Whether you wish to explore the scenic landscapes, natural landmarks, small towns, or as many attractions as possible, a Denver to Las Vegas road trip is a great fit
A Denver to Las Vegas road trip is a must-do for most Coloradans. This Mile High to Sin City drive offers one of the best routes in the southwest United States. You can see it all on the way from Denver to Las Vegas, from the stunning Rocky Mountains to natural monuments, Old West towns, incredible national parks and vibrant cities. Fill your car up with gas when you have a chance and you’ll have unlimited options for things to do along the road trip route.
Stops
1. Denver
2. Vail, CO
3. Glenwood Springs, CO
4. Cisco, UT
5. Arches National Park
6. Las Vegas
Info at a glance
- 14-day trip
- Type of Trip: Nature
- 6 stops along the way
- 811 miles of driving
Highlights
- Catch an entertaining performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver.
- Ski, hike or snowboard at Vail Ski Resort, the largest in Colorado.
- Relax in the hot springs pool in Glenwood Springs.
- Travel back in time by exploring the ghost town of Cisco.
- Relish the unique landscape of Arches National Park.
Getting to the Start
This road trip starts and ends in Denver. If you are coming from another part of the country, you can take a flight to Denver International Airport and pick up a rental car directly from the airport. With SIXT, it is easy to rent an SUV meant for your comfort. For travelers arriving by car, Denver boasts a well-connected road network, guaranteeing a hassle-free travel experience. You can drive into the city via I-15 from the south or north and I-70 from the west or east. Also, Amtrak provides train service to Denver from over 315 other locations around the country.
When to Visit
The Denver to Las Vegas route features abundant winter snow, which provides some of the most fantastic skiing and snowboarding adventures in the US. However, summer offers magnificent landscapes and various outdoor activities. To enjoy the outdoors along the route, consider scheduling your trip during the summer, between May and October. Remember to pack for various weather conditions during the road trip. Include blankets and warm clothing for chilly nights and T-shirts and shorts for the warm summer afternoons.
Driving tips
The speed limits are the same on roads throughout Colorado. The speed limit on interstate highways is 65 miles per hour and other highways are 55 mph. However, the limits will change as you drive through Utah and Nevada. Therefore, be on the look for the designated speed limits during your road trip. There are no toll roads on this road trip route. To make your trip memorable, opt for luxury cars from SIXT exotic rental cars.
What to Know About the Route
To get started, you will drive along I-70 West before proceeding to I-15 South. The route will take 749 miles across the magnificent Southwestern scenery of Colorado, Utah, and Nevada before arriving in Vegas. The road trip would take around 12 hours under optimal weather and traffic conditions. However, if you opt for a direct trip, you will miss out on a lot of interesting things along the way. Our route starts in Denver. Head southwest on I-75 to Vail, a top destination for skiing and other outdoor activities. When you’re done in Vail, take I-75 to Glenwood Springs and relax in the hot springs before proceeding further southwest along the same Interstate toward Cisco. From this deserted town, take a detour to Arches National Park via UT-128. Then return to I-75 via Highway 198 and head southwest to the I-15 junction. Finally, proceed south along I-15 to Las Vegas. To conveniently explore all the highlights on this route, consider getting an SUV or a vehicle with all-wheel drive. To enjoy your trip with your dream car for a long time, check out weekly rental cars from SIXT.
Denver, Colorado
Denver, also known as the Mile High City, features a unique blend of urban thrills and outdoor adventures. Colorado’s capital city, located in the south Platte River Valley, is famous for its diverse cultural and culinary scene, vibrant neighborhoods, music scene and much more.
Points of interest
Regardless of the season in which you visit, there is always something to see or do in Denver. Sports enthusiasts will love catching a Denver Broncos football or Rockies baseball game, among others. If possible, you should not miss a visit to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, ideal for enjoying a concert amid stunning scenery. You can also go hiking nearby.
Where to Eat, Drink and Sleep
You can savor the various dining options made from locally sourced food or explore the culinary talent downtown. Denver also features some of the best craft beer in the country. Experience the Denver Beer Trail to try out the city’s craft beer wonderland. Take a tour to check out the various breweries, only a few moments from the city center, and let someone else do the driving.
Sixt Insider Tip
Check out unique world-class art at Denver Art Museum. This architectural masterpiece exhibits artworks from all over the world, and you can also enjoy hands-on art and creative activities.
From Denver to Vail (97 miles)
Next, head west via I-70 for 1.5 hours to Vail. As you drive, you will ultimately pass through the Eisenhower Tunnel, the highest elevation auto tunnel in North America, running beneath the Continental Divide. Along the way, you will pass through small and historic towns and enjoy scenic views. However, this route can be busy during peak times, so expect delays.
Vail, Colorado
Vail is famous for its luxury facilities and Colorado’s largest ski resort. This picturesque town boasts lovely weather and is the ideal spot for skiing. The municipality of Vail was established to complement the Vail Ski Resort. The town is situated on both sides of I-70 and offers various outdoor activities outside of skiing, including biking, hiking and fishing.
Points of interest
If you are a skiing or snowboarding enthusiast, then the Vail Ski Resort is the place for you. Spending a day or two at this stop will offer you an incredible experience. However, if winter sports don’t excite you, Vail offers much more beyond skiing. You can enjoy ziplining at the Game Creek Aerial Adventure, take a stroll in nature at the Betty Ford Alpine Garden, or enjoy visual arts performance at Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater.
Where to Eat, Drink and Sleep
Vail hosts a wide variety of restaurants serving authentic world-class cuisine and rustic outlets serving local specials. You can dig into modern American cuisine at Sweet Basil, relish Italian delicacies at La Nonna Ristorante, or treat your tastebuds with hearty Japanese fare at Matsuhisa.
Sixt Insider Tip
To avoid long lines and save some cash, consider visiting Vail Ski Resort during the off-peak season. If your schedule is flexible, this is a great way to have a more relaxing ski vacation.
From Vail to Glenwood Springs (61 miles)
After an exciting adventure in Vail, proceed on I-70 to Glenwood Springs. You will pass some smaller Colorado towns along the way, like Eagle. This one-hour drive also features various attractions and scenic landscapes worth exploring.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
This popular Colorado resort town is conveniently accessible off I-70 and provides a broad range of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. The little yet charming town seems to have only a few eateries to keep you occupied at first sight. However, there’s much more, from attractions to thrilling outdoor attractions.
Points of interest
Glenwood Springs is home to the largest hot springs pool in the world, ideal for unwinding during a road trip. For thrill-seekers, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is recommended. And don’t miss the cave tours at this adventure park. Afterward, check out the shops in downtown Glenwood Springs.
Where to Eat, Drink and Sleep
Glenwood Springs features a variety of breweries, including Glenwood Canyon Brewpub. Sample Glenwood Springs cuisine at 19th Street Diner or grab a quick snack. If you plan to stay overnight in the town, consider the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge.
Sixt Insider Tip
Glenwood Springs is heaven for nature enthusiasts, featuring the Hanging Lake hiking route. This trail is classified as a National Natural Landmark due to its natural splendor and remarkable geology, making it a must-see.
From Glenwood Springs to Cisco (140 miles)
Next, head southwest, still following I-70, to the next stop, Cisco, Utah. There are several small towns along the way, with Palisade being the most notable. If you wish, you can have a brief stopover there for a meal before proceeding. This route is scenic and features spectacular landscapes you can marvel at along the way.
Cisco, Utah
After crossing from Colorado into Utah, you will encounter the former boomtown of Cisco. This town was originally a livestock depot and oil and gas boomtown but is now a deserted ghost town. Cisco is worth a visit because it demonstrates how transportation development influenced the economies of rural towns in the western United States.
Points of interest
The deserted dwellings of Cisco sitting amid arid desert terrain are intriguing and eerie, making it a favorite destination for artists and photographers. Bring your camera and spend a few hours exploring the abandoned town to experience the feeling of what it was like to live here in the early 1900s.
Sixt Insider Tip
Due to its proximity to I-70, Cisco is easier to access than most ghost towns. You might even recognize it, as it has appeared in some movies, notably Vanishing Point, in which it portrays a typical Western town.
From Cisco to Arches National Park (59 miles)
After spending some time in Cisco, take a detour to Arches National Park. From Cisco, proceed on UT-128, a scenic route along the Colorado River, featuring spectacular red sandstone cliffs views. Make a stop at Castle Creek Winery and buy some bottles to enjoy after your drive.
Arches National Park
Although this stop is a detour off the most direct Denver to Las Vegas path, it is worth the extra time. Moreover, if you have yet to experience the beauty of the park, this Denver to Las Vegas road trip offers you the perfect opportunity for a visit. Named for its over 2,000 stone arches, Arches is a stunning national park featuring unique scenery.
Points of interest
You’ve more than likely seen pictures of the park online. However, experiencing the picturesque landscapes in person is much more fulfilling. Also, the park offers more besides the arches. You can enjoy hiking, horseback riding or biking along the scenic trails at the park. Furthermore, you can enjoy the thrill of canyoneering or the peace of stargazing at Arches National Park.
Sixt Insider Tip
Seek out Balanced Rock, the most recognizable feature in the park. This magnificent geological structure, which stands at 128 feet tall, is a fantastic spot for a hike with views of The Windows Section and the La Sal Mountains. Consider visiting around sunset when the Balance Rock glows with gorgeous red-orange colors.
From Arches National Park to Las Vegas (454 miles)
Next, get back to the I-70, and ensure your gas tank is full before embarking on the remaining bit of the road trip that will take you 6.5 hours. Proceed southwest to the I-15 South junction, which will get you to Las Vegas. The remainder of the route features various cities, including Cedar, Boulder and St. George, Utah.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is Nevada’s largest city and economic hub. The city offers more than casinos and a world of entertainment. Movies and pictures try their best to showcase the flash and glamor of Las Vegas; however, they fall short of capturing the electrifying vibe of the city.
Points of interest
Discover the splendor of Sin City, including the famed Las Vegas Strip and its extravagant casinos. Also, the city boasts stunning scenery, fascinating history, restaurants from star chefs and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Eat, Drink and Sleep
Las Vegas features a vibrant food scene, from world-class cuisines to fast-food restaurants. You can check out Fresco, serving authentic Italian food, Senor Frog’s Las Vegas for delicious Mexican fare, or Oyster Bar for fresh seafood. If you seek to spend several days in Las Vegas, then The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is ideal.
Sixt Insider Tip
Consider signing up for a casino players’ club during your visit to Las Vegas. It offers you various perks even if you don’t intend to gamble. This membership is a wonderful way to earn discounts and freebies on concerts, eateries, attractions and much more.
