Introduction
Ready for a road trip that feels like driving through a real-life postcard? In just four days, we explored some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the American Southwest. From the vast depths of the Grand Canyon to the swirling sandstone walls of Antelope Canyon, every moment was unforgettable — and yes, a bit of a whirlwind. Here’s our full itinerary, packed with tips, pro hacks, and suggestions on how to make the most of your time (and gas tank).
Trip Summary
- Duration: 4 days
- Transport: Rental car (a must)
- Season: Ideal in spring (Mar–May) or fall (Sept–Nov)
Why? Mild weather, fewer crowds, and breathtaking fall colors - Main Stops: Grand Canyon • Antelope Canyon • Horseshoe Bend • Monument Valley • Zion National Park
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1 – Arrival in Las Vegas
We landed in Vegas and picked up our rental car — the launchpad for this epic road trip. Whether you spend the night enjoying the Strip or hit the road right away, Las Vegas makes the perfect starting point.
Day 2 – South Rim of the Grand Canyon + Sunset Drive to Page
Evening: Drive 2h30 to Page, our base for the next couple of days. We stayed at [insert hotel here], strategically close to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.
Morning: Pick up the car and hit the road — a scenic 4h20 drive to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Pro Tip: Download the GuideAlong (formerly known ad GyPSy Guide) and buy the Grand Canyon South Rim Tour (11.99$). It’s like having a private tour guide that syncs with your GPS and narrates geology, history, and hidden viewpoints.
Afternoon: Explore the South Rim. Entrance is $35 per car (covers all passengers). Keep updated on the entrance fees in the official website.
Top stops:
- Mather Point: Jaw-dropping panoramic views
- Yavapai Point: Great for learning about canyon geology
- Lipan Point: Best sunset spot — totally worth the short drive along Desert View Drive
Evening: Drive 2h30 to Page, our base for the next couple of days. We stayed at the Holiday Inn, strategically close to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.
Day 3 – The Iconic Trio: Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley
Sunrise at Horseshoe Bend: A short hike from the parking lot gets you to one of the most photographed bends of the Colorado River. No ticket required. Go early to beat the crowds.
Mid-morning: Guided tour of Antelope Canyon — absolutely magical. Pro Tip: Book your slot between 10 AM – 12 PM for the best light beams inside. I went at 7 AM and the colors weren’t as vibrant.
Afternoon: Drive 2h to Monument Valley, where red sandstone buttes rise from the desert floor.
You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle (or book a local jeep tour) to access the Valley Drive loop.
Evening: Return to Page. If you’re in time for sunset:
- top at Glen Canyon Bridge for epic dam views
- Head to Lake Powell Resort for a sunset drink and dinner with a view
Day 4 – Zion National Park + Return to Vegas
- Morning: 2-hour drive to Zion National Park, entering from the East Entrance — arguably the more scenic route. Pro Tip: Use GuideAlong here too and buy the Zion National Park package (14.99$). The audio tour recommends the best stops and explains the park’s geology and history as you go.
- Quick stops before the visitor center:
- Canyon Overlook Trail: Short, easy, and with amazing views at the end.
- Midday: Park at the Zion Visitor Center and hop on the free shuttle (private vehicles aren’t allowed beyond this point).
Trail options:- Emerald Pools Trail (easy): Waterfalls and stunning canyon views
- The Narrows (moderate): A river hike through a slot canyon — be ready to get wet!
- Angels Landing (strenuous): Requires a permit. Exposed, steep, and unforgettable.
- Evening: Drive back to Las Vegas. Reflect, recover, and maybe reward yourself with a cocktail — you’ve earned it.
Tips & Extras
Time Management: This itinerary is fast-paced. If you can spare more time, spend 2 days in Zion — it’s worth it. The park has enough trails and views to fill a whole week.
Fees: Always check the latest entrance fees on the official park websites.
Permits: Angels Landing now requires advance permits.
Add-on Option: Got one more day? Head to Bryce Canyon from Page instead of Zion. Stay overnight, then continue to Zion the next day.
What to Bring
- Hiking shoes (some trails are rocky or wet)
- Layers — desert temps can swing wildly
- Plenty of water + snacks (some areas have limited food options)
- Sunscreen + hat
- Waterproof case (if doing The Narrows)
- Offline maps or GPS apps — cell service is spotty
Final Thoughts
This road trip is pure American Southwest magic. It’s a high-energy, high-reward route that delivers nonstop jaw-dropping views. While four days only scratch the surface, they’re enough to fall in love with the region’s raw beauty and wild silence.
If you’re dreaming of orange canyons, starlit skies, and the kind of roads that make you roll the windows down and turn the volume up — this trip is calling.
Boarding Beats 