There’s nothing like the freedom of the open road, and this trip from Los Angeles to Denver is packed with jaw-dropping views, epic adventures, and more “wow” moments than you can count.
You’ll drive through deserts where the rocks look like they belong on another planet, cool off in sparkling blue lakes, and hike through some of the most stunning national parks in the country.
One day, you’ll be soaking in a natural hot spring, and the next, you’ll be standing at the edge of a canyon so deep it doesn’t even look real.
From wild outdoor adventures to buzzing city streets, this road trip has a little bit of everything—so buckle up, hit play on your favorite playlist, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!
1. Los Angeles, CA
Welcome to Los Angeles, the sprawling, sun-soaked city in Southern California where Hollywood dreams, palm-lined streets, and In-N-Out burgers are all iconic parts of the culture.
This is where our epic road trip kicks off—so soak up the Pacific views, grab a celeb-worthy coffee, and get ready to hit the open road!
2. Joshua Tree National Park, CA
Joshua Tree National Park is where giant, spiky Joshua trees twist into wild shapes, massive boulders beg to be climbed, and the desert stretches as far as you can see.
Located about 2.5 to 3 hours east of Los Angeles, this otherworldly park sits where the Mojave and Colorado deserts collide, creating a landscape straight out of a sci-fi movie.
By day, you can scramble up Skull Rock, hike through Hidden Valley, or spot rock climbers tackling the insane formations at Intersection Rock.
At night, the sky explodes with stars, making it one of the best stargazing spots in the country—so don’t forget to look up!
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3. Lake Havasu City, AZ
Next up: Lake Havasu City, Arizona—a desert oasis where sun, sand, and lakeside fun take center stage.
Sitting right on the Colorado River, this place is famous for its crystal-clear waters and party-ready beaches.
It even has its own ‘London Bridge’, which was reconstructed here using exterior granite blocks shipped from England.
You can rent a boat, cruise through the sparkling blue lake, or just kick back at Bridgewater Channel where you can float, sunbathe, or just soak in the good life.
If you’re up for an adventure, check out the crazy-cool rock formations at Topock Gorge or hike to the panoramic views at SARA Park.
4. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Leaving the lake behind, it’s time to witness one of the most jaw-dropping sights on the planet—Grand Canyon National Park.
Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, this mile-deep canyon stretches for 277 miles, with layers of red, orange, and gold rock that seem to glow at sunrise and sunset.
You can hike down the famous Bright Angel Trail or just find a quiet spot on the South Rim and take in the sheer size of it all.
It’s one of those places that no photo can ever do justice—so get ready to have your mind blown.
5. Zion National Park, UT
Crossing into Utah, Zion National Park feels like stepping into a giant natural cathedral, with towering red rock cliffs that stretch high into the sky.
Here you can wade through the legendary Narrows, cling to chains on the heart-pounding hike up Angels Landing, or just cruise the scenic Zion Canyon drive.
The contrast here is wild: sheer sandstone walls rise above lush green valleys, and hidden waterfalls pop up when you least expect them.
If you’re up for an epic sunrise, hike to Canyon Overlook for a front-row seat to the golden light spilling over the cliffs—it’s pure magic.
The hikes here can have some pretty steep drops so make sure to come well prepared and be careful!
6. Monument Valley, AZ/UT
From Zion, the road leads to one of the most iconic landscapes in the American West—Monument Valley.
Straddling the Arizona-Utah border, this stretch of desert is famous for its towering red sandstone buttes, made legendary by old Western movies and endless road trip photos.
You can drive the 17-mile scenic loop for up-close views of formations like the Mittens, or take a Navajo-guided tour to explore hidden spots off the main route.
Sunset here is pure magic—the sky turns fiery orange, the mesas glow, and you’ll swear you’ve stepped into a postcard.
7. Moab, UT
Next stop: Moab, Utah—a red rock playground where adventure is cranked up to the max.
This town is the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, meaning you’ll see gravity-defying rock formations, endless desert views, and some of the best hiking trails in the Southwest.
If you’re feeling like a daredevil, you can go off-roading on the insane slickrock trails, raft down the Colorado River, or even try skydiving over the canyons.
And if you just want to soak in the scenery, nothing beats watching the sunset through Delicate Arch—it’s like nature’s grand finale.
8. Glenwood Springs, CO
Leaving the desert behind, it’s time to trade red rock for Rocky Mountain charm in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
This town is famous for its steamy hot springs, so after all that hiking and adventuring, you can soak in the world’s largest mineral hot spring pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort.
When you’re done relaxing hike to Hanging Lake, a stunning turquoise oasis tucked into the cliffs.
If you’ve still not had enough, ride the roller coasters at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park—yes, there’s a theme park on top of a mountain.
With scenic mountain views, natural hot springs, and endless outdoor fun, Glenwood Springs is the perfect place to unwind before the next leg of adventure.
9. Aspen, CO
A short drive from Glenwood Springs, Aspen brings a whole new vibe—think alpine luxury meets rugged mountain adventure.
Famous for its world-class ski resorts, this town is just as incredible in the warmer months.
When the snow is gone you’ll find wildflower-covered hiking trails, scenic gondola rides, and crystal-clear alpine lakes.
You can’t miss the Maroon Bells, some of the most photographed mountain peaks in North America, where the mountains reflect perfectly in the glassy water below.
Whether you’re exploring downtown’s cute boutiques and cafés or hitting the trails for high-altitude thrills, Aspen is pure Rocky Mountain magic.
10. Garden of the Gods, CO
Heading east toward Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods feels like nature’s own sculpture park, with massive red rock formations jutting straight out of the earth.
You can walk among towering sandstone spires, spot climbers scaling the sheer cliffs, or drive the scenic loop for panoramic views of Pikes Peak in the background.
The best part?
It’s completely free to explore, making it one of the best (and most budget-friendly) stops on the trip.
Whether you hike, bike, or just stand in awe, this place is a must-see before the final stretch to Denver.
11. Denver, CO
And just like that, the road trip ends in Denver, Colorado—a city where the Rocky Mountains meet craft breweries, live music, and seriously good food.
You can stroll through RiNo’s street art-covered alleys, catch a concert at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre, or dive into Denver’s booming food scene with a green chile-smothered burrito.
If you’re up for some mountain scenery, consider a side trip to Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America.
While the upper portion will be closed throughout 2025 for construction, the lower stretches are still worth exploring.
Be sure to check online for the latest updates before heading out!
With its perfect mix of city energy and outdoor adventure, Denver makes it the ultimate finale to an epic trip.
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