Bucket List Worthy Road Trip From Las Vegas
Las Vegas is known for its casinos, shows, and nightlife—but did you know it’s also the gateway to one of the most incredible national parks in the country? Zion National Park is just a short drive from the Strip, making it an easy and unforgettable road trip that’s trending right now for all the right reasons.
Whether you want to escape the crowds of the Vegas Strip, hike through epic landscapes, or just take in some fresh air, this road trip delivers. Here’s why more people than ever are ditching the slot machines and heading to Zion—and why you should, too.
Why This Road Trip is a Must-Do Right Now
With summer road trip season approaching, more travelers are opting for easy, scenic getaways outside of Las Vegas.
The drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park is packed with stunning views, quirky roadside stops, and some of the best hiking in the U.S.
It’s only 160 miles (about 2.5 hours) from Vegas to Zion, which means you can leave in the morning and be hiking the park’s famous trails by the afternoon.
Best Time to Go
🚨 Right now is the perfect time!
Spring and fall are the best seasons to make this trip, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer.
If you’re planning a last-minute getaway, keep an eye on the weather—Zion’s mild climate makes it a great escape even in winter.
How to Get To Zion from Vegas
The drive is straightforward, but here’s how to make it more exciting:
1️⃣ Leave Vegas early to beat the traffic and maximize your time in the park.
2️⃣ Take the scenic route through the Virgin River Gorge – This part of I-15 winds through towering canyon walls and is a must-see.
Pro Tip: Wait to fill your gas tank until you cross into Utah – gas prices are typically much cheaper than Nevada and Arizona.
3️⃣ Pass through St. George, UT – A great spot for a meal or last-minute hiking gear.
4️⃣ Arrive at Zion’s entrance in Springdale, UT, and get ready for adventure!
Can’t-Miss Stops Along the Way
🛑 Lake Mead National Recreation Park – A slight detour to the Hoover Dam with a scenic drive around Lake Mead.
🛑 Valley of Fire State Park – Just an hour outside of Vegas, this lesser-known hidden gem is a great place to stretch your legs and see bright red rock formations.
🛑 Virgin River Gorge – Keep your eyes peeled as you drive through the northwest corner of Arizona and through the Virgin River Gorge. This area has stunning views that revel those of Zion Valley.
🛑 St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site – Traveling with kids? This fossil-filled museum is a fun stop before Zion.
🛑 Grafton Ghost Town – An incredibly well-preserved ghost town just outside of Springdale (the gateway to Zion National Park). Established by Mormon settlers in the mid-1800’s, there are still 5 buildings remaining.
What to Do in Zion (Even If You Only Have One Day)
If you’re short on time, here are the must-do experiences with one day in Zion National Park:
🔥 Hike The Narrows – One of the most unique hikes in the U.S., where you walk through a river surrounded by towering canyon walls. This is a bucket list hike in the US, and one of my favorites.
🔥 Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway – Even if you don’t hike, this scenic road is worth the trip.
🔥 Check Out Angel’s Landing – You need a Zion permit to hike it, but even seeing it from below is incredible.
🔥 Watch the Sunset at Canyon Overlook – This short 1-mile (mostly flat) hike is perfect for catching sunset over the Zion Valley and Virgin River.
Pro Tips for the Best Trip From Vegas To Zion
✅ Go early to avoid traffic – The park fills up fast, so arrive early for easy parking and shuttle access.
✅ Pack food & water – There aren’t many food options inside the park.
✅ Download maps ahead of time – Cell service is spotty in some areas, create an offline map in your Google Maps app so you can access it without coverage.
✅ Dress for the weather – Zion can be hot during the day but chilly in the morning and evening, even during the warmer months.
✅ Stay overnight in Springdale – If you have extra time, booking a night here lets you explore even more. I recommend Zion Lodge (inside the park) or Bumbleberry Inn (just outside the park).
The Road Trip Everyone is Taking This Year
With Vegas flights cheaper than ever and Zion being a quick and easy drive away, this road trip from Las Vegas is exploding in popularity. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines city energy with the great outdoors, this is it.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just need an escape from Vegas for a day, the Las Vegas to Zion road trip is the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation.
While you’re here, check out these additional resources for your trip:
