The Ultimate 10 Day Southwest Road Trip

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10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary for Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Sedona, Las Vegas, & Antelope Canyon

Southwest Road Trip Highlights

1. Hiking Fairyland Loop in Bryce Canyon
2. Reach the top of Angel’s Landing in Zion
3. Wading through the Virgin River up Narrows Canyon in Zion
4. Finding a $4.99 Steak Dinner in Las Vegas
5. One Day Rim to Rive Hike in the Grand Canyon
6. Kayak Lake Powell and Hiking into Antelope Canyon

National Park Road Trip Tips:

1. Purchase the America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass – We purchased our National Park Annual Pass through REI. Have an REI Account and get points for your park pass purchase! National Park Annual Pass – $79.99. If you do not have a pass each National Park Charges a $20 – $35 fee per vehicle to enter.
2. Download All Trails App and Google Maps – Many places will not have service, so make sure to download your trail maps before you go!
3. Organize your Car and Make Car Rules – You may not realize it yet but your car can get messy. Keep a clean car to mitigate the chances of losing things.
4. Always have Extra Water and Snacks – For those long car rides make sure to have cold drinks and yummy snacks on hand so you don’t have to stop.

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10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 1 

Vail, Colorado to Palisade, Colorado ~ 2 Hour Drive

We started our 10 day Southwest road trip in Colorado. If you have never driven through Glenwood Canyon, I would suggest putting it on your Colorado bucket list! The drive is absolutely breathtaking.

Palisade, Colorado

Our first night was spent in Palisade. Palisade is a small town known for the best peaches and wine. This is my hometown, it was great to revisit and see family. One of the top things to do in the Spring is to see the Peach Trees in bloom. This happens around April and May depending on the weather. The peach trees blossom out creating a gorgeous field of pink flowering orchards.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 2

Palisade to Bryce Canyon ~ 5.5 Hour Drive

Before you leave Palisade, you must check out Slice of Life Bakery on Main Street in Palisade, Colorado. The Berry Cup is absolutely scrumptious and one of my favorite pastries!

Pit Stop – Capitol Reef National Park

Our five-and-a-half-hour drive was broken up by Capitol Reef National Park. This was a last-minute change to our southwest road trip itinerary. I noticed the National Park on Google Maps and thought why not take the scenic drive and enjoy one extra national park. We are so happy we did. Capitol Reef is gorgeous and offers so many things to do. This was a quick drive-through and lunch stop, but we will definitely be returning for a full weekend.

Bryce Canyon National Park

After a full day of driving and a not-planned fun adventure, we made it to Bryce Canyon. Outside the National Park is a small town with shops, restaurants, and hotels. There are free Bryce Canyon shuttles taking people from the town into the National Park to mitigate the number of cars entering the park.

The Ultimate Bryce Canyon National Park Travel Guide

Bryce Canyon Accommodation

• Camp in Bryce Canyon National Park – $20/night
  • North Campground OR Sunset Campground
  • First Come, First Serve during Fall & Spring
  • Check Out ~ 11:00 AM

We chose to camp in Bryce Canyon National Park at the Sunset Campground. This was a great campground with bathrooms and clean drinking water. Both campgrounds are located in the national park and have a nightly fee of $20. You can only pay with cash or a check, so make sure to bring some.

Dinner Time

Once we got camp set up, we started on dinner. We brought a camp stove and cooking supplies to make our own campground dinner. Tonight’s dinner was simple and tasty; Grilled Hamburgers with Feta, Fresh Salad, Baked Beans, and Sautéed Vegetables.

Bryce Canyon Inspiration Point

To finish out the night we walked from our campsite to sunset point and hiked to Inspiration Point to watch the sunset. It was a windy and cloudy night so unfortunately there was not much of a sunset but we did get to ooh and aah at the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 3

Bryce Canyon National Park

Camp Breakfast

It was a cold spring night in Bryce Canyon with a low of 20°F. We woke up early and made a fire. To start our day off right we cooked up a delicious campfire breakfast. Today’s breakfast included an egg, vegetable, and chorizo scramble with cottage cheese and tomatoes, all cooked on the campfire.

Bryce Canyon Fairyland Hike – 8 Miles (4-5 hours)

For today’s agenda, we chose to hike the Fairyland Hike in Bryce Canyon National Park. This 8-mile hike is one big loop that takes you down into the hoodoos and along the rim. We stopped halfway and ate lunch. I enjoyed my Think! Lemon Delight High Protein Bar and a banana. Think! Bars are the perfect snack to take on your adventures. They are high in protein with 20g per bar, low in sugar, and are delicious. The Lemon Delight is my favorite! Get your variety pack today using the link above and comment below your favorite flavor!

Things To Do in Bryce Canyon

• Hike – Bryce Canyon has many amazing hikes around the national park. Whether you are looking for easy, moderate, or advanced hikes you will find the perfect hike for you.
• Visit the many View Points
• Geology Talks at Sunset Point – Learn about the formation of hoodoos and arches.
• Snowshoe Hikes in the Winter
• Ranger Programs for Kids – Scavenger Hunts and More!
• Horseback Riding

Bryce Canyon National Park to Mount Carmel Junction ~ 1 Hour Drive

Free Campsite

After an amazing hike and exploring Bryce Canyon, we headed off to our campsite for the night. Mount Carmel Junction is a small town in between Bryce Canyon and Zion. We found FREE dispersed camping here and set up for the night. Campendium is my favorite website to find free camping around the United States, you can read reviews and look at pictures. Make sure to plug in the coordinates for the campsite into Google Maps. Do not use the address. We scored and got one of the best campsites that had amazing views. We cooked up diner and settled in for the night.

Pit Stops

The Belly of the Dragon is a small hike and attraction located five minutes from Mount Carmel Junction.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 4

Mount Carmel Junction to Zion National Park ~ 45 minute Drive

Zion National Park

Zion is one of my top national parks and I was so excited for this destination on our southwest road trip. We woke up early to get parking at the Visitor Center inside the National Park. The parking lot fills up quickly so you must arrive early if you want free parking. If you miss out on free parking you will have to pay to park in Springdale. Our drive into Zion was gorgeous, along the way you will drive through a large blackout tunnel. There is no stopping throughout the tunnel. Be sure to keep your eyes on the road because the tunnel is narrow and can get a little scary with oncoming traffic.

The Ultimate Zion National Park Travel Guide

Zion Shuttle

During peak season, there are no cars allowed to drive into the national park area. Once you have parked at the visitor center you must take a shuttle into the actual national park area. Zion shuttle tickets can only be purchased online. Tickets cost $1 per day for each visitor. You can purchase your tickets a month in advance on specific ticket release days or the day before at 5:00 PM. We purchased our tickets the night before and boy, do they go fast!

Make sure to make your account prior and log in right at 5:00 PM to ensure your spot. If you do not see tickets available for the time wanted, just refresh the page and wait for your tickets to become available. Each time I refreshed the page there were different ticket times available.

Angels Landing via West Rim Trail (3-6 hours) 5 miles

Angel’s Landing is a great hike that gets you out of your comfort zone and exposes you to new ways of hiking… or should I say climbing. The top of Angel’s Landing sits on a 1,488-foot tall rock formation in the middle of Zion National Park. The trail is listed as one of the most dangerous hikes in the country because of how trafficked it is and exposed the rocks are.

Good hiking boots are vital for this rocky steep hike. The trail runs along the spine of this tall rock formation and is lined with metal chains for added safety. Do not be scared to do this hike, many people do it every day just take your time and enjoy the journey!

At the top of Angel’s Landing, I enjoyed a Think! Creamy Peanut Butter Protein Bar. I paired it with a crisp apple for the ultimate flavor duo. Think! Bars are the perfect snack to take on your adventures. They are high in protein with 20g per bar, low in sugar, and are delicious. Get your variety pack today using the link above and comment below your favorite flavor!

Lower Narrows Hike

One of my favorite adventures on our 10-day southwest road trip was wading through the Narrows’ Virgin River. After our long trek to the top of Angel’s Landing, we were hot and tired but could not pass up the opportunity to experience Narrows. We jumped on the shuttle and made our way to Stop 9.

While many people rented waterproof wading gear, we decided not to and it was not a problem at all. The water was cool and refreshing on our hot feet. You will have to brace yourself as the water runs quickly and can interrupt your balance. The water is bright blue and green and contrasts gorgeously against the red narrow canyon. The Narrows hike is an absolute must activity when visiting Zion National Park!

*Due to toxic cyanobacteria bloom in the Virgin River we were unable to do the full Narrows Overnight hike.

Zion National Park to Las Vegas ~ 3 Hour Drive

Pit Stops

Valley of Fire State Park – If you have the time, check out Valley of Fire State Park. They have gorgeous wave-like red and white rock.

Las Vegas Accommodation

We stayed at the Park MGM resort on the Las Vegas Strip. We scheduled a stay at a hotel in the middle of our long southwest road trip because after two nights camping it is nice to clean up, shower, and sleep in a comfortable bed. The Park MGM is a new hotel with a gorgeous and trendy minimal design.

Bavette’s Steakhouse & Bar

One of the top Park MGM restaurants, Bavette’s is an upscale steakhouse. This restaurant gives you a speakeasy feel when walking in. Mood lighting, red velvet banquettes, and Amora lamps set the mood and immerse you into a fancy elegant dining experience. Waiters and waitresses fit the venue with their suits and exquisite service. This is a great place to enjoy a lovely dinner with your spouse for a special date night.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 5

Las Vegas, Nevada

Primrose Brunch

Brunch at favorite Park MGM restaurant, Primrose. Primrose is a European restaurant serving up some of the best Eggs Benedict I have ever tasted. This restaurant is a great spot to grab an early breakfast, late brunch, or lunch. They have a little bit of everything. There is also a full bar with any cocktail available, especially those bottomless mimosas!

Check Out my Full Primrose Restaurant Review

Day 5 Agenda

1. Brunch at Primrose ✓
2. Gamble
3. Relax by the Park MGM Pool
4. Walk the Strip
5. Bellagio Botanical Gardens
6. Happy Hour
7. Gamble

Check out my Full List of Budget-Friendly Things to Do on the Las Vegas Strip

Ocean’s One Bar & Grill

The best Happy Hour on the Las Vegas Strip. Ocean’s One offers their lunch special every day from 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. I could not believe all appetizers and entrees were only $4.99! For four drinks and two entrees, our total bill came to $24.99 including tax. The Mahi sandwich was very good and the fries were top-notch! I could not believe I scored a steak dinner for under $5. While it was not the best steak dinner ever, it filled me up and got me ready for a night filled with gambling and walking the Las Vegas strip.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 6

Las Vegas, Nevada to Sedona, Arizona ~ 4.5 Hour Drive

Pit Stops

• Hoover Dam
• In-N-Out in Kingman, Arizona

Free Campsite

We found Free Dispersed Camping just outside of Sedona. Many campsites in Sedona are pricey and cost upwards of $30/night. This camping area is completely free and very popular. It was a noisy campground with many people enjoying the outdoors. The road is a bit bumpy but my Ford Focus did just fine.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 7

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a hidden gem that we added to our southwest road trip itinerary. Camping close to Sedona allowed for us to sleep in and not be in a rush to start our day. After a quick breakfast, we started our journey down to Sedona. If you have never been to Sedona, you must go! Sedona is a mix of forest and red rock and has a great downtown. Once we arrived we found Canyon Breeze on Main Street. We enjoyed a coffee while taking in the views of red rock formations.

Things To Do in Sedona

• Visit Downtown Sedona
• Hikes
• Scenic Drive
• Jeep Tours
• Wine Tours

The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek

Sedona is known for its natural swimming holes. For today’s hike, we headed to the South end of Sedona in the hope to find The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek. Google maps took us to a different trailhead and we got a bit lost but through the help of All Trails, we got on the right path and made it to The Crack. This is a long hot hike so make sure to bring plenty of water! Once you get to the swimming hole it is totally worth it. Grab your swimsuit and 5-seconds of courage to jump off the ledge.

Pit Stops

• Northern Arizona University – A quick tour of my college town, Flagstaff and NAU! Go Lumberjacks!
• Safeway – Grocery Haul

Oregano’s Italian Dinner in Flagstaff, Arizona

If you are ever in Arizona, I highly encourage you to stop by Oreganos for dinner. This is an Italian chain restaurant with amazing food, large portions, and reasonable prices. My favorite dishes are the Mom’s Sausage and Peppers and the Italian Flag Lasagna. The main thing you must order is the Pizookie. Oregano’s Pizookie is one of my favorite desserts!

Free Campsite near South Rim Grand Canyon

Free Dispersed Camping located 20 minutes from the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim. This was a wonderful camping experience. We arrived right before sunset and got everything set up. The road was well maintained and our campsite was level with a fire pit. I was surprised to find not that many campers here for being how close it is to the national park.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 8

Grand Canyon South Rim

After a good night’s rest, we woke up early for our long hike. The South Kaibab Trail was one of my favorite endeavors on our southwest road trip. This is a long and strenuous hike but totally worth it. This hike takes you from rim to river and really shows how big and vast the Grand Canyon is.

South Kaibab Trail Breakdown

Check Out my Full Journey of hiking the South Kaibab Trail in ONE DAY

South Rim Grand Canyon Things To Do

• Hike
• Trail of Time
• Ranger Program – Critter Chat
• Colorado River Rafting Trips
• Viewpoints
• Guided Tours
• Mule Trips

South Rim Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona ~ 2 Hour Drive

Accommodation in Page, Arizona

Courtyard by Marriott in Page, Arizona is a fabulous hotel. The rooms were clean and the landscape around the hotel was well maintained. We had gorgeous views of the scenery around.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 9

Page, Arizona

Things To Do in Page

• Enjoy the Pool and Hot Tub
• Visit the Glen Canyon Dam
• Lake Powell
• Kayak into Antelope Canyon
• Rainbow Bridge National Monument
• Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend

You have to see this large curve in the Grand Canyon at least once in your lifetime. Horseshoe Bend is an iconic southwest road trip stop. There is a $10 Vehicle Fee that is not included in America the Beautiful Pass because this landmark is on Navajo Land. There is a small 10-20 minute hike on a well-maintained path. Once you reach the landmark take your photos and enjoy the views. Do not get too close to the edge because there are steep drop-offs!

Big John’s Texas BBQ

Who knew a southwest road trip, would lead you to a great Texas BBQ restaurant. Big John’s Texas BBQ is a casual restaurant serving up mouth-watering smoked meats and homemade Texas BBQ sides. Previously this venue was a gas station, Big John’s has kept the original structure and has turned it into an indoor/outdoor restaurant. Three large meat smokers are the first thing that catches your eye… and nose with the smell of slow-cooked smoked meat rolling off these bad boys. Try their BBQ Sampler for a taste of a little bit of everything!

Check Out My Full Review on this Amazing Texas BBQ Restaurant

10 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary – Day 10

Antelope Canyon

Kayak from Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon – 7 Mile Kayak

You cannot go on a southwest road trip and not visit Lake Powell. If you have not kayaked before this could be a long 7-mile trek. We have kayaked before and it took about 30 minutes each way. I found it very relaxing and a great change from hiking. The blue and green water is clear and pristine. If you kayak close to the sandstone walls you can see just how tall these large rock walls are!

Check out my Full Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon Experience

Kayaking Equipment

We rented kayaking equipment through Kayak Lake Powell. This is an awesome company, cheap prices, and flexible when the weather becomes an issue. With high winds and rainy weather we were recommended to wait and kayak the next day, Kayak Lake Powell was very knowledgeable and rescheduled our rental for the next day without any charge. You can rent paddleboards, single kayaks, double kayaks, and more. We chose to rent the double kayak as we thought it would be easier to transport instead of two single kayaks. We easily transported the equipment ourselves. Our total rental cost was $52.16 for the day.

What is All Included

Purchase your own Kayaking Equipment Bundle to have year-round. Amazon is a great one-stop-shop for everything! An inflatable double kayak is a great purchase, it is easy to transport and cheaper than a hard-shell kayak.

Antelope Slot Canyon Hike

Park your kayak amongst the dozens of other kayaks and get your hike on. You can hike forever through the slot canyon so make sure to not go too far because you have to hike and kayak back to the Antelope Point Boat Launch. The carved red walls are wave-like with amazing curves and design. Make sure to get plenty of photos! We found that it is best to hike the slot canyon when it is shaded, either in the morning or late afternoon. When the canyon has the sun directly over it the walls get a little too washed out for your pictures.

Page, Arizona to Moab, Utah ~ 4 Hour Drive

You cannot take a southwest road trip without a drive through the desert. Make sure you have plenty of gas and download a great podcast or audiobook for the long drive ahead.

Pit Stops

• Monticello is great stopping point for a fuel up on gas and a bite to eat.
• Monument Valley & Mexican Hat

Things To Do in Moab, Utah

• Arches
• Scenic Drive
• Hikes
• Jeep Tour
• Walk Moab’s Downtown

Arches National Park

To round out our southwest road trip, we quickly stopped at the Arches National Park to watch the sunset. Arches is a popular park to visit and can get very crowded during the day. Visiting this national park during the evening is highly encouraged. We did a quick scenic drive-through after watching the sun go down. We will definitely be back for a full day at Arches National Park!

Total Drive Time – 31+ Hours