Weekend Trips from Las Vegas: 20 of the BEST Getaways + Hidden Gems!
Looking for weekend trips from Las Vegas to escape the bright lights and casinos?
Whether you’re a local or visiting Las Vegas for a week and want to do something a little different- I’ve got the best getaways for you. Plus most are within a 4 hour drive of the city!
The Southwest is a place I keep finding myself returning to time and time again. Revisiting places and discovering new hidden gems– I could spend weeks driving down bumpy dirt roads to find something truly epic.
There are so many great places to go for a weekend trip from Las Vegas, it’s hard to choose which one you want to go first!
And even though I’ve been to so many spots in the Southwest within a drive of Vegas, I enlisted the help of some fellow travel bloggers to help me curate this article of the 20 best weekend trips from Las Vegas!
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Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!
Accommodation – Booking.com to find the best deals on hotels.
Flights – Skyscanner to look for the best prices and deals on flights.
Rental cars – DiscoverCars to shop around at multiple car rental agencies.
Travel insurance – Safety Wing; keep your trips insured to protect yourself while traveling.
Tours/experiences – Viator or Get Your Guide are excellent sources for tours.
Weekend Trips from Las Vegas Map
20 of the Best Weekend Trips from Las Vegas
You may not realize that Las Vegas is within quick driving distance of 3 states: Utah, Arizona, and California.
And with a variety of scenery from canyons to red rocks to lakes, National Parks, small towns, or relaxing resorts- there is truly something for everyone on this list.
Looking for a longer weekend trip idea from Las Vegas? Consider making the 6 hour journey to Monument Valley!
1. Lake Mead (45 minute drive)
Lake Mead is one of the largest reservoirs in the US, and the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River formed it. Boulder Beach, popular for its sandy shores, is just a 30-minute drive from the bustling lights of Las Vegas.
It’s a great getaway from the city, especially when it gets hot, from late spring to early fall.
There are a few beach access points and opportunities for swimming and boating. Nearby, the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City offers a glimpse into the region’s railway history.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Historic Railroad Hiking Trail is a good option. It’s a trail along an old railbed. There is no shade, so it’s important to visit early in the morning in the summertime.
Of course, no visit to Lake Mead is complete without a visit to the Hoover Dam. It’s possible to do a self-visit or go on a guided tour. The Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge offers breathtaking views of the dam and the surrounding area. On the way back to Boulder City, the Lake Mead Overlook is worth a quick stop.
For those looking to extend their stay, Echo Bay is another area on Lake Mead and is the perfect base to explore the Valley of Fire, making it a great road trip for nature lovers.
You could also kayak to Emerald Bay during your stay there. This bay gets its name due to the stunning emerald green color of the water in the full sun! Or do the 7 mile hike to Arizona Hot Springs, a popular and scenic primitive hot spring.
The Hoover Dam Lodge, is located halfway between Boulder Beach and the iconic Hoover Dam. It’s a 10-minute drive each way. The hotel provides comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Contributed by Emilie of Love Life Abroad.
2. Valley of Fire State Park (1 hour drive)
Valley of Fire is just an hour from Las Vegas, but it’s the perfect place to unplug and enjoy nature for a weekend!
Hike to Elephant Rock, a short trail brings you to quite an amazing rock formation that resembles an elephant trunk. Nature is so fun right?! This is near the East entrance.
Also be sure to check out The Beehives near the West entrance. Again aptly named, these are rock formations that resemble very large beehives.
Hike The Fire Wave for sunset. The wave like rock formation is really unique and makes for one of the best photo ops in the park. The trail to the fire wave is relatively easy at 1.5 miles round trip with 150 feet of elevation gain. Catching this at sunrise or sunset will afford you the best lighting for the red rocks to glow!
Two other stops to check out include Pink Canyon, a short but sweet colorful and pastel narrow canyon, and Mouse Tank Road Viewpoint.
For a real off grid adventure from Vegas, consider camping at the Arch Rock Campground in Valley of Fire State Park.
3. Road Trip on the Extraterrestrial Highway (2 hour drive)
For a quirky weekend escape from Las Vegas, rent a car and road trip the Extraterrestrial Highway.
Also known as State Route 375, this stretch of highway in south-central Nevada runs 98 miles between the towns of Warm Springs and Crystal Springs. The starting point of this road trip is in Crystal Springs, which is 109 miles north of Las Vegas or a 1 hour and 40-minute drive. While it can be done as a day trip, it’s even better to do it as a weekend trip so it doesn’t feel too rushed.
The best time of year to drive the Extraterrestrial Highway is in spring and fall when the desert temperatures aren’t quite as extreme.
There are lots of quirky attractions along this route like ET Fresh Jerky, a roadside rest stop that sells alien-themed snacks; the Extraterrestrial Highway Sign, a mandatory photo stop for anyone embarking on this trip; and the Alien Research Center for alien stories and souvenirs.
Stop by the Black Mailbox, where believers leave letters for aliens, and the Little A’le’inn, a motel/bar/restaurant with a UFO parked out front. There isn’t a whole lot in between attractions, so enjoy the long empty roads and the desert scenery.
Accommodations consist of very basic motels around these parts, so the options are to either book a hotel in Las Vegas and do this as a day trip, or embrace the quirkiness and stay at an alien motel like Little A’le’inn.
Contributed by Audrey of That Backpacker.
4. Cathedral Gorge State Park (2 ½ hour drive)
Still a hidden gem in Nevada, Cathedral Gorge makes one of the best weekend trips from Las Vegas for nature lovers craving some solitude. This place is a photographer’s playground and somewhere to stay for a sunset and sunrise to see how the lighting changes the landscapes.
Just a 2 1/2 hour drive North of Vegas, this state park is waiting to be discovered; full of spires, slot canyons, hoodoos, dramatic rock patterns, and inspiring overlooks.
Hike the 2 mile out and back Miller Point Trail that will take you through an otherworldly canyon and out to a beautiful overlook.
Explore Cathedral Caves, Moon Caves, and Canyon Caves to be up close and personal with the hoodoos and spires. Look up and marvel at just how deep into the caves you are!
There is a $5 day use fee charged here for Nevada residents and $10 for everyone else. There’s a campground onsite in the park if you want to recharge in nature and spend the night in a tent.
Don’t feel like camping? Check out the highly rated Pine Tree Inn bed and breakfast, just a few miles from the state park entrance.
5. St. George, Utah (2 hour drive)
St. George, Utah, is another excellent day trip from Las Vegas. Being only 1 hour and 45 minutes away makes it a quick and easy trip!
St. George has plenty of things to do. Some favorite highlights include hiking in Snow Canyon State Park, boating at Sand Hallow State Park, and seeing Red Cliff Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Southern Utah in Red Cliffs National Conservation Area!
Although St. George is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit is fall or winter. There are fewer tourists during this time of year, and the area is extra beautiful should it snow. Additionally, the weather is much more enjoyable, as the sun can be brutal in the summer.
If you decide to stay overnight, the Inn on The Cliff is a great hotel to stay at!
Contributed by Janae from Adventures With TuckNae.
6. Zion National Park (2 hour & 15 minute drive)
Just 160 miles from Vegas is one of America’s most beautiful National Parks. Steep red rock canyon walls and cliffs tower over rivers and waterfalls, with plenty to do to keep visitors busy for a weekend in Zion.
The best times of year to visit Zion National Park are spring (April – June) and fall (September – October).
Hike the iconic Angels Landing, a trail that involves climbing up a trail with steep drop-offs on both sides, and at the end is a breathtaking view down the length of Zion Canyon. Timed permits are required. Afraid of heights and don’t want to hike Angel’s Landing? Consider hiking Observation Point instead!
The Narrows is a hike where you actually walk in a shallow river through a slot canyon. Sometimes only a dozen feet wide and a thousand feet high, the contrast of the orange slot canyon walls and blue river is striking. It’s important to check water levels and flash flood warnings to make sure it’s open.
For adrenaline junkies, there are plenty of slot canyons to explore and there are several operators who organize canyoneering trips. These involve rappelling down a series of cliffs into tube-like canyons stacked in layers.
There are also plenty of scenic drives throughout the park. A road from the East Entrance goes through a long tunnel and emerges into a series of broad switchbacks with pull-offs to soak in the views.
The Kolob Terrace section of the park also involves a dramatic drive ending in sensational panoramic views of the surrounding area from Lava Point Overlook.
Stay at the Bumbleberry Inn in nearby Springdale, with mountain views from some rooms and an outdoor seasonal pool.
Contributed by James Ian from Parks Collecting.
7. Bryce Canyon National Park (4 hour drive)
Located 260 miles northeast of Las Vegas, Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its unique geological structures called “hoodoos.”
The drive to Bryce Canyon will take about 4 hours, and a weekend trip is a great opportunity to experience one of the most striking landscapes in the country.
Bryce Canyon features a collection of natural amphitheaters carved into the edge of a high plateau. There are a number of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous. Some of the most popular trails include the Navajo Loop and the Queen’s Garden, which are perfect for first-time visitors.
Bryce Canyon is also an exceptional location for stargazing as an International Dark Sky Park. The park organizes regular night sky programs, including telescope viewing with rangers and astronomy talks.
The red, orange, and white colors of the rocks at this national park make it a paradise for photographers. Other activities at the park include camping, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding.
The best times to visit Bryce Canyon are typically spring through fall, when the weather is pleasant, and the park’s full range of services and activities are available. Its high elevation leads to cooler temperatures, making it a comfortable destination for hiking and exploration, even in summer.
If you want to stay within the park, The Lodge at Bryce Canyon will be your only option. There are many accommodation choices outside the park, such as the Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel.
Contributed by Sophie of Delightful Travel Notes.
8. Kanab, Utah (3 hour drive)
Kanab, Utah, is a great weekend trip from Las Vegas. Clocking in at just 3 hours or 199 miles away, Kanab is an outdoor lover’s dream.
Kanab is great any time of year, but it does get very hot in the summer. If you plan to spend time exploring the natural wonders nearby, try to visit in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler for hiking. Winter can also be a good time to visit, but the temperatures can get cold and there is a chance of snow.
Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Foodies will enjoy a meal at Rocking V Cafe or Wild Thyme. But the main attraction for Kanab is the various hikes and outdoor activities in the surrounding National Parks and National Monuments.
For those looking for an off road adventure, take a drive out to White Pocket, Arizona, in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. You can also hike through Wire Pass slot canyon on your way there. You can also take a tour if you don’t feel comfortable navigating the roads on your own.
Kanab has a few options for hotels with chains like Hampton Inn or La Quinta as well as some boutique options along the main road through town. If you enjoy the outdoors and have a sense of adventure, Kanab is the perfect place to escape from Vegas for a weekend.
Contributed by Christine of Live Love Run Travel.
9. Escalante, Utah (4 ½ hour drive)
Grand Staircase-Escalante is a National Monument located in Southern Utah. This vast and rugged area is known for its stunning geological features including colourful cliffs, slot canyons and towering waterfalls.
The name “Grand Staircase” refers to a series of plateaus that descend from the cliff tops, creating a unique and striking landscape. It really is an incredible place to visit from Las Vegas.
Grand Staircase-Escalante is a popular weekend trip from Las Vegas for those who want to experience nature and magnificent landscapes. The area is full of fantastic hiking trails and scenic drives.
One of the best things to do in Grand Staircase-Escalante is to hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls. The 6 mile hike winds through canyons and past petroglyphs to reach the stunning Lower Calf Creek Falls. It’s a popular spot to swim and cool down after a long hike.
Another fantastic hike in Grand Staircase-Escalante is the 5 mile hike to Zebra Slot Canyon, a narrow slot canyon famous for its striped rocks.
If hiking isn’t for you, it’s still possible to experience the breathtaking scenery on a scenic drive through the park and along Highway 12. If you have the time, consider following Highway 12 to Capitol Reef National Park, it’s one of the most scenic drives in Utah.
There are a few accommodation options in Escalante, Utah. The tiny homes of Escalante Escapes offer panoramic views around the area.
Contributed by Emily from Journey by Backpack.
10. Grand Canyon West (2 hour drive)
The Grand Canyon is one of most well-known destinations in the US and one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. It stretches over 270 miles along the Colorado River from Arizona to its neighboring states, including Nevada.
Technically, the Grand Canyon National Park does not cover the entire Canyon, yet there are a number of scenic spots along the canyon that is close to Las Vegas for a weekend trip. The West Rim of the Grand Canyon, or the Grand Canyon West, is 2 hours away from the Las Vegas Strip.
The site is home to the Hualapai Indian tribe. The tribe created Grand Canyon West as a cultural tourist attraction with several lookouts, helicopter rides, and the most striking attraction: the Grand Canyon Skywalk.
The Skywalk is a U-shaped, 68 foot long cantilever walkway that has a transparent glass floor that offers a view from the top of the canyon- over 4,500 feet above the bottom!
Visit Eagle Point, a sacred rock formation that resembles a giant eagle opening its wings. The rock is an important site to the native Hualapai tribe. Also head to Guano Point which offers an unobstructed panoramic view of the majestic canyon and Colorado River.
At the Native American Village, there are different types of traditional dance performances, photo exhibitions, and a visitor gift shop.
Contributed by Kenny Chow of Knycx Journeying.
11. Grand Canyon South Rim (4 ½ hour drive)
If you want a more traditional trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, head to the South Rim. The easiest and most accessible entrance will be to the South Rim which is open year round.
The North Rim is typically open mid May through mid October, closing for snow. The North Rim does offer more solitude for those seeking a break from the crowds of the South Rim. It is cooler at the North Rim as well since it sits at a higher elevation.
With one weekend on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, be sure to catch a sunrise or sunset and stay up late to do some stargazing, as it is a designated Dark Sky Park.
The best day hikes to leave the rim are: the South Kaibab trail to Cedar Ridge or the 1.5 or 3 mile Resthouse via the Bright Angel trail. Be sure to hike in the early morning or evening hours to avoid heat, and carry extra water with you!
Look here for the best hotels in Grand Canyon Village, outside of the park entrance. Or stay on the rim of the Grand Canyon– my personal favorite I’ve been lucky enough to do twice! I’ve stayed at the Bright Angel Lodge and found it very comfortable and affordable.
12. Sedona, Arizona (4 ½ hour drive)
One of the best weekend adventures you can take from Las Vegas is to the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona. Leaving the bright and bustling Vegas metro area and trading it in for picturesque scenery, fresh air, and tons of hiking is a no-brainer!
Just a smidge over four hours from Las Vegas, you can be in Red Rock country by lunchtime if you leave early enough. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the weekend and get your fill of what makes Sedona so dang awesome.
As you’re planning your Las Vegas to Sedona road trip, you’ll want to consider the best time to visit. In my mind, the spring and fall are the most opportune dates.
During these times, Sedona will be in the 70s/80s, making it just perfect for being outside. As you creep into the summer months, this area can get into the upper 90s, which is just too warm for most. Sedona in the winter can also be a magical time!
Once you arrive in Sedona, these are the three things I highly recommend you check out!
First, hike the Cathedral Rock trail, about two miles in all, and check out the Vortex. It’s a super cool area and one that most hikers will be able to tackle with no problem!
Next, hop on a Pink Jeep Tour and go explore the Sedona backcountry. This area is pristine, and you’ll have a world of fun out there!
Lastly, drive up Oak Creek Canyon and check out the stunning views and stop at Slide Rock State Park to cool off and enjoy some of the natural rock slides.
Finally, you’ll need a place to stay! I recommend checking out the Hampton Inn Sedona. It’s not overly expensive, and you’re not in the heart of Downtown Sedona, which can be a driving headache on the weekends.
Your trip to Sedona will wow you, and you’ll come out with so many incredible memories!
Contributed by Alec of Alec Explores.
Looking for more Sedona hikes? Check out my posts on the Keyhole Cave, Merry Go Round Rock, and some cave hikes!
13. Flagstaff, Arizona (4 hour & 15 minute drive)
Flagstaff is a cute small city in the midst of acres of pine trees, a little over 4 hours from Las Vegas.
Flagstaff sits at the base of the San Francisco Peaks, a mountain range which includes Humphreys Peak– Arizona’s highest point. Hikers can climb Humphreys Peak; it is a challenging 10.7 mile round trip hike with 3,400 ft of elevation gain.
Go to Flagstaff during early October to experience the Aspen trees turning golden. Hike the Inner Basin trail and take the scenic gondola ride at the Arizona Snowbowl to see all the glowing trees from above. Or go snowboarding and skiing during the winter!
Flagstaff has a nice downtown strip, with many local restaurants, shops, and breweries. Go to the Lumberyard Brewery and enjoy a drink outside facing the high peaks!
Check out my post on my favorite camping spot near Flagstaff or book a room at the Little America Hotel Flagstaff on your weekend trip from Las Vegas. This well appointed, beautiful hotel is highly rated while still being affordable.
14. Page, Arizona (4 ½ hour drive)
Deep in the Arizona desert, the town of Page attracts people worldwide with its sculpted sandstone slot canyons and grand Lake Powell landscapes.
Most people know this region for the famous Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, and Las Vegas is the perfect jumping-off point for these quintessential American attractions.
Roughly a 4.5 hour drive through some of the most scenic landscapes in the Southwest, Page is approximately 270 miles from Las Vegas. While it may be a bit long for a day trip, a weekend getaway is perfect.
Page is a year-round destination with the best time to visit between late March and early October. Antelope Canyon’s light beams are most visible at noon during this period. However, if you’re not a fan of high temperatures, summer can get quite hot in the desert.
Prioritize reserving an Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon tour when coming from Vegas. As the slot canyon is on Navajo reservation land, you’re required to have a local guide, and popular times sell out fast.
Just a short drive from Antelope Canyon is Horseshoe Bend, a meander of the Colorado River, 1000 feet above the river. Then spend a day out on the water of the man-made reservoir Lake Powell, surrounded by red rock scenery.
Book a room at the Best Western View of Lake Powell while in Page. You’ll have a great view of Lake Powell, with free breakfast and an affordable nightly rate.
Contributed by Catherine of Nomadicated.
15. Death Valley National Park (2 hour & 15 minute drive)
When considering taking a weekend trip from Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park is a must visit!
The best time to visit the park is between November and April. Death Valley can become extremely hot and these months are when the temperatures are the most comfortable.
While at Death Valley you can begin the day with an incredible sunrise at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes then explore the rest of the park.
While spotting wildlife is tough in the dessert, you will certainly see unique landscapes and lookouts. Zabriskie Point and Artist Drive have the most unbelievable views and you can capture some pretty breathtaking photos here too.
Another must-see on any Death Valley Itinerary are the Badwater Basin salt flats, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level!
As for somewhere to stay, there are 4 lodges within the National Park. The Ranch is a resort within the park that has a pool, golf course, and a bunch of other amenities.
Contributed by Samantha Oppenheimer of Find Love & Travel.
16. Joshua Tree National Park (3 ½ hour drive)
Visiting Joshua Tree National Park on an easy weekend road trip from Las Vegas is a great idea for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re looking for a quick one day trip to Joshua Tree or a longer adventure, this California park is well worth the visit.
The best time to visit is in the fall or spring when the weather is mild, avoiding the triple digit days of the summer.
Some of the best activities include hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and exploring the unique flora and fauna. First timers shouldn’t miss the formations of Skull Rock, Arch Rock, and the Hall of Horrors.
One of the highlights of visiting Joshua Tree National Park is experiencing the stunning night sky. With minimal light pollution, this park offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the Southwest.
If camping is on your agenda, there are several options within Joshua Tree National Park. Some campgrounds even offer special amenities such as hot showers and flush toilets. Keep in mind that reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
For those looking for a more comfortable place to stay, consider the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Twentynine Palms. It’s conveniently located near the park and offers comfortable rooms. It’s also close to tasty dining and quirky shopping options at artsy boutiques.
Contributed by Monica from This Rare Earth.
While on a weekend trip to Joshua Tree- consider another stop at Anza Borrego!
17. Palm Springs, California (4 hour drive)
A little further from Joshua Tree is the desert resort town of Palm Springs. Palm Springs makes for the perfect weekend trip from Las Vegas for those seeking a little relaxation in a beautiful place.
Here you’ll find many hotels with a vintage, retro flair and bright colors that pop in the desert. And of course many palm trees! There are hot spring resorts to relax and recharge and several golf courses.
For those looking for some hiking, the Andreas Canyon Trail in Indian Canyons is a great option. A river runs next to the trail and there are many California fan palms.
Or hike the Tahquitz Canyon trail to see a small waterfall. You could also check out the beautiful grounds of Sunnylands Center & Gardens desert garden, free to enter!
Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to see panoramic views of Palm Springs and Chino Canyon. And head to Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs for plentiful restaurant and shopping options.
Stay at A Place in the Sun Hotel while in Palm Springs for the weekend. This modern yet retro, bright and vibrant hotel is affordable while still having some luxuries. Note that this hotel is adults only though!
18. Los Angeles, California (4 hour drive)
Los Angeles, a vibrant and diverse metropolis on the Southern coast of California, is an ideal weekend getaway from Las Vegas.
Located approximately 270 miles southwest of Las Vegas, it’s about a four-hour drive or a short 1 hour 20 minute flight away, making it perfectly feasible for a weekend trip.
The best time to visit Los Angeles is the shoulder seasons from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is more comfortable, and the city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
Once in Los Angeles, visitors are spoilt for choice with activities. The iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-visit. Stroll along this famous sidewalk, and spot the stars of your favorite celebrities. It’s a quintessential L.A. experience.
Art enthusiasts should not miss The Getty Center, where they can admire an impressive collection of artworks, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens.
And for those seeking outdoor adventure, a 1.7 mile hike to the Griffith Observatory offers not only exercise but also panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
The Proper Hotel, one of the best design hotels in Santa Monica, is a top recommendation. This boutique hotel, designed by Kelly Wearstler, blends classic and contemporary styles, offering guests a luxurious and comfortable stay. Its location is ideal, providing easy access to the beach, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach Walk and local dining and shopping options.
Contributed by Haley Blackall of Cool California Hotels.
19. San Diego, California (5 hour drive)
If you want to get some sun and surf, San Diego makes a beautiful weekend trip from Las Vegas. Even though it’s about a 5-hour drive from Las Vegas, it’s worth seeing the beautiful ocean and enjoying some of the fun history in town. It’s even a fun place to visit with kids!
Since San Diego is beautiful year-round, this makes it one of the weekend trips from Las Vegas!
One of the highlights of San Diego is the historic Balboa Park. Spanning 1200 acres, this park, established in 1915, was the proud host of the Panama-California exposition. Today, it is a testament to the city’s past, with numerous museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo.
Old Town State Park, California’s first settlement, is another exciting area of San Diego to explore. With its free museums, diverse shops, and delicious eateries, Old Town offers a lively and fun experience. Free parking is nearby, and public transit options like the bus or train to Old Town Transit Center make it easily accessible.
Lastly, you don’t want to drive to San Diego without enjoying the beach! You can either drive or take the ferry over to Coronado and enjoy a warm day, lazing on the sand and watching the waves of the Pacific Ocean. While you’re there, make sure to visit the famous Hotel del Coronado. The classic 4-star hotel has been an icon in the area for over 130 years!
San Diego is beautiful to visit any time of the year, but if you want the best beach weather, you’ll want to take your weekend trip sometime between August and October. For a great hotel option, the Hilton Garden Inn is within walking distance to Old Town.
Contributed by Lauren Stites of Where the Wild Kids Wander.
20. Mammoth Lakes, California (5 hour drive)
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with a totally different vibe from Las Vegas, head five hours Northwest to Mammoth Lakes, California, tucked inside the eastern Sierra Nevadas.
Mammoth Lakes is incredible to visit year round. During the colder months, Mammoth is a world-renowned ski destination and thanks to its high elevation, enjoys one of the longest ski seasons in the United States.
Alternatively, in the summer months, Mammoth has incredible hiking and backpacking opportunities through the alpine wonderland of the Sierra Nevadas, including in the nearby two million acre Inyo National Forest.
Regardless of what time of year you visit, be sure to soak in the incredible hot springs in Mammoth Lakes, like Crab Cooker Hot Springs or the Rock Hot Tub, after all your outdoor adventures. There’s nothing better than relaxing in the naturally steamy waters, while taking in the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Make the Tamarack Lodge your homebase during your stay. This lodge offers rustic mountain vibes, with a cozy fireplace, in-room wood-burning stoves, and views of an alpine lake.
Contributed by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler.
Conclusion: Weekend Trips from Las Vegas
In conclusion, Las Vegas truly offers a multitude of exciting and diverse options for weekend getaways.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply some relaxation away from the bustling city, there is something for everyone within a short drive from Las Vegas.
From exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Grand Canyon or Zion National Park to indulging in world-class dining and entertainment in Palm Springs or Los Angeles, these weekend trips provide a much-needed escape from the neon lights and fast-paced lifestyle of Sin City.
So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired by the remarkable destinations just a stone’s throw away from Las Vegas.
