USA

Denver to Las Vegas

Rocky Mountains to desert lights

Distance

1,200 km (750 miles)

Duration

10-12 hours direct, 3-5 days scenic

Best Time

April to October

Route

Denver, COLas Vegas, NV

About This Drive

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.

Stops Along the Way

1

Glenwood Springs

250 km from start

Historic hot springs and stunning canyon

2

Moab

500 km from start

Gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

3

Monument Valley

700 km from start

Iconic desert buttes of the Navajo Nation

4

Zion National Park

900 km from start

Towering red cliffs and emerald pools

5

Valley of Fire

1,150 km from start

Stunning 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

Alternate Routes

  • I-70 to I-15 through Utah parks

  • US-50 'Loneliest Road' through Nevada

More Drives in USA