervan, set out on a scenic five-hour drive south to Death Valley National Park, crossing expansive desert basins and rugged mountain ranges.
Arrive in Death Valley National Park by mid-afternoon and check in at the Furnace Creek Campground or, for more comfort, the Inn at Death Valley, a historic oasis offering luxury accommodations and a refreshing pool. Start your exploration with a visit to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. Walk on the salt flats and marvel at the otherworldly landscape stretching toward the horizon.
As the afternoon light fades, drive to Zabriskie Point, one of the park’s most iconic viewpoints, where colorful badlands glow in the golden hour. For a more active adventure, hike the Golden Canyon Trail, a moderate 3-mile round trip through golden-hued canyons leading to Red Cathedral, a stunning natural amphitheater.
For dinner, return to the Inn at Death Valley, where the on-site restaurant serves hearty dishes with a touch of desert elegance. Spend the evening gazing at the stars—Death Valley is an International Dark Sky Park, and its vast expanse of desert offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world.
Ripples, curves, swirls and waves are numerous at Eureka Dunes at Death Valley National Park.
Day 9: Death Valley to Valley of Fire State Park
After a sunrise visit to Dante’s View, where you can watch the first rays of light illuminate Death Valley’s vast desert floor, enjoy breakfast at the Inn at Death Valley or prepare something simple in your campervan. Then head east on a three-hour drive to Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, known for its vibrant red sandstone formations.
Arrive at Valley of Fire State Park by early afternoon and set up camp at the Atlatl Rock Campground, where you’ll be surrounded by the park’s striking geology. Begin your adventure with a visit to Atlatl Rock, where ancient petroglyphs carved into the stone offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history. Climb the staircase to view these remarkable symbols left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans.
For a short and easy hike, explore the Fire Wave Trail, a 1.5-mile round trip that leads to a stunning sandstone formation resembling swirling flames. If time allows, check out Elephant Rock, another of the park’s famous formations, perfect for photography.
As the day winds down, take a leisurely drive along the White Domes Road, stopping at scenic viewpoints to capture the park’s dramatic landscapes in the soft evening light. For dinner, prepare a meal in your campervan or drive into the nearby town of Overton for a casual bite.
End the evening around a campfire at the campground, enjoying the peaceful desert night and gazing at the brilliant stars overhead.
Sunset hiking on the trails in the Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas, Nevada.
Day 10: Valley of Fire to Las Vegas
On your final day, wake up early to explore Valley of Fire’s sunrise magic, when the red sandstone formations are bathed in golden light. After breakfast in your campervan, take one last short hike to Rainbow Vista, an easy trail leading to panoramic views of colorful rock formations.
By late morning, begin the short one-hour drive to Las Vegas, the vibrant finale to your road trip. Upon arrival, drop off your campervan at Native Campervans’ Las Vegas hub, where their team will handle everything, allowing you to seamlessly transition to exploring the city.
Check into the luxurious Bellagio Hotel or the peaceful Red Rock Canyon Resort, depending on your preferred vibe. Spend your last afternoon celebrating the journey with a touch of Las Vegas flair. Visit the Neon Museum, showcasing the city’s iconic vintage signs, or relax with a massage at one of the city’s renowned spas.
For dinner, enjoy a fine dining experience at Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, where creative dishes meet a lively atmosphere, or head to Estiatorio Milos for Mediterranean-inspired seafood in an elegant setting. If you have energy to spare, stroll along the Las Vegas Strip to take in its dazzling lights and world-class attractions.
Reflect on the incredible variety of landscapes and experiences you’ve encountered over the past 10 days. This adventure through the American West, from towering peaks to fiery deserts, will remain etched in your memory as one of life’s great journeys.
Conclusion
This 10-day road trip through the American West has been a journey of contrasts, from alpine peaks and ancient caves to scorching deserts and fiery red rock formations. Each stop has revealed a new chapter in nature’s story, showcasing the stunning diversity of the region’s national parks and landscapes.
Exploring the West with a campervan from Native Campervans has been a game-changer. Starting in Denver and ending in Las Vegas, the flexibility of van life has allowed you to embrace the pace of this ambitious itinerary without sacrificing comfort or convenience. With a real bed, a stocked kitchenette, and the ability to adjust to changing conditions, the campervan provided a home base that enhanced your connection to these wild places. Dropping off the van at Native Campervans’ Las Vegas hub made wrapping up the trip effortless, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than logistics.
This trip is more than just miles traveled or destinations visited—it’s a celebration of the American West’s untamed beauty. From the star-studded skies of Great Basin to the surreal salt flats of Death Valley and the mesmerizing formations of Valley of Fire, these landscapes leave an indelible impression, inspiring awe and a renewed appreciation for the natural world.
As you look back on your journey, carry with you the sense of wonder and adventure that defined this trip. The road remains, always ready for your next exploration. Until then, the memories of this adventure will fuel your wanderlust for years to come.
Brian Hamilton, an engineering geologist and adventure writer, shares his outdoor experiences on Skyblueoverland.com. He currently lives in Philadelphia and has been in the engineering and construction field for over 35 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Illinois and a master’s degree in Geological Engineering from South Dakota Mines. With a geological engineering background, he provides unique insights into nature, adventure sports, and gear through engaging articles, trail guides, and creative storytelling.
Discover Adventure: Dive into “Beyond the Skyblue Horizon,” a new podcast from Skyblue Overland. Hosted by Brian Hamilton, it’s your guide to exploring destinations, reviewing gear, and getting expert advice. Perfect for every outdoor enthusiast.
Listen now on all podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube Podcasts. Subscribe now and take your first step into the stories and adventures that lie beyond the horizon.
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