Sometimes, the best way to rediscover the world around you is to get in the car (or, in my case, a motorcycle), leave the familiar behind, and follow the open road. Our four-day journey took us from the bright lights of Las Vegas into the heart of the Southwest, weaving through timeless landmarks, quirky roadside stops, and breathtaking views.
With just a few plans, some favorite playlists, and an appetite for the unexpected, we set out to explore places that are both iconic and delightfully offbeat. This wasn’t just a road trip; it was a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and uncover a new side of the desert that felt like an old friend waiting to be rediscovered.
Day 1: Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
Setting out from Las Vegas with the playlist primed and excitement buzzing, our first destination was Kingman, AZ. I couldn’t resist a stop here, with memories of our past stories about Kingman’s old-school Southwest Americana charm.
We grabbed coffee and strolled around, reminiscing about our last time exploring Kingman. There’s something special about seeing a place you’ve written about before—it feels a little like coming back to an old friend.
From Kingman, we took Route 66 to Williams, AZ, the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon.” If you’re a fan of vintage vibes and that quintessential Americana feel, this town has it all.
(By the way, if you’re planning your own adventure, check out our past article for a deep dive into Route 66’s quirks.) Williams still holds onto its Southwest Route 66 nostalgia, making it feel like a snapshot from another era, complete with neon lights and classic diners.
After refueling on nostalgia and snacks, we headed toward Bedrock City, now called Raptor Ranch. Picture a quirky blend of prehistoric fun and roadside kitsch, perfect for coffee, snacks, and a few good laughs. The new raptor theme adds a fun twist—think dinosaurs with your caffeine fix. We pressed on and, by nightfall, arrived at the Grand Canyon, the star of the show.
Spending the night near the South Rim felt like connecting with something timeless and grand. The evening treated us to a mesmerizing sunset, painting the canyon walls in shades of orange and pink, transforming it into an otherworldly landscape.
And if you’re willing to rise with the sun, the early morning light does something spectacular here—casting shadows that reveal the canyon’s depths and illuminating its vastness in a way that feels almost sacred. Words only do so much justice—seeing it is truly believing it.
Day 2: Grand Canyon to Page, AZ
The next morning, we lingered for a while over breakfast in Grand Canyon Village, soaking up the crisp air and that last bit of canyon atmosphere before hitting the road again. From there, we headed out on Route 64, winding our way northward through the beauty of the Navajo Nation Reservation.
Connecting to Route 89 took us deeper into the reservation, where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time, passing ancient rock formations and sweeping desert vistas that stretch endlessly toward the horizon. The journey felt quiet and expansive, the perfect prelude to our next stop in Page.
We arrived in Page, AZ, around noon, ready to see one of nature’s masterpieces: Horseshoe Bend. Located within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, this iconic lookout offers a breathtaking view of the Colorado River. It curves around a massive sandstone escarpment, creating a perfect horseshoe shape. The sheer drop from the overlook to the river below is staggering, reminding you of nature’s power to sculpt beauty over time.
The walk from the parking area to the overlook is short, but as you approach, the anticipation builds. When you finally reach the edge, the sight is jaw-dropping—the rust-colored rock contrasting with the deep green-blue of the Colorado River below, winding serenely through the canyon. Standing on the cliff, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of awe and humility in the face of such an immense landscape.
The place is both calming and exhilarating, and though other visitors surround you, there’s a shared reverence in the air that keeps things quiet and respectful.
Next was the Glen Canyon Dam. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, it’s worth a stop to marvel at this engineering feat that powers so much of the Southwest.
A highly recommended spot in the area is Antelope Canyon. This famous slot canyon is known for its surreal, narrow walls and shifting light, making it one of the Southwest’s most photographed places. However, due to recent changes post-COVID, the local Navajo Nation requires advance reservations through a guided tour, so we had to miss out this time around. Be sure to book ahead if you plan to go—you won’t want to miss it!
After a day packed with awe-inspiring sights, we checked in for the night in Page, knowing tomorrow held even more adventures.
Day 3: Page to Kanab, UT
On day three, we crossed into Utah, aiming for Kanab. Known as “Little Hollywood,” Kanab is the setting of countless Westerns and is full of quirky spots that feel like stepping onto a Southwest movie set.
We decided to dive into the local scene with dinner at Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen. We ordered garlic bread, wild mushroom pizza, and artichoke pizza, and wow—it was a pizza lover’s paradise. There’s something about that wood-fired taste that’s just… unforgettable.
Kanab has this laid-back vibe that instantly puts you at ease, and after dinner, we spent time exploring Little Hollywood itself, checking out all the old film sets and soaking in the charm. It’s easy to see why so many directors chose Kanab as their backdrop.
Last minute stop at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Leaving Kanab, we made a quick detour to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, just a 20-minute drive from town and a must-visit for families and adventure seekers alike.
The park’s vibrant coral-colored dunes are like a playground crafted by nature—expansive, soft, and full of possibilities. Kids can spend hours here, running up and down the dunes, digging in the sand, and marveling at the surreal landscape.
For those looking for a bit more of a southwest adventure, the park offers fantastic off-roading trails where you can kick up some dust and really get into the rugged desert spirit.
The dunes shift and change daily with the wind, creating new paths and features for every visit. It’s also an incredible spot for camping, especially if you’re in an RV; at night, the sky lights up with stars, turning the desert into a peaceful retreat.
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are a hidden gem in the Southwest. They offer a taste of desert fun and quiet beauty just a stone’s throw from Kanab.
Day 4: Back to Las Vegas
Leaving Coral Pink Park, we made our way back to Las Vegas. Each stop along the way had its own story to tell, from the neon nostalgia of Route 66 to the prehistoric charm of Raptor Ranch. If you’re thinking of taking this trip, here’s my advice: take your time, pack a sense of humor, and get ready to make some memories.
This trip was more than just a drive through the Southwest—it was a journey through time, landscapes, and flavors. Each stop holds its own story and charm, reminding you why the road less traveled is worth every mile.
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