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When planning a road trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City, there are many incredible stops to make along the way. You can explore some of the most beautiful national parks and state parks in the country. Or, you could visit some charming small towns that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. No matter what route you choose, there are plenty of amazing sights to see on this unforgettable journey. Keep reading for a detailed list of the best stops to make on your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip!

Planning for Your Road Trip

If you are planning a road trip from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City, make sure you have an up-to-date national parks pass. This pass provides access to all national parks and usually costs $80 and by following the recommended route, this pass will essentially pay for itself and then any national park you visit after this trip will be “free” for the remainder of the 12 months after you purchased the pass.

Be sure to stock your car with the essentials before heading off on your adventure. Road trips can be fun and exciting if you plan ahead and make sure you don’t forget any important items. Consider packing a first aid kit, snacks, water, a map, sunscreen, changes of clothes in case of emergencies, and whatever other things you think you might need for your journey. With proper preparation, Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip promises to be an enjoyable experience!

Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip Route

If you drive straight from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City, the drive will take about 6 hours. If you only have one day to do the drive, then pick one stop from this list to break up your drive and see a new place. However, this itinerary will assume that you have around a week and time to enjoy the 10 recommended places. Check out this post if you plan on going in the reverse direction and doing a Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip for some additional recommendations.

Planning the perfect Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip can be an exciting endeavor that requires good research and preparation. Las Vegas is certainly a great place to start and beginning with a few days in “Sin City” gives you plenty of opportunities to see some amazing sights, indulge in some great food, and, of course, hit the casinos. After all that excitement, nothing beats packing up the car and hitting the open road with plenty of stops along the way.

Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area

Las Vegas is filled with plenty of exciting opportunities for tourists and one not to be missed is a day spent at the awe-inspiring Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area. Located just outside Las Vegas, it makes an ideal day trip from a Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip. This unique natural wonderland offers stunning desert vistas, incredible hiking trails, and thrilling outdoor rock climbing walls amidst the backdrop of dramatic red-hued cliffs.

Even those with limited mobility or disinclined to participate in outdoor activities can appreciate the panoramic views that capture the imagination while standing atop this special place. There is a great scenic loop of the park so you don’t even have to leave the car if you don’t want to. Whether your group is ready to explore, soak up some sun, or savor a picnic lunch amongst breathtaking scenery, Red Rock Canyon provides an opportunity to fully appreciate and admire Las Vegas’s beauty beyond its neon lights.

This is the first spot where you will use your America the Beautiful Annual Parks pass. There also is usually a timed entry reservation required to enter the park. Be sure to check the park’s website before heading over. And check out this post if you are looking for other things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip.

Hoover Dam

Visiting the Hoover Dam is a must-do activity for anyone embarking on a Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip. From the top of the dam, one can take in the remarkable surrounding landscape that includes deep canyons and stunning river views.

The impressive structure is constructed of thick concrete and straddles the Colorado River providing an imposing yet humbling presence. It is well worth seeing not only for its architectural beauty but also as it serves as an interesting reminder of what kind of feats humans have accomplished throughout history.

Many people stop at the Hoover Dam on the way to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. This is another stop to consider if you have extra time but it is quite out of the way. If you want to see the Grand Canyon but are limited on time, consider a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.

Valley of Fire State Park

On a Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip, stopping at the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada is a must. Located just a little more than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, this park provides spectacular views of its rolling orange and red sandstone outcroppings which stand like silent sentinels above the desert terrain. The area also features ancient fossils, petroglyphs left by Native American’s hundreds of years ago, natural caves and arches, and slot canyons.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy such as camping in one of the multiple campsites or hiking along the numerous trails while enjoying the scenic beauty that Valley of Fire State Park has to offer. With its wide range of activities and attractions, it’s no wonder why Valley of Fire State Park is poised to be one of the most desirable destinations on any Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip!

Snow Canyon State Park

Stopping at Snow Canyon State Park while on Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip is an absolute must. This park, located just outside of Saint George, Utah, will take your breath away with its grand canyons, magnificent red rocks and glossy sandstone walls. It offers some of the most remarkable landscapes in Utah and would certainly be a national park if it was located in any other state.

Visitors can explore miles of temperate desert trails on foot or by bike, providing not just a chance to admire the interesting geological formations, but also an opportunity to observe coyotes, foxes and other small mammals in their natural habitat. With its unique environment and amazing photogenic locations, it’s no wonder why people from across the globe are drawn here for a truly unforgettable experience in nature.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is the crown jewel of stops on your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip itinerary. If you only can make one stop or are limited on time, plan on spending all of it at Zion National Park. This Utah gem boasts stunning natural formations that are paired with pristine trails for hikers and climbers.

Once you captivate your senses in its magical wilderness, you will feel fulfilled and enlightened before moving forward on the rest of your journey. With sweeping canyons, monolithic rocks, and an abundance of wildlife, Zion National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who stops by during their Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip.

Check out this post for recommendations of things to do near Zion National Park to make sure you are ready for your trip. And if you are following the full route recommended, make sure to stop at Belly of the Dragon on your way to Red Canyon.

Red Canyon

One of the most delightful stops along the way from Las Vegas to Salt Lake City is Red Canyon, best known for its two beautiful tunnels that you drive through on the way from Zion to Bryce Canyon. However, there is so much more to Red Canyon than just the tunnels. Red Canyon is one of the best places to visit in Utah outside of the national parks.

Here, one can venture into the many different trails for breathtaking views of hoodoos and balanced rocks, decorate their vehicle with ruby-red dust from the canyon walls, or take a leisurely stroll amidst surreal sandstone cliffs. Whether you stay for an hour or an entire day, stopping at Red Canyon will be sure to create lasting memories during your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip.

Bryce Canyon

Stopping at Bryce Canyon in Utah is an excellent and convenient option for Las Vegas travelers looking to take a road trip all the way up to Salt Lake City. This unique national park offers many opportunities for exploration, recreation and sightseeing. Not only will visitors enjoy the natural beauty of the red-rock hoodoos, they can experience activities like wildlife viewing, camping, horseback riding, or hiking.

For those wanting some leisure activities, there are plenty of options from simply walking through the canyon or taking scenic drives. Whether you stay for a day or a few, you won’t regret spending some time in one of Southern Utah’s most incredible destinations!

Escalante, Utah

As the gateway to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, the town of Escalante offers plenty of outdoor adventure. And with some of the country’s largest expanses of unblemished desert landscapes, the sunsets here are truly breathtaking and worth pulling over for.

Don’t forget to explore all that Escalante’s charming downtown has to offer, from cozy cafes to unique accommodations. Taking time to visit this underestimated little Utah gem will make your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip even more memorable.

Driving from Escalante to Capitol Reef on Scenic Byway 12 is one of the best scenic drives in Utah. My favorite part is the portion right around Boulder, Utah. This is one you will definitely want to do in the daylight so try to arrange to drive here with a few hours left in the day.

Capitol Reef National Park

If you are looking for an unforgettable stopover on your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip, Capitol Reef National Park is the ideal place to experience it. Capitol Reef doesn’t do all of its showing off from the road. Instead this national park is best experienced if you have a little more time available. If you are short on time, you can continue on to Goblin Valley and save this for your next trip to Utah.

This magnificent park has miles of amazing landscape from canyons, sandstone walls and domes, to cliffs and sprawling grasslands. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or amateur photographer, there’s something here for everyone.

One of the best areas to explore if you have more time and a 4WD vehicle is Cathedral Valley. Spend some time hiking the expanse of petrified sand dunes or exploring nearby historical buildings that offer insight into the area’s rich heritage. Marvel at the stunning starscapes in the crystal-clear night sky while camping beneath them, or while sunbathing by day in one of the many hidden secluded spots within this vast terrain. Whichever way you choose to experience Capitol Reef National Park will be an unforgettable journey that is sure to take your breath away!

Goblin Valley State Park

One of the most unforgettable spots along this drive is Goblin Valley State Park, where visitors can take in breathtaking views of unique rock formations that look like something right out of a fairytale. Goblin Valley is one of the best state parks in Utah.

The park has plenty to offer, such as hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, trailhead camping areas with picnic tables, and more. Visitors can easily spend the day here exploring around the red rock hoodoos while soaking up the ethereal atmosphere they produce. Whether you’re looking for an overnight camping site or just a quick stop on your road trip; Goblin Valley is definitely worth checking out.

If you have more time or want to complete the rest of the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks on your road trip, check out this blog post on a Salt Lake City to Moab road trip itinerary to complete the rest of the way. Otherwise, from Goblin Valley State Park, head back to Salt Lake City for the completion of the trip.

Additional Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip Stops

Bringham Young Winter Home

If you have a bit of extra time then the Bringham Young Winter Home makes for an amazing stop during your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip.

After all, this historic landmark is tucked away in St. George, Utah, and is well-located in between Valley of Fire State Park and Zion National Park.

Additionally, this former residence and museum is brimming over with incredible exhibits and artifacts that are related to Brigham Young.

See, he was a Mormon pioneer who was the second president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and who founded Salt Lake City before serving as Utah’s first governor.

So, take in the incredible beauty of this historic home before learning all about how religion influenced the founding of Salt Lake City at this free museum.

Parowan Gap

Located about an hour and a half away from Zion National Park, the Parowan Gap is a famous Petroglyph site.

Therefore, the rock faces between the Parowan Valley and the Red Hills are overflowing with incredible Native American rock carvings that were initially uncovered by European settlers in 1849.

Today, most scholars believe that the art was developed by the Fremont people. So, use the associated parking lot upon arrival and follow a well-marked path to the petroglyphs.

Also, while you’re here be on the lookout for fossilized dinosaur tracks that sit about a mile away from the Parowan Gap.

Fillmore Territorial Statehouse Museum

Hidden away in Fillmore, Utah, this is another fantastic museum that makes a great stop during your Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip.

In fact, this charming little place is only an hour and a half away from the Parowan Gap and is a fabulous museum that sits inside the oldest government building in the state.

So, be sure to visit if you enjoy history and want to learn more about the original capital of Utah and the history of the Utah territory.

Then, afterward, take a lovely walk through the charming green space that can be found here.

Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip FAQ

How Long is the Road Trip from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas?

The road trip from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas is approximately 420 miles long and will take you around 6 hours to complete as you drive along I-15 S through Utah, Arizona, and Southern Nevada.

What is Between Las Vegas and Salt Lake City?

The top sites between Las Vegas and Salt Lake City are:

• Zion National Park
• Cedar City
• Provo
• Boulder City
• Park City
• St. George

Is There a Scenic Route from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas?

Yes, there is! The scenic route between Salt Lake City and Las Vegas is Scenic Byway 12.

It is 119 miles long and takes you through incredible alpine forests, stunning red rock cliffs, amazing canyons, and awesome national parks.

Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip

Las Vegas to Salt Lake City is a road trip experience like no other, from the desert plains of Las Vegas to the open skies of Utah. It’s the perfect adventure for anyone looking to embark on an epic road trip. You’ll be treated to stunning mountain views and unique wildlife sightings and drive through small towns and mesmerizing landscapes that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Hopefully this blog post has given you the best Las Vegas to Salt Lake City road trip stops so you can begin planning your itinerary today. Have you done this road trip? Is it on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

You May Also Enjoy These Posts:

• Driving the Cathedral Valley Loop
• Arches National Park in One Day
• Best Hikes in Utah
• Epic things to do in Utah
• 21 Places to Visit in Utah that aren’t National Parks
• Visiting the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks

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