Denver is the mile-high city located in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, and it offers amazing views of the mountains. Some of the must-visit places include the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Alternatively, you can explore the city by walking or biking on a trail or park or enjoying local food and beer.
Arches National Park is a wonderland of uniquely formed sandstone arches and red rock formations. From here, Monument Valley is only 2.5 hours away, located on the Navajo Nation Reservation, which offers a scenic drive through the valley with the stunning view of the red rocks, mesas, and buttes. You can also take a guided tour of the Valley or ride a horse to traverse the terrain.
Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon known for its beautiful light beams as the sun penetrates the rocks. After Antelope Canyon, the Grand Canyon is only a 2-hour drive away. Grand Canyon is a natural wonder and a breathtaking sight to behold. It offers several tour options as well, including hiking, guided tours, and helicopter rides.
Zion National Park is a paradise for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. The park features beautiful canyons, waterfalls, and red rock cliffs, with popular hikes including Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point. You can also take a ranger-led tour to learn more about the park’s history and geology.
Las Vegas is a popular destination known for its entertainment, nightlife, casinos, and luxurious resorts. You can explore the famous Las Vegas Strip, enjoy a show, try your luck at a casino or enjoy fine dining at one of the many restaurants along the Strip. Alternatively, you can take a helicopter ride to view the city from above or go shopping at the outlet malls.
San Diego, located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, is a beautiful city and a popular tourist spot. You can visit the famous San Diego Zoo, which houses over 3,500 animals, or go to the iconic Balboa Park, which has several museums, gardens, and beautiful architecture. You can also enjoy the beaches or visit Old Town San Diego to learn about the city’s history and culture.
It is recommended to rent a car for this trip, as many places are in remote areas. The total travel distance is approximately 2200 miles, and the total travel time is around 35 hours. The estimated rental car cost for nine days is around $400-$600, depending on the car’s size and model. Additionally, it is essential to consider fuel costs and driving time, especially in remote areas.
If you have more time, you can add more national parks to your itinerary, such as Bryce Canyon National Park and Yosemite National Park. Suppose you have less time, you can skip San Diego or reduce your stay in Las Vegas. Additionally, it is essential to make reservations for popular activities or tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the main airport in Denver, located 25 miles northeast of downtown. McCarran International Airport (LAS) is the main airport in Las Vegas, located 2 miles south of the Strip. Finally, San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the main airport in San Diego, located 3 miles northwest of downtown.