The Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Wild West USA 2026
The best places to visit in Nevada, Arizona and Utah
There is no road trip more iconic than the Wild West USA. From the neon lights of Las Vegas to the deep red silence of Monument Valley, the states of Nevada, Arizona, and Utah offer a landscape that feels like a movie set. In 2026, the camper van life is more popular than ever, and we’re taking you along for the ride in our Motorhome through the most spectacular national parks in America.
1. Sin City Start: Las Vegas, Nevada
Every great desert adventure should start with a little contrast. Before picking up our camper van*, we kicked things off in Las Vegas.
Where to Stay: We returned to the Ellis Island Hotel. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the Strip, but it feels like a hidden gem with its own brewery, pool, and legendary karaoke bar.
The Strip: You can’t miss the classics—the Bellagio fountains, the Eiffel Tower, and the canals of Venice.
Pro Tip: For a quick, cheap American fix, the 7-Eleven next to Ellis Island is the place for late-night hot dogs.
* We rented a camper at Dutchies Travel. If you use our code WOUTOFTHEWORLD you get an exclusive discount! And no, you don’t have to be a Dutchie ;).Â
2. Valley of Fire: Nevada’s Red Gem
Just one hour from Vegas lies the Valley of Fire State Park in the Mojave Desert. It’s named after the stunning red sandstone formations that look like they’re on fire when the sun hits them.
The Drive: The road through the Valley of Fire is easily one of the most spectacular drives in the entire USA.
Camping: We found an amazing spot right on the border of Arizona to camp overnight, allowing us to test out the kitchen and the “upstairs” sleeper in our van.
3. Utah’s "Mighty 5": Zion & Bryce Canyon
Utah is the state with the most National Parks per square meter, boasting the “Mighty 5”.
Zion National Park
Zion is a lush green valley surrounded by massive cliffs.
The Hike: While many aim for Angel’s Landing, we chose the Emerald Pools hike this time—it’s much easier if you’re traveling with little ones.
The Scenic Drive: Leaving the park via the scenic route toward Bryce is a “cherry on top” experience, where you might even spot Bison along the way.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce is famous for its “hoodoos” (spire-shaped rock formations).
High Altitude: At 8,000 feet, it gets cold! We woke up to near-freezing temperatures in the van, so bring layers even in the summer.
Must-See: Stop at Swamp Canyon Overlook and Far Viewpoint for some of the best views of the stone forests. Keep an eye out for the local prairie dogs!.
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4. Iconic Arizona: Horseshoe Bend & Monument Valley
Crossing back into Arizona, we hit the most photographed landmarks in the West.
Horseshoe Bend: Located near the town of Page, this is where the Colorado River makes a perfect U-turn 1,000 feet below the cliffs.
Monument Valley: This is Navajo territory and the ultimate “Western” setting. We drove the 20-mile scenic loop through the bizarre landscape where dinosaurs once roamed.
Top View: Head to Artist Point for the most “picture-perfect” postcard image of the West.
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5. Moab’s Wonders: Canyonlands & Arches
Moab is the perfect “adventure hub” between parks, filled with great pizza and craft beers.
Canyonlands National Park
We focused on the Island in the Sky district. It’s a high plateau with panoramic views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Don’t miss the short hike to Mesa Arch.
Arches National Park
Nature has created over 2,000 natural stone arches here.
The 2026 Strategy: Arches is so popular it uses a reservation system. To get in without a booking months in advance, you have to enter at an “unhuman hour” (before dawn), which we did under the stars. Or make sure you book your timeslot on time!
Devil’s Garden: Home to Landscape Arch. If you have the energy, the hike further into the garden is one of the best in Utah.
Watch the video about our road trip
Note on the video: This episode covers our journey through Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. You’ll see our life in the camper van, the reality of “unhuman” early starts to beat the crowds, and the breathtaking views from Artist Point.
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Essential Road Trip Tips for 2026
Vehicle Choice: A Motorhome/Campervan is the best way for a road trip in the Wild West USA. Sleeping inside the parks allows you to wake up to views that hotel guests miss.
Reservations: In 2026, almost all major parks (Arches, Zion, etc.) require timed-entry permits or advanced camping reservations. Check NPS.gov 6 months out!
Climate Contrasts: Be prepared for everything. In just one hour, you can drive from the scorching desert to snowy mountaintops near Salt Lake City.
National Park Pass: Buy the “America the Beautiful” pass for $80. It covers entrance fees for the entire year for everyone in your vehicle.
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Other road trips in the USA
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