The American West changed how I see the world. A two-week road trip through Colorado and Utah exposed me to landscapes so dramatic they don't look real.
The Route
Denver → Rocky Mountain National Park → Moab → Arches → Canyonlands → Capitol Reef → Bryce Canyon → Zion → Back to Denver
Total driving: ~1,800 miles over 14 days
Colorado Highlights
Denver (2 days) Start in the Mile High City. The RiNo neighborhood has incredible street art, breweries, and restaurants. Don't miss the Denver Art Museum.
Rocky Mountain National Park (2 days) Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the US. Elk everywhere. Alpine lakes. Pure magic.
Garden of the Gods (half day) Free park near Colorado Springs with red rock formations against a mountain backdrop. Sunrise here is unreal.
Utah Highlights
Moab / Arches National Park (2 days) Delicate Arch at sunset is a must. The hike is moderate and completely worth it.
Canyonlands (1 day) Island in the Sky district has the most accessible viewpoints. Mesa Arch at sunrise is iconic.
Capitol Reef (1 day) The least-visited of the Mighty Five, and one of my favorites. Pick fresh fruit from the historic orchards!
Bryce Canyon (1.5 days) The hoodoos are like nothing else on Earth. Hike the Navajo Loop for the full experience.
Zion (2.5 days) Angels Landing is legendary (get your permit!). The Narrows river hike is magical. Zion is the perfect finale.
Pro Tips
- Carry at least a gallon of water per person per day
- Start hikes early to beat the heat and crowds
- Book accommodations months in advance for summer
- A National Parks pass ($80/year) pays for itself on this trip
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