Ready to immerse yourself in a world of otherworldly geological formations, sweeping desert landscapes, and unparalleled outdoor adventures? On this epic Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip, you’ll do just that as you traverse through three of Utah’s Mighty Five national parks and discover Nevada’s most mystifying state park!

Marvel at the Waterpocket Fold in Capitol Reef National Park, climb to staggering hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, trek along the imposing cliffs of Zion, and hike through crimson red slot canyons in the Valley of Fire State Park. Begin your 5-day journey at Escape Camper Vans’ Salt Lake City hub, and then enjoy the convenience of our one-way rental option by leaving your van at our Las Vegas depot!

Travel Time from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas

This one-way road trip traverses from Escape Camper Vans’ Salt Lake City hub to our Las Vegas location. The jaw-dropping route spans over 610 miles and would take about 10 hours and 25 minutes to complete without stopping. While Escape Camper Vans only requires a 3-day minimum for one way rentals, we recommend allotting at least five days to make the most of your southwest adventure!

Best Time of Year for a Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Road Trip

The best time of year to explore Utah and Nevada is typically either the spring or fall. Summers in the desert are unbearably hot and in the winter many of the main sights in Utah will be off-limits due to road closures and inaccessible trailheads. However, the shoulder seasons tend to be the sweet spot for perfect weather and ideal hiking conditions!

Spring

Overall, the spring is one of the best seasons to embark on a road trip from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas. Throughout Utah’s national parks, the weather will be perfect for outdoor exploring, campgrounds should be less crowded, and permits to popular hikes in Zion will be easier to obtain. Keep in mind that by mid-May, the Valley of Fire State Park will already be incredibly hot, so planning your trip for April would be ideal!

Summer

To make the most of all the outdoor excursions on this Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip, it’s best to avoid the summer months. The temperatures throughout the desert will be scorching, especially in the Valley of Fire. Additionally, the majority of the hikes and sites throughout this route offer minimal shade, so you’ll find little reprieve from the relentless heat. If you’re set on a summer road trip from Salt Lake City, consider driving to Yellowstone National Park instead.

Fall

Similar to the spring, the fall is an ideal time to set off on a Utah to Nevada road trip. Temperatures will have cooled off from the summer, it will be easier to find available campsites, and this is a wonderful time of year for spotting wildlife! 

Winter

Although winter is a great time to explore the Valley of Fire and the quietest time to visit Utah’s national parks, it may not be ideal for a camper van road trip. Many campgrounds, roads, and trails will be closed for the season, so your activities will be more limited than the rest of the year. Plus, unexpected snow storms could cause additional road and trail closures that would derail your plans even further. 

Preparation for a Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Road Trip

Like any southwest adventure, this Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip requires a bit of planning and preparation. To ensure a stress-free journey, book campsites and permits well in advance and load up on all the supplies you’ll need to safely camp in the desert!

Campgrounds

Sleeping inside the parks along this itinerary is definitely the way to go and will help you maximize your time at each stop! However, national park campgrounds book up very quickly and are notoriously difficult to reserve. Try to book your sites at least a few months in advance, and keep an eye on any dispersed, or free, campsites nearby.

Passes & Permits

Because you’ll be visiting three different national parks, purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass is a must! Additionally, if you’re planning to go on any tours or hikes that require permits, be sure to obtain them as far in advance as possible. This is especially crucial for many of Zion’s popular hikes, like Angels Landing and the Narrows.

Supplies

Escape Camper Vans’ lengthy array of extra add-ons ensures that you’ll have everything you need before hitting the road. Add in an extra bedding kit for the evenings, along with a kitchen kit to meal prep at your campsites. 

Since you’ll be spending five days in the desert, sun protection is also essential. Add a door canopy for extra shade at your campgrounds, along with plenty of SPF and a wide-brimmed hat.

Food & Water

Stock up on groceries in Salt Lake City so that you don’t have to waste time searching for restaurants once you’re on the road. Because you’ll often be traveling to remote locations with minimal eateries, having plenty of groceries on hand is essential. Likewise, many campgrounds won’t have potable water, so make sure you have everything you need to stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Which Camper Van is Best for a Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Road Trip?

For a one-way camper van rental from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas, you have three great vehicle options to choose from- the Del Mar, Mavericks, and Mesa. All of these camper van models can sleep up to five people, feature comfy queen sized mattresses, and contain convenient kitchenettes. Because the Mavericks is the most compact of the three, it may be the best option if you’re traveling with a smaller group.

Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Itinerary Stops

Day 1: Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Once you’ve loaded up your camper van rental at Escape Camper Vans’ Salt Lake City location, it’s time for your epic Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip to begin! After about 3 and a half hours of driving through Utah’s extraordinary terrain, you’ll arrive in Capitol Reef National Park. Known for its Waterpocket Fold, a wrinkle in the earth which extends through the park, Capitol Reef is brimming with geological wonders and vibrant sandstone canyons.

Trek to some of the park’s most jaw-dropping sites, take a scenic drive through a vast landscape of towering rock formations, and immerse yourself in history as you explore the rural district of Fruita on your Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip. 

Things to do in Capitol Reef National Park

Hike to Cassidy Arch: This steep, 3.5-mile trail leads to the towering Cassidy Arch, one of the park’s most notable landmarks. Once you reach the summit of this scenic hike, walk along the legendary stone structure while taking in a panoramic view over Capitol Reef’s otherworldly landscape.

Drive on Highway 24: This incredibly scenic byway runs straight through Capitol Reef, leading to some of the park’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. As you cruise past geological wonders caused by the Waterpocket Fold, be sure to stop at key sites like Sunset Point and Goosenecks Overlook.

Capitol Gorge Trail: On this historic trail, you’ll trek along the dramatic Waterpocket Fold until you reach the Pioneer Register- an area where early Mormon settlers scratched their names into the imposing canyon wall. After admiring these ancient markings, continue hiking past striking geological features as you make your way to a series of deep sandstone potholes, known as the Tanks.

Places to Eat near Capitol Reef National Park

Rim Rock Restaurant: This popular locale serves delicious Southwestern cuisine and is the go-to place in the area for a hearty dinner after a long day of exploring. Dine al fresco from the restaurant’s inviting patio or stay warm inside while taking in the view from their expansive windows. 

The Wild Rabbit Cafe: Fuel up with a filling breakfast or lunch at this laid-back eatery located near the park entrance. The charming cafe boasts an inviting atmosphere, ample outdoor seating, and a varied menu of delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Color Ridge Farm & Creamery: After a day of strenuous hikes and sightseeing, satisfy your sweet tooth with a mouthwatering scoop of homemade ice cream! The family-run creamery offers a wide selection of flavors to choose from, along with ice cream flights for indecisive patrons who prefer to sample a selection of five different flavors!

Campgrounds near Capitol Reef National Park

Fruita Campground: This developed site within the park is open year-round and amenities include potable water, picnic tables, and flush toilets. While reservations are mandatory from March through October, all sites become first come, first served during the off-season.

Sunglow Campground: Operating from May through September, this scenic site outside of the park allows for reservations to be made up to six months in advance. Along with access to several stunning trails, site amenities include flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire pits.

Day 2: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Today is as much about the journey as it is the destination. The drive from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon National Park follows Scenic Byway 12, one of the most jaw-dropping roads in the country! Aim to get an early start so that you have plenty of time to pull over and take in the view as you cruise past rugged sandstone cliffs and spell-binding geological formations.

Once you arrive in Bryce Canyon, the mystifying scenery continues as you enter a land of scarlet red hoodoos and enormous rock spires. Drive along the Bryce Amphitheatre to become acquainted with the park’s unique terrain, then descend towards the canyon floor as you hike to some of Bryce’s most famous hoodoos.

Things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park

Hike Queens Garden & Navajo Loop: This wildly popular hike combines two of the park’s most frequented trails, and typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete. Beginning from either Sunset or Sunrise Viewpoint, the awe-inspiring trail traverses through a striking landscape of towering hoodoos and imposing canyon walls. As you trek through the Bryce Amphitheater, the rugged path will lead you to some of the park’s most notable sites, including Thor’s Hammer and Queen Victoria.

See Rainbow Point: For a birds-eye-view of the bright red spires and hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, head to the highest viewpoint in the entire park! From an elevation of 9,115 feet, Rainbow Point’s optimal vantage point offers sweeping views over Bryce Canyon’s ethereal landscape.

Hike the Peekaboo Loop Trail: This challenging 5.5-mile hike is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Bryce’s otherworldly terrain. Beginning from Sunset Point, you’ll descend down 670 feet as you pass by a myriad of astonishing rock formations, narrow passageways, and enormous hoodoos!

Places to Eat near Bryce Canyon National Park

Valhalla Pizzeria: Centrally located inside the park, this casual pizzeria is the perfect spot to decompress and fuel up after a long day of exploring. Choose from a variety of freshly baked pizzas made from locally sourced ingredients and enjoy your delicious slice from their spacious outdoor patio.

Showdowns: This family-run eatery offers outdoor seating in a charmingly rustic setting, adorned by warm fairy lights and a roaring bonfire. Live music, nightly campfires, and free marshmallows for indulging in smores, all help to create a wonderfully cozy ambiance.

Campgrounds near Bryce Canyon National Park

North Campground: Situated inside the park, this year-round site is conveniently located just beside Bryce Canyon’s visitors center. From May until October, reservations can be made up to six months in advance. The rest of the year, all sites are first come, first served. Amenities at this spacious campground include fire grates, potable water, and seasonal laundry facilities. 

Sunset Campground: Open from April through October, this Bryce Canyon campground usually requires that reservations be made up to 14 days in advance. However, all sites are first come, first served from April until mid-May. Drinking water, a dump station, and fire grates are some of the amenities offered at this popular campsite.

Day 3: Zion National Park, Utah

After an early breakfast at your campsite, make the stunning two hour drive to Zion, your final national park of the trip. Utah’s most popular national park is lauded for its striking sandstone cliffs, world-renowned hikes, and plethora of wildlife. Wade through the Virgin River, trek to jaw-dropping overlooks, and marvel at some of Utah’s most breathtaking sights as you immerse yourself in the park’s pristine wilderness. 

Things to do in Zion National Park

Hike the Narrows: Zion’s most famous hike requires trekking through a scenic river as you explore the most narrow section of the canyon. Due to the hike’s extreme popularity, a permit is required. If the Narrows is on your Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip bucket list (and it should be), make sure you obtain your permit well in advance as they tend to go quickly.

Canyon Overlook Trail: If you’re looking for a moderately easy hike without sacrificing phenomenal views, the Canyon Overlook Trail is your answer. While less than a mile long, this well-paved path leads to one of the most impressive viewpoints in the park. Because of its spectacular vantage point and accessibility, this is an especially popular spot for sunset.

Checkerboard Mesa: Towering at an elevation of more than 6,520 feet high, the incredibly distinctive Checkerboard Mesa is one of Zion’s most iconic landmarks. Known for its unique checkerboard pattern, this geological site can be admired from several viewpoints, or by embarking on a moderately challenging, 8-mile hike.

Places to Eat near Zion National Park

King’s Landing Bistro: This elegant eatery offers an impressive menu of seasonal cuisine, along with jaw-dropping mountain views. In addition to carefully crafted dishes, the bistro also features an extensive list of wines, beer, and inventive cocktails.

The Park House Cafe: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at this eclectically charming cafe in Springdale. Open for lunch and dinner, the welcoming restaurant offers healthy home cooked cuisine, live music, and an incredibly cozy outdoor space.

Zion Canyon Brew Pub: After a long day of hiking through the Narrows, treat yourself to an ice cold beer at this lively brewery, located just outside of the park. In addition to a wide variety of their own ales, the laid-back locale also features a robust menu of burgers, salads, and appetizers.

Campgrounds near Zion National Park

Watchman Campground: Zion’s most popular campground is open year-round and mandatory reservations can be made up to six months in advance. This scenic site offers convenient access to many of the park’s highlights, along with potable water, a dump station, and flush toilets.

Lava Point Campground: Situated near Zion’s Kolob Terraces, this primitive campground operates from May through September and reservations are required. Amenities are limited to vault toilets and picnic tables, and there is no drinking water available at this site.

Day 4: Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Today you’ll arrive in Nevada’s oldest and biggest state park, less than two hours away from Zion. The Valley of Fire State Park is teeming with vividly red sandstone structures, petrified trees, and countless ancient petroglyphs.

The park’s unique landscape is formed by Aztec Sandstone caused by shifting sand dunes from 150 million years ago. Explore the Valley of Fire’s distinctive terrain by embarking on an unforgettable hike, then take a scenic drive to discover some of the park’s most notable landmarks.

Things to do in Valley of Fire State Park

Fire Wave Trail: By far the most popular thing to do in the park is to hike the Fire Wave trail. A relatively easy, 1.5-mile path leads to an otherworldly rock formation draped in vibrant red and orange stripes. To make the hike even more exciting, continue your trek to the Seven Wonders Loop where you’ll be led through imposing slot canyons and wildly colorful sandstone cliffs. 

Drive Mouse’s Tank Road: Cruising along the park’s main road is one of the best ways to experience the Valley of Fire’s jaw-dropping scenery. The desert road weaves through a vast landscape of towering sandstone structures, leading to several of the park’s key viewpoints, landmarks, and trailheads.

Hike White Domes Trail: Traverse along red Aztec sandstone and through narrow slot canyons on this breathtaking, 1-mile loop trail. Although relatively short, this popular hike is renowned for its varied terrain and is considered one of the best ways to experience the park’s ever-changing scenery.

Places to Eat near Valley of Fire State Park

The Inside Scoop: This ice cream shop-turned-restaurant is one of the few eateries near the park entrance. In addition to an array of ice cream flavors, diners can also choose from a variety of burgers, pork chops, chicken breasts, and other hearty kitchen staples!

La Fonda: Authentic Mexican cuisine is served at this lively restaurant near the park. The laid-back locale offers tasty burritos, fajitas, tacos, and a number of vegetarian options.

Camping near Valley of Fire State Park

Atlatl Rock Campground: This year-round site is the largest and most popular campground in the Valley of Fire. All 44 campsites are first come, first served, and have amenities such as partial hookups, showers, and potable water. 

Arch Rock Campground: Wake up surrounded by towering sandstone formations at this scenic site within the park. Campsites are first come, first served, and the campground operates all year. Amenities include vault toilets, grills, and shaded tables. While there aren’t any showers, campers may use the facilities at Atlatl Rock Campground. 

Day 5: Drive from Valley of Fire to Las Vegas, Nevada

Although today marks the end of your desert adventure, you still have time to take in the views of the park once more. The Valley of Fire is only one hour away from Escape Camper Vans’ Las Vegas location, so you can enjoy a stress-free morning as you pack up your camper van and get ready to hit the road. Just remember to bring your vehicle back by your pre-scheduled drop-off time. 

Why Rent a Camper Van for a Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Road Trip?

From navigating the winding mountain roads in Utah to driving through Nevada’s arid terrain, you must embark on this trip with the proper vehicle. Between added mobility, convenience, and comfort, there are several reasons why a camper van may be a better fit than a traditional RV for your southwest road trip.

Mobility: This itinerary passes through four different parks, all featuring vastly different landscapes. Unlike a bulky RV, our compact camper vans can easily cruise along the winding cliffs of Zion, as well as the ever changing desert terrain outside of Las Vegas.

No Hookups: Most of the campsites within the parks on this itinerary offer basic amenities without any sewer or electric hookups. While this would be inconvenient with an RV, our camper vans are self-contained and do not require hookups. Instead, you can stay at any available campgrounds- including tent-only options and dispersed sites!

One-Way Rental: This one-way itinerary allows you to explore more rather than backtracking to your original pick-up point. Escape Camper Vans makes one-way journeys seamless with convenient locations in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas! All you need to do is pay a $150 one-way fee and remember that there is a 3-day minimum. 

Adventure Ready: With all your bedding and equipment already set up, our camper vans ensure you have everything you need. Rather than dealing with the necessary logistics of an RV or breaking down tents, you can spend more time hiking to hoodoos and trekking through slot canyons! 

Reserve with Escape Camper Vans for your Salt Lake City to Las Vegas Road Trip

Ready to set off on an epic journey as you travel from the striking mountains of Utah to the neon signs of Sin City? Trek past towering hoodoos and geological formations, gaze out at the sandstone cliffs of Zion, and search for ancient petroglyphs in the Valley of Fire on this unforgettable Salt Lake City to Las Vegas road trip! Book your convenient one-way camper van rental today and then let the adventure begin!