Top Places to See When Driving From Arizona to Idaho

Are you planning a road trip from Arizona to Idaho? Then you are in for a treat. This route offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. The journey from colorful Arizona to enchanting Idaho will take you through numerous terrains, landscapes, and landmarks. Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, there are plenty of places worth visiting. Here is a list of the top places you shouldn't miss when driving from Arizona to Idaho.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Your road trip from Arizona to Idaho won't be complete without visiting the Grand Canyon National Park. This iconic park is one of the world's greatest natural wonders, and it's home to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon that's over 270 miles long. As you drive through the park, you'll have the chance to view the Grand Canyon from different perspectives. From the South Rim, you'll have the first glimpse of the canyon's depth and beauty.

If you'd like to experience the Grand Canyon's natural beauty up-close, there are numerous trails, guided tours, and lookout points. You can hike the Bright Angel Trail, ride the bike trail, or take the Skywalk to get a bird's eye view of the canyon. The Grand Canyon National Park offers an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for years.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada

Leaving Arizona behind, your next stop should be the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Nevada. Hoover Dam is a magnificent engineering masterpiece that's considered one of America's seven modern wonders. The Dam was built during the Great Depression to control the Colorado River's flow and provide electricity and water to the surrounding cities.

You can take a guided tour of the dam and explore its interiors, including the power plant, generators, and control room. While at the Dam, don't forget to visit the Mike O' Callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding desert vistas and the Colorado River.

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is another notable attraction, offering over 1.5 million acres of canyons, mountains, lakes, and marinas. You can indulge in water activities like swimming, fishing, boating, or kayak-rides on the lake.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Further up north, you'll come to Salt Lake City, Utah, a vibrant and dynamic city located on the eastern edge of the Great Salt Lake. Salt Lake City is the region's cultural hub, with plenty of museums, art galleries, and performing arts centers.

One notable landmark is the Temple Square, the headquarters of the Latter-Day Saints Church, which boasts stunning architecture, gardens, and local history. Visitors can take guided tours and witness the grandeur of the Temple from a distance. The Salt Lake City skyline is dominated by the Wasatch Mountains, which offers excellent mountain biking and skiing opportunities.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

As you cross the border into Wyoming, it's impossible not to tick-off Yellowstone National Park from your bucket list. This natural paradise located in the northwest region of Wyoming is renowned for its geothermal wonders, rugged wilderness, and abundant wildlife. It's also the world's first national park, established in 1872.

Visitors can explore the park's numerous attractions, including the Old Faithful Geyser, Yellowstone Lake, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, to name a few. Other activities include hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching, as the park is home to bears, elk, bison, wolves, and other wild animals.

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

As you approach Idaho, make sure to drop by Coeur d'Alene, a charming small town located on the shores of the stunning Lake Coeur d'Alene. This small town is also called the "Lake City," and it's a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The town offers various attractions, including a scenic cruise on the lake, a visit to the Floating Green Golf Course, or a hike in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. The downtown area boasts trendy shopping, diverse dining options, and culture-rich museums.

Conclusion

As you can see, driving from Arizona to Idaho is a journey through an array of landscapes, cultures, and history. From the breathtaking Grand Canyon to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone and the quaint charm of Coeur d'Alene, there's something for everyone along the way. The journey will test your driving skills, offer stunning views, and leave you with unforgettable memories. Plan your road trip, pack your bags, and hit the road to discover the wonders of the American West.