The long way there
The journey from Denver to Las Vegas crosses some of America's most dramatic landscapes. Start in the Mile High City, cross the Rocky Mountains, traverse the red rock country of Utah, and descend into the Mojave Desert. This route offers incredible national parks and scenic byways.
Where to pull over
Glenwood Springs
250 km inHistoric hot springs and stunning canyon
Moab
500 km inGateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
Monument Valley
700 km inIconic desert buttes of the Navajo Nation
Zion National Park
900 km inTowering red cliffs and emerald pools
Valley of Fire
1,150 km inStunning red sandstone formations near Vegas
Driving tips
- 1
I-70 through Colorado is one of America's most scenic highways
- 2
Carry water—desert sections can be remote and hot
- 3
Visit Arches early morning or evening to avoid crowds
- 4
Book Zion shuttle passes in advance during peak season
- 5
Fill up before crossing remote stretches of Utah
Other ways through
I-70 to I-15 through Utah parks
US-50 'Loneliest Road' through Nevada