Vegas to Utah Road Trip: Explore Neon Lights and Red Rocks

Greer and I have only known each other for less than a year, and let me tell you, we absolutely adore road-tripping across the country together! This time, we decided to bring along my boyfriend at that time. While we had an incredible time, I must admit, it didn’t quite match the same level of energy. The way Greer and I road trip might not be everyone’s idea of relaxation. We are constantly on the move, belting out tunes with the windows down. Sometimes we skip showers and just go with the flow, whipping up freeze-dried meals on the road. And you know what? Not a single complaint from us! We always made decisions together and communicate openly. If you’re interest in other roadtrips we have done together check it out here:

Now, let me tell you about my ex – talk about high maintenance! Always wanting things his way, blaming me for everything that went wrong – so frustrating! But hey, let’s not dwell on the past. This blog is all about showcasing the incredible sights we saw in Utah. There are endless ways and directions to explore Utah, absolutely no wrong way to do it! We packed so much into a week, yet it feels like we barely scratched the surface! I can’t wait to revisit with my current partner soon – the adventures await!

Day 1: Las Vegas to St George


In 2018, I scored a flight from Austin, TX, to Las Vegas, Nevada, for just $25. Yes, you read that right—twenty-five dollars! It was with Frontier Airlines, and while they’ve definitely earned their reputation today, back then, they weren’t half bad. I mean, who can really complain about a $25 flight? Fast forward to 2024, and let’s just say, that kind of deal feels like a distant dream in today’s economy. Maybe I should do a deep dive on the ups and downs of different airlines one day, but for now, let’s get back to the story.

My friend Greer had been on an epic cross-country journey in January 2018, making her way from Austin to San Diego. We’ve done road trips together before—our first was a memorable trek through the Midwest, where I picked her up in Detroit. This time, we flipped the script. Greer was the one on the move, and she swung by Las Vegas to pick me up to accompany her adventure, destined for Austin once again. You can view our Midwest adventure on through this post:

My flight from Austin to Las Vegas was delayed by an hour, and I made sure to notify Greer before we took off. Once I landed at the Las Vegas airport, I expected a message from her, but as I checked my phone, there was nothing—not a single text during the three-hour flight. It struck me as odd. Had she bailed on me? I knew she had been seeing someone in San Diego, but it didn’t seem like her to just leave me hanging. If she had changed her plans, she would have told me—Greer was notorious for flaking, but she never bailed on a road trip, and she always gave a heads-up when she did. Always. This silence was unsettling, and I began to worry.

I tried calling her, only to realize her phone was off. My heart started to race. Was she okay? Had something happened on the road? A thousand thoughts ran through my mind, each one worse than the last. Just as I felt panic setting in, I heard someone shouting, “ZUUUUUKKKKIIIIIIIII.”

I looked up from my phone to see Greer sprinting—or rather, limping—towards me across the Las Vegas airport. She was moving as fast as she could, despite the knee brace strapped to her leg, a reminder of her recent injury in Saguaro National Park, where she had chipped her patella during a hike. Relief flooded over me as I ran to meet her, and we embraced like characters in a dramatic movie scene—Greer frantic and breathless, me utterly confused.

“Julie, I’m so sorry I’m an hour late! You have no idea what I just went through,” she gasped. “My phone died in San Diego and I was speeding through the Mojave Desert! I had to navigate with a physical map!”

Life’s synchronicities never cease to amaze me. “Greer, I just landed! My flight was delayed by an hour,” I replied, still holding her tight.

We both burst into laughter, the tension melting away in that moment of shared relief and absurdity. What a great start to our reunion—unexpected, a little chaotic, but perfectly us.

Though our trip wasn’t focused on Las Vegas, we couldn’t pass up the chance to soak in the city’s unique vibe, even if only for a couple of hours. Instead of braving the chaos of the Strip, we opted for the Fremont Street Experience, a spot popular with locals. The Strip can be overwhelming, especially when you’re just looking for a quick taste of Vegas.

To our surprise, we even found free parking in Fremont—parking in this area isn’t as terrible as one might expect, which was a pleasant start to our adventure. As we strolled through Fremont, zipliners soared above us, and the sky was completely blocked out by a canopy of neon lights. There’s a distinct “Old Vegas” feel here, evident in the architecture and the blend of vintage and modern lights. Our path led us to Downtown Container Park, home to a giant, flaming Mantis sculpture.

We decided to kick off our trip with a visit to Oak & Ivy, where Greer was more than ready for an Old Fashioned. I passed on the drink since I was the designated driver, but I couldn’t help but appreciate the cool atmosphere.

As I write this, I’ve now been to Las Vegas five times, and interestingly, during my first four visits, I neither gambled nor drank! Las Vegas is surprisingly family-friendly and offers so much more than just a party scene. There’s truly something for everyone. For a deeper dive into all five of my Vegas experiences, you can check out my consolidated blog post here:

  • Vegas Unveiled: 5 Visits Beyond the Party Scene

After our brief stop in Las Vegas, we drove about two hours north into Utah, just across the Nevada border. We arrived in a town called St. George and set up camp at Snow Canyon State Park. As the sun set, we pitched our tent and settled in for a good night’s sleep.

Day 2: The Narrows in Zion National Park

The following morning, we awoke to the breathtaking views of Snow Canyon State Park. Arriving in the pitch black of night had left us completely unaware of the stunning scenery that surrounded us. As dawn broke, the park’s striking red and white rock formations came into full view, creating a dramatic contrast against the brilliant blue sky. The morning sun glittered through the rock layers, painting the sky with incredible hues and illuminating the landscape with a magical glow.

We were mesmerized by the beauty of Snow Canyon, but our adventure called for us to move on. We set out for an hour drive to Zion National Park, having only scratched the surface of what this remarkable area has to offer.

Zion National Park, during the off-peak season in January, was predictably quiet. We were fortunate to enter the park for free, and given the snowy conditions, we opted out of hiking Angel’s Landing. Instead, we chose to explore The Narrows, wading through the Virgin River.

With temperatures around 37°F, renting drysuits was essential to stay warm and dry while hiking through the river. We rented our suits through Zion Adventures for $75 per person, which included both the drysuit and footwear. Putting on the suit was quite a task—Greer accidentally wore hers backwards and, given the difficulty, decided to leave it that way.

Despite the precautions, we decided to go for the adventure. As we ventured into The Narrows, we were enveloped by its breathtaking beauty. The narrow canyon walls, sculpted over millennia by the Virgin River, soared high above us, creating a dramatic, confined space that felt both grand and intimate. The river wound through the canyon floor, its clear, cool water reflecting the towering, multi-colored rock walls.

The smooth, polished stones beneath the water and the vibrant, layered rock faces provided a mesmerizing visual contrast. The play of light and shadow in the overcast sky added to the canyon’s mystical atmosphere. Occasionally, we would catch glimpses of the towering walls receding into the distance, framed by the river’s gentle curves.

Despite the beauty, we were cautious of the potential for flash flooding. We were advised to hold onto the sides of the rocks and move to higher ground if necessary, which was somewhat unsettling. Greer’s injured knee began to struggle, and my ex’s suit started to leak. At my height of 5’1″, there were moments when the river reached up to my chest. Given these conditions, we decided to turn back, concluding our winter adventure in The Narrows.

After our adventure in The Narrows, we drove about three hours to Monroe, Utah, eager to visit the local hot springs. Our accommodation for the night was booked at an Airbnb that offered a rather unconventional stay: a converted school bus. Upon arrival, however, my ex was adamant about not staying in the bus, so we were relieved when the host provided us with a cozy cabin instead.

The cabin turned out to be a perfect retreat, allowing us to unwind after the long drive and prepare for a relaxing soak in the hot springs the following day. The unique experience of staying in a school bus might have added an adventurous twist, but the cabin provided the comfort we needed for a restful night.

Day 3: Mystic Hot Springs, Arches National Park & Olijato-Monument Valley

I woke up the next morning eager to soak in the hot springs. The hot springs in Monroe, Utah, specifically the Mystic Hot Springs, are a hidden gem offering a serene escape amidst the rugged beauty of southern Utah. Nestled in a tranquil landscape, these natural springs are renowned for their warm, mineral-rich waters that provide a relaxing soak against a backdrop of open skies and scenic vistas.

One of the unique features of Mystic Hot Springs is the presence of clawfoot hot tubs set in nature. These vintage-style tubs are placed in picturesque spots around the springs, adding a charming and rustic touch to the experience. The clawfoot tubs, along with several natural pools of varying temperatures, are filled with clear, bubbling water that invites visitors to unwind and soak their cares away.

The water is naturally heated by geothermal activity and is known for its soothing, therapeutic benefits. The surroundings offer views of distant mountain ranges and the expansive desert landscape, creating a perfect retreat after a long drive or a day of exploration. Mystic Hot Springs combines natural beauty with a unique and relaxing experience, making it a memorable stop in Monroe. If know me, I absolutely love hot springs, you can view all the hot springs and bath houses I’ve been to in this blog post:

  • Hot Springs and Bathhouses I Have Visited

Additionally, the hot springs facility provides showers, which were a refreshing treat after our first cleanse. It felt great to get clean and rejuvenated before continuing our journey. If you want to stay where the hot springs are located you can find that link HERE.

After our rejuvenating visit to Mystic Hot Springs, we embarked on a three-hour drive to Arches National Park. As luck would have it, the park was free to enter due to the off-season, but the winter weather presented its own challenges. Before setting out on the trails, we made a quick stop at the visitor center to purchase snow grips, knowing we’d need them to hike safely in the snow.

Despite the extreme cold and snowy conditions, Arches National Park in winter was nothing short of spectacular. The park’s iconic red rock formations, typically vibrant and warm, were strikingly contrasted against the blanket of snow that covered the landscape. The snow added a magical touch, highlighting the arches and rock spires in a way that few other seasons can offer.

The stark white snow against the deep red and orange hues of the sandstone created a dramatic and breathtaking visual. The winter light, often soft and diffused, cast long shadows and added a serene, almost ethereal quality to the scenery. Trails that are usually bustling with visitors were quiet and peaceful, allowing us to experience the park’s beauty in a tranquil and intimate setting.

Landmarks such as Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock were particularly stunning, framed by the snow-covered terrain. The contrast of the icy landscape with the rugged, weathered rock formations made for some truly memorable views. Although the temperatures were frigid, the beauty of Arches National Park in winter made the cold worthwhile, providing a unique and awe-inspiring perspective on this remarkable landscape.

We didn’t have time to visit Canyonlands National Park, which was just across the highway from Arches National Park and a 30-minute drive to enter. So, we decided to drive to our next stay and rest for the night in Olijato-Monument Valley.

In Olijato-Monument Valley, we had the unique opportunity to stay with the Navajo people in a traditional hogan. A hogan is a traditional Navajo dwelling, typically constructed from natural materials like wood, earth, and stone. It has a distinctive, rounded shape with a conical roof, often adorned with a central smoke hole that allows for ventilation. Inside, the space is warm and inviting, with a focus on simplicity and harmony with nature.

Our host handed us a large black rock about the size of a grapefruit, which turned out to be pure coal. She instructed us to heat it up, and it would keep us warm throughout the night. She wasn’t kidding—this coal rock was incredibly effective. We were practically sweating inside the hogan due to the intense heat it generated. It was fascinating to experience how such a simple yet powerful object could provide such warmth.

Staying in a hogan offers a profound connection to Navajo culture and a unique, cozy experience. Because the hogan is still used for ceremonial purposes and retains its traditional design, it doesn’t have electricity or running water. However, solar and rechargeable light lanterns are provided, adding to the authenticity of the stay. If you’re interested in experiencing this cultural immersion on Navajo land, you can find more information HERE.

Day 4: Page & Flagstaff

We woke up early the next morning, and once again, we were awestruck by the Utah view of Olijato-Monument Valley. Having arrived the night before in darkness, we were finally able to fully appreciate the stunning landscape. If I had to revisit any place from this trip, it would undoubtedly be Monument Valley. This destination holds an undeniable magic and spiritual presence that is truly captivating.

Located on the Navajo Nation reservation, Monument Valley is a landscape of immense beauty and cultural significance. The iconic red rock buttes and mesas rise dramatically from the desert floor, creating a striking and surreal panorama. I can only imagine, the interplay of light and shadow on the massive rock formations, especially during sunrise and sunset.

The valley’s vast expanse and intricate, towering rock formations evoke a sense of timelessness and awe. Unlike more crowded national parks, Monument Valley offers a tranquil and contemplative experience, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and feel the profound presence of the land’s ancient history and cultural heritage. Despite its breathtaking beauty, Monument Valley remains somewhat underrated compared to other Southwest destinations. Its remote location and the need to respect Navajo customs and traditions add to its allure, making it a hidden gem for those willing to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Following our unforgettable hogan stay in Monument Valley, we drove two hours to Page, Arizona, to experience the wonders of Antelope Canyon. We opted for the Lower Antelope Canyon tour, which was one of the highlights of the trip. The Lower Canyon’s narrow, winding passageways, sculpted by centuries of water erosion, revealed a breathtaking play of light and shadow. The tour guide provided excellent storytelling about the Navajo Nation, enriching the experience with cultural and historical insights.

After the tour, we drove about 10 minutes to see the famous view of Horseshoe Bend. Though the area was extremely crowded, the view was nothing short of surreal. The sheer scale of the meandering Colorado River as it carved its way through the canyon was breathtaking. We even spotted kayakers navigating the river below, adding to the scene’s dynamism.

We continued our journey south and spent the night in Flagstaff, where we stayed at a cozy hostel. We took the opportunity to unwind by making a homemade dinner, which was a comforting end to an eventful day. Although we had considered visiting the Grand Canyon, we decided to skip it this time due to our limited schedule. Instead, we were excited to head to Sedona the next day to meet our mutual friend Rio.

Day 5: Sedona

We began our journey from Flagstaff to Sedona, an hour’s drive that offers a dramatic shift in scenery. Leaving behind the towering ponderosa pines and blue spruce trees of Flagstaff, the landscape transitions into the iconic red rocks and desert beauty that Sedona is known for. As we drove through Coconino National Forest, the dense, green forest gradually gave way to the vibrant hues of Sedona’s rock formations, creating a stunning visual contrast.

Sedona is renowned for its healing and vortex energies, and having visited some of these vortex spots, I can attest that there is certainly a unique energy present. Our destination was the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, where we were set to meet our friend Rio. After exploring the chapel, we embarked on a few hikes to fully experience the area’s natural beauty. As we continued our adventure, we found a free camping spot through the Bureau of Land Management, opting to stay there for the night. Sedona can be quite pricey with limited accommodation options, so camping under the stars felt like the perfect choice. I had previously visited Sedona and had one of my worst Airbnb experiences, staying with a so-called “spiritual” hoarder. Having stayed in over 100 Airbnbs, that experience left a bit of a bad taste in my mouth.

That night, however, was different. We embraced the simplicity of nature, making a fire, eating freeze-dried food, and singing by the campfire while gazing up at the beautiful stars above. It was a moment of pure, unpretentious connection with the world around us—a reminder that sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments. It was a simple beautiful night filled with friendship.

Day 6: Arcosanti

The following day, we didn’t have to wake up early because our next destination was Arcosanti, just an hour away. Arcosanti, Arizona, is a unique and intriguing destination nestled in the high desert landscape, about an hour north of Phoenix. Founded by architect Paolo Soleri in the 1970s, Arcosanti is an experimental urban community designed to showcase his vision of “arcology,” which combines architecture and ecology.

The site is characterized by its innovative, futuristic architecture and the integration of human habitation with natural surroundings. The structures at Arcosanti are notable for their use of concrete and their organic, sculptural forms, blending harmoniously with the desert environment. The community is designed to be self-sustaining, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact while fostering a high quality of life.

During our visit, we took a tour of the site, exploring the various buildings and learning about Soleri’s vision. We also had the chance to see the iconic Cosanti Bells in the workshop, where bronze bells are cast and rung. The tour provided fascinating insights into Arcosanti’s unique design principles and the philosophy behind arcology.

We stayed the night at Arcosanti, immersing ourselves in the tranquil desert setting and experiencing the community’s distinctive atmosphere firsthand. The blend of architectural innovation and natural beauty made for a memorable stay, adding a new layer of depth to our journey. If you interested in booking a night, you can find that link HERE.

Day 7: Taos, New Mexico

The next day, we faced a long drive of eight hours to reach Taos, New Mexico. Greer joined Rio in his car, while I drove Greer’s car with my ex. The journey was filled with complaints and frustrations, particularly from my ex, who wasn’t happy about the long drive and blamed the planning. Despite the tension and challenging energy, we finally arrived in Taos.

We stayed at Luna Mystica, a charming and unique lodging experience. Luna Mystica is known for its eclectic collection of vintage Airstreams and other retro trailers, offering a cozy and whimsical retreat in the heart of the New Mexico desert. Each trailer is thoughtfully designed with its own distinctive style, providing a memorable and comfortable stay. The setting of Luna Mystica blends beautifully with the surrounding landscape, adding a touch of magic to the experience.

After settling in, we grabbed a couple of drinks at Taos Mesa Brewery, conveniently located right next to Luna Mystica. The brewery had a cool and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after the long drive.

Later that night, we made our way to Black Rock Hot Springs, a natural hot spring nestled along the Rio Grande River. Although the 30-minute drive to the springs felt exhausting after a long day of driving, the experience proved to be truly rewarding. As we soaked in the incredibly hot and relaxing water, enriched with traces of lithium minerals, we were treated to an incredible view of the Milky Way Galaxy above us. The warmth of the spring made us forget the frigid 12°F air, though getting out was a challenge. Despite the shivering and the chilling air, it was a stark reminder of our vitality and a profound sense of gratitude for the experience.

Returning to Luna Mystica, we retired to our Airstream, feeling the day’s exhaustion melt away under the starry New Mexico sky. The combination of natural beauty, unique accommodations, and the soothing hot spring experience made for a memorable end to a long day.

Day 8: Driving back to Austin, TX

Greer and Rio woke up early to head back to Austin, as they had a house meeting at their co-op later that evening. With a 12-hour drive ahead and a one-hour time difference, they left around 4 a.m. to make it to their 6 p.m. meeting. I, however, was stuck traveling with my ex, who was, to put it simply, a terrible travel buddy. I did not enjoy traveling with him at all—he was always a difficult companion on the road. So you can only imagine how my 12-hour drive back to Austin was; we won’t get into the details, haha.

Thankfully, things have changed for the better. Traveling with my current partner, Adam, is a joy, and he’s become my favorite person to explore with, even surpassing my wonderful experiences with Greer (gasp!). Despite my frustrations, this trip was definitely another worthwhile adventure in the Zuki and Greer road trip chronicles!