Las Vegas may be known for casinos. But the outdoor adventures surrounding the city reveal an entirely different side of the region that rivals some of the most well-known outdoor recreation hubs in the country.
Start your final morning with a one-hour drive to the iconic Devils Tower National Monument, the country’s first national monument. Here, you can hike the scenic 1.3-mile base trail, which winds around the tower’s massive rock formation, or simply soak in the breathtaking views from the visitor center. Devils Tower’s dramatic landscape and rich cultural significance make it a must-see destination for any traveler in the region.
Route 66 isn’t just asphalt and neon, it threads across the ancestral and living homelands of many Indigenous nations. From Potawatomi lands at the Chicago start, through Osage and Kickapoo land in the Midwest, across dozens of Tribal Nations in Oklahoma, to Pueblo communities in New Mexico and Navajo and Hualapai lands in Arizona, more than half of Route 66 runs through Indian Country. For travelers looking to go beyond the kitsch, the most authentic experiences are those led and offered by tribal people themselves. These experiences vary from guided canyon walks and pueblo tours to trading-post galleries, and tribally owned lodgings. Spending your money at these establishments directs tourism dollars to local economies and cultural programs. You can create a positive experience for both yourself and these communities by visiting with gratitude and respect – prepared to learn about the local cultures and histories.
Discover one of America’s most underrated road trip regions on this Great Lakes highlights itinerary. Along the way you’ll find pristine beaches, picturesque lakeshore communities, plenty of outdoor activities on land and water, delicious regional cuisine, a strong winery and brewery culture, deeply-rooted Indigenous heritage, and a year-round loving embrace of these stunning landscapes. Pack the car and hit the road. This is your ultimate Great Lakes region road trip, the highlights edition.
Grand Canyon West is the perfect place to experience the Grand Canyon from a fresh perspective. With world-class viewpoints, exciting adventure activities, and the chance to connect with Native American culture, it’s a destination unlike any other. Whether you’re rafting the Colorado River, standing on the Skywalk, or simply soaking in the views, Grand Canyon West offers an unforgettable adventure that’s perfect for the entire family.
Holbrook, Arizona, is a blend of old and new, wild and quirky. From its petrified forests and colorful rock shops to its retro roadside attractions, this town offers a truly unique Route 66 experience. Holbrook invites travelers to embrace the charm of Route 66 with open arms and a sense of adventure. So, pack your sunscreen and your curiosity, and get ready to explore a town that wears its history proudly.
Guided tours, museums, and sightseeing destinations will help acquaint you with the Indigenous and geological history of Utah’s Canyon Country. Along the way, delightful bites and insightful conversations are guaranteed.
Utah’s Canyon Country features a dynamic landscape; sometimes, the cliff sides are as grooved as a rumble strip, while at others, they seem to flow as lazily as hot fudge on an ice cream sundae. Make sure to pack a pair of binoculars to zoom in on the many cliff dwellings and natural arches that you will see on your trip.
For those seeking adventure, Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 gives tourers a chance to embrace the open road and explore a region rich in culture and natural beauty. This is not just about visiting destinations—it’s about the journey itself, filled with memorable encounters and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Hit the open road and discover the best of Arizona’s Route 66 on a motorcycle. From iconic landmarks to scenic detours, this 5-day itinerary offers a thrilling, alternative way to experience America’s most famous highway. Whether you’re riding through desert landscapes or stopping at quirky roadside attractions, this journey is the ultimate adventure for road trip enthusiasts.