From botanical gardens to the Grand Canyon, this Phoenix to Yellowstone road trip will take you through some of the best scenery the country has to offer.
Getting out of the house and driving through nature is the perfect way to vacation. Whether it’s watching Old Faithful erupt or riding a mule through the Grand Canyon, you’ll be able to check off a lot of bucket list items by the time you’re done with this adventure!
has compiled the perfect itinerary for this two-day trip. So ensure you’ve got roadside assistance from Jerry, grab some snacks, and let’s get started in beautiful, sunny Phoenix.
Perpetual sunshine and endless deserts make Phoenix the perfect destination for nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts—and the ideal place to start your trip. The city offers abundant arts and cultural attractions, historic neighborhoods, and an outstanding selection of resorts and hotels in case you want to rest before the drive ahead.
: Whether you're looking for a beautiful backdrop for that perfect Instagram photo or want to learn more about the gorgeous cacti, succulents, trees, and flowers that make Arizona unforgettable, the Desert Botanical Garden is a unique experience for all ages and worth the visit.
: If you want to get a birds-eye view of the road ahead, taking a Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride is exactly what you need. You can even choose to take off at sunrise or sundown to create the perfect start or end to your day!
($$): Loved for its authenticity and the skills and charm of the man behind the grill, chef Rene Andrade, Bacanora PHX offers the finest of Northern Mexican and Sonoran cuisine. It can be a popular spot, particularly on weekends for brunch, so make sure to keep that in mind if scheduling it into your day.
($): If you just want to pick up something delicious before embarking on your trip, the family-owned Balkan Bakery has freshly made bread, desserts, and filled boureks that can serve as the perfect morning pick-me-up.
: Getting through the Grand Canyon by white water rafting is always guaranteed fun, and there are countless expeditions and excursions offered. It can be an exhilarating ride for those seeking some thrills!
: If you’re looking for some adventure with a *little* more control, take a mule ride down into or along the rim of the Grand Canyon. Mules have been carrying canyon visitors since the 1800s and are a great way to take in the gorgeous scenery.
($$$$): Presenting gourmet dining with an atmosphere of casual elegance, El Tovar is a one-of-a-kind dining experience. After a day of trekking through nature, an elevated menu and rustic ambiance to help you recharge and refuel.
: A historic oasis nestled at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Phantom Ranch is the only lodging below the canyon rim—and can only be reached by mule, on foot, or by rafting the Colorado River. Their individual cabins are the perfect spot to rest if you need to catch some sleep before heading out on the next leg of the trip.
A six-hour drive will take you to Salt Lake City. You’re over halfway through your road trip once you arrive here, and stopping in the city can be a great opportunity to rest and restock!
Lying in a mountain valley, the vibe of the city is friendly and laid back. Access to both urban and outdoor adventures creates opportunities for travelers of every type.
: Big Cottonwood Canyon is home to two world-class ski resorts (Solitude and Brighton), legendary rock climbing routes, and picnic areas straight out of a magazine. Pack some hiking boots and lots of water to get out and stretch your legs!
($$$$): Located in a historic log mansion in the Wasatch National Forest, Log Haven offers the perfect serene atmosphere. If you’re able to snag one, getting a table out on the patio will put you directly in the beautiful woodland atmosphere centered around a waterfall—talk about peaceful!
($$): If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, this stop has perfected the fried chicken sandwich. Everything is served up fresh, crispy, and with delicious house sauces.
Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park, WY
320 miles, 4 hours 45 minutes
You’ve driven, hiked, rafted, and (maybe) muled your way from Phoenix to the iconic Yellowstone National Park. Known for its geysers and bison herds, it’s the perfect end to such a breathtaking road trip.
Use I-15 N and US-20 E to get to the destination.
What to do in Yellowstone
See the geysers: What’s a visit to Yellowstone without watching some geysers erupt? Whether it’s Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Springs, or any of the other 500 geysers found here, there are countless exciting sights to see.If you want to make sure to view an eruption, you can check the predicted times in advance and plan accordingly.
: For a break from the excitement of the eruptions, Yellowstone’s Tower Fall is a beautiful, accessible waterfall worth seeing. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, peregrine falcons, osprey, and red-tailed hawks while you’re there!
: If you want a more hands-on journey through Yellowstone, there are kayak tours available that’ll place you right in the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Choose between day, sunset, and overnight trips.
($$): Located in the Old Faithful Inn, Bear Pit Lounge offers cocktails, microbrews, and great pub food. After a long day exploring, opt for their huckleberry margarita—you deserve it!
: As a national historic landmark, Old Faithful Inn is one of the most popular places to stay in the park. Built in 1903–1904, it’s considered the largest log structure in the world and features a massive stone fireplace and hand-crafted clock made of copper and wood in the lobby.
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