Ever dreamed of hiking the Grand Canyon in Arizona or striking a pose below the grand sequoia trees in California for Instagram, instead of being the one liking other people’s photos? Buckle up, because this journey will take you to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the West Coast in the US!
Make sure to tick this list off before you hit the road:
- Ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape. Don’t own a car? Check out Klook’s car rentals!
- Pack essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a toolbox for any unexpected roadside needs.
- Plan your West Coast road trip itinerary route and accommodations in advance, but leave room for flexibility in your schedule.
- Don't forget your camera, chargers, and power banks to capture every stunning moment.
- Bring comfortable clothing and footwear for hiking and exploring.
- Download maps and entertainment for those long stretches on the road.
- friends and family.
- And of course, bring a sense of wonder and adventure!
Here’s an overview of your epic road trip through the West Coast in the US:
- Day 1: Begin your West Coast itinerary in Las Vegas
- Day 2: Hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon
- Day 3-4: Enjoy the night sky by the campfire at Yosemite Valley
- Day 5-6: Explore the red rock canyons of Zion and witness the surreal hoodoos of Bryce Canyon
- Day 7: Visit the Badwater Basin at Death Valley National Park
- Day 8-9: Drive through scenic routes along Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- Day 10: Final Day
Day 1: Arrival in Las Vegas
Welcome to fabulous Las Vegas! Credits: Pixabay on Pexels
Begin your road trip in the iconic city of Las Vegas, famous for its dazzling lights, world-class entertainment, and bustling nightlife. Spend your first day exploring the famous Vegas Strip, and if you’re feeling lucky, test your fortune at one of the iconic casinos. After all, Las Vegas is the ultimate hub of entertainment and excitement!
Day 2: Grand Canyon National Park
Get lost in the Grand Canyon’s ancient rock layers and the Colorado River’s winding grace Credits: Noelle Otto on Pexels
Shift gears and head to one of the most iconic natural wonders on the West Coast — the Grand Canyon. Hike along its West Rim, where you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring landscapes of the canyon’s deep, winding chasms, towering red rock formations, and the mighty Colorado River!
Then, cruise along the river and dine at the Grand Canyon West’s Sky View Restaurant. Swing by Eagle Point on a one-day Grand Canyon tour for some unforgettable views — the Colorado River winding through the canyon floor amidst colorful rock formations, and sheer cliffs dropping dramatically below.
The Grand Canyon’s sheer size and mesmerizing colors are guaranteed to leave you speechless.
Estimated drive time from Las Vegas: 4-5 hours
Day 3-5: Yosemite Valley
The perfect place to unplug and reconnect with nature. Credits: Lacza on Pexels
Next up, steer your trusty wheels towards the magical Yosemite Valley, a jewel of the US West Coast. Spend two days surrounded by towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows. Don't pass up the chance to hike up to the summit of Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, and capture some epic photos!
Coming from San Francisco instead? We’ve got you covered with this Yosemite day tour. Cruise through the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains, capturing the stunning sights of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls.
Estimated drive time from Grand Canyon National Park: 8-9 hours
Day 6-7: Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon
Every twist and turn here leads to an adventure. Credits: Pixabay on Pexels
Continue to Zion National Park, famous for its fiery red canyons and breathtaking views from the hiking trails. With this one-day guided tour, you’ll get only the best views! From there, head to Bryce Canyon, a place of surreal rock formations and vibrant hues.
Hike down into the heart of the canyon to get up close with these geological wonders, sculpted over time by wind and water, and embellished in red, pink, and orange colors. And don't miss the sunrise and sunset at Bryce Canyon; the way the canyon pops against the sky’s hues guarantees magic!
Estimated drive time from Yosemite Valley: 2-3 hours
Day 8: Death Valley National Park
Embrace the heat at Death Valley Credits: Abby Kihano on Pexels
Crank up the heat as you continue your thrilling West Coast car trip to Death Valley National Park — one of the hottest and driest spots on the West Coast! Here, you’ll be transported to a surreal world of salt flats and the mesmerizing Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in North America.
While you’re already there, why not pay a visit to the famous Area 51? Gaining notoriety for being a top U.S. Air Force facility, it has sparked speculations about extraterrestrial life. Plus, with a one-day guided tour of Death Valley, you get to explore the ghost town of Rhyolite!
Estimated drive time from Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon: 5-6 hours
Day 9-10: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Come face-to-root with the Redwoods at Sequoia National Park. Credits: Vitto Sommella on Unsplash
Time to head to the land of the giants — Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, home to giants like General Sherman and General Grant. These are some of the most massive living beings on Earth, reaching heights of up to 300 feet. That’s roughly as tall as a 30-story building!
Then, revel in scenic drives that wind through the High Sierra’s enchanted forest, pristine alpine lakes, and hiking trails. You’ll feel like a real-life explorer in no time! And while you're at it, keep an eye out for charming wildlife – from playful squirrels to majestic deer.
Estimated drive time from Death Valley National Park: 4-5 hours
Day 11: Final Day
Wrap up your epic adventure in the vibrant city of Las Vegas Credits: Julian Paefgen on Unsplash
After ten days of non-stop exploring, take a moment to kick back and relax before heading back to Las Vegas. Not quite ready to bid adieu to the adventure? We get it – the adventure high can be addicting! Consider extending your journey to explore more of the captivating West Coast in the US.
The West Coast in the US is truly a treasure trove of natural wonders. You'll surely feel recharged by nature afterward. So, grab your camera, hit the road, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime on this epic road trip!
