25 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas (2025)

Ready to venture beyond the Strip? Here are the top day trips from Las Vegas!

There are a lot of places to visit near Las Vegas by car! Popular spots include the Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, the Joshua Tree Forest, and so many more. I visit Vegas every year, and while I always have a blast on the Strip, it’s also really refreshing to take a break from the neon lights and get out into nature!

The areas surrounding Vegas are filled with jaw-dropping natural wonders and quirky roadside attractions, making them perfect for quick getaways. If you’ve only got a few hours or a full day to spare, these destinations are well worth adding to your itinerary. 

In this post, I’m sharing some of the best day trips from Las Vegas! 

Short on time?

Las Vegas is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable adventures. These are my top picks for the best day trips, each one offering something unique just a few hours from the Strip:

• Hoover Dam: Iconic engineering and photo-worthy views
• Mojave National Preserve: Desert landscapes and unique geology
• Emerald Cave: Peaceful kayaking and glowing green waters
• Grand Canyon (South Rim): Breathtaking views of a world wonder
• Horseshoe Bend: Stunning natural rock formation and river bend

Day Trips from Las Vegas (South of LV)

Heading south from Vegas opens the door to some truly iconic adventures. Many of these stops can be combined into one epic day trip if you’re up for the ride, but if you’d rather relax and not worry about logistics, there are plenty of great guided tours too. Here are some of my favorite destinations south of Las Vegas.

Disclaimer: Drive times and distances are estimates based on starting from the Las Vegas Strip. Actual times may vary depending on your exact starting point, the route you take, traffic conditions, and the time of day.

1. Seven Magic Mountains

Just off I-15, this vibrant art installation by Ugo Rondinone features towering stacks of neon-colored boulders that pop beautifully against the muted desert backdrop. It’s close to the Strip, but feels like you’ve stepped into a surreal dreamscape.

It’s a quick trip with major photo-op potential (very Instagrammable, this is where the influencers go), but you can book a tour here. Keep in mind it gets pretty busy, even at 10 am on a Saturday! It’s easy to find, with a nice parking lot with plenty of space and a short walk to the installation. There’s also a small plaque with information about the piece. You probably won’t spend more than 15 minutes here unless you’re taking lots of photos, but it’s worth stopping just to say you’ve seen it!

You can also join this tour, which includes Hoover Dam, or take this one, which also passes by Lake Mead.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 22 mi (20-25 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

➡️ Book your tour to the Seven Magic Mountains here!

2. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a bucket-list spot. It’s only about 45 minutes from the city, and once you’re there, the sheer scale of it is incredible. You can walk across the top, visit the observation points, or take a guided tour to learn more about the dam’s history and engineering.

I recommend going early in the day while it’s cooler and less crowded. Parking is straightforward, but bring water and a hat, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. You can take a guided tour, walk across the top, or just enjoy the views from the visitor center. It’s a lot of walking, and it gets HOT. You also have the option to join a longer Hoover Dam tour with lunch.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 35-42 mi (35-50 min)
• Entrance Fees: $10 for the dam tour

➡️ Join a Hoover Dam tour here!

3. Black Canyon

If you’re into adventure and love a good escape into nature, Black Canyon is a fantastic day trip. Located near the Hoover Dam, at the state line between Nevada and Arizona, this spot offers beautiful views with some kayaking or rafting opportunities. It’s a great spot to visit, and you can paddle through the still waters and take in the view. You can book a kayaking tour or join a rafting tour.

The waters are calm, and the scenery is stunning with steep canyon walls that make you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. It’s a great way to cool off and connect with nature without being too far from the city. Kayaking tours are a great option here, and they usually include transportation from your Vegas hotel, which is a huge plus.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 43-47 mi (90-95 min)
• Entrance Fees: $30 for boat tours

➡️ Book your Black Canyon tour here!

4. Lake Mead

The Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a beautiful year-round park that spreads across 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys, and lakes. It’s one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S., and there are so many beautiful things to do in this area. 

You can go canoeing or kayaking, fishing, and or swim at your own risk at designated swim beaches (there are no lifeguards in the area, but the National Park Service website offers some popular areas where visitors like to swim). It’s a beautiful spot to kayak, with calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a gorgeous day trip, which you can easily combine with a visit to the Hoover Dam. Or, you can join this Lake Mead sunset kayaking tour.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 31-38 mi (40-50 min)
• Entrance Fees: $25 for vehicle entry

➡️ Click here to join a sunset kayaking tour on Lake Mead!

5. Mount Charleston

If you’re craving cooler temps, Mount Charleston is the perfect escape from the desert heat. About an hour’s drive from the Las Vegas Strip, the area offers free hiking trails and scenic nature walks, all set against the backdrop of cooler mountain air. For a guided experience, you can book this Mount Charleston tour with transportation.

Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check the weather and road conditions, especially in winter as avalanches can happen. Zoom into the Las Vegas area and click on the roads for updates on Map apps. You’ll find hiking trails, picnicking areas, and even spots for skiing in the winter. The transformation from desert to alpine forest is incredible, and it makes for such a refreshing change of scenery.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 43-52 mi (45-60 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

➡️ Click here to book your Mount Charleston tour!

6. Nelson Roller Coaster

The Nelson Roller Coaster is a route that’s not for the faint of heart. It’s a challenging and rocky off-road trail located in the El Dorado mountains, known for its steep climbs, descents, and rugged terrain. It’s a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts.

Approximately 12.2 miles long, the trail has several steep climbs and descends over ridges as you pass through. The terrain is rated as moderately difficult, offering scenic views, abandoned mining sites, and the chance to explore more of the El Dorado Mountains. If you go, you’ll need a 4WD vehicle, trail maps, and maybe a GPS app like on X Off-Road. If you’re new to off-roading, consider a guided tour for a safer experience as you navigate the desert terrain!  

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 39-43 mi (40-45 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

7. Lee Canyon

Lee Canyon is a fantastic year-round destination. In the winter, it’s great for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. In summer, you’ll find peaceful hiking trails, mountain biking, and shady picnic areas. 

The lodge is cozy, and the air is noticeably cooler than in Vegas. It’s a relaxing escape that feels totally different from the Strip. The ski area isn’t the biggest, but the slopes are well-maintained if you’re visiting in the wintertime. In the summertime, Lee Canyon turns into a peaceful retreat away from the heat of Vegas with hiking trails, mountain bikes, and cute picnic spots. The fresh air is a great escape from the city.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 53 mi (50-55 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free (skiing requires fees)

8. Mojave National Preserve

An hour’s drive from Vegas, the Mojave National Preserve is perfect for anyone looking for a quiet escape. The Preserve covers vast stretches of desert and woodlands, and there are plenty of trails, sand dunes, coyotes, and even a historic railroad that runs through it. The huge steep sand mounds are known for making “singing” sounds. 

The terrain is beautiful, and it’s one of the lesser-known road trips from Las Vegas. There are miles and miles of empty roads with lots of desert vegetation like Joshua trees. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and gas, as it’s remote. Winter is the best time to go since summer temps can get intense. You’ll love the peaceful roads and beautiful sunsets! Definitely worth checking out if you want to disconnect and enjoy some time in nature.

Want some adventure? Try a half-day ATV tour at Mojave National Preserve!

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 63 mi (55 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

➡️ Book your Mojave National Preserve ATV tour here!

9. Arizona Hot Springs

For a relaxing day trip, Arizona Hot Springs offers natural hot springs that are perfect for unwinding after a hike. It’s best to visit during the winter months, as temperatures can soar in the spring, fall, and summer months and it’s advised against hiking the trail. 

Be sure to check on the National Park Service website in advance about closures. A few trails are closed until further notice due to a hiking accident where a few hikers overheated and had to be rescued. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, not for the faint of heart (bring plenty of water), but once you reach the springs, it’s totally worth it.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 43-46 mi (40-45 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

10. Emerald Cave

Emerald Cave is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Arizona, and it makes for a great day trip from Las Vegas. It’s a small cave along the Colorado River, and the water inside has a brilliant greenish hue at a certain hour of the day, usually between 12 and 3 pm, depending on the time of year. The cave is small, only fitting 2-3 kayaks at a time, and it’s a beautiful spot to visit. 

When you rent a kayak or canoe, it takes about 3 hours to get there and back. Sometimes there’s a big wait to see it, with a line of about 20-30 minutes of people waiting in their kayaks. If you want a more exclusive experience in the cave, I recommend booking a half-day tour from Vegas! Just keep in mind during the summer months, it gets hot and busy. 

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 57-61 mi (55-65 min)
• Entrance Fees: $45+ for guided tours

➡️ Book your Emerald Cave kayaking tour here!

11. Willow Beach

For something quieter, head to Willow Beach, another beautiful and peaceful spot to enjoy the Colorado River. The water is extremely clear, and you can rent a kayak or boat, fish, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery. You can easily combine a trip to Emerald Cave with Willow Beach!

It’s a great spot in the cooler months, especially for camping! The Colorado River is nice and cold, and you can see so much wildlife here like bald eagles, whip-tailed lizards, and more. The gift shop has everything you might need for a stay, with clean restrooms and the staff is very helpful and friendly. Overall, it’s quiet, clean, and picturesque. If you’re doing a Hoover Dam trip, I highly recommend stopping at this gorgeous little beach! 

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 57-60 mi (55-60 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

➡️ Book your trip to Willow Beach here!

Las Vegas Day Trips (West of LV)

The west side of Las Vegas offers its own set of adventures, with iconic canyons and gorgeous desert landscapes. You can combine a few of these spots in a single trip if you’re up for a full day of exploration, or just choose one spot to visit at a time! 

12. Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is one of the easiest escapes from the city. Just 30 minutes from the Strip, it offers breathtaking red rock formations, sweeping desert views, and a ton of hiking trails. I recommend doing the scenic 13-mile drive, which provides plenty of spots to stop and take in the towering red rock formations and desert flora. There are also some rock-climbing opportunities here, but at your own risk. 

Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting, and be sure to stop by the visitor center to learn about the area’s geology and wildlife. Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear good hiking shoes, and check for reservation requirements, especially during peak seasons. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking, as summer temps can get extreme.

Make the most of your visit by booking a hiking tour or joining an e-bike tour here.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 13-20 mi (20-25 min)
• Entrance Fees: $15 per vehicle

➡️ Click here to book you Red Rock Canyon tour!

13. Death Valley & Badwater Basin

Death Valley is America’s hottest, driest, and lowest national park, and the landscape is extreme (hence the name Death Valley). It can reach the highest recorded temperatures in the world (134 degrees), and is the driest place in North America. The park features remnants of ghost towns and historic mining operations, and it’s a place of continued discovery, with a lot of rare plants and animals that have adapted to these extreme conditions. If these excite you, then day trips from Las Vegas to Death Valley are for you!

One of the coolest spots here is Badwater Basin, which sits 282 feet below sea level. It’s surrounded by high mountain peaks and stretches of salt flats that look like something from another planet. It reminded me of the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah! Go in spring or winter, as summer can be dangerously hot. And if you want to make your life easier, consider booking a guided tour. You also have the option to join a small group tour or take a tour that includes stargazing!

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 104-130 mi (2 hr)
• Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle

➡️ Book your amazing Death Valley tour here!

Day Trips from Vegas (North of LV)

Heading north from Vegas gives you a mix of quirky roadside stops and stunning national parks. These trips take a bit more time, but they’re absolutely worth it.

14. The Extraterrestrial Highway

Nevada’s State Route 375, aka the Extraterrestrial Highway, is a 98-mile stretch of road in south-central Nevada, and an alien lover’s dream. The route gained its name due to its proximity to the highly secretive Area 51 military base and numerous UFO sightings and strange phenomena along the route. 

You’ll pass spots like the Alien Research Center and the tiny town of Rachel, where the “Welcome Earthlings” sign is perfect for photos. The entire ET highway takes about two days to complete, with the full route being about 500 miles round trip (about 8 hours of drive time). You don’t have to go all the way – just driving part of it is a fun experience.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 160 mi (2 hr 25 min)
• Entrance Fees: Free

15. Snow Canyon

Snow Canyon is a lesser-known gem that’s a must-visit if you have the time. The park features beautiful red rock formations, petrified sand dunes which are fun to climb around, canyons, and a wide variety of trails. The park has beautiful scenery, geology, and so many things to do like hiking lava tubes, slot canyons, and more! 

The park is pet-friendly and has paved walking paths, so it’s accessible for most people. It’s often compared to Zion National Park, and given better ratings because the scenery is gorgeous and has lesser crowds than Zion. It’s best to purchase the entrance fee ($15 per car) online before entering the park, especially considering weak Wi-Fi signals. 

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 130-135 mi (2 hr)
• Entrance Fees: $10 per vehicle

16. AREA 51 Roadtrip

Starting from Rachel, Nevada (about 2 hrs from Las Vegas), you can drive along the iconic “Extraterrestrial Highway” and take in the quirky UFO-themed roadside attractions. Rachel is a great starting point where you can eat an Alien burger and take pictures of the alien-themed decor!

As you drive, don’t be tempted to venture onto the US military super secret property. You’ll drive right by the place, but attempting to enter the Nevada Test and Training Range at Nellis Air Force Base is illegal. If you get too close, expect security to tell you to go away, or worse. They take trespassing very seriously. Stick to the highway and enjoy the desert vibes.

For a guided experience, consider joining this Area 51 day tour, which includes lunch and round-trip transfer!

• Starting point: Rachel, NV

➡️ Book your Area 51 day tour here!

17. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks on the West Coast, and it’s nothing short of breathtaking. It’s one of those must-visit spots you have to see at least once in your lifetime. So, consider taking day trips from Las Vegas to Zion National Park!

Most areas aren’t accessible by private car during March to September, so you’ll need to take the shuttle. It’s good to arrive early to avoid the crowds, and check the National Park Service app (Apple and Android) for updates on trail closures.

The park is home to towering red rock cliffs, deep canyons, and fantastic hiking trails. The views are absolutely breathtaking, with beautiful mountains and river streams. If you’ve got a few hours to spare, Zion is an unforgettable place to visit.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 155 mi (2 hr 10 min)
• Entrance Fees: $35 per vehicle

➡️ Book your unforgettable Zion National Park day trip here!

18. Cathedral Gorge State Park

Cathedral Gorge is a little more off-the-beaten-path and absolutely stunning. The narrow slot canyons and strange rock formations look straight out of a sci-fi movie. Slot canyons are usually very difficult to get to and hard to explore, but the ones at Cathedral Gorge are very accessible, so kids and seniors can experience nature in a memorable way. 

The park entrance is $5 for a Nevada vehicle, $10 for if you’re visiting from out of state. It’s such a beautiful canyon to walk through, and it’s relatively quiet. You can explore the park by choosing one of the five trails, or just relax at the viewpoints. 

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 170-220 mi (2 hr 40 min – 3 hr 25 min)
• Entrance Fees: $5 for a Nevada vehicle, $10 for if you’re visiting from out of state

19. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is a gorgeous national park, with stunning natural arches, unique hoodoos, and otherworldly landscapes. Start at Sunrise Point or Sunset Point, and if you hike the Navajo Loop, do it counterclockwise for the best views. Even just driving to the viewpoints is worth the trip.

Arrive at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and the most vibrant colors on the rocks. You can drive to all viewpoints before hitting the trail, and these rock formations will seriously mess with your mind. They’re that beautiful. 

For a guided experience, consider taking a full-day tour of Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas, which includes Zion National Park. If you don’t feel big groups, you can join a small group tour.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 258-263 mi (3 hr 55 min – 4 hr 25 min)
• Entrance Fees: $35 per vehicle

➡️ Click here to book your Bryce Canyon trip!

20. Big Bear Mountain (especially in winter)

Big Bear Mountain is a bit further out from Vegas, but during the winter months, it offers excellent skiing and snowboarding. The ski resort is beginner-friendly, but there are also runs for experienced skiers. The area has great food, cozy cabins, and modern and efficient lifts, minimizing wait times (although it can get busy when California gets hit with good snow, as it rarely does).

In summer, Big Bear turns into a chill mountain retreat with lake views, biking trails, and plenty of places to relax and unwind. It’s a great spot to escape the desert and enjoy the mountain views.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 208 mi (3 hr 20 min)
• Entrance Fees: Varies based on activities

21. Brian Head (in winter)

Brian Head is another solid winter destination for skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoying the snowy mountains. It’s quieter than Big Bear, which makes it a great place to avoid the crowds. 

The location has plenty of fresh snow in the wintertime, and there’s plenty of parking, decent food, and beautiful views all around. The instructors are great too if you’re just getting started on the slopes.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 205-233 mi (3 hr – 3 hr 50 min)
• Entrance Fees: Varies based on activities

22. Grand Canyon (South Rim)

Day trips from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon are a must! For the best views and experience of the South Rim, I recommend taking a road trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.

The South Rim is the most iconic and accessible view you can get of this natural wonder. It’s a bit farther from Las Vegas than the West Rim, but totally worth the trip, especially if you’re traveling with young children as there are just so many things to see and do, like viewpoints, museums, walking paths, and even helicopter tours. 

We did a helicopter tour that took us through the South and North Rim of the Canyon, and it was absolutely beautiful. The drive out was fun too, with spiritual shops, alien gear, and quirky stops along the way.

Alternatively, you can take this Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas, which includes Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 282 mi (4 hr 25 min)
• Entrance Fees: $35 per vehicle

➡️ Book your Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas now!

23. Horseshoe Bend

This dramatic curve in the Colorado River is one of the most photographed landscapes in the U.S., and once you get here you’ll see why. For the best views of Horseshoe Bend, plan your visit around sunrise or sunset. 

Walking Horseshoe Bend takes about half an hour if you walk at an average pace, and it’s considered an easy route to walk. The best times to visit Horseshoe Bend are from April to early June, before the summer heat kicks in, or September through October as the temperatures start to drop. It’s one of those “once-in-a-lifetime” destinations! 

From Vegas, you can take this guided Horseshoe Bend day tour, which includes Lower Antelope Canyon.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 279-386 mi (4.5-6 hr)
• Entrance Fees: $10

➡️ Click here to book your Horseshoe Bend day tour from Vegas!

Las Vegas Day Trips (East of LV)

Heading east of Las Vegas will take you to some beautiful state parks and incredible natural landscapes. You can make a quick getaway by visiting…

24. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park has some gorgeous landscapes, known for its 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops in gray and tan limestone. It’s a short drive from the city, and it honestly looks like another planet.

The White Domes Trail and Fire Wave Trail are must-dos, and you’ll want to stop at places like Star Trek Point and the scenic campsites nestled in red cliffs. Even the drive into the park is stunning, with wildlife like bighorn sheep crossing the road.

You can also explore Valley of Fire State Park through this guided tour.

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 50 mi (50 min)
• Entrance Fees: $15 per vehicle

➡️ Take this scenic Valley of State Park tour from Las Vegas!

Day Trips from Las Vegas (Southwest of LV)

If you’re looking for a longer drive with plenty of things to do, I recommend visiting the city of Los Angeles from Las Vegas! For a really fun experience, plan out a super fun road trip starting from the Strip, all the way to LA. 

25. Los Angeles

LA has a totally different vibe from Vegas. A trip to Los Angeles is a bit of a longer drive, but it’s a great option if you’re looking to experience another major city in the US. You can explore plenty of beaches, spot some celebrities, and there are plenty of things to do, like hike to the Hollywood sign, walk along Beverly Hills Boulevard, and buy overpriced smoothies at Erewhon. 

You can keep it simple with a beach day or go big with sightseeing. 

Las Vegas day trips to Los Angeles are fun and the latter makes for a nice contrast from the desert. Don’t miss out on this by joining this tour!

• Distance from Las Vegas (approx.): 265 mi (4 hr)
• Entrance Fees: Varies by activity

➡️ Click here to book this fun Vegas to LA day trip!

Conclusion

Las Vegas is the perfect home base for exploring the beauty of the American Southwest. You can experience unique rock formations, mountain views, and otherworldly landscapes with alien-themed road trips, or jaw-dropping canyon trips. 

You don’t have to go far to see something incredible. Rent a car, grab some snacks, and hit the road. These day trips offer a whole different side of Vegas, and they’ll make you want to come back again and again. 

Happy travels!