The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Arizona to Nevada

Welcome to the ultimate road trip! Arizona and Nevada are states with many expertly curated highways, byways, and charming driving routes. The landscapes and natural wonders you will encounter while driving through are breathtaking. From deserts to mountains, lakes, and wildlife, there are lots of hidden gems and must-see places to explore. In this blog post, we will guide you through the top places to see when driving from Arizona to Nevada.

The First Leg: From Scottsdale to Sedona

Scottsdale and Sedona are incredible desert landscapes with cacti and towering rock formations that were once under the sea.

Red Rock Scenic Byway

The Red Rock Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 179, is a 7.5-mile-long drive from Sedona to the Village of Oak Creek. It runs through the Red Rock Country, an iconic and magical setting with Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, Bell Rock, and Snoopy Rock. The winding road offers brilliant scenery for photos and is one of the most scenic drives in all of Arizona.

Slide Rock State Park

Located in Oak Creek Canyon, north of Sedona, is one of the Top 10 state parks in the United States — Slide Rock State Park. It is named after the natural water-sliding rock chute of Oak Creek. The water is cold and refreshing; however, watch out for the slippery rocks. Aside from the creek, there is a swimming pool, hiking trails, and picnic areas for the whole family to enjoy.

Jerome

Jerome is an iconic and eccentric, historic mining town that sits on the top of Cleopatra Hill overlooking the Verde Valley. The town is now an American ghost town, which is revitalized by restaurants, bars, and shops. It attracts many visitors who come to see the interesting ruins and learn more about the town's mining history.

The Second Leg: From Sedona to Grand Canyon

Leaving Sedona, you'll be heading north on Highway 89A. It's a spectacular drive that ventures through high-altitude pine forests and charming towns.

Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon has it all: cascading waterfalls, serene pools, red rock formation, and miles of beautiful hiking trails. The 14-mile canyon drive between Sedona and Flagstaff, on Highway 89A, is a must-do scenic drive. The area has several campsites and picnic areas, so it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Wupatki National Monument

Boasting the ruins of several ancient Puebloan communities, Wupatki is a fascinating visitor destination. The monument covers over thirty-five thousands acres of windy, dry landscape, filled with red rock formations, archaeological sites, and petroglyphs. Don't miss the spectacular Wupatki Pueblo and Wukoki Pueblo that are well-preserved cliff dwellings.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and it is truly spectacular. Within the park, the South Rim is the most popular spot, and it has some of the most stunning vistas of the canyon. Take a walk along the Bright Angel Trail, and you will be dizzy with the breathtaking views of the canyon. Be sure to catch the sunrises and sunsets for the most exhilarating views of the canyon.

The Third Leg: From Grand Canyon to Hoover Dam

Leaving The Grand Canyon, a drive of 4 hours from Grand Canyon to Hoover Dam awaits you. This drive offers spectacular views of the western deserts of the United States.

Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel of the modern age, and it’s a must-see for any roadtripper. Located on the Colorado River, on the border between Arizona and Nevada, the dam was initially built as a way of regulating the river, supplying power, and providing drinking water to the surrounding areas. Visitors can take a tour of the power plant and get a glimpse of Hoover Dam from one of the scenic overlooks.

Lake Mead

Just outside Hoover Dam lies Lake Mead; it is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. This place is perfect for outdoor water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. Besides water-themed activities, there are several hiking and cycling trails, picnic spots, and scenic drives along the picturesque shoreline.

Las Vegas Boulevard

Also known as “The Strip” is the iconic symbol of Sin City. The Boulevard is best viewed during the night, with the glittering skyscrapers and billboards lighting up the sky. This street is filled with iconic casinos such as Caesar's Palace, The Bellagio, and many other famous landmarks. Don't miss the world-famous Fountains of Bellagio that put up an incredible light show, or The Mirage's volcano that erupts daily.

Cconclusion

There you have it: the ultimate road trip from Arizona to Nevada that boasts some of the United States' most beautiful and iconic landscapes. Your trip will take you across mountains, deserts, and lakes, and finally, onto the dazzling and bright Las Vegas Boulevard. Be sure to pack a camera and enjoy the breathtaking view every step of the way. So, when do you think you will embark on this ultimate road trip adventure? Happy travels!