1. Park City, Utah

Park City’s silver mining history and modern amenities make it a captivating destination for families. Take a stroll down Historic Main Street, which is lined with colorful buildings, housing shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Utah Olympic Park, built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, offers thrilling activities like bobsledding and ski jumping into airbags.

Families can also enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride. For a unique experience, visit the Homestead Crater, a geothermal spring hidden within a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock, where you can soak in the warm waters or even try paddleboard yoga.

2. Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge’s Victorian-era downtown and surrounding natural beauty make it a perfect winter getaway. Families can explore the charming Main Street, filled with boutiques, restaurants, and the kid-friendly Mountain Top Children’s Museum. Take a scenic ride on the Breckenridge Gondola for panoramic views of the Tenmile Range.

Try fat biking, snowshoeing, or sledding at Carter Park for snowy adventures. Don’t miss the chance to build your own igloo or go dog sledding through the pristine backcountry. The town also hosts various winter events, including the International Snow Sculpture Championships, where artists create massive, intricate snow sculptures.

3. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be renowned for its skiing, but it offers plenty for non-skiers too. This picturesque New England town boasts the charm of a Norman Rockwell painting come to life. Families can enjoy a scenic gondola ride to the top of Mount Mansfield for breathtaking views, or explore the quaint downtown filled with boutiques and art galleries.

The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum looks at winter sports history. For outdoor adventures, try dog sledding, ice fishing, or snowmobiling through the snowy forests. End your day with a tour and tasting at the well-known Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, just a short drive away in Waterbury.

4. Leavenworth, Washington

Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-styled village that transforms into a winter wonderland annually. Families can enjoy the town’s famous Christmas Lighting Festival, where over half a million lights illuminate the snow-covered streets.

Take a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy countryside, go tubing at Leavenworth Ski Hill, or try your hand at snowshoeing in the nearby national forest. The Nutcracker Museum offers a unique indoor experience, while the local shops and eateries serving German-inspired cuisine add to the charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to sip hot cocoa while watching ice carvers create intricate sculptures during the annual IceFest in January.

5. Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, offers a perfect blend of Olympic history and small-town charm. Families can tour the Olympic Museum and take an exhilarating bobsled ride at the Olympic Sports Complex. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy ice skating on Mirror Lake or take a scenic gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain.

The Wild Center, a natural history museum, features indoor and outdoor exhibits, including the Wild Walk – an elevated trail through the treetops. In the evenings, cozy up by a fire in one of the many rustic lodges or enjoy s’mores under the stars at a local resort.

6. Mammoth Lakes, California

Mammoth Lakes offers a stunning Sierra Nevada backdrop for winter adventures. Families can explore the frozen lakes and waterfalls of the Lakes Basin on snowshoes or cross-country skis. Take a thrilling snowmobile tour through Inyo National Forest or soak in the natural hot springs at Wild Willy’s. The Mammoth Ice Rink provides picturesque outdoor skating with mountain views.

For a unique experience, visit the Mammoth Rock ‘N’ Bowl for bowling, golf simulators, and foosball. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic gondola ride to the summit of Mammoth Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

7. Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley combines small-town charm with world-class amenities. Families can enjoy ice skating at the outdoor rink, where you might catch a dazzling ice show featuring Olympic skaters. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride to Trail Creek Cabin for a cozy dinner, or try your hand at Nordic skiing on over 200 kilometers of groomed trails.

The Sun Valley Museum of History offers insights into the area’s rich past. For a thrilling adventure, go snowmobiling in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area or take a winter wildlife viewing tour to spot elk, moose, and other animals in their natural habitat.

8. Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson offers a perfect blend of Wild West charm and winter wonderland magic. Families can ride horse-drawn sleigh through the National Elk Refuge to see thousands of elk up close. Explore the charming Town Square with its iconic antler arches, or visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art.

For outdoor fun, try snow tubing at Snow King Mountain or take a scenic ride on the Big Red aerial tram for stunning views of the Teton Range. Don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the natural Granite Hot Springs, accessible in winter by snowmobile or dog sled tours.

9. North Conway, New Hampshire

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, North Conway offers New England charm and diverse winter activities. Families can enjoy scenic train rides on the Conway Scenic Railroad, offering winter wonderland views from heated carriages. Visit Story Land’s three-acre ice castle, a magical frozen fortress with tunnels, slides, and light shows.

For outdoor adventures, try snow tubing at Cranmore Mountain Resort or explore the winter trails at the Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring and Snowshoe Center. The Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center provides interactive exhibits about extreme mountain weather.

10. Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish near Glacier National Park offers a quintessential Montana winter experience. Families can explore the charming downtown, filled with unique shops and restaurants. Take a guided snowshoe tour in Glacier National Park to see frozen waterfalls and snow-capped peaks.

Try dog sledding through the Flathead National Forest, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride at the Bar W Guest Ranch for a unique adventure. The Whitefish Museum provides insights into the area’s railroad and skiing history. Don’t miss the chance to spot wildlife on a winter safari in Glacier National Park, where you might see bighorn sheep, elk, or even wolves against a stunning snowy backdrop.

As these destinations prove, you don’t need to be a skier to experience the enchantment of America’s winter wonderlands. From cozy sleigh rides through snow-covered forests to exploring ice castles and soaking in natural hot springs, these towns offer countless ways for families to create magical winter memories together.

So pack your winter boots (but feel free to leave those skis at home), and get ready to discover the incredible experiences waiting for your family in these snowy mountain towns.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Magical Winter Escapes: Family-Friendly Snowy Towns for Non-Skiers appeared first on Family Road Trip.

Epic USA National Parks to Visit in Winter

Best US National Parks to visit in Winter

 [click here for full list]

• Death Valley National Park
• Arches National Park
• Biscayne National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Mount Rainier National Park
• Acadia National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Saguaro National Park
• Denali National Park
• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
• Everglades National Park

Death Valley National Park

Location: California/Nevada

Despite its somewhat desolate title, Death Valley National Park is actually home to a ton of lively scenery.

Picture massive salt flats lining the horizon, rock formations that look straight out of this world, colorful mountains dotting the roads, and a wide array of historical and desert goodness and you’ve got yourself a pretty good picture of what a visit to this gem of a national park is like.

Because Death Valley National Park is deemed one of the hottest places in the entire world, visiting during the summer months isn’t exactly recommended for a great experience (we’re talking 120+ degree temperatures!).

Winters, though, bring in cooler temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s. Combine that with sunny skies and you’ve got yourself a perfect winter escape in one of the most unique landscapes of California, and the USA!

Entrance fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid 7 days

Extend your journey from Death Valley through to Yosemite (some suggested seasonal stops won’t be possible in the winter!)

Arches National Park

Location: Utah

A fiery desert landscape may not be the first thing that pops to mind when you picture a winter trip, but the colder months just happen to be one of the best times of the year to pay Arches National Park a visit.

As its name may have clued you in, this beautiful national park in Utah is home to tons of natural archways (over two thousand of them!). Moreover, the park also boasts expansive mesas, otherworldly-looking rock formations that look as though they pierce the sky, and a vibrant red landscape that will make you feel as though you’re walking on Mars.

While temperatures do get chilly during the winter, it doesn’t really get cold enough to ruin the day. Moreover, Arches isn’t exactly popular during the winter months, making crowds at some of its most frequented spots almost non-existent (during summer, the crowds are so heavy a timed entry permit system has been introduced.

As if that weren’t reason enough to convince you to visit this epic national park during the winter months, the winter skies and dreamy snow-dusted La Sal Mountains in the distance make for truly magical sunrises and sunsets!

Catch Arches National Park on our 7 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid 7 days (+ timed entry permit if visiting in summer April 1 to Ocotber 31)

Biscayne National Park

Location: Florida

If you’d rather avoid the cold altogether and are on the lookout for a tropical escape, look no further than Biscayne National Park in Florida.

Set south of Miami, this park is so different from the rest because 95% of it is set under the water. This means you’ll definitely need to get wet in order to get to see everything, which you can do via a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure, depending on your preference.

Another way to explore for those who prefer not to swim is by booking a glass-bottom boat tour. This may not give you the chance to get super close to the marine life that calls Biscayne its home, but it’s guaranteed to provide some seriously epic encounters nonetheless.

Once you’ve explored the ocean, make sure you also check out the remaining 5% of the park, which is set on small islands and islets you can hike (or relax) on while stumbling across unique wildlife and views so good you’ll have to pinch yourself to believe they’re real!

Entrance Fee: Free (though note camping and docking frees apply from October to April)

Yellowstone National Park

Location: Idaho/Wyoming/Montana

Yellowstone may be a super popular summer destination, but how about seeing its already striking landscape from a completely different perspective?

During the colder months, Yellowstone becomes a winter wonderland of enchanting snow-dusted forests, frozen lakes, and gorgeous geysers that look straight out of this world. Moreover, you’ll also get to have the scenery at one of the most popular national parks in the entire country all to yourself!

Come November, getting to Yellowstone National Park does become a bit tougher as most roads are closed to regular traffic. Still, though, with a little planning ahead, you’ll be guaranteed to be in for a winter adventure of a lifetime!

Yellowstone is also set close to some of the country’s best ski resorts. Jackson Hole is located nearby, which is a perfect place to stay and enjoy world-class winter sports after adventuring at the park!

Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid for 7 days

Here’s how to experience the best of northern Utah and ski country from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone in the winter, including scenic driving through Idaho

Canyonlands National Park

Location: Utah

Picture enormous sandstone spires that look as though they reach the clouds, extensive red rock canyons, and whacky-looking rock formations lining the scenery, and you’ve got a pretty good idea of what visiting Canyonlands National Park is all about.

Canyonland’s high season is during the spring and fall, but winter brings in picture-perfect sunsets, fewer crowds, and excellent hiking trails ready to be explored in order to take in the area’s desert magic.

Remember that snow may make a few of the trails at Canyonlands a bit treacherous, so we recommend sticking to the Island in the Sky section of the park during this time. This is the most popular part of Canyonlands, where crowds usually gather any other time of the year, making it an excellent choice to visit to get some of the park’s most famous highlights all to yourself!

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for 7 days

Catch our guide to the best family-friendly things to do in Moab, the perfect base for exploring Canyonlands & Arches National Parks

Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah

Ever wondered what Mars would look like if it got snowed on? If you haven’t, I bet you’re picturing it now, and the landscape at Bryce Canyon National Park during the winter months looks as close as you can get to that!

If you think Bryce Canyon’s striking red rock hoodoos are pure eye candy, imagine what they’d look like blanketed in white snow! As if that weren’t reason enough to visit, Bryce Canyon’s night skies during the winter are amazing as ever thanks to the cold and dry air, making stargazing here a true treat (make sure you bring a blanket along!).

Moreover, Bryce Canyon hosts an annual winter festival, where visitors can partake in photography classes, dancing activities, snowshoeing adventures, and more!

Learn more about visiting Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks in one epic southern Utah road trip.

Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid for 7 days

Mount Rainier National Park

Location: Washington

In search of the ultimate winter wonderland? Being a glaciated peak, Mount Rainier sees an average of over 50 feet of snow during the year, making it a prime spot if fun-in-the-snow activities are what you’re after.

Moreover, visiting this incredible Washington National Park also allows visitors to experience world-class winter sports, including skiing, sledding, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more!

Whilst some of the state’s most scenic driving routes through the park are closed in winter (as are many of the wilderness centers), it still makes for an excellent day trip from Seattle without some of the prohibitive summer crowds.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid 7 days

Acadia National Park

Location: Maine

Even though Acadia National Park is mostly renowned for its gorgeous fall foliage, visiting during the winter months provides a totally different experience worthy of being on your bucket list.

The contrast of the snow against the coastal views of the Atlantic creates a truly stunning background perfect for all sorts of winter fun. While scenic drives can be off the cards during winter, with the Park Loop Road usually closing from December 1 through until spring, winter hiking is a common activity, but make sure you bring the right gear.

Winter sports are another winter highlight in Acadia, with 45 miles of carriage roads for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing available. Snowmobiling is another top activity in Acadia, especially for those keen to experience the park’s scenic road from a totally different angle.

Moreover, birding in Acadia during the winter is top-notch, when leafless trees open up the forest for easy viewing. Some species you may see include snowy owls, black-capped chickadees, and Harlequin ducks.

Entrance fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid 7 days

Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona

What could be better than seeing the most famous natural landmark in the United States and one of the 7 Wonders of the Natural World? Seeing it blanketed in layers of snow!

While the lesser-visited North Rim section of the Grand Canyon closes during the winter, the South Rim (which tends to get super crowded any other time of the year) remains open to visitors, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the canyon without having to share the views with hoards of people.

If you’d rather stay warm, a great way to explore the park is by driving its scenic road to Desert View. Another must-do activity is booking a flight to get a birds-eye view of the canyon, which looks even more beautiful during the winter when it’s covered by snow!

We help you with finding the closest airport to the Grand Canyon here to start your southwest road trip, or follow along with our Utah + Arizona Road Trip Itinerary for Serious Desert Magic

Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid 7 days

Grab or complete Grand Canyon Family Road Trip plan over here

Saguaro National Park

Location: Arizona

Located less than an hour from Tucson, Arizona, Saguaro National Park still remains a bit of a hidden gem in the national parks system and a perfect go-to during the colder months!

This arid wonderland sits right in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, and its allure comes from the fact that it is home to the country’s largest cacti and saguaros, some of which can grow up to 60 feet tall!

During your visit, you can explore the park on foot by going on a hike (the Desert Discovery Nature Trail is a great way to learn about the flora in the area), taking a scenic drive amidst saguaros (the 8-mile Cactus Forest Loop Drive is a must!), or searching for ancient petroglyphs.

While snowstorms are not that common, they happen, so you may get lucky and see a scene of cacti coated in white snow! It’s certainly one of the more unique places to visit in Arizona.

Entrance Fee: $25 per private vehicle, valid 7 days

Denali National Park

Location: Alaska

Alaska in winter?! If you don’t mind freezing temperatures, Denali National Park is a true treat during the winter months, even if snowfall actually starts as early as August!

Days are short in Denali during the winter, but that brings in opportunities to get glimpses of the northern lights, all while getting the landscape during the day pretty much all to yourself.

Moreover, if you happen to be visiting in February, you’ll be in for a real treat at the park’s annual Winterfest, where you’ll get to catch snow block sculpting competitions, guided walks, dog-sledding adventures, and so much more!

Note that once snow falls, the roads may frequently close at Mile 3, Park Headquarters. From late February/March ploughing begins and travelers may be able to make it as far as Mile 13, Mountain Vista Rest Area but it is weather dependent.

Entrance Fee: $15 per person (over 15 years) 7-day permit

Note that due to their remote nature, most national parks in Alaska are completely in accessible in winter. Denali is an exception due to its geographic location.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Location: Hawai’i

If you’d much rather see sunshine than snow, a visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is guaranteed to please.

Popular with snowbirds, this national park’s high season takes place during the winter, so if you don’t mind the crowds, it makes for a perfect destination to escape the cold.

As you explore the park, you’ll get to see black sandy beaches, rainforests with flora so huge you’ll feel as though you’re in a Jurassic Park setting and get to see two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Hiking is the best way to explore the park, with some trails being so unique you won’t find anything like them anywhere else in the world, including some through lava tubes and up to craters.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle

Everglades National Park

Location: Florida

Winters don’t really exist in Everglades. Instead, they’re usually considered the “dry” season when exploring is best!

Home to a whopping 15 million acres of pure wilderness, the park is home to a vast array of ecosystems, including marine, mangroves, swamps, and pinelands, making it a prime destination for wildlife spotting (fun fact: Everglades is the only place in the world where alligators and crocodiles co-exist!).

Among the adventures to have during the dry season at Everglades, you’ll find ranger-led hikes crafted in order for visitors to get well-acquainted with the fauna and flora in the park, night treks, independent hiking, snorkeling, scenic driving, and more!

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle

Driving in wintery conditions? Don’t miss our winter driving tips and advice for a safe family road trip

Summary of the Best National Parks to Visit in Winter

More Tips Before Setting Off On Your Winter Family Road Trip

• Read these pro-tips for visiting national parks before tackling a US National Parks road trip

• For a fun addition to your National Parks road trip, grab yourself a National Parks Passport

• Want to avoid the crowds? Try these lesser-known US National Parks for a unique family vacation

• You may only be able to capture some of these more remote national parks in the warmest summer months!

• Got a 4th Grader in the family? Don’t forget you may be eligible for a FREE national parks pass as part of the Every Kid Outdoors campaign

• Head further east, and you’ll come across even more US treasurers, including the Mighty 5 in Utah, or complete the Grand Circle for one of the most epic US Road Trip experiences.

• Make sure you download our printable family road trip checklist, so you never forget an important item again

We hope this list of the best national parks to visit during the winter-inspired you to book your next escape. If you’re into quieter experiences out in nature and would much rather get views all to yourself, winter is by far the best season to get out and explore the outdoors!

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post 12 Epic National Parks to Visit in Winter appeared first on Family Road Trip.

Casinos and nightlife may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Las Vegas, but what makes the city so special is that it’s surrounded by an unrivaled array of wonderful destinations perfect for a day spent outdoors.

Thanks to its location close to the borders of California, Utah, and Arizona, Las Vegas is a perfect starting point for exploring not only some of the best places in Nevada but also those of its neighboring states.

If you’re planning a family trip to Las Vegas and looking for ways to escape the bustle and hustle of Sin City, here are some of the most wonderful and breathtaking day trips to take!

10 Incredible Day Trips From Las Vegas

1. Red Rock Canyon Conservation Area, Nevada

Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles ~ via US95 (20 minutes)

Even though Red Rock Canyon is located less than thirty minutes away from Las Vegas, it still remains a bit of a secret in the Nevada parks system.

Hiking and scenic driving are the ultimate ways to explore Red Rock Canyon. A must-do hike if you don’t mind the heat is the Ice Box Canyon Trail, which will have you walking amidst a mesmerizing red rock canyon while gawking at seasonal waterfalls.

If you’d rather not break a sweat, though, you can also explore the park from the comfort of your car by driving the Red Rock Canyon Drive, a 13-mile scenic loop that offers ample vistas of the canyon system as well as the park’s main highlights!

State Park Entry Fee: $15 per vehicle or Nevada State Parks Annual Pass & America the Beautiful Annual Pass accepted

TOP TIP: due to increasing popularity there may be a timed entry needed for the scenic loop during the peak season (October to May) – check the online reservation system here.

2. Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Nevada

Distance from Las Vegas: 40 miles ~ via US-95 & NV157 (45 minutes)

Best known to locals as Mount Charleston, Springs Mountains is set less than an hour away from downtown Las Vegas and provides a wonderful opportunity to experience a contrast of entirely opposite landscapes: snow-dusted mountain peaks amid an expensive desert.

The area is home to over 316,000 acres of nature, which pretty much means you’ll have a hard time getting bored here. Hiking is king at Spring Mountains, with over 60 miles of trails available, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging feats that reach heights of over 11,000 feet!

Other activities include camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and backpacking during the warmer months. Come winter, the entire area becomes a mecca for snow fun, with activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding being favorites for visitors!

3. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Distance from Las Vegas: 46 miles ~ via I-15 (50 minutes)

Taking you into a wonderland of red rock Aztec sandstone, ancient petroglyphs, petrified logs, and scenery that comes in all shades of oranges, reds, and pinks, a visit to Valley of Fire State Park will make you feel as though you’ve been transported right into the heart of Mars.

Hiking is the best way to fully get to know the park. Considering its somewhat gentle terrain, it makes for a perfect spot to get a taste of what hiking in the desert is like. Two great hikes to cover as many highlights as possible include the Fire of Wave and Rainbow Vista trails, both of which provide some of the most mesmerizing views in the entire park.

Scenic driving is another wonderful way to explore Valley of Fire, especially if you want to cover as much ground as possible in a few hours. The Mouse’s Tank Road is a 5.7-mile road that cuts right through the park and provides access to the most photogenic viewpoints in the park, including narrow canyons, colorful rocks, and petroglyphs galore.

State Park Entry Fee: $15 per vehicle or Nevada State Parks Annual Pass & America the Beautiful Annual Pass accepted

Top Tip: If you are wanting to camp overnight in the Valley of Fire, reservations for the following year open the first Wednesday in November

4.​ Grand Canyon West

Distance from Las Vegas: 125 miles ~ via US-93 (2 hours 30 minutes)

Visiting Grand Canyon West from Las Vegas offers a fantastic day trip for those wanting to experience one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Located just about a 2.5-hour drive from the city, Grand Canyon West is home to the famous Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon, providing breathtaking views 4,000 feet above the Colorado River.

The Hualapai Tribe manages the area, and in addition to the Skywalk, visitors can enjoy panoramic views at Eagle Point and Guano Point. It’s a great way to see the canyon without the longer trek to the national park’s South Rim.

Unsure whether to take the shorter day trip journey to Grand Canyon West or drive the extra distance to the south entrance of Grand Canyon National Park? We weigh up the pros and cons of a Grand Canyon Day Trip from Vegas.

5. Snow Canyon State Park, Utah

Distance from Las Vegas: 124 miles ~ via I-15 (2 hours)

Located right where the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Plateau, and Great Basin meet, Snow Canyon State Park is a blend of entirely different ecosystems that, put together, create a fascinating geological terrain. Made up of Navajo sandstone cliffs, expansive lava fields, and petrified sand dunes, it’s the perfect spot perfect for unique outdoor adventures.

During your visit to Greater Zion, popular activities include hiking through the main canyon (trails are pretty flat, making it ideal for kids and first-timers), rock climbing, driving or biking the park’s scenic road, and climbing sand dunes, and wildlife viewing.

Moreover, the park is also connected to the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, which homes a vast array of endangered species!

State Park Entrance Fees: $10 per vehicle for day use, an annual Snow Canyon pass is $30, or Utah Annual State Park pass $100

6. Death Valley National Park, California & Nevada

Distance from Las Vegas: 130 miles ~ via NV-160 (2 hours 20 minutes)

Don’t let its name fool you: Death Valley National Park is actually one of the liveliest of places in the entire planet!

Death Valley straddles the borders of California and Nevada, and if you’re willing to start the day early, it makes for a perfect day trip from Las Vegas. Home to serpentine canyons, otherworldly-looking rock formations, twisting sand dunes, and kaleidoscopic mountains splashed in every color of the rainbow, the landscape here is so varied and vibrant that you could easily confuse it for an entirely different planet.

The hottest, driest, and lowest National Park in the United States (and the largest in the lower 48), the list of things to do in Death Valley is pretty much endless.

If you only have a day, a few must-do activities while visiting include standing on Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the United States), gliding down golden sand dunes, hiking on hills of borax, and gawking at colorful mountains by driving the scenic Artist’s Drive, one of the most scenic drives in California.

National Park Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle for 7 days, or use your annual America the Beautiful pass. A Death Valley Annual pass is $55

Top Tip: Even for a day trip to Death Valley, come prepared; check your weather forecast for extremes, pack plenty of water for everyone and snacks, sunscreen, layered clothing and sturdy footwear. This is a BIG day out from Vegas!

Tips and top stopping points continuing your journey from Death Valley to Yosemite

7. Mojave National Preserve, California

Distance from Las Vegas: 143 miles ~ via US-95 (2 hours and 30 minutes)

Petrified lava blanketed the ground, twisting sand dunes, ancient volcanoes, and Joshua Trees sprinkled all over. That’s a day at Mojave National Preserve in a nutshell.

Despite its short distance from Las Vegas, this gem of a place still remains pretty off-the-beaten-track, making it an ideal day trip from the Strip if a day spent exploring the desert on your own sounds like your type of adventure.

Even though there are plenty of activities on offer at Mojave, an activity you absolutely can’t miss out on doing is hiking up the Kelso Sand Dunes, which rise up over 650 feet from the ground and are famed for the whistling sound they create when walked on.

Another must-do is seeing the largest Joshua Tree forest in the world, which you’ll find by hiking the Teutonia Peak Trail!

Top Tip: Despite its National Preserve status, there’s no day pass or entrance fee required, making it one of the cheapest day trips from Las Vegas.

8. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Distance from Las Vegas: 187 miles ~ via I-15 (3 hours)

Located right where the Colorado and Mojave deserts meet, Joshua Tree is a blend of two entirely different ecosystems that, when put together, create a striking landscape that looks as though it belongs on an entirely different planet.

Joshua Tree is humongous, which means you likely need a few days to be able to fully explore it. If you’re willing to start the day early, though, you can definitely cover a ton of ground in order to experience its main highlights in just a day.

On the menu for a day exploring the park’s desert magic are miles of hikeable trails, horseback riding, rock climbing, and biking. If you have enough time, try staying past sunset in order to experience the park’s amazing night sky (it’s considered one of the best spots in the USA for star gazing!)

National Park Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. A Joshua Tree Annual Pass is $55 or use your America the Beautiful Annual Pass.

9. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Distance from Las Vegas: 260 miles ~ via I-15 (4 hours)

Bryce Canyon is located four hours away from Las Vegas, which may sound like a bit of a stretch for a day trip. Still, if you’re willing to wake up early, a day trip from Vegas is very much doable thanks to the park’s tiny size!

Striking red rock hoodoos are the main thing to see at Bryce Canyon, and there’s no better way to cover as much ground as possible than by hiking the Queen’s Garden to Navajo Loop Trail. This hike will give you the chance to swerve your way through sheer rock tunnels, pine forests contrasted by red rocks, and finally, gawking at the views of the sandstone hoodoos that make Bryce Canyon the incredibly unique place it is!

If you’d rather explore from the comfort of your car, you can also drive the park’s scenic highway (Highway 12) to Rainbow Viewpoint and then make your way back slowly. This road cuts right through the park and offers visitors 13 different viewpoints of its main highlights!

National Park Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. A Bryce Canyon Annual Pass is $40 or use your America the Beautiful Annual Pass.

Want to continue onward through Arizona? Capture not just Bryce Canyon and Zion but the majestic beauty of southern Utah’s “Mighty 5” including Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands, in this epic one-week Utah national parks itinerary.

Las Vegas (LAS) is one of the closest airports to Zion and Bryce Canyon, making it quite a convenient starting point for a Utah road trip.

You can see our detailed guide for making a complete day of the road trip Las Vegas to Zion NP here, as well as extending your trip with several stops between Bryce Canyon and Zion.

10. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Distance from Las Vegas: 276 miles ~ via I-15 & US-89 (4 hours 30 minutes)

Millions of years ago, harsh floods rushed into cracks of sandstone in the desert and Antelope Canyon was formed.

Even though the entire Southwest is made up of fascinating slot canyons, what makes Antelope Canyon so unique is the fact that its walls are plastered by swirls of desert colors that pop to life when light hits them.

The only way to explore the canyon is by hiking through it. You will be taken from the car parking entrance to the canyon entrance by four-wheel drive. Upper Antelope Canyon is a pretty easy trail that can take around two hours, considering you’ll be making multiple stops to take in the striking scenery!

If you have time, you can also check out the much lesser-visited adjoining Lower Antelope Canyon. This canyon is just as gorgeous, but it’s made up for much thinner passages, which makes hiking through it a bit tougher for those who are after a challenge!

Top Tip: You can only enter with an authorized Navajo guide. Tours can book out weeks in advance, so you need to be organized & traveling with small children check they have enough infant seats that day.

Entrance Fees for Antelope Canyon: This depends on the type of tour you’ve booked but expect to pay $50-$90 per adult, children discounted. The tour should include your $8 Navajo permit fee.

Plotting Out Your Las Vegas Day Trips

Use this handy Google Map to plot out your route, or pop on over here to this complete Nevada itinerary if you’d like to see some more of the Silver State on a continuous road trip from Las Vegas to Reno.

If you want to extend your trip through the southwest, check out our 7-day Southwest itinerary, or you can keep going beyond Bryce Canyon NP & Antelope Canyon using our Arizona & Utah itinerary.

Taking your adventures even further, try this epic Las Vegas to Yellowstone itinerary, through Arizona and Utah to Wyoming and Montana.

We hope this list of the ten best day trips from Las Vegas helped you plan your next getaway from the city. Even though Vegas offers plenty to do, there’s nothing quite like exploring the mesmerizing nature that surrounds this gem of a city!

Final Tips on Visiting Las Vegas & the Southwest

• The day trip ideas here cover both State Parks and National Parks. State Park entry fees are $15 per day for non-Nevada residents). If you’ll be in Nevada for an extended period of time, it’s worth considering a Nevada annual permit. For National Park visitors, we’re sure you’ll need no convincing on the value you’ll get from an America the Beautiful annual pass.

• Think you can visit all 15 of Nevada’s State Parks? Pick up a Nevada Passport and take on the Passport Challenge to win yourself an annual pass.

• Watch your time zones! Nevada is on Pacific Standard Time (PST) then switches to Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) from mid-March to mid-November. California destinations are in the same time zone, but if you’ll be crossing to Utah or Arizona, you’ll be in Mountain Standard Time. Utah switches to Mountain Daylight Time, but Arizona DOES NOT change!

• Think carefully about the time of year you’re visiting. Summer in the desert can be brutally hot, and not all of these day trips may be possible, especially with kids and where a lot of outdoor activity is involved. Always set out with plenty of water and observe our desert driving tips in Nevada and the Southwest.

• You can check current road conditions in Nevada before you set out at nvroads.com

• Never forget a road trip essential again with our downloadable family road trip checklist.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post 10 Unforgettable Family Day Trips From Las Vegas appeared first on Family Road Trip.

There’s something about fall that completely transforms a place. With comfortable temperatures, trees exploding into vibrant colors, sunny days, and crisp air, fall is one of the most wonderful times of the year to get lost in nature.

If you’re wondering where to go this season to experience fall in its full splendor, checking out a few US national parks may just be the ideal vacation for you. With the excuse to slow down now that the end of the year is approaching, fall also brings in much calmer vibes that allow you to be fully present and really notice the things around you.

Best National Parks to Visit in Fall

Top Tip: Most national parks on this list have an entry fee. We highly recommend you invest in America the Beautiful, the US annual national parks pass. Or do you have a 4th grader in the family eligible for Every Kid Outdoors?

National Park lovers, you may also want to see our guides to:

The Best US National Parks to Visit in Summer
The Best US National Parks to Visit in Winter
The Best US National Parks to Visit in Spring
Lesser-Known National Parks To Beat the Crowds

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

Location: Colorado

It’s not exactly a secret that Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the entire country, but once the temperatures start to drop, this gorgeous place in Colorado turns into a wonderland for glorious views, incredible nature draped in autumn hues, and some of the best opportunities to see wildlife up close.

The dramatic landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park was carved by water and humongous glaciers, making the scenery look like something out of a painting.

As you explore, you’ll stumble across some of the highest peaks in the country, get treated to views of hundreds of alpine lakes and streams, and get to walk over some of the dreamiest hiking trails in the world.

Even though fall does get a little chilly at Rocky Mountain National Park, it’s highly considered the best time of the year to visit for two reasons: One is that fall foliage covers the gorgeous Trail Ridge Road, which is one of the most scenic highways in the United States and seeing it blanketed by golden aspens is a scene unlike any other.

Secondly, fall brings in the elk rut, which is when elk arrive in the area for mating season. Not only will you be able to see hundreds of them up close, but you’ll also be able to attend the annual Elk Fest organized by the park to learn everything about these mountain-roaming creatures through music, live entertainment, storytelling, and interactive activities.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for one day, or $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days

Seasonal Closures: Rocky Mountain National Park runs a timed entry system over the busy summer months, ending October 20, 2024. After this time, you can enter all park areas without reservations. Adverse weather conditions may close roads at any time, though. Keep up to date on NPS Twitter.

2. Shenandoah National Park

Location: Virginia

Tucked away in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for those looking for crisp mountain air and glorious fall foliage. Being only an hour from Washington, D.C., it’s no surprise it’s one of the most popular national parks on the East Coast!

Fall foliage in Shenandoah National Park usually begins in early October and lasts until mid-November, making the season quite long.

We discuss more of our favorite late-fall foliage spotting spots over here

3. Acadia National Park

Location: Maine

Acadia National Park definitely takes the cake when it comes to quintessential fall destinations on the East Coast.

Even though Acadia is gorgeous year-round, there’s no better time to visit than the fall months, especially if vibrant autumn colors are what you’re after.

Home to a humongous offering of glorious natural landscapes ranging from woodlands to mountains, lakes, and dramatic coastlines, this is one of the best national parks to visit in the fall if you’re after picturesque views and a variety of recreational activities.

4. Arches National Park

Location: Utah

Perhaps a desert isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of visiting national parks in the fall, but we absolutely had to include Arches National Park in the list because this time of the year is the best time to explore this gem in Utah.

Weather-wise, the temperatures in Arches start to drop in autumn, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: North Carolina and Tennessee

With so many species of trees within its boundaries, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another wonderland to visit if you want to see fall tones. Seeing vibrant hues of yellows, oranges, and reds backdropped by snow-capped mountains is definitely something everyone should experience at least once in their lives!

Some of the best things to do in the Smokies to fully experience the season are hiking to see a few of the park’s waterfalls (they look absolutely stunning surrounded by autumn colors!), driving the scenic roads that traverse the park (Newfound Gap Road, Morton Overlook, and Clingman’s Dome Road are all amazing), and renting a cabin inside the park to enjoy your very own personal slice of fall in the park.

6. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Location: Ohio

As the only national park in Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley is one of the best national parks to visit in the fall if you’d rather check out somewhere that’s not on everyone’s usual radar.

Here, you’ll enjoy crisp evenings and bright sunny days, making this time of year ideal for hiking and exploring (and you’ll find fewer bugs than in the summer!).

Fall foliage usually peaks around the third week of October, but you’ll be able to enjoy the colors pretty much all month, making it one of the prettiest scenic drives in Ohio.

One of the favorite ways for visitors to explore Cuyahoga is by hopping on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Train, which, as its name may have clued you in, is a train that traverses the valley and provides some of the most beautiful views the entire park has to offer.

Another way to explore is to hike a few trails inside the park. There are over 120 miles of them on the menu. If you’re limited on time, we recommend focusing on the Brandywine Falls trail to see a 65-foot waterfall, the Virginia Kendall Ledges Trail to walk down sandstone rock “ledges,” and the Pine Grove Trail to see beautiful colors.

Entrance Fee: Entry is free

Seasonal Closures: The park is open year-round

Make the most of your time in Ohio and beyond with these superb Midwest road trip ideas for Fall

7. Mount Rainier National Park

Location: Washington

Boasting an active volcano and the most glaciated mountain in the continental United States, Mount Rainier is another wonderful option in PNW when choosing what national parks to visit in the fall.

Mount Rainier is special because it encompasses many different ecosystems, ranging from lowland forests to wetlands and alpine tundra. Moreover, there are 26 named glaciers here and over 1,000 species of plants and animals, many of which are incredibly endangered and have found a safe haven inside the park.

Once the fall season begins, Mount Rainier bursts into life with different activities. An easy day trip from Seattle, a must-do is going on a naturalist-guided walk to spot Roosevelt Elk during the breeding season in September. Other fun things to do during the autumn include going berry picking and mushroom foraging.

As for hiking, some of the best fall hikes to try include Reflection Lakes, The Morain Trail, Third Burroughs, and the Knapsack Pass. Horseback riding is also a wonderful way to explore the park.

Entrance Fee: $30 per private vehicle, valid for seven days

Seasonal Closures: The park is open year-round. However, it is recommended that visitors check road conditions before setting out. Many of the visitor centers and campgrounds close by mid-October.

Note that timed entry was introduced to Mount Rainier NP in 2024; summer special conditions for Sunrise Corridor and Paradise Corridor should be lifted by early September and should not impact your fall driving plans

8. Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park is guaranteed to please if you’re more in the mood to escape fall altogether and experience an entirely different landscape.

This striking national park in Utah is famed for being home to the most extensive collection of hoodoos in the world, but due to its location in the desert, summers tend to get scorching hot and winters particularly cold, making fall an ideal time to visit for bearable temperatures.

While there aren’t any fall-themed activities during the season, fall offers a wonderful chance to explore some of Bryce Canyon’s most famous parts without the hordes of crowds, but before the frostiest days of winter.

9. Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona

With the summer crowds dwindling at the beginning of September, fall is a beautiful time of the year to visit the United States’ most iconic national park.

Not only will you see one of the country’s most internationally recognized natural landscapes without so many people around, but fall means crisp air and much more comfortable temperatures for hiking.

Even though the Grand Canyon isn’t exactly a destination for foliage, if you want to add that to your itinerary, the North Rim section of the park has plenty of patches of golden aspens.

10. Glacier National Park

Location: Montana

Home to vast glaciers and over 1 million acres of striking scenery that bursts to life this time of the year with glorious hues of gold, visiting Glacier National Park during the fall is magical.

You’ll be treated to views of jagged peaks, mild meadows, and cascading waterfalls here. As if that weren’t enough, wildlife encounters are more common during the fall season when crowds are gone and temperatures are mild, so you’ll get to spot different species like bears, hawks, and golden eagles.

Fall foliage at Glacier National Park varies. On the park’s western side, trees start changing color around mid-September, while those on the east do so more towards the beginning of October.

Some of the best things to do at Glacier National Park during the fall include wildlife viewing, floating over the North and Middle Forks of the Flathead River when water is running slow, and driving the most scenic road in Montana, Going-to-the-Sun road.

Entrance Fee: $35 per private vehicle, valid seven days (Winter rate $25 from 1 November to 30 April)

Seasonal Closures: The park is open year-round. A timed entry system operates at Glacier National Park until September 8. Many parts of the park may be affected by road closures by late fall and campgrounds close for winter, so please time this into your fall road trip in Montana.

You can combine a trip to Glacier NP in the Fall with a drive into Canada through to beautiful Banff. This is the ideal way to combine some of the best of Canadian Fall colors in Alberta and stunning Kootenay National Park, B.C., too.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post 10 Fantastic US National Parks To Visit In The Fall appeared first on Family Road Trip.

If you prefer to embrace the cold rather than escape it, chances are you’re already plotting your next getaway to make the most out of the winter this season. 

Skiing, charming towns blanketed in snow, cozy restaurants, and snow-capped peaks are all part of what makes visiting a winter destination the dreamy experience that it is. 

If you’re wondering where to visit this winter, here are some of the best winter wonderland destinations to visit in the United States! 

Breathtaking Winter Wonderland Destinations in the USA 

1. Vail, Colorado 

Vail is a European-inspired mountain village renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. In winter, it becomes a magical holiday destination with snow-covered chalets, twinkling lights, and festive decorations throughout the town.

The pedestrian-friendly village is filled with charming shops, holiday markets, and cozy cafés. Families can enjoy ice skating, tubing, or taking a scenic gondola ride over the snowy landscape. Vail’s festive atmosphere peaks at Christmas with events like tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday concerts, and carolers filling the air with holiday cheer.

The combination of luxury, snow sports, and cozy alpine charm make it perfect for a winter getaway.

2. Leavenworth, Washington 

If a place that feels like Europe is what you’re after but you don’t necessarily want to cross the Atlantic, Leavenworth in Washington is a great alternative. 

Perfect for those keen to experience Christmas elsewhere, Leavenworth is a place that still very much sticks to its German heritage. Here, you’ll get to walk amid streets and alleys dotted by half-timbered houses, all while being surrounded by the alluring Cascade Mountains and feeling as though you’re in a town somewhere in the Alps. 

December is the best time to visit Leavenworth, as its locals really make sure to make the most out of the date. Throughout the season, you’ll find an annual Christmas market made to look like those in Bavaria as well as plenty of fun events like gingerbread house competitions, live street performances, and more! 

3. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a quintessential New England town, famous for its scenic winter landscapes and cozy charm. Nestled in the Green Mountains, it’s a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

During the holiday season, the town transforms into a picturesque Christmas village, complete with twinkling lights, festive markets, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. Stowe’s historic village and the backdrop of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, create a postcard-perfect holiday setting.

Families can also enjoy ice skating, hot chocolate by a fire, and local holiday events, making it a magical destination for Christmas and winter adventures.

4. Park City, Utah 

Famed for its wonderful ski resorts, Park City is a dream come true for those who want to feel as though they’ve stepped into a real-life snow globe. 

Park City homes plenty of luxury hotels perfect for a staycation cozying up by the fireplace, but if you’d rather head outdoors, this resort in Utah offers all sorts of adventures for snow aficionados. Ice skating, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing are just a few of the items on the activity menu of this winter wonderland. 

As if that weren’t enough, January in Park City is as exciting as it gets. The resort hosts the Sundance Film Festival every year, so you may very well come across some of your favorite celebs during your visit! 

Who said Utah was all about the desert?

5. North Pole, Alaska 

Believe it or not, there’s a town that is actually called North Pole in Alaska! 

Located close to Fairbanks, the small Alaskan town of North Pole is known as the place where Christmas is alive for the entirety of the year. If what you’re after is a winter wonderland in the USA to spend the holiday season in, you’ll find yourself in heaven here, but even if you visit during January or February, you’ll still be able to get that Christmassy feeling even past the official date. 

At North Pole, you’ll find streets lined by giant candy canes, spot twinkling lights all over, and even get to meet real reindeer. As if that weren’t reason enough to visit, this area of Alaska is located close to the Arctic Circle, which means catching a Northern Lights show is a very easy thing to do here. 

6. North Conway, New Hampshire

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, North Conway offers a winter wonderland experience ideal for a festive family getaway. The town is known for its outdoor activities, including skiing at Cranmore Mountain, tubing, and snowshoeing.

At Christmas, North Conway is adorned with holiday lights and decorations, with local shops offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a magical “Polar Express” ride for kids, complete with Santa and hot cocoa. The beautiful snow-covered peaks and quaint New England charm make it perfect for a cozy, family-oriented Christmas escape.

7. Telluride, Colorado 

Snowy mountains, gorgeous nature, and charming historic buildings are the staples of this mountain locale in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. 

Once a thriving mining hub during the Victorian era, Telluride is host to a plethora of historical goodness, especially around its downtown, where you’ll find tons of picturesque buildings, an opera house, and a thriving performing arts venue that first opened in the early 1900s. 

Winter hiking is a favorite activity in Telluride, but if you want to do something that gets your heart pumping, other things to do include sledding down mountains, cross-country skiing, and even ice climbing! 

Moreover, Telluride’s outskirts are famous for their gorgeous hot springs, where you can take a dip and relax your muscles after a day spent adventuring in the snow surrounded by beautiful views of the San Juan Mountains. 

8. Gatlinburg & The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee 

As the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg in Tennessee is a glorious mountain town that truly knows how to put on a show during the winter months. 

Aside from getting to explore one of the most visited national parks in the United States sans the crowds, you’ll also get the chance to enjoy winter sports inside the park. 

The best way to enjoy both destinations is by booking yourself a cabin or chalet inside the park for a few days and staying at Gatlinburg’s downtown for the rest of the trip.

Although small, this charming alpine destination offers a thriving foodie scene and quintessential alpine vibes, not to mention it hosts tons of exciting winter events such as the Anakeesta’s Enchanted Winter of Lights festival. 

Catch all our the best scenic drives through the Smoky Mountains here!

9. Camden, Maine 

It’s not exactly a secret that Maine is a quintessential winter wonderland, and the town of Camden is a dream come true for those looking for a pretty-as-it-gets-snowy destination. 

Home to a strikingly gorgeous harbor and featuring views of the ocean, Camden may very well make you feel like you were transported into a village in coastal England. Skiing with views of the Atlantic is a thing here, or you can simply opt to stroll through the town for some serious winter eye candy. 

Check out these incredible scenic drives in Maine if you want to continue the winter magic!

10. Ouray, Colorado 

Tucked away in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray in Colorado is often dubbed the “Switzerland of America” due to its European-style architecture and striking mountain vistas. 

Aside from offering every single outdoor adventure in the snow you could think of (skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and more!), Ouray is also a great place to visit if you enjoy attending events and festivals.

Once winter officially starts, this town in Colorado becomes host to several festivals, including the Ouray Ice Festival and the San Juan Skijoring. Both of these festivals celebrate Ouray’s love for all things winter. 

Check out even more stunning scenic mountain drives in Colorado, many still open in the winter months

11. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

Yellowstone National Park is gorgeous any time of the year, and while most people prefer to visit during the summer when temperatures are warmer, there’s something absolutely magical about seeing its iconic landscape draped in snow. 

Frozen lakes, snow-dusted mountains, and steaming geysers make visiting Yellowstone during the colder months an absolute treat. 

Although the Beartooth Scenic Byway may be closed in winter, the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway through Wapiti Valley is an excellent winter alternative, offering fascinating geological formations.

Moreover, the park rarely sees crowds during the winter, which means you’ll get some of its most visited landmarks all to yourself. Winter is also an excellent time to view wildlife in Yellowstone, with elk, wolves, bison, and other animals being incredibly easy to spot against the white landscape. 

As an added bonus, Jackson Hole, a dreamy ski resort, is located just a stone’s throw away from Yellowstone, so you can have a winter vacation with the best of both worlds! 

Check out our detailed itinerary for getting to Yellowstone from Seattle, or coming from the south, you’ll want to grab our SLC to Yellowstone road trip itinerary

12. Duluth, Minnesota 

Duluth in Minnesota is another wonderful destination to visit during December if what you’re looking for is snow, Christmas vibes, and all things jolly. 

Even though it stays pretty low-key during the rest of the year, Duluth shines bright during the holiday season, when it becomes host to one of the biggest displays of Christmas lights in the entire world. 

Aside from getting to stroll inside a place that feels like it came straight out of a Dr. Seuss novel, there are many more activities to enjoy during your time in Duluth. These include taking a scenic train journey along Lake Superior to see the largest lake in the USA completely frozen or checking out the Historic Glensheen Mansion. 

13. Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid, nestled in the Adirondacks, is a charming village known for its Olympic heritage and beautiful winter setting. The town is transformed into a festive wonderland in the Christmas season with snow-covered streets, holiday lights, and family-friendly activities.

Famous for its winter sports legacy, visitors can enjoy skating on the Olympic Oval, skiing at Whiteface Mountain, and even bobsledding at the Olympic Sports Complex. The town also hosts festive parades, Christmas tree lighting, and cozy spots for hot chocolate by the fire. Its rich history and winter sports make it an iconic winter destination.

14. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada 

Even though Lake Tahoe is more popular during the summer months for beachside goodness and water fun, it also happens to be a glorious winter destination for those who love the outdoors and stunning views. 

Once winter creeps in, the mountains surrounding Lake Tahoe become a mecca for fun winter sports, including cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides. 

As if that weren’t enough, hiking in the snow is a thing here, with plenty of trails available to take you to secluded beaches that look just as striking when dusted in white.

A can’t-miss hiking destination is the Vikingsholm Castle On Emerald Bay, which is a castle on an island in the middle of the lake that looks as though it belongs on a fairytale in winter. 

Once you’re done enjoying the snow outside, you can take advantage of the many après ski happy hours at the resorts, spend a few hours enjoying a spa, or hit up a casino to try your luck. Lake Tahoe is one of our favorite US Winter Wonderlands!

Check out this fun driving guide between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite for even more snow-covered beauty in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, or our complete collection of California winter road trips for even more winter wonderland inspiration on the West Coast!

15. New York City, New York

We couldn’t round out our list of Winter Wonderlands without including New York City. While there may be less chance of snow than some of the destinations on our list, New York City transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, making it one of the most iconic Christmas destinations in the world.

Central Park sparkles with snow, and families can enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller Center beneath the famous towering Christmas tree. The city’s dazzling window displays, especially along Fifth Avenue, add to the festive spirit.

Holiday markets pop up in Bryant Park and Union Square, offering seasonal treats and unique gifts. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular and the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square draw visitors from around the globe, making winter in New York an unforgettable experience.

We hope this list of some of the best winter wonderland destinations in the USA helped you choose your next winter escape. If you know of other places that are even better in winter, please drop your recommendations in the comment section below! 

Don’t forget you may be driving in the snow! Winter road trips often mean alpine conditions and more treacherous roads than your average city driver is used to. If you’ll be heading to some more extreme places this winter, don’t miss our winter driving tips.

Read Next: Magical Winter Destinations in Canada

Our guide to the best Magical Midwest winter destinations
Try these cosy New England destinations in the winter
Why do families flock to Florida in the winter? (coming soon!)
Seeking out the best ski towns in America for non-skiers (coming soon!)
Had enough of the Snow? Here’s Where to Take a Warm Vacation This Winter (without a passport!)

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post 15 Breathtaking Winter Wonderland Destinations in the USA appeared first on Family Road Trip.

The Most Incredible National Parks Road Trip in America

Breathtaking hikes, expansive landscapes of red-rock formations, and unbeatable adventures in the desert are just a few of the aspects that make a road trip through Utah the insanely magical experience that it is and one of the best American road trips for nature-lovers.

If you’re currently in the planning stages of your road trip to Utah, chances are one of the things you’re most excited to do is to visit all its national parks. Luckily, they’re not too spread apart, so you can easily see them all in a short amount of time!

Starting in Salt Lake City and ending in the alluring Needles district in Canyonlands National Park, this southern Utah road trip itinerary will have you checking out some of the biggest highlights Utah has to offer in terms of nature and grandiose scenery, all in just a week!

This page may contain affiliate links to third-party tour operators and booking platforms. Should you make a qualifying booking after using our affiliate link, we make a commission.

Utah Mighty Five Road Trip Map & Itinerary

Day 1: Drive to Zion National Park

Driving Distance: 308 miles

From Salt Lake City, start making your way to Zion National Park, the first stop on your Utah Mighty Five road trip.

Zion offers many contrasts in scenery, ranging from white and red-toned cliffs, peculiar-looking rock formations, hanging gardens, and verdant meadows.

Aside from its beautiful landscape, Zion also boasts Native American history that dates back to prehistoric times. To understand the land, you’ll be walking a little better; the first thing you need to do is check out the Zion Human History Museum, where you’ll get to learn all about the Pauite people who once inhabited the area.

If you arrived early enough, you may also have a bit of time to spare to hike a few of the short trails of Zion.

A few recommended ones include Canyon Overlook Trail, Riverside Walk, The Emerald Pool Trail, and the Watchman Trail. 

Where Should I Stay visiting Zion National Park?

Staying inside the park, then Zion National Park Lodge is your best option. Nearby, Springdale hotels and motels make for an affordable option, or for a luxury experience, try glamping at Zion Wildflower!

Learn more about the closest airports to Zion to start your Mighty 5 Utah road trip. We also have plenty of ideas on places to stop between Salt Lake City and Zion National Park if you want to extend your Utah road trip.

Day 2: Zion National Park

Driving Distance: 75 miles

Day two will be all about going on in and braving the world-famous Angel’s Landing trail. This is a pretty challenging hike that can take around four hours to complete and will have you see some of the best landscapes the park has to offer. At the end of the hike, you’ll be standing a whopping 1500 feet above the canyon!

As a note, take into account that Angel’s Landing is pretty strenuous and not recommended if you have a fear of heights (or tiresome little legs!). Moreover, you’ll also need to secure a permit to hike the trail in advance.

If Angel’s Landing doesn’t sound right for you, there are plenty of other amazing hikes in Zion you can do instead, or opt to take a scenic drive around the park. You can easily fill two days at Zion even without the more strenuous hikes.

Do be aware a shuttle bus is required throughout most of the year to get you from the Zion National Park visitor center and into the depths of the park. If you’re not early risers, do expect queues by mid morning.

After hiking and exploring, hop back in your car to drive Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park, your next stop in your Utah Mighty 5 road trip itinerary!

Where Should I Stay Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park?

Campers will find two established campgrounds within Bryce Canyon National Park, or Bryce Canyon Lodge is the only other accommodation inside the park. Nearby the town of Bryce Canyon is not far from the park’s entrance, try Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon

Start and end your day in Bryce Canyon

Home to the largest collection of hoodoos in the world, Bryce Canyon’s unique landscape is guaranteed to please even the fuzziest of travelers.

The ultimate way to see as much of Bryce Canyon on foot is by hiking the Queen’s Garden to Navajo Loop trail. Throughout the hike, you’ll be weaving your way through limestone walls, hiking through tunnels, and even crossing a pine forest before getting to the main viewpoint in the park, which offers 360-degree views of the largest amphitheater of hoodoos!

After hiking, you can check out the rest of the park by driving over Highway 12, a road that provides access to some of the best lookout points of Bryce Canyon.

When sunset arrives, put your hiking shoes back on and make your way to Sunset Point, a splendid place to watch the sun go down over glowing red rock hoodoos!

Bryce Canyon sits at a higher elevation than the other Utah National Parks so gets much colder in winter! Gorgeous for those snow fall photos but be prepared with lots of layers.

Stay: As per night 3, stay in the park or nearby at Bryce Canyon

Alternatively, if you wont an early start on Day 4, you can stay overnight close to Capitol Reef, try the Capitol Reef Resort in the nearby town of Torrey, or Cathedral Valley Inn, Caineville with basic accommodation. Campers, you can try pre-booking Fruita Campground inside Capitol Reef National Park.

Day 4: Capitol Reef

Driving Distance: 114 miles + 137 miles to Moab

Today, you’ll start the day by driving two hours to Capitol Reef National Park, the most underrated park on the itinerary.

Even though it’s not as popular as the other “Mighty 5”, Capitol Reef offers landscapes like no other. You’ll find three distinct areas to explore: the Waterpocket Fold, the historic Fruita district, and Cathedral Valley. 

The park is located on the Waterpocket Fold, a gigantic “wrinkle” on the earth’s surface that created a landscape as dramatic as it can get. Here, you’ll be gawking the entire time as you pass views of enormous cliffs, rugged canyons, natural bridges, and so much more.

Grab a quick lunch and hike to Hickman Bridge, a pretty short trail that will get you to see some of the most iconic views in the park.

Next, grab your car keys and drive the 8-mile scenic road to get access to some of the best viewpoints in the park (this is the only part of the park you’ll be charged an entry fee). Even though the drive is pretty short, there’s a ton to see on the way, so plan at least a few hours to complete the drive without rushing your way through.

After completing the park’s main scenic drive, you can continue toward Highway 24. This road will take you to a petroglyph panel created by the indigenous people who lived in the park’s area thousands of years ago.

After admiring the panels, continue the adventure by driving to Moab, the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands national parks!

If you want less time in Moab for hiking, you can extend your trip between Capitol Reef and Moab with a stop in the fascinating and surreal Goblin Valley State Park.

Where Should I Stay Visiting Moab?

We’ll be pulling up here for the next few nights as we complete the second half of this incredible road trip. Basing yourself in Moab, you are about 10-15 minutes from Arches National Park and 40 minutes from Canyonlands – Island in the Sky Visitor Center.

A few options to try in Moab to suite different budgets:

• Expedition Lodge
• Comfort Suites Moab
• Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton

You can search further Moab accommodation options, including VRBO options for your dates here:

Day 5: Arches National Park

Driving Distance: 10 miles

Arches National Park is exactly what it sounds like: A sea of natural arches (it has over 2000 of them!).

Despite the huge amount of arches and rock formations, it’s home to, Arches national park is actually pretty small, which means you can easily see the highlights in just a day.

Very Important Note: From April 2022 the park introduced a new timed entry system to cope with crowds. It will be ESSENTIAL from April to October to pre-book your entry to Arches National Park.  

To start the adventure, rise early and drive to Arches from Moab to hike to Delicate Arch. This is one of Utah’s most emblematic landmarks (so much it’s actually depicted on its license place), and sunrises here are an absolute treat, especially when the sun’s rays pass right through the arch.

Next, drive down the Arches Scenic Ride, which will have you making several stops at some of the best viewpoints in the park to get a pretty good introduction to the landscapes it offers.

After driving, you can choose from a few of the many short hiking trails on offer. We recommend starting out with the Landscape Arch hike. It takes just under an hour and will get you to see the longest natural arch in the country! Other note-worthy hikes to consider are The Windows, Double Arch, Sand Dune Arch, and Skyline Arch.

Where Should I Stay Visiting Arches National Park?

Note that, because there is no lodging at Arches, you will need to drive back to Moab or camp at the Devils Garden Campground (you need to make advanced reservations).

Moab is located just 15 minutes away from Arches, so you’ll have plenty of options if you don’t manage to snag a spot at the campsite, or why not try this glamping experience?

Day 6: Canyonlands National Park

Driving Distance: 32 miles to the entrance + 34 mile scenic drive

While Arches National Park is all about arches and rocks, Canyonlands is a bit different as it is home to expansive canyons, enormous rock formations, and spires.

Canyonlands National Park is absolutely huge (over 330,000 acres!), and seeing everything in just a day is impossible.

To make things less overwhelming, day six of your Mighty Five road trip will be all about settling into the park by exploring Island in the Sky, the most popular district in the park where the most iconic highlights are found.

To put the size of Canyonlands in perspective, it’s about a 2-hour drive between Island in the Sky and The Needles. The Maze is even more remote again, and only accessible by 4WD. Whilst the best hikes for families are in Island of the Sky, you will want a full final day to tackle the Needles as well, we wouldn’t attempt both in one day.

Start the day by hiking the Mesa Arch Trail for sunrise (yes, you’ll need to start hiking in the dark!). Once you get there, though, the views are absolutely worth the early wake-up call. 

After hiking, you can drive the 16-mile scenic drive up to Upheaval Dome. From there, start driving back slowly and make stops at the many viewpoints scattered all over, where you’ll be able to see some of the most beautiful views of Island in the Sky.

After completing the drive, you can choose from the many hiking trails on offer. The hikes at Island in the Sky are pretty short and not very strenuous, so you’ll have enough time to tackle plenty of them.

A few must-do hikes, which most families should be capable of completing, include the White Rim Overlook Trail (0.9 miles), Murphy Point (3.6 miles), and Aztec Butte (1.6 miles).

Where Should I Stay Visiting Canyonlands National Park?

Same as night 4 in Moab, or if you’re looking for a change, why not try this glamping experience?

Day 7: Canyonlands National Park

We can’t think of a better way to finish a road trip through Utah than exploring the Needles District in Canyonlands.

Even though Island in the Sky is simply fantastic, the Needles offers a much more rugged landscape, quieter trails, and hikes that are considered a bit more challenging. This day is really for your more experienced hikers!

As you make your way to The Needles, make sure you make a quick stop at Newspaper Rock, where you’ll be able to see prehistoric petroglyphs. It’s right outside the park.

From here on, get prepared to do a ton of hiking as we’ll go all in by hiking the Druid Arch to Chesler Loop Trail. While not extremely challenging, this hike is 11.2 miles long, so you’ll need to plan all day for it. 

Throughout the hike, you’ll get the chance to see two of the best landmarks in The Needles District. Druid Arch is a beautiful arch with two narrow openings that offer amazing views of the entire area around it.

Chesler Park, on the other hand, is an open area that features a large collection of sandstone spires that look as though they’re piercing the sky!

Day 7 Alternatives + Additions!

If you’re not huge hikers – or with extra time – a Day 7 alternative close to Moab is Dead Horse Point State Park.

Some of the most simply breathtaking viewpoints in Utah – in fact, in the country! – can be found here. Watch the Colorado River snaking its way through the vast red canyons from the Dead Horse Point Overlook.

If little legs can muster some more enthusiasm, there are several more hikes within the park, though even just a walk to the viewing point for sunset would be the most spectacular way to end your Utah Mighty 5 road trip.

Although the Mighty 5 in Utah have undoubtedly earned their reputation, don’t dismiss the Utah state parks, too. Often less crowded but just as awe-inspiringly beautiful. A state parks passes are $10-$20 valid for 2 days or annual passes $100.

We have a detailed guide here to more family-friendly activities to enjoy around Moab

Variations to our Utah Mighty 5 One Week Road Trip Itinerary

As you can see Day 7 here is quite strenuous, we would not recommend this for families with young children and inexperienced hikers.

As an alternate with younger children, we suggest you take a little longer on your way from Salt Lake City to Zion as there are plenty of incredible national monuments and state parks that can be added to the Mighty 5 (with less walking).

We would suggest instead:

Alternatively, if you’re heading onward to Arizona, skip the second day in Canyonlands and keep driving onwards to Monument Valley for some serious desert magic!

A Longer South West National Parks Road Trip

Another alternative itinerary, particularly if your plan is to continue onward to Arizona and Nevada, is to tackle all of the above in reverse. We would start the Mighty 5 driving from Salt Lake City to Moab, or Denver to Moab then finish the Utah portion of your journey in Zion. Try this version instead:

We explain in a lot more detail how to fit the Utah Mighty 5 into an epic Denver to Grand Canyon road trip across the highlights of southwest USA

Best Time For A Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip

Utah’s desert environment means the summers can be sweltering hot, whilst the winters can be cold – even attracting snow! Whilst this can be a photographer’s dream, for most, the peaks of summer and winter aren’t ideal.

Despite the often oppressive heat, summer remains the busiest time for visitors; expect queues, crowds, full parking lots, and sky-high accommodation costs.

However, Spring and fall bring ample opportunities to go and explore – we love early May. The closer to summer you get, you’ll need to think carefully about the amount of hiking you can do.

October is a real sweet spot for mild weather and low crowds, with the added element of fall colors.

For the most part, though, the Mighty 5 in Utah can be visited year-round with some planning.

Mighty 5 in Utah National Parks Cost

Aside from fuel and accommodation for your national parks road trip in Utah, you need to factor in national park fees.

You will find it’s very much worth investing in getting your family an America the Beautiful annual pass, which will cover you not just for the Mighty 5 but entrance fees at national forests, wildlife refuges, and more. It’s only $80 and valid for 12 months.

If you are just visiting Moab – Arches & Canyonlands, a Southeast Utah Parks Annual Pass is $55.

Check if your family may be eligible for the 4th Grader Pass – Every Kid Outdoors pass; there’s no better time to explore the natural beauty of the country.

And don’t forget peak season reservations for Arches National Park! Bookings open three months in advance. Like many of the country’s most popular national parks, it’s likely these summer reservation systems are here to stay.

More Tips for Road Tripping in Utah & The Southwest

• If you want more desert action in the Southwest, then why not extend your trip further into Arizona, or mountain lovers keep heading east for the magic of Colorado and some seriously scenic mountains.

• You can find our suggested itinerary for combining the best of Utah’s National Parks with Grand Canyon National Park over here.

• Utah observes Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) – daylight savings – from roughly mid-March to Mid-November.

• Summers in the desert can be brutally hot. Always set out with plenty of water and observe our desert driving tips.

• Wifi and internet connectivity beyond the small towns is scary in Utah! Make sure you download any maps you want in advance for offline use, or consider paper maps as a backup.

• Pack yourselves plenty of snacks! You’ll find roadside stops along the way, but once you’re in the national parks, beyond visitor centres you won’t find much in the way of food.

• Never forget a road trip essential again with our downloadable family road trip checklist.

We hope this simple Utah Mighty Five itinerary helped you plot the perfect road trip through the Beehive State. Prepare to do a lot in just a week, all while knowing your efforts will be well worth your while, as this is easily one of the most beautiful routes in the entire world.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip Map + 1 Week Itinerary appeared first on Family Road Trip.

Moab is one of those places that is always fun to visit. With a few national parks nearby, fun outdoor history hikes, and in-town entertainment there are plenty of fun things to do in Moab with kids.

While Moab only has a population of just over 5,000 people, it draws in nearly 2 million visitors a year. Moab has intense mountain biking and extreme Jeep-ing (is that a word?), but I’m going to stick to some of the lesser adrenaline-infused activities for family activities in Moab, Utah.

From checking out dinosaur tracks to hiking through national parks, here are the best things to do in Moab for families to ensure your trip is incredibly fun.

Best Time to Go To Moab

If you’re going for great weather: March, April, and May will give you decent temperatures. Same as September, October, and November. The summer months can get hot quickly and reach into the 100’s. While the winter months are colder, it still stays in the 40’s or above on average.

If you are going to avoid crowds: As Moab is very popular for their Jeep trails, it can get very crowded during events around the year. Two big events include the Easter Jeep Safari (around the week of Easter, of course) and the Jeep Jamboree, which happens in late October. Moab can get very crowded during these events and hotels will be harder to find (and more expensive.)

If avoiding crowds is your number 1 goal, consider grabbing a coat and gloves and heading to Moab anytime from November to February.

Where to Stay in Moab

There are plenty of places to stay in Moab, but be aware that they fill up quickly as busy season approaches. Try and book your accommodations early to make sure you have a nice selection.

We recently stayed at Comfort Suites in Moab. The location was on the main street Highway 191, and just a couple blocks from shops and restaurants. We were able to book one room for all 6 of us (including a pull-out sofa) and it included breakfast.

After making a long drive from Denver to Moab, it was nice to have a place where we could all be together in one place and have breakfast provided.

The coolest-looking hotel is the Fairfield Inn & Suites. It’s really close to the entrance of Arches National Park (a short drive away from downtown Moab) and it looks amazing. The kids and adults will all love multiple pools and hot tubs, plus a gorgeous splash area beautifully hardscaped.

If you are bringing an RV, you can book Sun Outdoors, previously named the Moab Valley RV Resort and Campground. There are cool amenities like a pool, tetherball, a playground, life-size chess game and more.

Even if you don’t have an RV, you can book little cabins at Sun Outdoors.

See more accommodation choices in Moab:

Fun Things to do in Moab with Kids

With even just 2 full days in Moab, you can pack a lot in. If you have longer, there’s plenty more you can do. Here were a few of the best things to do in Moab with kids.

1. Arches National Park

Visiting Arches is one of the best family activities in Moab, Utah. The park is incredible, even just driving around. Pack a lunch to bring in the park and enjoy the entire day exploring.

You can spend 1 entire day driving and hiking in Arches National Park. Arches is perfect when you are traveling with kids to Moab because, while there are some longer hikes, there are so many arches you can do that are just short hikes away.

Spend your morning seeing the arches at the bottom-most loop (The Windows, Garden of Eden) and then enjoy a packed lunch at Panorama Point. Use the rest of the day to discover the arches north of here.

A kid’s favorite is Sand Dune arch, where you hike through canyon walls in the sand!

Beware of seasonal timed entry requirements for Arches National Park from April through October.

2. Check out Fossils and Dinosaur Tracks in Moab at Mill Canyon

To get to the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Sites: go north of Moab 15 miles on highway 191. Turn left at the sign for Mill Canyon and continue on for 2 miles. Here you’ll have access to the tracksite. Continue on for access to the Fossil Trail.

The Tracksite is one of the largest tracksites from the early Cretaceous period in North America. It is home to over 200 tracks!

The Mill Canyon Dinosaur (Fossil) Trail will give you great views of Determination Towers, sandstone structures in the distance that are remnants from the Jurassic Age.

It will also, of course, exhibit many dinosaur fossils that are still embedded in the rock on the trail. The trail has signs along the way to help you spot the bones and explain what you’re looking at.

It’s fun when the kids start finding the fossils on their own.

This Fossil Trail is fairly easy for little legs, but it is not stroller-friendly.

3. Discover More Dinosaurs at Moab Giants

To Get to Moab Giants: About 11 miles north of Moab off highway 191

Moab Giants is a great things to do in Moab with kids. It offers both an indoor and outdoor experience to get up close with prehistoric creatures.

The 1/2 mile trail outside shows you the full-size giants in a desert setting. Indoors, you’ll find a 5D theater experience with sea turtles, a Megalodon, and other sea creatures.

Check online if you’d like to purchase tickets the Moab Giants before hand.

Top tip: Hours/Days vary differ depending on the time of year, so make sure to check ahead.

4. Check out Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs

To get to Potash Road Dino Tracks and Petroglyphs from downtown Moab: head north on highway 191 and turn left on 279 South. Stay on 279 about 6 miles and pull into the Poison Spider trail parking lot.

• Bonus: you’ll probably see lots of rock climbers as you drive through the canyon to get here. It’s really cool to watch people scaling the straight steep mountain wall right along the road.
• This is probably the hardest trail I’m including in this post, but it’s doable for kids and there were plenty of kids there when we went.
• To see both the Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs, you’ll need to ascend a rocky, sometimes steep mountainside. You can see the top from the parking lot, it’s just a matter of getting up there.
• Pro Tip: watch for the green footprints and follow those for the easiest route up. The sign says to go right for the tracks, but the footprints take you up toward the top, too. Follow them as far as you need, and then split off to get to the top. We noticed them on the way down and it led us down an easier path.
• This trail in NOT stroller-friendly. Not even a little bit. I also wouldn’t take a toddler. Our youngest was 5 and did just fine. I wouldn’t take much younger than that unless they are ok with a little rock scrambling.

Once you make the somewhat-tricky climb up to the top, the first thing you’ll probably see are the dinosaur tracks in a large, flat, slab of rock. This was first discovered in the 1960’s. That’s a little later than many other tracks in the area. Why?

Well, the rock slab was actually higher up and part of the mountain for millions of years until one day it fell off, exposing the tracks that were embedded in it.

Continue hiking beyond to the top where a flat wall runs across the whole mountainside and you are sure to find many petroglyphs. Make sure to walk all the way down and around (take extra caution with the kids as you near the end of the mountain).

5. Pick a Prize at the Moab Rock Shop

To get to the Moab Rock Shop: It’s located right off the main road in Moab, slightly north of downtown.

This is a fun little stop in Moab for the kids full of sparkly and colorful gems.

The Rock Shop has been around since the 60’s and is family run. Lin (grandpa of the guy we spoke to) had made a few discoveries of dinosaur bones and fossils. Along with huge knowledge of rocks and minerals, the Moab Rock Shop was set up to let the public come in and learn about rocks as well.

There are many sections, including native Utah rocks, a colorful assortment of gemstones, fossils, and plenty of nicely formed and polished rock decor.

Even with just a $5 limit, your kids can find something pretty awesome.

6. Take an Easy Hike at Moonflower Canyon

Some of the coolest family activities in Moab, Utah include some easy nearby hikes.

Moonflower Canyon is a really cool hike and is a great hike for kids in Moab. It felt a little bit like we were in another world when we got to the end.

Moonflower Canyon hike is under a mile, so totally dobale for kids (I would not recommend strollers).

The surface is a lot of soft sand, but is more firm/rock in other areas.

When we went, we crossed the dried up creek a few times back and forth. There seemed to be multiple trails you could follow. We hiked in on the right side and came back mostly on the opposite side of the creek.

I would say the left side (looking in from the parking lot) was a little easier.

Once you are at the end, you’ll come to a small pond with a gorgeous, rock background. It’s a dead end as you have now come to the red rock wall in front of you, and it’s a really cool feeling. You feel as if you’ve entered a great, spacious room full of color and beauty!

My kids really enjoyed this easy hike in Moab and I would strongly recommend it.

Top Tip: there are also petroglyphs at Moonflower Canyon. They are listed as “along the rock cliff, behind the wooden fence.”

Bonus Hike:

Another great hike in Moab is Mill Creek Canyon. I would reserve this for older kids, as there are a few points where you have to walk through water (bring water shoes). The end is a cool waterfall and you’re able to cool off in the water. You may see people cliff jumping, but the city really urges people not to as there have been many injuries and rescues from this.

7. Play at One Moab’s Parks

One of the best things to do in Moab with kids is visit a local park, and Moab is not short on parks. You can find the perfect one whether you’re looking for playgrounds, disc golf, ponds with ducks, or space to run. Here are a few to choose from:

Old City Park– Old City Park is a few miles out of the downtown area. It has plenty of horseshoe set ups (BYO Horseshoes), a disc golf area, a covered (shaded) playground, a cute (fenced) pond with plenty of ducks, and even a little landscaped waterfall and small pond.

Swanny City Park– Located in downtown Moab. Swanny City Park has a few fun playgrounds, rec center, skate park, cool scenery, and plenty of Moab events are held here.

Rotary Park– This cool park in Moab features lots of musical instruments to play on. It also has volleyball, basketball, and a playground.

8. Enjoy the Evening at Moab’s Backyard Theater

To get to Moab’s Backyard Theater: Take Main Street to 100 S and turn west.

At Moab’s Backyard Theater, you’ll find a nice, casual vibe, making it the perfect way to spend an evening in Moab with the family.

Different shows are scheduled into this outdoor stage. A small but fun audience dances, watches, and cheers on performers.

Plus, there was a Mexican food truck right at the entrance. We had already eaten, but splurged on a cream-filled churro for everyone.

The Backyard Theater is free, but they do provide a jar for donations.

9. Everyone Picks Dinner at the Food Truck Park in Moab

At the southwest corner of Main St and 100 N, you’ll find the Moab Food Truck Park. This is the perfect option of where to eat in Moab for families because there are so many options that each person can pick from.

This was actually the only time we ate out our entire trip, as I pack most of our food to help save money.

The food truck Park has a variety of cuisine, like Mexican, Chinese, Paninis, Hot Dogs, and many more.

It also has a covered area filled with tables, making it a convenient place for everyone to choose their dish and then all sit down together.

10. Explore Town and Search for Street Murals

Walking downtown in Moab is pretty fun. You’ll pass plenty of places to stop in and eat, bakeries, ice cream, entertainment, and shops.

Plus, there are so many murals in Moab. They are beautiful, colorful, and fun to find! If you’ve got time to just spend relaxing, walk around town and see how many you can find. This makes one of the great, easy things for kids to do in Moab.

Bonus: Fill up at Matrimony Spring

While this may not take lots of time, it’s still a really cool stop.

If you’ve heard of fresh spring water in the mountain in Moab that you can drink, here it is.

Grab your reusable water bottles, then head east on highway 129. You won’t be on it long until you see a little pullover spot on the road. Park here and walk to the front part of the pullover. Look at the underside of the mountain where you’ll see water flowing out of the mountain. (There is a metal pan helping the flow so you can fill up.)

Matrimony Springs is safe to drink (I’ve done it many times over the past decade+ ). It’s a really cool feeling to be drinking fresh, clean water straight from the source.

Extra Activities in Moab for Families

Those were our favorite things to do in Moab, but if you have more time, be sure to check out these too!

• Hole ‘n the Rock– a 5,000 square-foot home made in rock! You can tour the home, visit the gift shop, and walk through the zoo.
• Take a day to go whitewater rafting. Kids 8 and up can join in on these smaller class rapids, perfect for anyone’s first time.
• Take a family-friendly Beast Tour through some of Moab’s most popular and exciting off road, slick rock experiences. It’s 2 hours geared toward families.
• Older kids will enjoy the hike to Bowtie and Corona Arch. Both are not in the National Park. It’s about 2.5 miles roundtrip and includes a small section where you have to physically climb a rope/ladder, but not too bad otherwise for the older kids! Trailhead located off highway 279

Best Things to do in Moab with Kids

While Moab is known for its extreme biking and off-roading, there are actually so many things to do in Moab Utah with kids!

Whether you are making a national parks road trip or Moab is your final destination to really spend some time in, these kid-friendly activities will keep you busy all weekend (and beyond, if needed).

Whether it’s hiking, searching for dinosaur tracks, or doing some rock collecting at the awesome rock store, there are plenty of fun things to do in Moab with kids.

More Tips & Ideas For Your Utah Road Trip

Extend your epic southwest road trip further with these itineraries and family activity ideas:

Explore the entire ‘Utah Mighty 5’ in a one-week road trip
Plan out all the fascinating stops between Bryce and Zion in more detail
There’s more to Utah than it’s national parks! Places to visit in Utah that have nothing to do with the desert
Spend some time in Salt Lake City with kids
Continue your journey south from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon North Rim
Or head into Nevada next with these stopping points between Zion and Las Vegas

Images supplied by Lets Jet Kids. Feature Image designed with CanvaPro

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Top 10 Things To Do In Moab With Kids appeared first on Family Road Trip.

The drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone may be long, but it’s also one of the most epic road trips to take if you’re hoping to check out many of the top national parks in the Southwest region of the United States.

A short detour will bring you to the Grand Canyon, and all of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks will practically be en-route as you drive to Yellowstone from Las Vegas. With so much to see and do, you’ll probably spend way more of your day outside your car than in it!

For tips about what to see and do on a Vegas to Yellowstone road trip, read on to learn about the best stops to make and some of the logistics for planning a successful drive.

Distance from Las Vegas to Yellowstone

The road trip from Las Vegas to Yellowstone covers about 740 miles, which follows I-15 for the majority of the route.

However, if you want to make side stops at other National Parks like the Grand Canyon (highly recommended!), count on adding some miles to the total count.

How Long Do I Need Driving from Las Vegas to Yellowstone?

A straight-shot drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone would take between 10 and 11 hours to complete. 11 hours behind the wheel is no way to spend an incredible road trip!

Plan on at least three days of driving if you want to only make minimal stops. If you’re hoping to explore other parks and really make the most of the drive, then realistically plan on at least a week, if not more, for driving from Las Vegas to Yellowstone.

Best Time of Year to Drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone

Spring, summer, and fall are all good times of year for a Las Vegas to Yellowstone road trip.

Although summer is one of the most popular times of year to drive to Yellowstone, thanks to the weather and the most options for accommodation, it’s also when you’ll need to deal with the most tourist crowds. Keep in mind that other places in the southern portion of your drive in Arizona and Utah will also be very hot during the summer, which can make outdoor activities more difficult to enjoy.

The shoulder months of April-May and September-October are often good bets if you want to miss the snow season in Yellowstone as well as the summer crowds. Temperatures are also usually better for hiking and outdoor activities (maybe with the exception of swimming). 

It’s also possible to drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone in the winter, although much of the accommodation around Yellowstone and other National Parks will be closed during this time of year.

Best Stops on a Las Vegas to Yellowstone Road Trip

There are a lot of great detours to make when driving from Las Vegas to Yellowstone. We’ve included some of the no-brainer cities you’ll pass through and longer side trips, so you can pick and choose where you want to go depending on your interests and your time.

Stopping in Las Vegas first? Jump into our detailed guide to Las Vegas With Kids before starting on this epic road trip journey through 6 states!

Valley of Fire State Park

Less than an hour outside of Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park is one of the gems of Nevada. This incredible park gets its name from the bright red and orange color of the sandstone formations that characterize this Mohave Desert region.

Although it might feel like your drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone has barely begun, it’s worth planning to stop and spend some time in Valley of Fire.

Other than the amazing natural rock formations, one of the park’s top attractions is the petroglyphs carved into the sandstone canyons, which are estimated to have been made by Ancestral Puebloans about 2,500 years ago.

Make sure you get photos of the Elephant Rock; this iconic rock is hard to miss, not only because of its location near the park entrance but also because of its shape (any guesses as to what it resembles?).

There are many great hiking trails throughout the park, like the Fire Wave, known for the red and white stripes of sandstone, or the White Domes Trail, which has everything from caves to desert vistas.

Grab our Las Vegas to Grand Canyon itinerary if you want even more interesting stopping points from Nevada to northern Arizona.

Grand Canyon National Park

Although the Grand Canyon is a bit of a detour from the most direct way to Yellowstone from Las Vegas, if you’re already on a road trip in the southwest, it’s well worth the extra time behind the wheel.

The Grand Canyon is often listed among the most amazing natural landmarks in the world, so you should definitely take the opportunity to visit it if possible!

There are two entrances to the Grand Canyon: The North Rim and the South Rim. Although the South Rim is the more popular of the two, it also adds significantly more driving time, while the North Rim entrance is easier to add to a drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone. The North Rim is usually much quieter than the South Rim, so you won’t need to deal with as many other visitors.

A lot of travelers consider the North Rim to be more serene and remote as well. Some of the most popular hikes near the North Rim are the North Kaibab Trail and Bright Angel Point which is known for its spectacular overlook.

If you want to spend a night or two at the Grand Canyon to make the most of your time exploring the area, there are several lodges and campgrounds near the North Rim-just make sure you have reservations well in advance!

Also, remember that the North Rim closes during the winter, usually between December 1^st and May 1^st, but check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information.

Zion National Park

Whether or not you add a stop at the Grand Canyon to your Vegas to Yellowstone road trip, Zion National Park is practically on the way from either direction.

Probably the most popular of Utah’s Big 5 National Parks, Zion has an incredible landscape of canyons, mesas, and spectacular sandstone formations.

Even if you don’t stop for long, you should definitely add the six-mile Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It’s considered one of the most beautiful drives in Utah and crosses right through the park’s center.

If you are skipping the Grand Canyon, this itinerary will take you straight from Las Vegas to Zion National Park

Hopefully, you can plan for enough time that you’ll be able to get out of your car and explore some of Zion’s wonders on foot. Hiking is one of the best ways to see the park, with some easy hikes being the Canyon Overlook, Riverside Walk, and the Weeping Rock Trail.

If you’re an experienced hiker, grab some extra water and sunscreen to check out the hike to Observation Point.

Be aware that certain hikes within Zion require you to enter a ballot for timed tickets – and crowds at peak times mean you will need to allow plenty of extra time to catch the shuttle in and out of the park.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon stands out from the other National Parks of the southwest for its distinctive hoodoos. These naturally made tower-like rock formations are anywhere between 5 feet to a whopping 150 feet high!

This National Park is home to some of the most-photographed natural landmarks and locations in Utah. Make sure you bring your camera to get photos of Thor’s Hammer (one of the most iconic hoodoos of the park) and the spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the red canyon walls.

Like many of the National Parks you’ll encounter on the drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone, hiking is one of the best ways to see the landscape. If you have a day or two to explore Bryce, you might also consider taking a horseback riding tour.

Spending a night at Bryce is worth it to see the night sky. It’s a certified Dark Sky Park and has one of the best views of the stars in the entire United States!

Got longer to spend in Utah? We have a detailed itinerary for all the interesting stopping points between Zion to Bryce Canyon if you want more than just the highlights tour.

Capitol Reef National Park

Although Capitol Reef is the least visited of Utah’s Big 5 National Parks, it has a lot of surprises in store, especially if you like visiting spots with a more off-the-beaten path sort of feel.

The park has a lot of incredible scenic drives, which make great additions for a Vegas to Yellowstone road trip like Cathedral Valley or the “Loop the Fold” route.

Even if you don’t have time to do more than drive through the park on Highway 24, you’ll still be rewarded with breath-taking vistas over the red-rock canyons at spots like Panorama Point.

If you want to leave the car, you can hike the easy trail to Sunset Point. The entire hike is less than a mile round-trip, and it’s a spectacular place for (you guessed it) watching the sunset.

Arches National Park

It’s a no-brainer where Arches National Park gets its name. With over 2,000 natural stone arches, the landscape of this park is unlike anywhere else in the world!

Even just driving through the park will allow you to see many of the iconic stone arches and red-rock towers that characterize the landscape. Spending a bit more time will allow you to hike some of the top trails, like the Devil’s Garden, or a more challenging trek to the Delicate Arch, which is probably the most famous arch in the entire park!

Outdoor adventurers might also consider spending a night at one of the campgrounds as they drive to Yellowstone. The park has spectacular night skies, and the sunrise over the red sandstone landscape is breathtaking.

Canyonlands National Park

Rounding off Utah’s Mighty 5 is Canyonlands National Park. The park is enormous, covering over 330,000 acres, with miles of hiking and mountain biking trails through canyons and mesas.

The park’s most popular area is called Island in the Sky, where you can find scenic drives, camping, and hiking. Mesa Arch and Grand View Point are two of the highlights of this area, both of which are reachable by fairly easy hikes.

If you have more than a day, you can explore some of the other top areas of Canyonlands, like The Needles, which are known for their unique needle-like sandstone formations. Adrenaline junkies should head to the area of the park known as The Rivers, where the Colorado and Green Rivers meet, which has some epic places for white water rafting and kayaking.

Salt Lake City

Utah’s capital city is a no-brainer stop to make when driving from Las Vegas to Utah. Not only is Salt Lake City the gateway to Utah’s Big 5 National Parks, but it also has a great combination of history, culture, and city life.

Spending at least a night in SLC is definitely recommended. This will give you a chance to recharge for another day behind the wheel; plus, there’s enough to see and do in the city that it’s practically worthy of its own road trip.

Spend the morning visiting the top sites around Temple Square, like the iconic Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the name’s a mouthful, but the architecture is jaw-dropping). Families will enjoy museums like the Natural History Museum of Utah or spend an afternoon at the Hogle Zoo.

We have a more detailed guide to all the interesting things to do with kids in Salt Lake City over here.

Idaho Falls

Coming closer to your final destination as you drive from Las Vegas to Yellowstone, Idaho Falls is another great city to stop in, at least for an afternoon or possibly a day or two, depending on your time.

Situated on the Snake River, there are lots of opportunities for water sports like fishing, kayaking, and rafting. Right downtown, the city’s River Walk area has beautiful parks with pathways, public events in the summer, and an array of great restaurants and city attractions like the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho.

If you’re okay with adding a bit more driving time to your trip, you can visit the spectacular Mesa Falls, which are about an hour’s drive from the city.

Idaho Falls is also close to two different natural hot springs: Heise Hot Springs and Lava Hot Springs. These are great places to relax after all the hiking and long hours in the car, where you can literally soak in the mountain scenery!

Grand Teton National Park

Road trips to Yellowstone often include a stop at Grand Teton since the two National Parks are so close together. Grand Teton doesn’t get as much traffic as Yellowstone, so it’s easier to find places with a more remote and wild feel.

The towering mountains are dominated by Grant Teton itself, which is the tallest peak reaching 13,700 feet.

Take a (very cold) dip in Jenny Lake and then a shuttle boat across the tranquil alpine waters to reach the trail for Hidden Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the park, which plummets over 100 feet.

The park also has an abundance of wildlife, and along with the bison, elk, and pronghorn, which make frequent appearances, you might also get to see other animals like bears, moose, or even wolves!

Grand Teton has several campgrounds and lodges inside the park itself, or hang at Jackson Hole, as it is a popular place to stay for a day or two while exploring the area.

We cover the drive from SLC to Yellowstone in much more detail in this driving itinerary.

Our complete family guide to Yellowstone National Park coming soon!

More Tips for Road Tripping from Las Vegas to Yellowstone

• Planning a successful road trip from Las Vegas to Yellowstone is dependent on making reservations in advance. If visiting Yellowstone in the summer, it’s recommended to make your reservations at least six months, if not a full year, beforehand since the park fills up so fast!

• Plan for a variety of weather, no matter what time of year. You’ll be covering a big distance driving from Las Vegas to Yellowstone, and the climate will change considerably. Even in the summer, pack layers to be prepared for cold nights.

• Sunscreen, bug spray, and water bottles will become your best friends! Double-check to make sure you have all three before starting out on any hikes.

• Keep your distance from wildlife. Even if an animal seems curious enough to approach, never offer them food. When driving, always give animals the right of way-you are visiting their home, after all!

• Never forget an important road-tripping item again! Download our complete road trip checklist ready for your next family adventure

© Family Road Trip

The post Epic Las Vegas to Yellowstone Road Trip Through the Mountain States appeared first on Family Road Trip.

Salt Lake City in Utah is close enough to Yellowstone to be super convenient but also far enough away that there are a ton of things to see and explore during the drive!

If you’re trying to plan a road trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, then you’ve come to the right place. This guide will give you all the details you need for the trip and a run-down of the best stops to make along the way.

The incredible landscape of the western United States is waiting to welcome you on this scenic drive!

Distance from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone

The most direct route from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is about 325 miles which takes you along I-15.

A longer but more scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is about 400 miles along Highway 89 / Highway 26, taking in more of the highlights of Wyoming and Idaho.

How Long Do I Need Driving from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone?

The shorter I-15 drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is about 5 hours. This drive will take you through Idaho Falls to arrive at the West Yellowstone entrance.

The longer Highway 89 route is about 12 hours of driving time, but taking it this way will mean you can add a visit to Grand Teton National Park to your trip.

While both of these drives are entirely possible to do in one day, we’d recommend planning for at least a few days, if not up to a week, to get from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone so you have time to make interesting stops along the way.

Driving Distance Calculator

Use this handy table to help you calculate your driving distances and how long you’d like to be on the road each day:

Best Time of Year to Drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone

Spring, summer, and fall are all good times of year to drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone.

Summer is by far the most popular time to visit Yellowstone National Park, and during the months of June-August, the park is usually packed with tourists, meaning that you’ll need to reserve your accommodation well in advance.

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are good bets if you want to skip the high temperatures and crowded parking lots of summertime.

While it’s entirely possible to do the drive during winter, you will need to be more mindful of the potential for slippery winter roads, and a lot of accommodation in Yellowstone is closed during wintertime.

Best Stops on a Salt Lake City to Yellowstone Road Trip

If you’re making a round trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, you can take the Highway 89 route one way and the shorter I-15 route in the other direction. We’ve highlighted stops along both routes so you can plan how you want to spend your travel time.

Antelope Island State Park, Utah

The largest of the islands in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island, offers a unique landscape and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Technically, depending on how high the lake water is, the “island” is actually a peninsula, but that doesn’t detract from its scenery! It’s only about a one-hour drive from downtown Salt Lake City, making it a perfect first stop to stretch your legs and explore.

The island has over 20 miles of hiking trails, all of which boast incredible views of the Great Salt Lake with the mountains in the background. Although some of the trails are more challenging, there are also plenty of easy hikes which are perfect for families with young kids.

Although you might not expect it at first, the island is also home to some of the iconic wildlife of the West, like bison and the antelope from which the island got its name.

If you have a bit more time to explore, you might also consider taking a horseback riding tour of the island. These fun tours let you experience the amazing scenery with a real ‘Old West’ sort of vibe and learn about the history of Antelope Island from a knowledgeable guide.

Logan Canyon Scenic Byway, Utah

Traveling on US Highway 89 during a Salt Lake City to Yellowstone drive, you’ll be treated to the incredible views along Logan Canyon Scenic Byway.

One of the best scenic drives in Utah, this stretch of road connects the city of Logan to Bear Lake and provides some breathtaking scenery of the mountains and canyons in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

This drive is about 1 hour in length, but if you’re looking for some places to stop and explore (without so many tourist crowds!), it could easily turn into a few days of travel time.

First Dam Park is a great place for families to stop since this park has more maintained paved pathways, picnic tables, and a lakefront where you can fish or go paddleboarding.

For a more rugged adventure, you might want to check out the Wind Caves, which are incredible limestone formations found at the end of a 4-mile hike. The views of the cliff face are stunning and a definite testimony to the wild beauty of Utah.

This drive is particularly impressive during the fall when the colorful autumn leaves turn the landscape into a beautiful array of bright gold and orange.

Pro Tip: There aren’t any gas stations along this stretch of road, so especially if you’re planning on taking time to explore, make sure you have a full tank of gas before beginning.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

One of Wyoming’s most popular tourist destinations, Jackson Hole can turn into an entire trip by itself. It’s worth planning to spend at least a night or two here as you drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone.

Jackson Hole is a wilderness haven with endless opportunities for outdoor exploration at places like the National Elk Refuge. In the wintertime, it’s a skier’s paradise thanks to the legendary ski slopes like Snow King Mountain.

It’s also a super family-friendly city to visit with spots like Phil Baux Park, where you’ll find all sorts of activities like small climbing walls, horseshoe pits, and playground equipment. There’s also the Jackson Hole Children’s Museum, which has awesome hands-on activities the entire family can enjoy.

For a bird’s eye perspective of the city and a stunning view of the mountains, you can ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram up 2,700 feet to one of the mountain peaks overlooking the city.

The adventure doesn’t stop there; for adrenaline enthusiasts, you’ll have an opportunity to go paragliding at the top! If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground, check out the trails or simply enjoy a meal and appreciate the view at one of the three restaurants located on the peak.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is also the gateway to Grand Teton National Park, and it’s well worth adding this park to your itinerary for an SLC to Yellowstone road trip itinerary.

The park is known for its incredible mountain scenery and picturesque lakes, making it an awesome place to cool off and swim during the hot summer. You’ll find some of the most incredible Wyoming scenic driving routes here, including the Wyoming Centennial Scenic Byway.

There are also over 200 miles of trails throughout the park ranging from easy, kid-friendly walks to arduous treks best suited for seasoned hikers. No matter which trails you decide on, you’re guaranteed to see some amazing wildlife and beautiful natural landscapes.

In the winter, many of the trails are converted into cross-country skiing and snowshoe routes for those who enjoy winter sports. 

One of the must-visit spots in Grand Teton is Hidden Falls. Located on Cascade Creek, these stunning waterfalls are one of the most famous natural wonders of the park. It’s a roughly 8-mile hike to reach the falls, so bring extra water and snacks for the trek.

There are several campgrounds within Grand Teton National Park, or it’s very easy to stay in Jackson Hole and drive the short distance into the park to explore.

Idaho Falls, Idaho

If you take the I-15 route for the drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, you’ll pass right through Idaho Falls as you make your way to the park.

We’d definitely recommend spending at least the afternoon, if not a day or two, in Idaho Falls to check out the city and the surrounding natural wonders.

Set right along the Snake River, Idaho Falls has some stunning scenic drives. In fact, the whole city is very scenic, combining modern attractions and pleasant outdoor spaces. For the best views in the city, explore the Idaho Falls River Walk which is a well-maintained path popular for biking, walking, and running.

Kids will love the Idaho Falls Zoo, which is a part of the larger Tautphaus Park, where you’ll find picnic spaces and the Funland Amusement Park with kid-friendly rides and carnival activities.

Other city activities include visiting the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho or browsing through the unique artifacts in the Collectors Corner Museum, which houses a variety of collectibles ranging from coins to hubcaps.

If you have time, get out to explore the Hell’s Half Acre lava field, located about 25 miles out of the city. This immense stretch of hardened lava was formed about 2,000 years ago, and hiking the trails cutting through the jagged formations, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto a different planet!

Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Idaho

Spanning between Idaho and Wyoming, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest is a perfect place for travelers hoping to enjoy the mountains and forests of the region with more peace and solitude than you’ll find in Yellowstone or Grand Teton.

There are over 1,600 miles of trails traversing the park, so you certainly won’t be at a loss for places to explore! During the winter, skiing is also a popular sport thanks to the 175 majestic mountains which characterize the landscape.

Caribou-Targhee is known for its incredible waterfalls and canyons. One of the most popular trails is the Darby Canyon Wind Cave Trail, a 6.3-mile hike through the forest and alongside a canyon to finally reach an impressive waterfall with a cave located near the top.

It’s easy to visit Caribou-Targhee National Forest as a day trip from Idaho Falls, or there are plenty of campgrounds if you want to really escape into nature. Whether you stop just to stretch your legs or spend a few nights camped out in the ravines and scenic valleys, Caribou-Targhee is a great place to include on your drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone.

West Yellowstone

Approaching from the southwest, West Yellowstone is your gateway to Yellowstone National Park. A small town surrounded by pristine forests, a stop at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a must.

If you don’t have lodgings pre-booked well in advance for staying inside the park, the town of West Yellowstone makes a great place to base yourselves for exploring Yellowstone. You are only 5 minutes from the park entrance, and around 20 minutes from the Grand Loop, making it the ideal park entrance for exploring the parks geothermal activity.

Alternative Route – Grand Teton to Yellowstone National Park

An alternative to traveling through Idaho and coming into the park from West Yellowstone is to continue your journey from Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park along the John D Rockefeller Jr Memorial Highway.

You will find there are fewer queues coming from the south entrance and it’s a unique way to visit the lesser-explored southern areas of Yellowstone, before hitting the traffic on the Grand Loop!

Our complete family guide to exploring Yellowstone with road trip itinerary suggestions is coming soon!

More Tips for Road Tripping from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone

• Yellowstone National Park is one of the largest in the United States, spanning 2.2 million acres (Larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined!), so give plenty of time in your itinerary to properly explore the park.

• Due to the parks size and popularity, you won’t be alone! Early starters will be rewarded with fewer entry queues, and get off the main roads for a more enjoyable experience.

• Yellowstone has an entry fee of $35 for a single vehicle, valid for 7 consecutive days; you can also use America the Beautiful passes – well worth it if you are visiting both Grand Teton and Yellowstone, or see if your family could be eligible for a 4th Grader Every Kid Outdoors pass.

• Give wild animals their space. Seeing bison, elk, or maybe even a grizzly bear is all part of the amazing adventure of driving to Yellowstone, but keep your distance in order to stay safe.

• Pack plenty of layers for your trip. Temperatures can vary a lot depending on the weather and time of day, and having a variety of clothes will help keep you comfortable.

• Accommodation in Yellowstone fills up very quickly, so make sure you make reservations well in advance (usually summer before your trip is recommended).

• Cell phone service in a lot of parks, including Yellowstone and Grand Teton, can be limited. Downloading a map and checking your messages before getting to your campground is a good idea.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Salt Lake City to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary appeared first on Family Road Trip.

Sensational stops to make driving from Colorado to Arizona

The Grand Canyon is the gem of the southwestern United States and a popular spot for hikers, family vacations, and photographers. While it is possible to fly (st least part of the way!), driving to the Grand Canyon can be a better option since it allows you the opportunity to visit other parks and natural wonders along the way! 

If you’re planning on driving from Denver to the Grand Canyon, there are some spots you definitely won’t want to pass up.

To help you plan your trip and give you tips for success, we’ve put together this Denver to Grand Canyon road trip guide that covers all the bases for an incredible adventure.  

Distance From Denver To The Grand Canyon

It’s between 700 and 800 miles from Denver to the Grand Canyon depending on if you are going to the North or South Rim. 

How Long Do I Need Driving From Denver To The Grand Canyon? 

Driving directly from Denver to the Grand Canyon would take about 12 hours with good traffic and few stops. 

We’d definitely recommend breaking up the trip into at least three days of driving, but it would be easy to spend a week or more traveling depending on how much time you want to spend at the other National Parks along the way. 

The drive from Denver to the Grand Canyon will take you past all of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks, each of which could practically be an entire trip in themselves if you wanted! 

Estimated Drive Times – Denver to Grand Canyon

Following our suggested stops below, here’s how long you will need for each leg or this Denver to Grand Canyon road trip:

Best Time Of Year To Drive From Denver To The Grand Canyon

Spring and fall are usually the best times to drive from Denver to the Grand Canyon. Summers in Arizona can be very hot, not to mention all the tourist crowds which come to visit the Grand Canyon during this time. 

It’s also entirely possible to take a Denver to Grand Canyon road trip in winter. You’ll need to deal with snowy weather on the northern portion of your trip, but winters in the Grand Canyon (South Rim) tend to be mild and much more peaceful, thanks to the lack of visitors during this season. 

Best Stops On A Denver To Grand Canyon Road Trip

To make the most of your experience driving from Denver to the Grand Canyon, here are some of the National Parks and other natural wonders you won’t want to pass up along the way!  

Glenwood Springs and the Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Heading southwest from Denver will bring you through some of the rugged and beautiful landscapes of the Rocky Mountains. One of the best places to stop is Glenwood Springs, known for its incredible natural thermal springs. 

It’s between a two to three-hour drive to reach the springs from Denver, and even though it might not be a long ride, you won’t want to pass up the chance to soak in the Iron Mountain Hot Springs. 

To appreciate the scenery and some of the trails through the Rocky Mountains, it’s not a bad idea to stay at least a night either at one of the hotels or lodges, or there are also campgrounds for a more rough and wild adventure. 

See Accommodation Options in Glenwood Springs

Grand Junction and Wine Tasting, Colorado

Leaving behind the incredible mountain views behind you on your Denver to Grand Canyon road trip, you’ll pass through some of Colorado’s prime wine country. 

Even if you’re pressed for time, it’s still totally manageable to fit in an afternoon visit to a winery and grab lunch at one of the excellent local restaurants. 

If you have time to stop for longer, Grand Junction is a great place to explore the red rock country and canyons of the area. Outdoor activities range from horse-back riding and river rafting in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in winter so there’s always something fun to explore.

See Accommodation Options in Grand Junction

Arches National Park, Utah

The first of Utah’s Mighty 5 to visit on your road trip from Denver to the Grand Canyon is Arches National Park. 

Where the red rock spires and towers meet the clear blue sky, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world. 

It’s home to some of the most iconic natural formations in the United States, so be sure to pack your camera! With over 2,000 naturally occurring stone arches, you won’t need to worry about finding picturesque spots for photographs. 

Keep in mind that Arches National Park operates on a timed entry ticket format April to October, and booking for tickets begins three months in advance. To make sure you have the opportunity to visit the arches, plan ahead to have your ticket ready. 

We’d also recommend trying to visit the park either earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Not only will you miss the majority of the tourist crowds, but you’ll also get to experience the spectacular dawn or evening lights illuminating the surreal landscape.

Accommodation in Moab

Moab places you within easy reach of both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and is a good rest stop on this Denver to Grand Canyon itinerary. Whether it’s luxury glamping or an easy motor inn you’re after, you can search for availability here:

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or traveling with young children, there are plenty of trails in Canyonlands to fit your needs. Hikes can be as short as half an hour or as long as several days, depending on your interests. 

Pro Tip: Families with youngsters will want to make a stop at the nearby dinosaur museum located close to where Highway 191 meets Highway 313. Here, you can learn about some of the fossil discoveries made in this area of Utah.

We have a more detailed guide to activities in and around Moab for families here

If you are looking to fast-track your journey to the Grand Canyon from Denver, then continue on after Canyonlands along the US I-90 S / US-160W, and you’ll make it to Grand Canyon Village in around 6 hours.

Capitol Reef National Park. Utah

Other must-visit places include the Petroglyphs Panel, where you can see some of the figures painted on the rocks by historic civilizations, Hickman Bridge which is known for its spectacular views, and the iconic Cassidy Arch Trail. 

For families, the Ripple Rock Nature Center, close to the Visitor Center, is also a great place to visit with fun, kid-friendly activities and displays.  

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon is best known for the hoodoo rock formations found here. These strange, spire-shaped red-rock structures give the landscape an other-worldly feel and set this park apart from the other parks in Utah’s Mighty 5. Some of the hoodoos can reach up to 150 feet high! 

The hiking trails of the park are the best way to see the hoodoos and canyons. Some of the top hikes are the Navajo Loop trail, which takes about two hours to complete, and the Rim Trail, where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the largest concentration of hoodoos in the park. 

We’d recommend spending at least one night in Bryce Canyon on your road trip from Denver to the Grand Canyon, even if it’s just for the incredible view of the night sky! Bryce Canyon is certified as a Dark Sky Park, and the incredible air quality will give you some of the clearest night sky views in the entire United States. 

Zion National Park, Utah

Rounding off Utah’s Mighty 5 is Zion National Park, known for its 2,000-foot-deep canyon and rainbow-layered sandstone cliffs. 

Any road trip from Denver to the Grand Canyon wouldn’t be complete without the inclusion of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Although it’s only six miles long, this route takes you through the heart of Zion and the incredible vistas the canyon offers. 

However, the drive is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Zion, and we’d recommend setting aside at least a day or two to explore the park. There are plenty of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous. These hikes will bring you to spectacular canyon waterfalls, amazing swimming holes surrounded by towering sandstone walls, and jaw-dropping vistas. 

Zion is also a world-famous rock-climbing destination. Even if scaling canyon walls isn’t your idea of fun, it’s still incredible to see the climbers making their way up these sheer cliff faces. 

If you have a bit more time, we’d also recommend checking out the Kolob Canyons, which are located on the northwest side of the park. Known as the “wild side” of Zion, there are fewer visitors in this area and some amazing natural wonders including the 287-foot-long Kolob Arch.

Hikers be aware, if you want to take on the famous Angel’s Landing Trail, you’ll need to enter a seasonal ballot to secure your spot.

Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

One of the most iconic sites along the Colorado River, Horseshoe Bend is a must-visit stop along the drive from Denver to the Grand Canyon. 

At minimum you should at least walk to the overlook (less than a mile of hiking) to get some photographs of this stunning circular bend in the river. If you have more time, you can make a full day out of the experience by going on a river rafting trip or taking a helicopter tour over the canyon for some truly stunning views. 

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Before you round off your trip and begin exploring the Grand Canyon National Park, one more stop you’ll want to make is at Arizona’s famous Antelope Canyon. 

This spectacular canyon is one of America’s most photographed sites. Once you see it for yourself, you’ll have no problem understanding why! 

Since Antelope Canyon is part of protected Navajo land, the only way to visit it is by guided tour. Keep in mind that tours fill up very quickly, especially during the summer, so you’ll want to reserve your spot well in beforehand so you’ll have a chance to see the incredible curves and bends of the sandstone canyon. 

Grand Canyon North Rim, Arizona 

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that the North Rim is only open between May and October, while the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open year-round. 

If you’d like to explore this northern Arizona section in more detail, pop over to our Zion to Grand Canyon itinerary guide that will take you all the way to the Grand Canyon South Rim

Itinerary Variations Denver to Grand Canyon & Return

As we mentioned above, a shortcut you could take is to head south from Moab and Canyonlands down the US I-90. If you’re taking this route, we’d also recommend making a stop at Monument Valley.

This 17-mile loop road on Navajo Land between Utah and Arizona is one of the most truly fascinating desert-scapes in the country, only a small detour off your route.

Alternatively, skip Moab on your way out. Head to the more westerly of the Utah Mighty 5 first, drop down into Arizona from Zion. After your visit to the Grand Canyon, take the scenic Monument Valley/Moab route on your return.

Where To Next?

If you’d like to continue your driving adventure beyond the Grand Canyon, you may find these further inspirational read handy:

10 Incredible Scenic Drives in Arizona
You can follow this driving itinerary in reverse from Grand Canyon to Sedona
Wondering if it’s worth continuing on to the Grand Canyon West Rim? We weigh up the differences between the South Rim and Grand Canyon West with its Skywalk, is it worth the additional 4 hours of drive time if you’re approaching from the east?
Seek out these Unique Places in Arizona for a truly unique family vacation in the Grand Canyon State
Looking for even more desert magic? You’ll want to get national parks, monuments, and valleys on your Arizona road trip itinerary!

More Tips for Road Tripping from Denver to the Grand Canyon 

Accommodation options around the Grand Canyon will fill up quickly, especially in summer so it’s best to make sure you make reservations well in advance; there’s only one lodge at the North Rim. 

Keep track of time zone changes when traveling to Arizona since the state stays on MST year-round and nearby states have daylight saving hours. 

Make sure you pack for a variety of weather on a Denver to Grand Canyon road trip. Temperatures and climate can vary from one end of the drive to the other, especially depending on the season. 
Never forget an important road tripping item again! Download our complete family road trip checklist with all the essentials you will want to consider packing for a family road trip

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Denver To Grand Canyon Road Trip Of A Lifetime appeared first on Family Road Trip.