Best Way to Road Trip the Four Corners States & Grand Circle

[@johnchedsey1306]

If it's summer, I'd suggest Canyon De Chelly (which is just utterly stunning) -> Monument Valley -> Horseshoe Bend -> North Rim of Grand Canyon (which lacks the crowds) -> Zion. This is more interesting than freeways and Vegas. Another spot to work in for those who have time is Natural Bridges National Monument and do a six mile hike that goes into the canyon and under the massive rock arches. One of the best park/monument visits I've ever done.

[@jonathantitus2629]

Oh no please don't recommend the North Rim--we like it just the way it is... :)

[@rghill1]

Tip: visit Grand Canyon when it's cold. It really cuts down on the crowds. I agree about skipping Painted Desert. Meteor Crater near Winslow can be interesting. Hit the parks around Flagstaff during the free entry days for National Parks.

[@edsteadham4085]

Mesa Verde in Colorado is really interesting and beautiful. Out of the way so it doesn't get as much attention as some other parts, but well worth it. Spooky, knowing that people lived on those cliffs for hundreds of years. We don't know where they come from, who they were, or where they went.

[@tysonplett3328]

We went to Moab via Colorado last winter, and I highly recommend traveling here in the winter! Arches was not busy at all, and we basically had Canyonlands to ourselves. Plus we got to do some skiing on the way there. I would love to go deeper into the four corners region in the future!

[@lunarstain7545]

Oh man! Do NOT skip the Petrified Forest! I utterly loved it! Please don’t skip!

[@PeakBagger999]

I enjoyed it as well.

[@Borritoification]

Dude. You sharted and left a lunar stain on your pants

[@brucesmith9144]

Best to visit it early or late day as the colors are more vibrant at those times than midday.

[@firefalcoln]

I agree. The petrified forest was neat. And it probably still is boring assuming all the rocks haven’t been taken by now. I do agree with the video however that the 4 corners is a good thing to skip.

[@Texas808]

Went on a road trip this previous summer with a few of my friends (were all teenagers) and a very underrated spot is shiprock New Mexico. One of the craziest geographical sites I’ve ever seen and we were the only people there! Only downside is there’s almost nothing around it.

[@robfreedman6496]

Antelope Canyon is a gem here in Arizona!

[@turkeybowlwinkle4440]

I got to spend 2 days in the Glen Canyon Rec Area and I'm itching to go back. Visited the lower Antelope slot canyon as well as Horseshoe Bend, the Glen Canyon Dam and took a boat ride (8 hour round trip) to Rainbow Bridge. There's a ton of great scenery and things to do outside of the national parks.

[@bhg123ful]

It is! Though it is crowded though. Antelope Canyon and nearby Horseshoe Bend have suffered from the instagram effect. Last time I stopped at Horseshoe Bend I couldn't believe how they expanded the parking area, and now charged!! I went there three years prior, and it was a smaller, free dirt parking lot.

[@garry1214]

Kyle, thanks for this video and the others that you have published on You Tube. My family and I just returned, (7/19/2019) from a 2 1/2 week cross country trip to the Southwest. We saw everything that was on our list plus more. I had watched and taken notes from your videos to help make our trip a success. It was so pleasurable keep up the videos. We did; Slugbug, Cadillac Ranch, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, Four Corners, Monument Valley, Arches, Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon North Rim, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon South Rim, Meteor Crater and Winslow . Hiking in all of the NP except Death Valley.

[@GeographyKing]

Sounds like a great road trip. I'm glad the videos were useful. That's why I'm here!

[@scottb.7239]

I never realized how the time spent doing Four Corners was time away from more time in Monument Valley ...I was young , my friends and I were novice road trippers ...like you , hate the crowds ...Keep up the great work Kyle (hope I spelled your name right) ..thanks Buddy ...new subscriber Scott

[@GeographyKing]

Thank you! Welcome to the channel!

[@garyrobbins9197]

I was disappointed that you didn't talk about the San Juan Mountains with Silverton, Durango, Lake City and Creede.

[@brandonmckibben1164]

100 percent right. The cozy little town of Ouray is my favorite place probably on earth.

[@MontanaYeti406]

We have enough tourists, thanks

[@Ryan-dc6lj]

Great info, great video! I've had the pleasure of doing most of these things, albeit on separate trips. I'd like to recommend that if you're driving across Colorado and can spare a day or two, take the more remote southern route and hit Sand Dunes and Black Canyon. This route is much easier if you're coming from Texas because you'll enter CO on I-25 and can more easily divert westward in Trinidad. Not to deviate too much from the route you are discussing, but the middle of the C is accessible, desolate, and beautiful.

[@smileystevie9662]

Thanks for sharing an insightful video on Grand Circle road trip.

[@christophernewhart4284]

You skipped antelope canyon and page arizona as well as SEDONA!! Everyone must take the drive from flagstaff to sedona once in their lives. Beautiful

[@irestv1344]

I literally was going to say "leaving Sedona off this list is a sin" lol Sedona is heavenly and yes the drive from flagstaff to Sedona is wonderful, I love the views in tonto there.

[@nickyl9040]

Helluva downhill drive in winter when the switchbacks are covered in snow

[@mitchellwintercat]

most informative vid ive seen in 2 mths research on youtube! ty

[@GeographyKing]

Thank you. I'm glad it helped!

[@drumnjazz]

My man with Swamp Dogg’s Rat On! LP in the background! Amazing. My new favorite channel.

[@EnglishFlorals]

Really enjoyed your video! Great tips. We plan on doing the Mighty Five in 2024 so this video was very helpful. Thank you for sharing.

[@anthonykoeslag]

Could you talk about universal access, like wheelchair access, when you do your videos. A lot of people have relatives with mobility issues and it would be nice to know where is good to go. I'm an independent active person in a wheelchair, I like traveling on my own and sketching, but it can be a massive waist of time and money to arrive and find what was advertised as 'accessible' turns out to be 'impossible with out assistance' or just simply limited to the guest shop, restaurant and a single car park with no view of interest.

[@e020443]

I've lived in Grand Junction, CO, and Farmington, NM, among other places in these four states. You speak truth.

[@turkeybowlwinkle4440]

Colorado National monument is one of my favorite parks.

[@romanfairy]

I've lived in Colorado almost 30 years, you HAVE to LEAVE I70 or you only get traffic and people and nothing else. There are SO MANY AMAZING THINGS AND PLACES NO WHERE NEAR THAT HIGH WAY.

[@brianthompson1045]

You my friend are hilarious! Great entertaining and informative video

[@KB-ns4sn]

Totally agree with his comments about the 4 Corners visitor center

[@kayzeaza]

When I was younger a friend and I left the east coast and tired to drive to 4 corners in one drink. Well at 3 in the morning in the middle of Oklahoma I got so ill from all the driving that I ended up turning us around. Always regretted it but I knew after 24 hours of driving it was the right choice

[@lifeadventuresrentalsinc2026]

Thanks for the video and great information! Agree about skipping Grand Canyon, the Utah parks are just much more impressive. I’m proud to say I have seen everything you’ve recommended in the video. Thanks

[@rjjefferson6540]

See the Grand Canyon from the north rim. Harder to access, but no crowds and great views!

[@margusparts4913]

Thumbs up for the Swamp Dogg album cover. Cool video as well. Take care.

[@johannadelbusto7987]

This is one of my dreams...thank you for the insights and info 🙏

[@joeg5414]

Nice! I live near Durango CO so a lot of these places are a weekend or even day trip away. HWY 50/550 from Grand Junction to Albuquerque is a really nice drive in the summer. Be careful in the winter though. You can hit Mesa Verde on the way too. I've never been and it's an hour from me but it is a cool place. Been to 4 corners when I was a kid but it's not worth the time. Times better spent in Durango, Silverton, Ouray...something like that. Silverton is a cool little town. Take the old train from Durango to Silverton. That's a big tourist thing in Durango.

[@jimmymcclain6757]

I live in Cortez, I see Mesa Verde out my window everyday, beautiful place to live and be

[@georgeedelblute6282]

Hi Kyle, I have viewed a good number of your videos, and since I have a traveling Jones as you obviously do, I really enjoy them.. this area of the US in particular is well worth an extended visit. My wife and I have made 5 trips to this region from Pennsylvania and have found something interesting every time. The Arches, 4 corners, petrified forest, the painted desert , Mesa Verde and of course the Grand Canyon are just a few of the gems we discovered on our trips. Just wanted to say great job and keep up the good work Kyle.

[@GeographyKing]

Thank you!

[@sharibrodersen704]

Definitely agree wiht Canyonlands over the Grand Canyon. I went to Canyonlands several years before I visited the Grand Canyon and when I did I felt like I had seen it already and I didn't have to put up with the crowds. I live in the Denver area so I've had plenty of opportunity to explore this region in depth and you have certainly skipped a lot of things but you're right; you just wouldn't have time to see it all in even a month. You offer up a good selection of high points and less visited but great spots like Walnut Canyon. Really enjoy your channel.

[@sharonallen6921]

I am so glad I found this video. It is exactly the trip I am wanting to take. I agree with your recommendations. I did Grand Canyon, Brice and Zion a few years back and I'd visit Brice and Zion again but the Grand Canyon I just don't get the fascination with it. To many people and since I'm getting a little long in the tooth I'm not going to trek 2 miles down a canyon and have to be rescued to get back up the canyon! I also did Vegas and while I don't gamble the lights at night are beautiful. You pretty much mapped out my trip - the "C", Yellowstone and Grand Tetons 4 - 6 weeks depending on how my arthritis moves me! Thank you so much. You really did a fantastic job explaining why or why not do certain side trips. A+ on this video. ~Sherrie from South Carolina

[@GeographyKing]

Thank you very much for your comment. I'm glad you were able to get the information you needed. Grand Teton is a great park that has nice mountain landscape to contrast with the desert and canyons. Sounds like a great trip!

[@sergiodavila5269]

Amigo….the last years I lived in California from 1991-1993, we would visit Texas every summer & we’d do that trip to catch the 4 Corners, the Petrified Forest, The Painted Desert, Carlsbad Caverns, The Grand Canyon & even making that huge detour into Utah to see the Arches. I get why you’d say some of that trip is a waste, but being the Geographic/History geek that I was when I was 15-18, plus I teach geography & world history now, I found all those stops beautiful & worthy. I found your insight to all these places very refreshing & I’m enjoying your channel bro. Keep it up!!! 👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽👊🏽

[@9Dakine]

Very helpful advice. I also agree on skipping the Grand Canyon if that means you can spend more time at the other parks.

[@dougsundseth6904]

I would definitely do a circle rather than a U-shaped drive. With a circle, you can hit Capulin Volcano National Monument, Bandelier National Monument, and Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument and Santa Fe isn't a detour. Alternatively, you can go from Santa Fe up through Taos along the Rio Grande Canyon and into the San Luis Valley to see Great Sand Dunes National Park. And the drive from Alamosa up through the San Luis Valley and South Park is quite pretty as well. (Stop at South Park City, which is an open air mining town museum in Fairplay.) I wouldn't skip the Grand Canyon, but I'd skip the South Rim. The North Rim is much less crowded, has better weather in the summer, and is at least as pretty as the South Rim. On that road, the tour of Glen Canyon Dam is very interesting, and if you have the time, there are several places in and near Page that are great. (If you can get a pass into The Wave ... there's a lottery ... it's very much worth the time.) And I wouldn't spend much effort to go to either Wupatki or Sunset Crater, neither is great. Meteor Crater, however, even though it is privately owned, is unlike anything else and worth a few hours. I'd also skip Las Vegas, NV, both because by going to the north rim it's inconvenient and because I cordially despise virtually all the tourist sites in town. At Bryce, you absolutely want to hike down into the canyon. The views from the bottom are as spectacular as they are from the top. I'd also recommend Kodachrome Basin and the trip across the desert to Grosvenor Arch. After Capitol Reef, I _strongly_ recommend a stop at Goblin Valley State Park. It's an amazing place and every bit as striking as Arches. And Natural Bridges National Monument is amazing and has very few visitors. At Canyonlands, the side trip into Dead Horse Point State Park is just as pretty and worth the time. After Moab, I'd _definitely_ stop at Colorado National Monument, which is one of the prettiest places in the National Park System. Frankly, I'd skip Arches to go to Colorado National Monument. And on your loop, I'd go over Trail Ridge Road to enter Rocky Mountain National Park from the west. If you are going to Mesa Verde, I'd drive the Million Dollar Highway through Ouray. It's an amazing road and takes you up toward the Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP, which is also remarkable.

[@pablol5472]

I would make it a smaller circle closing in from Moab to Monument Valley, Chelly Canyon and Petrified Forests. Do CO and NM some other time. Great choice of places, add Sedonna as well.

[@texasflood1295]

I agree with almost all of the advice on Doug’s post. I especially recommend Bandelier National Monument , the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon NP, Zion NP and the west entrance into Rocky Mountain NP. Bandelier has some of the best camping of any park in the West (excellent summer weather, low to non-existent crowds). The North Rim has cooler summer weather and smaller crowds than the South Rim. The hiking trails down into Bryce Canyon are SPECTACULAR. The most interesting (and scary) hiking I have ever done is the trail up to Angel’s Landing in Zion NP. Hiking the Virgin River trail is also worth doing. If you stay in Grand Lake you can avoid the massive crowds around Estes Park when visiting Rocky Mountain NP.

[@dagriggstar]

For those of us outside the US, doing a circle saves you alot on the cost of a rental car. My group used Vegas as the start finish as that had the cheapest rental cars. I think grand canyon and canyonlands are different enough to do both if you are hiking (like full day hiking). Otherwise yeah the view from the top is fairly similar and grand viewpoint probably has the best view. Surprised Page wasnt mentioned. My group rented kayaks there and went the back way to Antelope Canyon. No light beams, but you get a slot canyon almost to yourself, pretty cool

[@karnubawax]

Right on all counts. Page has a lot going for it and it is DIRT CHEAP. Antelope Canyon is right there. Also, correct about rental car prices - MUCH cheaper in Vegas!

[@katieandkevinsears7724]

If you're looking for a great place to eat in Moab, go to Milt's Stop and Eat. It's amazing and historic.

[@charlie990]

Can confirm about the cold weather at Bryce! It was August and I was freezing there after 95+ in Zion and 110+ in Death Valley!

[@brettwarner719]

I like the C route, but I would contend that starting further south on I25 and going west of Walsenberg to get to Alamosa via the Great Sand Dunes National Park is a great start to the journey. The dunes are fun to see in the winter when its cool, and the park adjuncts Blanca Peak and the Sangre DeCristo mountains. Its a great park and was lightly trafficked when I was there. I understand its not possible for everyone as Denver has to be the starting location due to the airport, but this detour is a good one.

[@brucesmith9144]

Really enjoyed this video as I’ve had the pleasure of visiting most of the places you chronicled. But I covered it in 3 separate trips each about 10-12 days leaving 2 days of travel (by air) to go to Denver, Las Vegas and Albuquerque from the East Coast. People from the East Coast will be surprised to see that a lot of driving is required to reach of these parks. Your point about Mesa Verde - and it should be visited (ABQ is a good starting point) - is that from entrance of the park to the visitor’s center is a whopping 21 miles, all at park posted road speeds. Visitors should plan to stay at the park and for at least 2-3 days.

[@Episcopalianacolyte]

I lived in Page, Arizona for a year. It is a beautiful place.

[@davidmollard9832]

I'm glad I found your channel. Didn't know people were in to this kind of thing. Like I am. Love the map videos. Subscribed and hope to take my kids on many of these trips. Just bought a camper a few months ago

[@gfgafo8]

Really enjoyed the video and super helpful. Originally planned a 2 week trip coming from South Texas headed to 4 corners, a few main points in South Utah, grand canyon and possibly vegas. I still have a week to reroute ourselves and will be adjusting our trip.

[@GeographyKing]

I'm happy you enjoyed the video. The only negative of this route is deciding what you'll have to skip because there's just so much to see over a short period of time! But I guess that's a good problem to have.

[@solarapacifica991]

A thank you in advance. We won't be able to hit most of the places butstill the information is helpful

[@bhg123ful]

I agree that anytime of the year is doable, but winter can be COLD. Honestly I would say May and June are the perfect months. I also recommend do a Navajo guided tour of Monument Valley. You learn a little more about the Navajo culture talking with the locals, you can ask the guides anything. It was only 75 and overcast that day and it was June three years ago. However, if one wants to hike the Narrows of Zion, its important to know that May and June they are typically closed as the Virgin river is the river is too high and fast at that time. I went to Moab and nearby areas last year in August. You just have to go hike early. I got to Delicate Arch trailhead around 8:30 when it was around 80F, got back around 10:00 or so and it was in the low 90s. I then went hiking around the Windows for about an hour and a half, but they were short trails, though it was around 100 around noon, so went into town. I actually checked out the microbrew. Spent the hottest part of the afternoon, hanging out by the Colorado river near the Fisher Towers, and then drove up to Grandview point, Canyonlands to see the sunset.

[@aninterestedparty1426]

Thank you for the journey. I am a fan of this channel so my “criticisms” are well intended, and I’d like them to land in the Contructive column. First (of 2) thoughts: please include more quick cuts to road maps as you proceed on your way, to orient the viewer. I’ve been through the area a few times - been to almost everyplace you mention except actually camping in Canyonlands NP (just rode through it) - and always on a motorcycle, but I still would have appreciated some re-orientation map-jumps - just a second or two - esp. with the lesser known spots. Secondly, wow, Monument Valley, skipped!? I have to second the opinion of another viewer who said that was the Single Best stop on the entire 4-corners loop! And the ride in, from the north, on 163, also will never be forgotten. Mesa Verde, too, I think was well worth the “detour,” especially if you appreciate Native American civilization. But it’s not even a detour depending on the route one chooses; it’s actually, well kind of, in the neighborhood of Monument Valley, if you want to prioritize those spots. Still, thanks for the pointers. Will take a closer look at Canyonlands next time out. P.S.: I really don’t think the Grand Canyon should be skipped. For many if not most people, being in the Four Corners area is a once, or twice, in a lifetime experience. Take your allotted time in Vegas and shift it there, to the Canyon, would be my suggestion, if time is that short. People can always fly to Vegas for a cheap package tour, with shows, one armed bandits and buffets, if bright lights are what you’re after. But again: more road maps please!

[@andydrew03]

Nice video. I love the intro! 😃

[@GeographyKing]

Thanks man. I appreciate it.

[@jacobgaldo1362]

if you take the detour to vegas valley of fire and redrock are lovely with short hikes if the strip isn’t your speed

[@donnabrowne5307]

Amen! A spectacular, otherworldly site of highly colored, dynamic rock formations. It was 116 degrees the day I visited, so schedule accordingly if you want to hike.

[@CosmicStargoat]

I've visited every place you mentioned, and totally agree with your itinerary. Capitol Reef is magnificent. Then, you can eat at Duke's Slickrock Grill in Hanksville on the way to Arches and Canyonlands.

[@vl8835]

I completely agree about skipping the Grand Canyon.

[@The_Cptn_Louk]

I'm so confused with this trip. I will come all the way from Greece, and most probably never again. I want to see as much as I can. Including the Canyon of course! Thank for the info man great approach

[@jackmessick2869]

Check out Geography King's other video about visiting the United States from another country and what surprises are in store for you. The main thing is that you CAN'T visit it all, because the distances in America are enormous. It takes 6 days to drive across the country from one coast to the other, and that is without stopping except to sleep. Best thing is to check out his video, or a travel video from Wolters World about visiting the USA.

[@zacchastain1]

Just discovered your channel today. I'm a big travel guy. Utah is most definitely my favorite state. Have you ever been to Goblin Valley State Park in the San Rafael Swell? If not I would recommend checking it out. It's close to Moab.

[@lokeshyaganti6717]

Hi zac, Does it take long hiking time?

[@MusicBent]

Some sections of this trip are quite remote, specially in the Navajo nation / monument valley. (You will need cash here by the way). I recommend carrying extra food, water, a blanket, spare tire, inflator, flashlight, etc. you likely wind need any of it, but you’ll be very glad you have it if you do. I also highly recommend a paper atlas. You will not have cell service in large portions of this trip.

[@TheBloatedPony]

Great information. I'm all the way in favor of fewer humans. Love the tips.

[@captsam54]

Awesome.. hope to move out there someday soon. and travel round in my Land Yacht...

[@toddfrye1922]

You missed the boat by not recommending Monument Valley Tribal Park. I believe it to be the most magical 4 Corners location.

[@lylelay]

AGREE!

[@01splitpea]

Love your videos like no other, Geo King! Would you mind flashing the names of lesser known locations (ex: Wupatki Nat'l Monument) on the screen? Cheers! Owlpower

[@Allofthemonkeys]

As a Utah native, skip Zion. If you though Grand Canyon was too crowded, waiting two hrs for the shuttle sucks

[@mauricelevasseur9987]

Excellent! Merci

[@kfilmsproduction5667]

1:29 around 2 hours east of grand junction is for wood caverns they have a cute little amusement park on top of a huge cliff and cave tour it does not get the recognition it deserves!!!!!!!!

[@jordanschoenenberger4397]

14:18 That is actually Lake Ohara in Yoho National park, BC.

[@hhch2]

Thank you for this video. I hate crowds.

[@josephayers-irusota2965]

Hey Geography King, Arches or Canyonlands? We did arches on the way back from Montana a couple of years ago and it was amazing. Mesa Verde and Sand Dunes in Colorado weren't bad either!

[@joansidor5191]

Page, AZ. Antelope Canyon is worth the drive. Joan

[@rupman27isback]

What the hell was that opening scene???

[@77hodag]

Nice shout-out for Edward Abbey - also the author of “The Monkey Wrench Gang” - he passionately loved that part of the country.

[@carltuttle8272]

That’s a nice Bat Sticker you have there.

[@GeographyKing]

It's like a secret handshake

[@edwesby5752]

I have done touring several times in the area you are talking about and I have a slightly different opinion for a circle route and what to see. I think you'll need about 3 weeks to see it. I agree with skipping the Petrified Forest, except if you are driving by there on I-40 do stop in the visitor's center. You'll see all you need to see right there; its not worth the drive through the park. I would recommend taking I-70 west and then in Limon, Co take the exit Rt-24 that goes straight to Colorado Springs. In Colorado Springs a visit to the US Air Force Academy is worth an hour or so. But for sure drive up Pike's Peak.. Then after Pike's Peak take state RT-115 South to Canon City and visit the Royal Gorge. You can spend a couple hours there and take the incline to the bottom of the gorge which is 1,000 feet deep. Then continue on RT-50 to RT-285 south to RT-160 west/south to Durango, Co (maybe spend the night there and/or take the narrow gauge railroad ride through the area) Then continue on to Mesa Verde National Park. Then continue on on RT-160 to Four Corners. Yes its on an Indian reservation and they do charge per car, but not much. Then stay on RT-160 until you get to RT-89 and follow that south to the eastern entrance to the Grand Canyon on RT-64. You'll see parts of the Canyon that most people do not see and there is not much traffic using the east entrance. Then leave the Grand Canyon via its south entrance and take I-40 west to Kingman and then RT-93 to Las Vegas. When you leave Vegas take an hour or so and visit Red Rock Canyon, just northwest of Vegas. Then take I-15 North and you'll enjoy one of the most scenic highway drives in the west, the Virgin River Gorge. Then take the exit at RT-9 and drive trough Zion National Park. At the Eastern entrance to Zion take RT-89 north to get to Bryce Canyon. When you leave Bryce take RT-89 north to I-70 east. You can then get to Canyonland National Park and Arches National Park on your way back to Denver.

[@PurpleMonkeyDishwasher88]

Another thing to note of "Four Corners" and why you shouldn't go there, is because they do close early, and the location is pretty remote with just local highways to get there. Better time spent just going to Monument Valley, which you can also drive through or go on horseback or hike.

[@lylelay]

Skipping the Canyon would be the biggest mistake of a lifetime. My first view of the canyon led to a lifetime addiction. DO NOT drive the strip in Vegas - WALK IT - The Traffic is INSANE you can't see anything because you have to watch cars. Zion is pretty Do not miss the North rim of the Grand Canyon 1/10th the crowd at the south rim. Bryce!

[@minshullj]

I love the body language. Christopher Reeve would be proud.

[@2Large4U]

Great video, I enjoy this style of your videos! Just curious, do you always take the same car when you do these road trips? If so, how many miles does it have? Thanks!

[@johnfarrelly4753]

If you walk to Delicate Arch before sunrise, they will be no one there until the first Asian tour bus unload and coat the Arch with people rand you will never get that photo you wanted to get. When you are going to Canyonlands on the way in the Island in the Sun , stop at Dead Horse State Park. John Wayne used it in lots of movie and it was also used in the First Stars movie.

[@jaksap]

A bit weird to do "four corners tour" and avoid 4 corners area. Yes, that attraction itself is cheesy. You can do Vegas - Zion (very touristy and not that great) - Brice - Moab (Arches, Canyonlands - those two are top) - Mesa Verde or Hovedweep (optional) - drive by Monument valley, Page - Horseshoe bend - approach Grand Canyon from the east (less busy) - drive back to Vegas. That is a convenient full circle. NM attractions are out of the way (Whitesands, Carlsbad, Santa Fe).

[@SPR8364-0]

I'm pretty sure the photo at 14:16 is in Canada and not Rocky Mountain National Park. Also, you missed some great places along I-70 in Colorado. Colorado National Monument, Glenwood Hot Springs, Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon, Vail Pass, Idaho Springs.

[@dagriggstar]

Lake O'hara if I'm not mistaken

[@StevePicaGCT]

If you are more of an outdoors person, I would skip the city of Las Vegas COMPLETELY and head to Valley of Fire State Park. Less than 60 miles from the city, a beautiful park with some amazing geologic formations and a really nice visitor center. IMHO, a nice alternative especially if you're not a big fan of Vegas.

[@donnabrowne5307]

Huge thumbs up for VOF!

[@JH-fb3mp]

Goblin Valley is worth a few-hour/half-day stop if you're coming up from Capitol Reef

[@HERO_DREAMER]

The Vegas area has some more nature-focused places to visit, including the Springs Preserve and Red Rock Canyon NCA

[@cardsfanlv9371]

I think the San Juan mtns in SW Colorado are not to be missed if you are in this area.

[@maryfeitz4295]

As a park ranger, I'm glad you don't recommend murder in national parks. 😂

[@MikeP2055]

Just fly into St. George, Utah and zig-zag through the five best National Parks in the country. You can skip the other states altogether (said the lifelong Utahn). Just kidding. I've been to literally every place you mentioned (for real) and the entire region is gorgeous.

[@stevebrooks1355]

Wait wait a minute - how did you get from Cap Reef to Moab WTH? Try Goblin Valley next time

[@michellezeller828]

Capitol Reef is my favorite Utah National Park too! So underrated! SHHHH... We don't want it crowded Grand Canyon. 😉

[@davidschultz982]

Do you actually have a route guide somewhere that lists the highway you cover in the trip

[@SilverStrand43]

Is there a road trip that you might recommend, weather, traffic, tips, etc?

[@WLSGurlz]

Thanks for the informational videos. I do have a request though, We are planning a 3 week trip with our dog. So it would be more of a sightseeing trip in the car and gathering some information on future trips than it would be hiking to viewing areas because of not leaving the dog in the car. I was thinking about visiting Sedona AZ, Zion, Bryce, Moab, Jackson Wy, and Estes Park Co. I will be coming from SC and be driving about 3 days out and 3 days back. Do you have any suggestions on sightseeing trips or do you have a better driving itinerary for a first trip? We have never been west of Nashville Tn before.

[@GeographyKing]

Sounds like a good plan for a trip. If you were interested in walking/hiking with your dog you can do that at any number of state parks in the region. Utah has some especially nice state parks. Bryce Canyon is great for just driving through. You can see a lot of great scenery by parking the car and walking less than 50 yards to a viewpoint. But just driving in that whole region is great. Some of the most beautiful drives in the US. I'd recommend taking state highways across Utah between Zion and Moab, going right through Capitol Reef National Park. It's probably the best drive of them all. You can also drive from Jackson, WY through Grand Teton and Yellowstone all the way to Gardiner, MT and up to I-90 from there. You'll see a ton of bison and elk if you do. Depending on when you go, it'll likely be either hot in Arizona and Utah or cold in Wyoming so make sure you've got clothes for all weather. If it's October or later plan for snow in Wyoming or higher elevations in Colorado. Even if you don't care about stopping in Vegas, I can recommend driving up and down the Strip if you'll be driving through there at night. I also always recommend Santa Fe because it's so unique. If you don't have GPS make sure you bring paper maps because you won't have a phone signal through a lot of the areas not on an interstate. Check out those Verizon or at&t coverage maps and look at all that white space around there! If you haven't been West, keep in mind that the term "middle of nowhere" means something a lot different out there. There'll be times when you're over an hour or so to the next sign of civilization. Don't wait until the low fuel light is on before getting gas! You'll have limited opportunities to fill up in many places and even fewer opportunities for restaurants or groceries. I'm sure you'll have a blast on the trip.

[@monojkumar7288]

nice video, I am going to travel with 5 yr old and 6 yr old what would you recommend to skip if there is too much hike or going to be too long walks to avoid ?

[@GeographyKing]

All of the national parks have short and long hikes, but in my opinion Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches give you the most scenery with the least amount of hiking. You can see a lot at those parks without having to get far from the car. Canyonlands and Grand Canyon require longer hikes to get the most out of them. Hope you have a great trip!

[@roy.mclean]

What time of year might be the best for this trip? I'm going to Yellowstone in September and I'm considering doing this afterward. Two weeks doesn't sound like enough.

[@lcarter194]

I am going to have to disagree about 4 corners. Yes, it's out the way but I haven't seen it You have. I loved Capitol Reef for the accessibility. We stayed in Torrey at an old schoolhouse converted to Bed and Breakfast. Great little town to uses as an anchor point to enjoy the Reef.

[@christopherrhanuscin4103]

i saw down below you offered some advice to a scott pezwoski. i am interested in a road trip from So Cal we have about 10-12 days beginning of November . we could skip vegas. but what would your itinery look like? really interested in yellowstone for the wildlife and would we be able to get far enough for mount rushmore? thanks for your help

[@GeographyKing]

Getting all the way to South Dakota might be pushing it a bit. I'd start the trip in the northern parts because it could be pretty cold in Yellowstone in November. Plan on at least 2 days at Yellowstone. I think one day at each of the 5 Utah national parks (perhaps 2 days at Zion and Canyonlands) would be good. That's about what your limit would be 10-12 days. You could definitely see a lot.

[@rickyfever]

I love your subtle dark jokes lol

[@coppermtnram]

Moab has a great rock shop

[@busterbeagle2167]

Agreed. However petrified forest is sweet

[@busterbeagle2167]

The devils garden trail can get tricky when you u get way out. My wife and I nearly got turned around and “lost”. It was a eye opener

[@busterbeagle2167]

I miss Utah so much. Lived in Sandy. Ooooo the silence of the desert

[@xxkevinvxx]

Canyonlands > Grand Canyon (but both are incredible!)

[@jonathanhernandez3664]

We are thinking of road tripping through Zion and Bryce in late February and early March. Would you say Bryce is going to be a snowy mess during that time?

[@GeographyKing]

February and March will probably be pretty cold at Bryce but it might not be super snowy. But I would definitely expect and plan for snow. Zion will be milder but still a little chilly.

[@karnubawax]

I've been to Bryce in May - and it was below freezing and snowing.

[@orangelab6846]

Bryce Canyon is THE place to be. Much more impressive and colorful than the Grand. Although having a snowball fight at the north rim in May '98 was fun.

[@MoonCobalt]

the 4 corners monument is not where the 4 corners is. The 4 corners is a little bit more northwest than it says

[@natureexplorationswithbria9343]

Would you say there even is such a thing as the four corners of the United States? It is actually in the Sovereign Navajo Nation. Or is it correct to say the Navajo Nation is split by the state borders?

[@jeannemarlene]

Thank you

[@brandonmckibben1164]

Do NOT skip the grand canyon if you haven't seen it before. More worth the wait and people than Yellowstone by FAR.

[@Fluffychoupikkos]

I am kind of a nerd , I can't help it

[@scottpez]

Great tips! If we want to start in Denver, and end in Denver 7 days later, do you think this is too long of a drive? Do you have a recommendation for another route that is shorter? We probably wouldn't camp either.

[@GeographyKing]

You'd have to decide what are the most important things you want to see. I'd recommend on the first day, drive to Moab. The second day you can see the best of Arches and Canyonlands in one day if you don't do any serious hiking. The third day you could drive through Capitol Reef without even stopping there and end up at Bryce and do the drive and viewpoints through Bryce. The fourth day you could see Zion. Not sure if you're planning on Vegas, but if not then the 5th day drive to Flagstaff. Depending on when you got there, you might be able to see at least one of the nearby National Monuments if you're interested in those. The sixth day drive to Santa Fe and spend the night there. On the seventh day you'd get back to Denver. It'd be a busy week, but nonetheless a great trip.

[@kentw.england2305]

Excellent advice, esp. Four Corners waste of time.