By Billy Kilter

Las Vegas, the go-to place for fun and games, is visited by millions of tourists each year.

The city is known worldwide for its exciting nightlife, million dollar poker casinos, performances, and entertainment.

Many travelers don’t realize Las Vegas is close to some of the region’s most breathtaking and diverse natural wonders, making it a great place to start a road trip. 

Just a few miles from the city, you can see the red sandstone cliffs of Red Rock Canyon, the huge and calm waters of Lake Mead, and even the stunning Death Valley. 

If you want to experience the other side of Vegas, hit the road and see the landscapes that are a short trip away.

Grand Canyon National Park

Starting a road trip from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park is one of those authentic American experiences. 

The Grand Canyon is just a four-hour drive from the city and is one of the best road trips from Las Vegas, with beautiful sights from the route to the park.

As you arrive, you will discover that the canyon is a mile deep and over 250 miles long, so each visitor’s experience will vary depending on where they enter, how far they want to go, and how long they have to explore.

Every viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the canyon’s enormous, multi-level red rock formations stretching out. 

The park welcomes people who like to take things easy and who want to hike in more difficult places by suggesting different trails for every preference.

Consider taking a whole day to enjoy the canyon’s natural area fully whether rafting on the Colorado River or simply admiring the captivating views of the South Rim, the Grand Canyon offers memorable experiences for everyone.

Zion National Park

A 2.5-hour trip from Las Vegas will bring you to Zion National Park in Utah, where nature’s beauty is a real treat. 

At Zion, take the Canyon Overlook Trail, famous for stunning views that will make you forget about your hiking efforts. 

If you need shade from a hot climate, go along the Emerald Pools Trail to see the calm waterfalls surrounded by greenery.

Those who want something more adventurous should take the Angels Landing trail. This trail is not meant for every visitor due to its difficulty, but it is worth it for the spectacular views of the canyon walls, which are on the bucket lists of many adventurers.

Valley of Fire State Park

Located only 1 hour from Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is the perfect visit. 

Its bold red rock formations contrast with the bright Sin City’s lights, offering a truly unique experience. 

One of the park’s key attractions is the Fire Wave Trail, a hiking route loved by many because of the amazing rocks resembling waves in the sun under the desert. 

This easy hike allows visitors to the park to experience its beauty without too much effort.

Valley of Fire offers two campgrounds with 72 sites for explorers who want to stay and stargaze. 

These facilities are equipped with grills and restrooms that make your stay comfortable. Valley of Fire State Park gives you unforgettable memories, whether you visit only during the day or spend the night on the stones.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

It takes only a short 30-minute drive from Las Vegas by car to Hoover Dam, which is a must-see on any road trip. 

Standing 726 feet tall and spanning 1,244 feet, it’s the second-tallest dam in the United States, attracting over seven million visitors annually.

Hoover Dam’s historical background is as interesting as its structure. Construction started in 1931 and finished in 1936. It was first named Boulder Dam and later renamed in honor of President Herbert Hoover. 

Nowadays, the dam serves the electricity sector and provides flood prevention measures to over 1.3 million people living in three states.

Outdoor lovers will be pleased with activities at Lake Mead, a massive reservoir created by the Hoover Dam.  

Kayaking, rafting, and paddleboarding along the Colorado River are just some exciting things you can do. 

The Historic Railroad Trail, located close to Lake Mead, offers an exclusive hiking experience through the tunnels formerly utilized during the dam’s construction.

Additionally, Boulder City, located 26 miles from Las Vegas, is a charming town worth visiting. 

It’s the ideal place to end your journey to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, which are known for their brewery tours and outdoor activities such as zip-lining and four-wheeling. 

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is only two and a half hours drive from Las Vegas.

It is famous for Titus Canyon, which features a ghost town and multicolored rocks, and Badwater Basin’s salt flats, North America’s lowest point. Also, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are lovely for hiking at sunset.

Besides its notorious weather and unusual rock formations, it is also known for being the ideal destination for adventurers.

When visiting Death Valley National Park, be prepared for a lot of heat—the maximum temperature recorded was 134 degrees. 

To safely go on your desert adventures, make sure you have enough water and stay cautious to avoid extreme temperatures in such conditions.

Joshua Tree National Park

Located 3 hours and 15 minutes from Las Vegas by car, Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its singular rock shapes and the desert plants it houses. 

It is the ideal place for people who adore hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, or camping to spend time. 

Preparation for the trip, including sufficient water supply and protection against sunburn, is necessary. 

Although access is given year-round, several trails may be closed from mid-May to late September due to extreme heat. 

Plan your visit to Joshua Tree National Park during milder months for a more comfortable exploration experience.

For explorers looking for a deeper immersion into Joshua Tree’s offerings, consider camping in one of its campgrounds, such as Indian Cove or Black Rock. These campgrounds are built to accommodate both new and seasoned campers. 

A trip here guarantees a fantastic adventure, whether a quick day trip or a more extended excursion across these beautiful desert landscapes. 

Snow Canyon State Park

Just two hours from Las Vegas, the breathtaking Snow Canyon State Park in Utah is a perfect destination for tourists who want to immerse themselves in nature. 

This park contains a stunning variety of geological formations, such as lava flows and sandstone cliffs in various shades of orange and red rock formations.

Snow Canyon is a haven for activity enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy going down the trails, cycling along the road, or rock climbing, making their visit truly extraordinary. 

A scenic drive through the state park provides breathtaking views while also linking visitors to various trailheads suited for incredible day-long adventures.

Since its birth in 1935, this canyon has been acclaimed not only for its spectacular scenery but also for historical treasures such as old petroglyphs sculpted by early Native American residents. 

These historic carvings add to visiting this one-of-a-kind park on your trip beyond Vegas into Utah’s breathtaking wilderness.