The American West is on the program of your next USA road trip? Then, this article is for you. There are so many incredible places to see in this part of the USA that it’s not always easy to know where to go first.
Here are the must-see places to go in the American West for an unforgettable vacation!
The most beautiful national parks of the American West
In California
Yosemite
No wonder Yosemite is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Very popular, the park is located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains and has a wide variety of landscapes. You can discover huge granite cliffs, massive waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
Count at least two days to visit Yosemite, and more if you wish to explore the park in depth.
Death Valley
Despite a name that sends shivers down the spine, Death Valley is in my opinion one of the most beautiful parks in the American West. Death Valley is also the hottest place in the world (it often gets over 50° in the summer, with a record of 57°)… So, plan your trip well.
At Death Valley National Park, the landscapes are very varied: sand dunes, canyons, mountains, salt flats, in short, you’re not going to get bored. It’s also in this park that you find Badwater, the lowest point in the United States (86 meters below sea level).
Sequoia and Kings Canyon
Sequoia and Kings Canyon are two absolutely incredible national parks in California. If you want to feel tiny while walking amongst giant sequoias, this is the place to come! Located next to each other, these parks are a true ode to nature.
The famous General Sherman of Sequoia will leave you speechless. At 2200 years old, this monumental tree is the largest living organism on Earth. The Congress trail is a great walk at the heart of the giant sequoia forest. You can also climb the 400 steps of Moro Rock to enjoy a spectacular view once at the top or drive through the Tunnel Log.
Kings Canyon also offers fabulous landscapes like the General Grant Tree Trail, Kings Canyon Panoramic Point, Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, and Hume Lake
Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park is where two distinct desert ecosystems meet: the arid Colorado desert at low altitude and the Mojave desert at high altitude.
A day is usually enough to visit Joshua Tree. Take the scenic route that crosses the park and don’t hesitate to make regular photo stops. You will discover the Joshua tree, a species typical of the Southwestern United States. It is also the emblem of Joshua Tree National Park.
In Utah
Arches
Arches, the national park with 2000 natural arches is an absolute must-see in Utah and fits perfectly into the itinerary of a road trip in the American West. Moreover, its desert climate allows for visiting year-round.
Its arches, measuring between 90 cm and 91 m in width, have formed over the millennia due to the action of wind, water, and extreme temperatures. The Arches Scenic Drive panoramic road provides access to many hiking trails. Taking these paths gives access to incredible arches, not visible from the road.
Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace and Devils Garden are highlights of the park.
Zion
Like the Mormons of the time, when arriving at Zion you’ll feel like you’ve found paradise on earth. Just over two hours from Las Vegas, discover landscapes made of steep cliffs, jagged peaks, and lofty plateaus.
A visit to Zion would be incomplete without exploring the Narrows. With feet in the water and in the heart of a splendid narrow canyon, this hike has a real taste of adventure.
To take on a sporting challenge and be rewarded with a fabulous panorama over the entire canyon, head for the Angels Landing hike which snakes along a cliffside.
Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is an absolutely fascinating park located at 2400 meters above sea level. Its amphitheater made up of rock towers called «Hoodoos» or «fairy chimneys» gives the park a unique panorama and a magical atmosphere.
These amazing sandstone pillars formed by erosion look like giant statues in the middle of the desert. The main viewpoints are easily accessible from the ridge road. You will create memories at Bryce Canyon for a lifetime…
Canyonlands
It’s impossible not to fall for the wild charm of Canyonlands National Park ! This park encompasses some of the most beautiful panoramas of the American West. Near the town of Moab, Canyonlands possesses pristine nature in the heart of the Colorado Plateau.
You will marvel at its canyons, mesas, rock pinnacles, and blazing desert. Photography enthusiasts and hiking lovers will find their joy here.
I advise you to give priority to the Island in the Sky area, even if The Needles and The Maze are also incredible.
Capitol Reef
The Capitol Reef National Park is a land of contrasts between a desert dotted with red rocks and lush mountains. The park stretches over 100 square kilometers and consists of three distinct areas:
- Cathedral Valley in the north
- Fruita Area in the center
- Strike Valley in the south
The Fruita area encompasses the main points of interest. Take the beautiful Scenic Drive that will lead you to the major attractions of the park.
In Arizona
Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon, this famous park of the American West is also the second most visited national park in the United States. It’s no wonder, with its vertiginous landscapes and rocks carved by the Colorado River, Grand Canyon is a true open-air geological museum.
I advise you to focus on the South Rim area (the south side of the canyon) for your visit, as it has the most spectacular viewpoints.
To enjoy this wonder of nature from the sky, book a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon. Exceptional view and thrills guaranteed!
Saguaro
The Saguaro National Park next to Tucson is undoubtedly the kingdom of giant cacti. To admire and photograph the famous candelabra cacti, it’s in the Sonoran Desert that you need to go. Indeed, these cacti, made mythical thanks to westerns and notably Lucky Luke, only grow here.
The saguaro withstands the scorching desert sun and can grow more than 15 meters tall. The west section of the park has the largest number of giant cacti. By traveling through the park along the Cactus Forest Scenic Loop Drive, you will see thousands of unique cacti.
In Colorado
Mesa Verde
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde is a national park like no other. Here you will discover the most beautiful archaeological remains of your trip to the United States.
Too often overlooked by visitors, Mesa Verde park located in the southwest of Colorado counts more than 5000 archaeological sites, including several cliff dwellings. These were inhabited in the early 600s by the Ancestral Puebloans, ancestors of the Pueblo Indians.
The ancestral dwellings of Cliff Palace and Long House, Balcony House, and the Mesa Top Loop Road will give you a good overview of the park.
Great Sand Dunes
At Great Sand Dunes National Park, you will find the tallest sand dunes in North America. Embark on an adventure with your feet in the sand to discover landscapes that will make you feel as if you’re on another planet.
For even more fun, it’s even possible to surf on the sand with special boards or slide down the dunes on sleds.
Despite its name, Great Sand Dunes has very diverse landscapes. Alpine lakes, forests, prairies, and tundras propel you into the heart of splendid nature.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park owes its name to its immense steep and narrow cliffs that let in little sunlight. The river flowing at the bottom of this black canyon is a majestic spectacle. The park is divided into two parts by the Gunnison River: South Rim, the most accessible area, and North Rim, the wildest section
This park is ideal for wildlife watching, photography, and hiking. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera!
Rocky Mountain
The Rocky Mountain National Park is located in the north of Colorado, near the city of Boulder. It has 58 peaks over 4000 meters in altitude.
The Trail Ridge Road is the only road that crosses Rocky Mountain Park and allows you to appreciate the fantastic beauty of the place. The park has an incredible biodiversity: wildflowers, gigantic forests, crystal-clear lakes, impressive waterfalls, glaciers… This is, indeed, where the Colorado River originates.
The wildlife is also abundant with its elks, beavers, and bighorn sheep living freely in this preserved environment. You can engage in hiking, climbing, and fishing here.
In Wyoming
Yellowstone
The very first national park in the United States should definitely be included in your next vacation itinerary to the American West. With its impressive geysers, its multicolored hot springs, and its incredible wildlife, Yellowstone has plenty of surprises in store…
As grandiose as it is wild, Yellowstone will delight nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Wander the trails of this extraordinary park to discover vast green meadows, magnificent waterfalls, and majestic mountains.
Yellowstone is a vast park and distances are long. So, take your time to explore this unique ecosystem.
The main points of interest (including Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Old Faithful)are located along the Grand Loop Road, the scenic route that crosses the park. Keep your eyes peeled, for bison, bears, wolves, and bighorn sheep make this place their home.
Grand Teton
Crystal-clear lakes, winding rivers, majestic waterfalls, and spectacular mountains, welcome to Grand Teton ! This vast wilderness of breathtaking beauty offers visitors some of the most beautiful alpine landscapes in the United States.
Less visited than its neighbor Yellowstone, this national park is nonetheless a true gem. Grand Teton is also the name of the highest point at 13,776 feet of this impressive mountain range.
Open all year round, Grand Teton is perfect for hiking or cycling, taking beautiful photos, and watching wildlife (black bears, grizzlies, wolves, bison, elk, etc.). Also, drive along the park’s scenic routes to see magnificent landscapes unfold before your eyes.
The must-visit big cities of the American West
Los Angeles
The City of Angels, the nickname of Los Angeles, will never cease to amaze you. This sprawling Californian city has a lot to offer. It’s impossible to get bored here! Head to Hollywood to discover the Walk of Fame and the stars of your favorite celebrities. Most importantly, don’t leave this legendary neighborhood without having taken the famous photo of the Hollywood sign and visited Universal Studios.
The Santa Monica Pier is also a highlight of a trip to Los Angeles. The end point of the mythical Route 66 will enchant you with its charmingly quaint amusement park. Stay by the ocean to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Venice Beach and Santa Monica Beach.
San Francisco
Among the must-see sights in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is certainly one. This famous red bridge will delight photographers from sunrise to sunset. From the bustling area of Fisherman’s Wharf, enjoy a magical view of San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island. The sea lion colony at Pier 39 is a spectacle in its own right.
Gain some elevation by climbing to the Coit Tower for a 360° view of San Francisco. Then head to the covered market The Embarcadero, which is perfect for both small and large appetites. It’s impossible to visit San Francisco without stopping by Lombard Street. The perspective on the hairpin turns from the bottom of the street is breathtaking.
San Diego
San Diego is my favorite city in the United States, so I can only recommend it to you ! Located at the border of Mexico, San Diego has everything to please. Pleasant weather all year round, culture, and an easy-going lifestyle well describe this West American city. I particularly recommend visiting La Jolla, this beautiful upscale seaside neighborhood. Moreover, fans of the series Grace and Frankie will love it.
Then, head to the very colorful Old Town, San Diego’s old district for guaranteed exotic vibes. It’s also an opportunity to enjoy delicious Mexican dishes.
If you’re passing through San Diego, you will inevitably end up at Balboa Park. Both a cultural center and botanical paradise, Balboa Park houses 17 museums, the San Diego Zoo, splendid gardens, and gorgeous Spanish architecture.
Families will love Belmont Park while party lovers will prefer the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Las Vegas
Dubbed Sin City, Las Vegas is unique. Bling-bling and all sorts of extravagances symbolize this vast city in the heart of the desert. So, you either love it or hate it, but one thing is for sure, Las Vegas is a must-see at least once in your lifetime !
Stroll along the Strip, the main artery, to discover the city as you see it in the movies. Casinos, limousines, luxury hotels, dazzling neon ads, and Elvis look-alikes, Las Vegas shines bright.
Take a photo stop at the famous sign “ Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas ” and don’t hesitate to enter the hotels. The Venetian and Caesar Palace (among others) are attractions in their own right with their thematic decorations. Moreover, don’t miss the sound and light show of the Bellagio fountains at any cost.
Whether you fancy a night at the casino or getting married in one of the many chapels in town, here, all excesses are possible. As the saying goes: what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas…
The Californian coast
The most beautiful beaches
If the magnificent Californian beaches are what you dream of, then a California road trip is for you. Do not miss these:
- Pfeiffer Beach: located right next to Big Sur on Highway 1, this idyllic beach offers postcard-worthy panoramas. With its iconic arch-shaped rock and purple sand, there’s no doubt, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in California.
- Carmel Beach: to the south of Monterey is the small coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea and its splendid fine sand beach. Enjoy the view of charming cottages and cypress trees. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some dolphins.
- Natural Bridges Beach: located just minutes from Santa Cruz, Natural Bridges Beach and its natural arch attract many birds.
- El Matador Beach: come for a walk north of Malibu on this secluded beach accessed by wooden stairs. This stretch of wild sand is perfect for admiring the sunset.
Santa Barbara
Along the California Coast is the very pretty town of Santa Barbara. With its photogenic beaches, beautiful gardens, and red-tiled roofs, Santa Barbara is well worth a visit.
On the agenda: the Old Mission Santa Barbara, the wooden Stearns Wharf pier with its ocean views, and the Santa Barbara Zoo. Architecture lovers will appreciate visiting the courthouse and its splendid clock tower.
To get a full dose of greenery, head to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and Lotusland. If you’re interested in a cultural activity, the Lobero Theatre, the Arlington Theatre, and the Museum of Natural History should please you.
Monterey
A beautiful day awaits you in Monterey. This typical village of the Californian coast is an absolute must-include in your road trip in the American West. The Old Fisherman’s Wharf is an old fishing pier where it is pleasant to stroll among the souvenir shops, candy stores, and seafood restaurants.
This is where one of the world’s most beautiful aquariums, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, is located. For a memorable experience, do not hesitate to go kayaking in Monterey Bay to paddle among the seals.
To discover breathtaking landscapes, drive down to Carmel-by-the-Sea via the magnificent scenic route 17-Mile Drive. Between the Pacific Ocean and cypress forests, every turn is a delight for the eyes.
The legendary routes
Highway 1
Among the most beautiful roads in the American West, of course, is Highway 1. The prettiest stretch of this legendary road is between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It is indeed in this direction (from north to south) that I recommend you travel it. Thus, you drive ocean-side and can easily stop to admire the panorama and take pictures.
Although it’s not the shortest way to connect Fog City to the City of Angels, it is surely the best option for your road trip in California. One of the world’s most beautiful roads unfolds its ribbon of asphalt before your eyes between the Pacific Ocean and cypress trees.
On your way, the stops not to miss are numerous: Santa Cruz, Monterey, Point Lobos Natural Reserve, Big Sur, San Simeon, etc.
Route 66
No road is as mythical as Route 66. The most famous road in the United States, also known as Mother Road, connects Chicago to Los Angeles with the final point being Santa Monica Pier. This artery that crosses two-thirds of the USA is over 3,800 km long (2400 miles).
The portion of Route 66 between Las Vegas and Los Angeles is fabulous. The stops to make are numerous. I particularly recommend stopping at:
- Mojave National Preserve
- Amboy
- Barstow
- Victorville
- San Bernardino
With the wind in your hair and some classic rock music in your ears, I swear you will fully enjoy your adventure on Route 66!
Monument Valley’s Highway 163
Monument Valley’s Highway 163 is sort of the cherry on top of a road trip in the American West. You probably have never heard of this road, and yet you have already seen it in numerous films.
This mythical road stretches for 103 km from Mexican Hat in Utah to Kayenta in Arizona and crosses the heart of Monument Valley. It offers one of the most beautiful views of the West. Travel it from north to south to fully admire the iconic panorama over Monument Valley and the desert landscapes of the region made of buttes and mesas.
Fans of the cult movie Forrest Gump wouldn’t miss stopping at the iconic Forrest Gump Point for the world. This is the exact spot where Forrest Gump ends his run after his long journey across the country, a memorable scene!
Valley of the Gods north of Mexican Hat and Goosenecks State Park to the west of Mexican Hat are also must-stops on Highway 163.
The Tioga Road
The Tioga Road, also known as California State Route 120, is an essential road for any road trip in the American West.. It crosses Yosemite National Park and the heart of the Sierra Nevada, delivering landscapes of incredible beauty.
This road reveals magnificent panoramas, especially over the 45 km between Crane Flat and Tuolumne Meadows. A stop at Olmsted Point on the Tioga Road is a must to admire the majestic view of Tenaya Canyon with Half Dome in the background. Do not miss Mono Lake, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows either, this high-altitude meadow is perfect for easy walks.
Note that this splendid road is usually closed from November to late May/early June each year. The reopening depends on the progression of the snow clearance.
Must-see sites in the American West
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is among the iconic places to see in the American West. This majestic place is located on the lands of the Navajo Nation. You have certainly already seen these desert landscapes dotted with red rock formations in movies. But seeing them in real life is something else!
Visit Monument Valley by foot, horseback or 4×4 and keep your camera within reach, you will need it. Highlights of the visit include the three buttes and the Valley Scenic Drive. This superb 27 km route winds between the buttes, needles, and mesas of Monument Valley.
Finally, don’t miss the fiery colors of the sunset over Monument Valley for anything in the world.
Horseshoe Bend
If you’re wondering where to go in the American West, then Horseshoe Bend in Arizona is among the spots not to miss. On your road trip in the USA, come marvel at this miracle of nature. The incredible Horseshoe Bend was carved over time by the waters of the Colorado River winding towards the Grand Canyon.
To be more at ease and take great photos of this horseshoe-shaped canyon, come early in the morning or at the end of the day. Horseshoe Bend can be visited on foot, by kayak or paddle on the Colorado River, and also from the air in a small sightseeing plane. Thrills guaranteed!
Antelope Canyon
Get your camera ready to immortalize these sandstone walls with wavy shapes and brilliant hues. Particularly photogenic, Antelope Canyon consists of very narrow crevices and rock faults formed by erosion (slot canyons). The site located near the town of Page in Arizona is divided into two parts:
- Upper Antelope Canyon: the site most visited by tourists. It is very popular with photographers because the sun penetrates more into the canyon, giving the rock walls truly magical hues.
- Lower Antelope Canyon: less popular but equally spectacular, this part of the site is much narrower. It also offers superb variations of colors.
Lake Powell
Since you’re right next door, it would be a shame not to go to Lake Powell for a day trip. This azure blue lake is the second largest artificial water body in North America and is absolutely beautiful.
The view from the Wahweap Overlook is splendid. In short, a great place to watch the sunset and take your best photos.
Lake Tahoe
In the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains at 1800 meters above sea level lies the fabulous Lake Tahoe. Beware, the beauty of this lake with emerald green waters will enchant you… Located about 3 hours 30 minutes from San Francisco, Lake Tahoe is among the most beautiful places on the planet. This alpine lake, straddling Nevada and California, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and verdant forests.
Havasupai Falls
Havasupai Falls is a paradisiacal place. Located west of the Grand Canyon, this reserve belongs to the Havasupai people, which means “people of the blue-green water”. Here you will discover grand waterfalls and turquoise blue natural pools. To admire Havasu Falls, you must take a hiking trail classified as difficult, but believe me, your efforts will be rewarded upon arrival!
Valley of Fire
In the southeast of Nevada, just an hour from Las Vegas in the desert, lies the stunning Valley of Fire State Park. If you’re planning to visit Sin City, take a day to explore this park. With its fiery red rock formations, some of which have incredible multicolored waves, Valley of Fire will enchant you. You can also discover petrified trees, Native American petroglyphs, and geological formations dating back to the dinosaur era.
You now know where to go in the American West. It’s likely you won’t have time to visit everything in a single trip to the USA. This gives you a good reason to return to Uncle Sam’s country!
If you already know these magical places or plan to visit them soon, tell us all about it in the comments.
