Southern California to Colorado Road Trip

If you’re looking for a scenic and adventurous road trip from the west coast to the rocky mountains, you’re in the right place. We’ve compiled a list of cities to see, and view sites to hit on your way from Southern California to Colorado. 

1. San Diego

Your city hub to start your road trip adventure. Whether you live in California, or driving there to end your trip, this city has it all, even for locals who think they’ve been everywhere. Here are 3 places to spend some time before you embark to the next city. 

  • La Jolla Cove - by the beach, a quaint town filled with shopping, seals, and pretty great tacos. (Really anywhere in San Diego will have good tacos, of course)

  • Balboa Park - Filled with Museums and ponds to walk around and enjoy some time in the park.

  • Amusement Parks - Into animals? Try the San Diego Zoo, Seaworld or Wild Animal Park. Prefer rides? Belmont park for young adults, Legoland for young kids. 


    2. Las Vegas, Nevada

Known for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, world-class entertainment, and pool parties. Explore the strip, catch a show, make some money at the casino, or just rest your head after 4-5 hours of driving. 



3. Zion National Park, Utah

If you have a National Park pass, or just really enjoy beautiful hikes and views, stopping at Zion National Park is a breathtaking must. There are plenty of outdoor adventures, hiking trails, photo opps, and towering cliffs. With only 2-3 hours from Vegas, it’s a great way to break up the drive and escape the crowded Strip. 

Looking to spend the night in this part of town?

There are plenty of hotels nearby to Zion, or camping with impeccable views from your tent. 

4. Moab, Utah

Next on your road trip is Moab. This might be my favorite stop as the town is filled with a combination of National Parks (Arches and Canyonlands), plenty of camping/hotels to choose from, and last but certainly not least, outdoor activities in Moab. Our favorites include: 

  • 4X4 UTVs

  • River Rafting

  • Mountain Biking 

  • Sunrise Yoga

Note this will take you 5-6 hours more in the car from Zion. Make sure you rest in the car or overnight before embarking on more outdoor adventures. 

Moab Things to Do

5. Denver, Colorado 

While there are tons of mountain towns to stop along the way, making your way to Denver, Colorado will offer a blend of urban sophistication, art museums, food trucks, concerts, and fun street art in RiNo.

Home to one of the best outdoor concert venues, Red Rocks is a must if you love live music or movies on the big screen. Check out their 2023 schedule and buy tickets before they sell out! 

While there are many mountain towns on the way from California to Denver, this itinerary offers you a mix of beach days in San Diego, nightlife in Vegas, hikes and views in Zion and Moab, followed by art and urban explorations in Denver.

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