Last Updated on August 28, 2023

Road trips are a cherished tradition, offering a gateway to outdoor adventure and a chance to immerse oneself in the wonders of nature.

The United States is home to some of the most spectacular desert landscapes in the world, making it the perfect place for a desert road trip.

Epic Desert Road Trips in the United States
Arches National Park Entrance Station, Moab, United States

From the iconic Southwest with its towering red cliffs to the rugged coastlines of California, each route unveils a unique tapestry of natural wonders and cultural encounters.

Prepare to be captivated as you traverse through the sprawling deserts, witnessing the dramatic sunsets, discovering hidden oases, and forging unforgettable memories.

Below, some of the best desert road trips in the US.

1. Southwest Adventure

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas

Cities and Towns Crossed: Las Vegas, Grand Canyon Village, Springdale, Bryce Canyon City, Moab
National Parks Visited: Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley

Embark on the ultimate Southwest Adventure and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing desert landscapes of the American Southwest.

This road trip will take you through the vibrant city of Las Vegas and lead you to the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, the dramatic cliffs of Zion National Park, the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon, and the iconic Monument Valley.

Witness breathtaking sunsets, hike through narrow slot canyons, and marvel at the geological wonders that make this region so extraordinary.

Southwest Adventure Route Map

Southwest Adventure Rout Map


2. Pacific Coast Highway and Joshua Tree

rock formations on joshua tree national park
Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels.com

Cities and Towns Crossed: San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Big Sur, Los Angeles
National Parks Visited: Joshua Tree

Experience the best of the Pacific Coast Highway as you embark on a mesmerizing journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Drive along scenic coastal roads, passing charming towns and breathtaking vistas.

Once in Los Angeles, venture inland to Joshua Tree National Park, where surreal desert landscapes await.

Explore the unique Joshua Tree forests, hike through rugged trails, and immerse yourself in the serenity of the desert.

Pacific Coast Highway and Joshua Tree Route Map

Pacific Coast Highway and Joshua Tree Route Map


3. Route 66

Chinle formation with different colored layers typical of the Painted Desert.
Painted Desert, Arizona

Cities and Towns Crossed: Chicago, St. Louis, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Flagstaff
Deserts Crossed: Mojave Desert, Painted Desert

Step back in time and embark on a classic American road trip along the historic Route 66. Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, California, this iconic route takes you through the heartland of America, passing through deserts like the Mojave Desert in California and the Painted Desert in Arizona.

Discover charming roadside diners, quirky roadside attractions, and the nostalgia of a bygone era as you drive through some of the most iconic desert landscapes in the country.

Route 66 Map

Route 66 Map


4. Death Valley and Beyond

Death Valley, California
Death Valley, California

Cities and Towns Crossed: Las Vegas, Death Valley Junction, Lone Pine, Palm Springs
National Parks and Preserves Visited: Death Valley, Mojave National Preserve, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Joshua Tree

Prepare for a journey of extremes as you venture into the depths of Death Valley National Park. Known for its otherworldly landscapes and scorching temperatures, Death Valley offers a surreal experience like no other.

Extend your road trip to include nearby deserts such as Mojave National Preserve, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and Joshua Tree National Park, where you’ll encounter stunning desert flora, vast sand dunes, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities.

Death Valley and Beyond Route Map

Death Valley and Beyond Route Map


5. Utah’s Mighty Five

Sand Dune Arch. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park, Utah

Cities and Towns Crossed: Salt Lake City, Moab, Springdale
National Parks Visited: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches

Prepare to be captivated by the desert wonders of Utah as you embark on a road trip through the state’s five iconic national parks. Start your journey in Salt Lake City and make your way to Moab, where adventure awaits.

Explore the towering cliffs of Zion, the mesmerizing hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the colorful landscapes of Capitol Reef, the rugged canyons of Canyonlands, and the famous Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.

Be prepared to be amazed by the vast canyons, towering rock formations, and stunning desert vistas that will leave you in awe.

Utah’s Mighty Five Route Map

Utah’s Mighty Five Route Map


6. Texas Hill Country and Big Bend

Big Bend National Park in the Chihuahuan Desert
Big Bend National Park, Texas

Cities and Towns Crossed: Austin, Fredericksburg, Marathon
National Parks Visited: Big Bend

Discover the unique desert landscapes of Texas as you explore the Hill Country region and make your way to Big Bend National Park. Drive along scenic backroads, encounter charming small towns like Austin and Fredericksburg, and experience the wild beauty of the remote wilderness along the Mexican border in Big Bend.

Hike through rugged canyons, soak in hot springs, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the vast desert landscape.

Texas Hill Country and Big Bend Route Map

Texas Hill Country and Big Bend Route Map


7. New Mexico Enchantment

White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Cities and Towns Crossed: Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos
National Parks Visited: White Sands

Immerse yourself in the enchanting desert landscapes of New Mexico as you explore the unique attractions of the region. Visit the mesmerizing White Sands National Park, where pristine gypsum dunes stretch as far as the eye can see.

Discover the underground wonders of Carlsbad Caverns, stroll through historic adobe towns, and immerse yourself in the rich Native American and Spanish cultures that make this region so captivating.

Experience the vibrant arts scene in Santa Fe, savor delicious New Mexican cuisine, and let the magical landscapes of New Mexico leave a lasting impression on your desert road trip.

New Mexico Enchantment Route Map

New Mexico Enchantment Route Map


8. Nevada’s Loneliest Road

Valley of Fire, Nevada Desert
Valley of Fire, Nevada

Cities and Towns Crossed: Ely, Fallon
National Parks and State Parks Visited: Great Basin National Park, Valley of Fire State Park

Embark on a journey along the Loneliest Road in America, Highway 50, and experience the vastness and isolation of the Great Basin Desert in Nevada.

Drive through the remote towns of Ely and Fallon and witness the unique attractions along the way, such as the Extraterrestrial Highway and the captivating Valley of Fire State Park.

Get ready for a road trip that will take you off the beaten path and expose you to the raw beauty of the desert.

Nevada’s Loneliest Road Route Map

Nevada’s Loneliest Road Route Map


9. Arizona’s Sonoran Desert Loop

Sedona, Arizona
Sedona, Arizona

Cities and Towns Crossed: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, Sedona
National Parks and Preserves Visited: Saguaro National Park

Embark on a captivating road trip through the stunning Sonoran Desert in Arizona. Explore vibrant cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson, and venture into the tranquil beauty of the desert.

Discover the unique desert botanical gardens, hike in Saguaro National Park surrounded by iconic saguaro cacti, and witness breathtaking desert sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant colors. This road trip is a true desert oasis.

Arizona’s Sonoran Desert Loop Map

Arizona’s Sonoran Desert Loop Map


10. Alaska’s Dalton Highway

sunbeams shining on a scenic tundra and mountain landscape
Fairbanks, Alaska. Photo by Mike Knibbs on Pexels.com

Cities and Towns Crossed: Fairbanks, Coldfoot, Deadhorse
Wilderness Areas Visited: Arctic tundra, stunning mountain vistas

For an unconventional desert road trip, venture to Alaska and drive the remote Dalton Highway.

Journey through the Arctic tundra, experiencing vast stretches of wilderness, breathtaking mountain vistas, and the sense of solitude that comes with exploring Alaska’s desert-like regions.

Be prepared for an extraordinary adventure that will take you to the northernmost parts of the United States.

Alaska’s Dalton Highway Route Map

Alaska’s Dalton Highway Route Map


Read also: Best US Desert Travel Destinations

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