Road Trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas
There is quite nothing like the change of scenery from the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park to the neon-lit avenues and casinos of Sin City. This road trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas is dotted with stunning national parks, including most of the Utah Mighty Five, and charming cities.
The 875-mile road trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas will take 14 hours and 50 minutes to drive. Highlights en route are Jackson, Salt Lake City, Moab, Mexican Hat, Monument Valley as well as Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks.
This unforgettable drive will be full of amazing experiences and endless natural beauty that you'll be talking about for a lifetime. Read on below to learn more about our recommended routes, top highlights, best places to stay, and the best seasons to travel.
How far is Las Vegas to Yellowstone, and how long will the road trip take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| National Parks Route | 875 miles | 14 hours 50 minutes |
| Monument Valley Route | 1,095 miles | 17 hours 10 minutes |
The National Parks Route from Yellowstone to Las Vegas is a scenic journey of about 875 miles, taking around 14 hours and 50 minutes to complete.
Alternatively, the Monument Valley Route offers a longer but equally stunning road trip, stretching over 1,095 miles with an estimated driving time of 17 hours and 10 minutes.
While both routes can be driven in a day or two, the wealth of natural beauty and unique stops along the way makes 5-6 days ideal. This way, you can really take advantage of all there is to see and stay rested for the drive.
Best road trip route from Yellowstone to Las Vegas
While both routes offer plenty of stunning landscapes and attractions, the experiences they provide are quite unique. Which one you choose will depend on what you want to do and see the most.
The National Parks Route is a nature lover's dream. You will get to visit the majestic Grand Teton National Park, known for its towering peaks and serene lakes as well as the nearby Jackson, a stunning city with breathtaking mountain views.
Afterwards, you'll get a scenic drive towards Salt Lake City, with winding roads and panoramic mountain views. Continuing through Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, you'll be treated to a kaleidoscope of natural wonders and historical sites.
However, keep in mind that some roads in Yellowstone National Park are closed during winter, and you will need alternative ways to visit and get out of the national park during bad weather or heavy snowfall.
Click here for our detailed guide on how to best enjoy Yellowstone National Park in winter.
On the other hand, the Monument Valley Route starts with the high-altitude forests of Yellowstone. This route passes through charming small towns before reaching the vast expanses of Utah's canyons and rock formations, including Arches and Canyonlands National Parks near Moab.
The drive from Oljato-Monument Valley to Las Vegas is a desert lover's paradise, with the added bonus of a stop at Lake Powell. This route is perfect if you're drawn to desert landscapes and the unique geological formations of the Southwest.
Both routes will be full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you're captivated by forests and mountainous terrains or by the stark beauty of desert landscapes and monumental rock formations, there's something for everyone.
How to drive from Yellowstone to Las Vegas
The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Yellowstone and Las Vegas. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.
National Parks Route
Starting your journey from Yellowstone, head north on US-89 and around Yellowstone National Park, passing by the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Continue on south to Grand Teton National Park, where you can spend an entire day admiring the beautiful scenery.
As you proceed south, make a stop at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson, an ideal spot for art enthusiasts, followed by an evening at the Jackson Hole Rodeo for some authentic Western entertainment.
Your route then takes you to Salt Lake City, where you can visit the iconic Salt Lake Temple. Then, make your way south to Provo to visit the Provo Pioneer Village.
Continuing on Interstate 15 (I-15), detour briefly to visit the Meadow Hot Springs, a hidden gem perfect for a relaxing soak. Then, as you make your way towards Bryce Canyon, consider stopping at the Panguitch Gem Theater for some local entertainment.
Before reaching Zion National Park, explore the Belly of the Dragon, an interesting man-made tunnel. Then, continue on to Zion, one of the most beautiful natural areas in the USA. Finally, you'll arrive at your destination in Las Vegas.
Monument Valley Detour
Starting from Yellowstone National Park, heading south. As you continue, a visit to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone is a must to learn more about the area's wildlife.
Proceeding southward, you will drive through Rexburg and Idaho Falls before crossing into Utah. As you continue to Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake Temple is worth checking out. As you head further south on I-15, visit the Prehistoric Museum in Price.
Once you arrive in Moab, you'll find the Moab Backyard Theater, offering unique local entertainment. Nearby, don't miss the stunning Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
Continuing further south you will soon arrive at the stunning landscapes of Monument Valley, where towering buttes create a striking scenery. Moving westward, the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook near Page, Arizona, offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River.
Your route then takes you back into Utah, where you can stop at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre in Ivins for an outdoor performing arts experience. For a relaxing break, visit the Little Jamaica Natural Swimming Hole.
Continue through the scenic desert landscape towards Nevada and you will soon arrive at neon-lit Las Vegas.
Best places to stop between Yellowstone and Las Vegas
This wonderful road trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas is full of adventure and fantastic stops along the way. To make sure you stay rested and give yourself plenty of time to explore, we recommend staying at one of the exciting destinations below.
A night under the stars in Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is an ideal stopover on the National Parks Route, situated about 8 hours and 40 minutes into the drive. This unique park in southwest Utah is famous for its hoodoos, tall spires of rock that create an almost otherworldly landscape, some as tall as ten-story buildings.
Bryce Canyon is a natural amphitheater of pink and orange rock formations that are unlike anything else in the United States. If you love hiking, explore the Navajo Loop Trail, which winds through these incredible hoodoos.
For a slightly different perspective, the Mossy Cave Trail provides a more serene path, showcasing the park's lush side with a small waterfall.
When it comes to accommodations, Under Canvas Bryce Canyon, located just 15 minutes from the park, offers a luxurious and immersive outdoor experience.
Their upscale, safari-inspired tents come equipped with king-size beds, plush linens, ensuite bathrooms with hot showers, and in-tent wood-burning stoves.
The camp's elevation at 7,600 feet means you can enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding juniper forest. The onsite restaurant takes dining to the next level with locally sourced ingredients, offering alfresco dining options and the quintessential campfire experience with s'mores.
You're also very close to Fairyland Point, a mere 25-minute drive from the hotel. This lesser-known viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bryce Canyon amphitheater.
A stone's throw from breathtaking views in Bluff
Bluff, located about 10 hours and 10 minutes into the Monument Valley Route, is a perfect stopover to explore the wonders of Southeastern Utah.
Known for its great lodging, dining, and shopping options, Bluff is an ideal base to experience the region's jaw-dropping scenic vistas, including Goosenecks State Park, Valley of the Gods, and Muley Point, as well as the Natural Bridges and Hovenweep National Monuments.
The town itself is steeped in history, with attractions like Bluff Fort and the Sand Island Petroglyphs offering a glimpse into the area's rich cultural past. An interesting quirk of Bluff is its fluctuating population, which dwindled to seventy in 1930 but surged during the uranium boom of the 1950s.
For your stay in Bluff, the Bluff Dwellings Resort offers a luxurious retreat, nestled among ancient sandstone cliffs. The resort's design is inspired by the Ancient Puebloan culture, seamlessly integrating the buildings into the natural cliffside environment.
Here, you can enjoy a range of amenities including a year-round outdoor pool, fitness center, and hot tub. The resort's location is ideal for exploring the surrounding natural and historical wonders.
Just a minute's walk from the resort, you can embark on an adventure with Wild Expeditions, offering guided tours to some of the area's most spectacular sites.
For a local dining experience, the Twin Rocks Cafe is a mere 10-minute walk away, where you can enjoy regional cuisine with views of the iconic Twin Rocks formation.
Where to stay when you reach Las Vegas
Las Vegas is famous for its dazzling casinos and world-class entertainment. From engaging museums and spectacular shows to renowned restaurants and luxury hotels, Sin City truly has something for everyone.
If you're looking to explore beyond the Strip, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area provides a stunning natural escape, with scenic drives and hiking trails.
For a different perspective of the city, the High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel, will give you breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline. Vegas has been the backdrop for over 85 films since 1952, see if you can recognize any from high up on the High Roller!
When it comes to accommodation, The Palazzo at The Venetian can't be beat. Each suite is twice the size of standard rooms on the Strip, featuring a luxurious sunken living room for relaxing in style.
The all-marble bathroom is complete with a Roman tub and separate glass-enclosed shower for a spa-like experience. The Palazzo is also a culinary destination, boasting over 40 restaurants and bars that offer a diverse array of global cuisines.
Situated in the heart of the Strip, the Palazzo offers easy access to the best attractions, shopping, and dining that Las Vegas offers.
Things to see on a road trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas
There are endless highlights along both beautiful routes on a road trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas. We've included our favorites below to help you plan which ones you want to see the most.
National Parks Route
- Colter Bay Village - Nestled in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, Colter Bay Village offers stunning views of the Teton Range and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and boating.
- Jackson Lake Dam - This impressive dam offers panoramic views of Jackson Lake and the surrounding mountains, and is a popular spot for photography and scenic drives.
- National Museum of Wildlife Art - Located just north of Jackson, this museum features an extensive collection of wildlife art set against the backdrop of the National Elk Refuge, providing a unique blend of art and nature.
- Jackson Hole Rodeo - An authentic Western experience in Jackson, Wyoming, the rodeo showcases traditional rodeo events and offers a taste of cowboy culture.
- Bear Lake - Straddling the Utah-Idaho border, Bear Lake is renowned for its turquoise-blue waters and offers a range of recreational activities including boating, fishing, and swimming. This is a slight detour off the route, but the beautiful scenery will make up for the extra mileage.
- Meadow Hot Springs - Located near Meadow, Utah, these natural hot springs offer a tranquil and relaxing setting, perfect for a soothing soak in a rustic environment.
- Panguitch Gem Theater - A charming, vintage theater in Panguitch, Utah, known for its classic movies and community events, providing a quaint and nostalgic entertainment experience.
- Red Canyon National Preserve - Known for its stunning red rock formations and scenic hiking trails, this preserve near Bryce Canyon offers breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
- Belly of the Dragon - An impressive man-made tunnel near Kanab, Utah, offering a unique and photogenic hiking experience through a sandstone cave-like structure.
- Zion National Park - Located in Utah, Zion National Park is renowned for its towering red rock cliffs, scenic canyons, and diverse wildlife.
- Little Jamaica Natural Swimming Hole - A hidden oasis near Littlefield, Arizona, this natural swimming spot is a refreshing retreat with its clear, cool waters and lush surroundings.
Monument Valley Detour
- Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center - Located in West Yellowstone, this wildlife park and educational facility offers close-up views of grizzlies and wolves in a naturalistic habitat, promoting wildlife conservation.
- Museum of Idaho - Situated in Idaho Falls, this museum showcases a variety of exhibits ranging from natural history to regional history, offering an insightful and engaging learning experience.
- Prehistoric Museum - Located in Price, Utah, this museum offers a journey through prehistoric times with dinosaur fossils and archaeological exhibits, highlighting the region's rich paleontological history.
- Moab Backyard Theater - A unique outdoor entertainment venue in Moab, Utah, known for its live performances and casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Arches National Park - Situated near Moab, Utah, Arches National Park is famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch.
- Canyonlands National Park - Also near Moab, Canyonlands National Park is divided into four districts by the Colorado and Green Rivers, each offering distinct experiences.
- Edge of the Cedars State Park - A state park and museum in Blanding, Utah, showcasing the rich Native American history of the region with ancient Puebloan ruins and artifacts.
- Mexican Hat Rock - An iconic rock formation near Mexican Hat, Utah, known for its sombrero-like shape and striking presence in the desert landscape.
- Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park - A majestic natural wonder on the Arizona-Utah border, featuring iconic sandstone buttes and vast, sweeping landscapes, deeply rooted in Navajo culture and history.
- Glen Canyon Dam Overlook - Offering stunning views of the Glen Canyon Dam and Colorado River, this overlook near Page, Arizona, is a perfect spot for photography and scenic appreciation.
- Tuacahn Amphitheater - An outdoor theater in Ivins, Utah, nestled in a picturesque canyon, known for its high-quality Broadway-style productions and spectacular natural backdrop.
- Little Jamaica Natural Swimming Hole - A hidden gem near Littlefield, Arizona, offering a lush and refreshing escape with its clear waters and scenic surroundings.
- Mouse's Tank - Located in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada, this natural basin stores rainwater, surrounded by stunning rock formations and petroglyphs, making it a fascinating stop for hikers and history enthusiasts.
Both routes
- SeaQuest Utah - An interactive aquarium in Layton, Utah, where visitors can interact with a wide range of marine and exotic animals, making it a fun and educational destination for families.
- Salt Lake Temple - An iconic religious landmark in Salt Lake City, known for its exquisite architecture and historical significance in the Mormon faith.
- This is The Place Heritage Park - This park offers a glimpse into Utah's history with its historic buildings and reenactments, providing an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
- Provo Pioneer Village - This living history museum in Provo, Utah, offers a step back into the 19th century, showcasing the lifestyle and artifacts of early Utah settlers.
Best time to go on a road trip from Yellowstone to Las Vegas
The drive from Yellowstone to Las Vegas is full of adventure around every corner and as might expect, each season offers its own perks and possible challenges.
Spring on both routes is a delight, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. If you travel during this season, don't miss the Jackson Hole Rendezvous in March or April, a festival celebrating mountain culture.
In Las Vegas, temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for exploring outdoor attractions like the High Roller.
Summer brings warmer temperatures, with Las Vegas often reaching over 100 degrees. It's a bustling time on both routes, with all trails and parks fully accessible.
However, expect crowds, especially in Monument Valley, where it's peak tourist season. Summer in Vegas offers endless entertainment options, from casinos to shows.
Fall is an ideal time to beat the heat and crowds. In September, don't miss the Life is Beautiful Festival in Las Vegas, which features art, music, and delicious food. Temperatures in Las Vegas cool down to a more pleasant range of 70 to 80 degrees, perfect for visiting the Red Rock Canyon.
Winter is much cooler, but sometimes challenging, especially on the National Parks Route. Roads around Yellowstone, like the South Entrance Road and Grand Loop Road, close due to snow during winter, making access more difficult.
Bryce Canyon may have icy paths as well, so it is a good idea to be cautious. Las Vegas, however, has milder winter temperatures, averaging around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and fewer tourists.
If you're traveling during the winter, don't miss the Sundance Film Festival on National Parks Route or the Bluff International Balloon Festival in January.
