USA West Coast Itinerary 10 days: the Perfect Road Trip

You’re planning to visit the American West for 10 days?

Great idea!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 9, 10 or 11 days itinerary on the American West Coast.

During your trip, you will discover all the best places to visit such as  Las Vegas, Route 66, the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Death Valley and a lot more!

In this travel guide, in addition to the must-see attractions, I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do during your 10-day trip to the USA West Coast?

Let’s find out!

Renting a car for your 10 days road trip in the USA (West Coast)

To visit the west of the United States for 10 days, you will need a car. It’s simply not possible to discover the best of the west coast in such a short period of time by public transport.

To rent a car, you should use Rentalcars.com website.

It’s the one I use for all my trips, as it’s super convenient: it allows you to compare all the rental companies’ rates in just one click and to book your car rental at the best price!

And if you don’t have an insurance with your credit card, you can opt for the “Full Protection Insurance”, to be fully refunded in case of accident or theft. Tested and approved! (They refunded me more than 1200€ to date!)

For this 10 days itinerary, you will need to rent a car in Las Vegas.

If you already know your travel dates to the American West, simply click on the button below to compare prices and rent your car: 

Day 1 – Las Vegas

Let’s start your Western USA 10-day itinerary in the city of Las Vegas, located in the heart of Nevada.

First, you should go see the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. It’s the perfect starting point for your day, and a mandatory photo stop in Vegas!

After capturing your first memories, drive towards the famous Strip. Here, you’ll encounter the most renowned hotels and casinos and the replicas of the world’s famous landmarks.

Start with New York New York. This resort brings the charm of the Big Apple to Vegas, complete with the Statue of Liberty and a heart-pumping roller coaster soaring above the casino floor.

Just across the street, the mighty MGM Grand awaits. Recognizable by its emerald green facade, it’s home to top-notch casino, shows, dining, and entertainment.

Moving on, you will find the Bellagio and its fountain show. Every evening, these synchronized water fountains dance to a medley of music, lights, and colors. It’s a spectacle you shouldn’t miss during your 10-day trip to the American West!

Continue on the strip and you will arrive at Paris Las Vegas. The resort’s replica of the Eiffel Tower is really worth a look!

You wanna enjoy a a panoramic view over the Strip?

In that case, you should go on the Eiffel Tower viewing platform!

Tickets needs to be booked in advance by clicking on the green button below:

For an extra touch of magic, consider dining at the top-floor restaurant during the evening.

Then, step back in time to ancient Rome at the Caesars Palace. Wander through its expansive shopping arcade or play the many slot machines. 

If you’re seeking a thrill, the Fly Linq Zipline Las Vegas (book it here!) will be the perfect activity for an adrenaline rush. It offers a bird’s-eye view of the city as you fly over the bustling promenade.

Of course, your first day isn’t complete without a visit to The Venetian. Take some time to explore its canal system and perhaps enjoy a gondola ride, reminiscent of Venice itself.

To end your first day in style, you should head downtown, to the Fremont Street Experience.

It’s a five-block entertainment district boasting the world’s largest video screen. With free nightly shows and an electric atmosphere, it’s the best way to wrap up your day in Vegas.

To learn everything about the best places to visit in Las Vegas, you should read my other article: The 30 best things to do in Las Vegas.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

There are a lot of hotels in Las Vegas, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you the best hotels in Las Vegas depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should book your hotel as early as possible*!

*And a little clarification: in Las Vegas prices can explode for weekends or if there is a special event during a the day of the week. For example, you can have a night at Caesars Palace for €140 and the next day it will be €1,600.

Please note that prices “start from”, they can vary greatly (and I’ve got nothing to do with that 😅).

In any case, I can always help you find a hotel within your budget if you ask me in the comments.

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay at on the Strip:

• Excalibur: With its castle-themed structure, it’s a hit among families and offers affordable rates starting at 70€ per night. Strong points: comfortable beds, size of rooms, price. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation on the Las Vegas Strip!
• Luxor: Have you ever dreamt of sleeping in a pyramid? Well, in Las Vegas you can! Double room from €80. Strong points: helpful staff, big bedroom, connected to Excalibur and Mandalay hotels.
• Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino: This famous 5-star hotel on the Strip offers rooms from €140. Strong points: its architecture, beautiful pools, nice and clean rooms.
• Treasure Island Hotel & Casino: Double room from 170€. Plus points: spacious room, fridge in the room, great location on the strip, self check-in so you don’t have to wait, self parking.
• Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino: Hotel located opposite the Eiffel Tower. Double room from 225€. Strong points: good restaurants, room and hotel decor, very comfortable.
• Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World: Double room from 290€. Strong points: room and facilities are new, great pool area, super comfy bed, super clean. This is my recommendation for a top-of-the-range stay in Las Vegas!
• Bellagio: I can’t forget to mention the Bellagio in my selection of the most beautiful hotels in Las Vegas! The hotel offers sumptuous rooms from €480. Strong points: very luxurious, perfect location for exploring the Strip, fountain view. This is my recommendation for a deluxe stay in Las Vegas!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Downtown Las Vegas / Fremont Street:

• The D Las Vegas: Double room from 75€. Strong points: the price, friendly staff, clean, free parking.
• Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino: Nice and clean double room from 85€. Strong points: pool terrace, comfortable bed, great location, big room.
• Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino Las Vegas: Double room from 110€. Strong points: free parking, huge room.
• Circa Resort & Casino – Adults only: Double room from 180€. Strong points: rooftop bar, swimming pool area, new and modern.

Day 2 – From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon – The legendary Route 66

On the second day of your 10-Day West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary, you will drive on America’s must famous road: Route 66.

Ideally, you should start your day early and head first to Hoover Dam.

This colossal concrete dam stands tall on the border between Nevada and Arizona, 40 minutes by car from Las Vegas.

As you stand atop this engineering wonder, you can admire the vastness of the man-made Lake Mead. To make the most of your stop at Hoover Dam, you can opt for a guided tour. It’s the perfect way to learn more about the history of the dam’s construction.

After your visit, it will be time to set your wheels on the historic Route 66!

A road that embodies the spirit of classic America, Route 66 has been immortalized in numerous songs, stories, and films.

Between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, you will stumble upon several iconic stops that capture the essence of Route 66. And you will have the full day to discover them!

Your first stop should be Kingman.

Often termed the ‘Heart of Historic Route 66’, Kingman is home to the Route 66 Museum. Here, you can dive deep into the tales of America’s highway.

In Kingman, you will also find retro cafes and diners, reminiscent of the bygone era. You should grab a meal or at least a coffee here, soaking in the 50’s and 60’s vibe.

Get back to your car and head to Seligman.

With vintage cars lined up and colorful murals painted across buildings, it’s a photographer’s delight.

The iconic Snow Cap Drive-In is a must-visit. Their quirky signs and classic shakes are just what you need for a mid-drive break.

As you get closer to the Grand Canyon, you’ll come across Williams.

This charming town will take you back to the 1950s, with its diners with neon signs, classic motels, and vintage gas stations reminiscent of the golden age of American road trips.

You can also find numerous souvenir shops here, perfect to purchase a few souvenirs of your 10-day west coast road trip for your family, your friends, or yourself!

Spend the night near the Grand Canyon.

Where to stay around the Grand Canyon

You have 3 different options for sleeping near the Grand Canyon:

• Grand Canyon Village, right on the edge of the Canyon
• The town of Tusayan, 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon
• The town of Williams, an hour from the Grand Canyon

At the Grand Canyon Village, you could sleep at:

• Yavapai Lodge: Double room from €265. Strong points: free parking, the setting, close to the shops.
• Maswick Lodge: Double room from 320€. Strong points: free parking, very big bedroom, close to the best sites and shuttles.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Tusayan:

• Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection: Double room from 250€. Strong points: indoor and outdoor swimming pool, arcade, friendly staff, perfect location.
• Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel: Double room from 260€. Strong points: free parking, very clean, swimming pool, proximity to the Grand Canyon.
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon: Double room from 290€. Strong points: the friendliness of the staff, the decoration of the hotel, very comfortable, the peace and quiet.
• Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon, an IHG Hotel: Double room from 300€. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, close to restaurants, clean, spacious.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Williams:

• Travelodge by Wyndham Williams Grand Canyon: Double room from 80€, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, close to shops, fridge and coffee maker in room.
• Ramada by Wyndham Williams/Grand Canyon Area: Double room from 100€. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, clean.
• Comfort Inn near Grand Canyon: Double room from 130€, breakfast included. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, comfort of beds, size of rooms, good breakfast. This is my favorite hotel for its excellent value for money!
• Quality Inn Near Grand Canyon: Double room from 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious, clean and comfortable room.
• La Quinta by Wyndham Williams-Grand Canyon Area: Double room from 175€, breakfast included. Strong points: new, modern hotel, lovely pool, free parking.

Day 3 – Grand Canyon

Your western America 10-day road trip will now take you to one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world: the Grand Canyon!

The Grand Canyon’s South Rim offers stunning viewpoints, trails, and incredible experiences. Here are the best places to visit, in chronological order:

1) Yavapai Point

Start your day at Yavapai Point, one of the widest sections of the Grand Canyon.

This viewpoint offers unparalleled panoramic vistas of the canyon’s gorges, cliffs, and the winding Colorado River.

2) Hermit Road

To explore Hermit Road, one of the highlights of the South Rim, you should use the park’s shuttle service.

This 11 kilometer route is dotted with numerous viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the Grand Canyon.

Keep in mind that from March to November, private vehicles have limited access, so using the shuttle is both convenient and eco-friendly.

3) Desert View Drive

Stretching for about 40 kilometer along the South Rim, the Desert View Drive promises incredible memories. Every twist and turn on this road unveils a new vista.

Don’t forget to stop at the Desert View Watchtower. This stone tower not only offers an elevated viewpoint over the canyon, but also encapsulates Native American art and culture.

4) Bright Angel Trail

If you want to experience the Grand Canyon on foot, the Bright Angel Trail is one of the best options.

This trail leading you down into the canyon, is a very difficult hike with a steep gradient, which has to be descended and then climbed! As the signs along the trail say “Down is optional / Up is mandatory”.

Allow between 9 and 12 hours for the entire hike.

Hopefully, even if you are not a seasoned hiker, you can still do the first part of the trek. For example, if you’re doing a western USA 10-day road trip as a family with young children, I would recommend you to turn back after the second tunnel.

5) Hummer Guided Tour at Sunset

To enjoy the sunset over the Grand Canyon, you can opt for the Hummer guided tour. These tours, led by experienced guides, take you to secluded viewpoints, away from the crowds.

Book it here!

As you’re exploring one of the world’s natural wonders, there’s one activity that I would especially recommend: the Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour.

Yes, you can discover the Grand Canyon’s Hidden Secrets from the Sky!

Imagine soaring like an eagle over the expansive canyon, experience this iconic wonder in a way few ever will. Witness the majestic rock formations and the winding Colorado River, all from a breathtaking aerial perspective.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that promises to leave you with memories that will last forever!

As the seats are limited, you should secure your seat as early as possible. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on your chance to admire the Grand Canyon from the sky because you forgot to book 😅.

To book your helicopter flight, it’s very simple: you just have to click on the green button below:

If there is no more availability, you can also book with this other company (click here!), it’s exactly the same thing!

Spend another night near the Grand Canyon.

Day 4 – Monument Valley

On Day 4, you will discover an other emblem of the American West.

When you think of the Wild West, it’s often the silhouette of Monument Valley that comes to mind – a horizon punctuated by colossal red rocks, standing tall against the azure sky.

You have probably already seen Monument Valley’s iconic red mesas and buttes in numerous movies and ads, and you will for sure love seeing them in real during your West Coast 10 days road trip!

From Grand Canyon Village to Monument Valley Welcome center, it takes about 3 hours by car.

Nestled on the Arizona-Utah state line, this valley is not a national park but a Navajo Tribal Park*. It stands as a testament to the spirit of the Navajo Nation and their deep-rooted connection to this land.

*As Monument Valley is on Navajo Nation Land, the entrance isn’t included in the “America the Beautiful Pass”. It costs around 20$ per vehicle. 

To explore Monument Valley, you have 2 options: 

1) Visiting with your own car

You can drive your own vehicle through the 27 kilometer Valley Drive that snakes through the park. This dirt road takes you past some of the most emblematic formations like the Mittens, Merrick Butte, and John Ford’s Point.

But navigating the rugged terrains can be challenging, especially after rains. A SUV or 4×4 is recommended and you will also have to purchase a permit at the Visitor Center.

Moreover, a personal vehicle limits your access to only certain areas of the park, leaving many hidden gems unexplored.

2) Opting for a guided tour: the best way to experience Monument Valley!

Visiting Monument Valley is not just about admiring the panoramic vistas; it’s also about discovering the history, traditions, and sacred sites.

A guided tour, especially one led by a Navajo guide, unlocks this treasure trove of experiences.

Here’s why it’s my preferred choice:

• Access to Restricted Areas: Many of Monument Valley’s wonders lie in areas off-limits to personal vehicles. A guided tour grants you access to these places. The tour I recommend takes in all the iconic sites of Monument Valley: West and East Mitten, 3 Sisters, John Ford Point, Moccasin Arch, Big Hogan, Sun’s Eye, North Window and Sleeping Dragon.
• Insight into Navajo Culture: The Navajo guides share personal anecdotes, legends, and histories, offering a dive into the rich Navajo culture.
• No hassle and safe driving: The terrains of Monument Valley can be tricky to navigate. Professional guides ensure you traverse these landscapes safely, without missing out on any key spots.

You need to book your guided tour in advance by clicking here:

This excursion is also available in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset. You need to book it here!

Spend the night around Monument Valley.

Where to stay in Monument Valley

• Wetherill Inn: Located in the city of Kayenta. Double room from 140€. Strong points: clean, spacious bedroom, good breakfast.
• Goulding’s Lodge: Located in Monument Valley. Double room from 190€. Strong points: the view over Monument Valley, comfortable room, good restaurant, location.
• Hampton Inn Kayenta Monument Valley: Located in Kayenta. Double room from 230€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, typical Navajo cuisine, excellent breakfast, peace and quiet.

Day 5 – Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend / Lake Powell

On the fifth day of your west American 10-day road trip, you will discover 3 emblematic places of Western USA: the sinuous curves of Antelope Canyon, the famous 270° river turn of Horseshoe Bend, and the blue waters of Lake Powell.

Start your day by heading towards Antelope Canyon, 1.5 hours by car from the town of Kayenta.

Located just a few kilometers away from Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon stands as a testament to the power of water erosion.

Over the ages, flash floods have sculpted sandstone into wavy, flowing forms, creating corridors of light and shadow. When sunlight filters down these narrow canyons, the spectacle is nothing short of magical.

The only way to explore Antelope Canyon is to take a guided tour.

For safety reasons and to respect the land owned by the Navajo Nation, you cannot visit on your own.

There are 2 sections of the canyon that you can visit. No matter which one you choose, you need to book in advance by clicking on the green buttons below:

• Upper Antelope Canyon: Known for its light beams, it’s the more popular section and easier to traverse with flat grounds. It’s my recommendation if it’s your first visit!

• Lower Antelope Canyon: While it requires some climbing, its spiral rock arches and depth are also worth a look.

No matter which section you choose, you will see that visiting Antelope Canyon is a unique experience: the colors, from golden yellows to rich reds and purples, are simply beautiful, especially during midday when the sun is high.

Just a short drive from Antelope Canyon, you will find Horseshoe Bend and its iconic U-shaped turn of the Colorado River.

To get to the viewpoint from the parking area, you will have to do a short and easy 1.2km hike. As you stand atop the cliff, 305 meters above the river, the panorama will leave you spellbound.

After snapping a few pictures (or a hundred, like me 😅), get back to your car and head to today’s last destination: Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir that offers a refreshing contrast to the arid landscapes of the region.

With its azure waters set against red rock formations, it’s the perfect spot to relax a bit at the end of the day.

Of course, you can also do activities there: boating, fishing, taking a swim… And if you wanna explore the surroundings, you should rent a kayak or paddleboard to navigate the numerous canyons and inlets.

Spend one night in Page.

Where to stay around Lake Powell

All the hotels I’ve selected are in the town of Page, close to Lake Powell:

• Rodeway Inn at Lake Powell: Double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious room, clean, comfortable bedding. The perfect choice if you’re on a budget.
• Baymont by Wyndham Page Lake Powell: Double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: free parking, good breakfast, swimming pool and jacuzzi.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell: Double room from 140€, breakfast included. Strong points: nice outdoor area with the swimming pool and jacuzzi, bedroom with sitting area and kitchenette, close to bars and restaurants.
• Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel: Double room from 160€, breakfast included. Strong points: superb views from the terrace, ideal location, comfortable and spacious room.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Page, AZ: Double room from 170€, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, modern rooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym. It’s the best option for a more high end stay!

Day 6 – Bryce Canyon

On the sixth day of your 10-day USA itinerary, you will visit Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its impressive geological formations.

Bryce Canyon is a 2h40-minute drive from Lake Powell.

Here, you won’t find “regular” canyons but a series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters adorned with hundreds of fairy chimneys, known as hoodoos.

You will see, it’s very different from anything you will have seen to date. These tall, thin spires of rock coming out from the bottom of arid basins are truly unique, with colors ranging from white and pink to fiery orange and red.

Crafted meticulously by nature’s elements over millennia, these hoodoos give Bryce Canyon its distinctive appearance and allure.

To make the most of your visit to Bryce Canyon, you should take the 29-km scenic road passing by all the best viewpoints.

Here are my favorites:

• Sunrise Point: As the name suggests, this is your ideal spot to witness the first light of day in the park.
• Inspiration Point: Elevate your perspective and gaze upon the vast collection of hoodoos and spires.
• Bryce Point: Also renowned for its breathtaking views during sunrise, this viewpoint unveils the full scale of Bryce Amphitheater.
• Sunset Point: Offering panoramic views of the main amphitheater. As you guessed, you should get there when the sun dips below the horizon.

While viewpoints offer a quick glimpse into Bryce Canyon’s beauty, you can get up close to the fairy chimneys by venturing onto the trails.

Here are the best trails in Bryce Canyon:

• Navajo Loop Trail: A 2 kilometer hike that descends into the heart of the main amphitheater, taking you through the iconic Wall Street section—a narrow canyon flanked by towering cliffs.
• Queen’s Garden Trail: A relatively easy hike that lets you get close to the park’s stunning hoodoos, including the famous Queen Victoria hoodoo. You should combine Navajo Loop Trail + Queen’s Garden Trail to do a loop. The full loop is about 2h30, and it’s in my opinion the perfect option for a first time visit.
• Peek-A-Boo Loop: A more challenging 3h30 trail, but the rewards are worth the effort. As you weave through the hoodoos, every turn offers a new perspective!

As night falls on the sixth day of your 10-day west coast road trip, Bryce Canyon has one more treat in store—a pristine night sky adorned with thousands of stars, unspoiled by city lights.

It’s the perfect end to a day of exploration!

Spend the night in Bryce Canyon City.

Where to stay in Bryce Canyon

All the hotels are located in Bryce Canyon City, just before the entrance to the national park.

• Bryce Canyon Pines: Double room from 160€. Strong points: clean, good restaurant, swimming pool.
• Bryce View Lodge Part of the Ruby’s Inn Resort: Double room from 185€, breakfast included. Strong points: big parking, quiet, indoor swimming pool.
• Best Western PLUS Ruby’s Inn: Double room from 200€, breakfast included. Strong points: good breakfast and restaurant, big indoor swimming pool, spacious and comfortable bedroom.
• Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel: Double room from 300€, breakfast included. Strong points: pleasant staff, heated swimming pool, free parking. The best choice for a more upscale stay!

Day 7 – Zion National Park

On day 7 of your western USA 9, 10 or 11 days road trip, head to Zion National Park, 1h45 drive from Bryce Canyon.

Nestled between the edges of the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Plateau and spanning over 600 square kilometers, Zion National Park is known for its massive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and diverse wildlife.

Here are the best places to see and things to do in Zion National Park:

• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: This road is the best way to enjoy amazing views of the park’s most iconic landmarks. Please note that during peak seasons, private vehicles might have limited access, and you might need to hop on the park’s shuttle bus.
• The Narrows: A hike like no other, The Narrows takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. Depending on the season and water levels, you might find yourself wading through the Virgin River, so come prepared!
• Angels Landing: For those who seek a bit of thrill, this 8 kilometer round trip hike offers breathtaking panoramic views. The last kilometer is the scariest one, as you will walk on a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs.
• Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel: This 1.7 kilometer tunnel, constructed in the 1920s, features windows carved out of the rock, providing glimpses of the beautiful landscapes outside.

Before going to Zion National Park, always check the park’s official website for any alerts, especially if you’re planning to hike The Narrows, as flash floods can be a risk.

There, you can also enjoy several great activities (click on the orange links fore more info and to book):

• Horseback riding in Zion
• Sunset jeep tour
• Star-gazing with a guide
• Helicopter flight

Where to stay in Zion National Park

All the hotels are located in Springdale, the best place to stay close the entrance to the national park.

• Zion Park Motel: Double room from 130€. Strong points: free parking, heated swimming pool, fridge and microwave in the room, shuttle bus to the park stops right outside.
• La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale: Double room from 190€,breakfast included. Strong points: nice area with swimming pool, clean and spacious room, view over the mountain
• Holiday Inn Express Springdale – Zion National Park Area, an IHG Hotel: Double room from 270€. Strong points: hearty breakfast, nice swimming pool with view, great welcome. It’s my favorite hotel for its excellent value for money in the area.
• Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites: Double room from 350€. Strong points: well-maintained, clean and well-tended complex, top-notch breakfast, beautiful swimming pool.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park: Double room from 400€, breakfast included. Strong points: magnificent hotel decorated with great taste, beautiful room and large bathroom, magnificent setting, excellent breakfast. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay near Zion National park!

Day 8 – From Zion to Death Valley

Today, you will go from Zion towards Death Valley.

Without stopping, the journey takes about 4h30, but there are at least 2 places you should stop by along the way.

Here’s how to make the most of your day:

• St. George

You should first stop in St. George, a town roughly an hour away from Zion. You can visit its historic downtown and art galleries.

Don’t miss out on the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site if you’re traveling with kids or if you love everything dinosaur related!

• Valley of Fire State Park

This state park located in Nevada is known for its red sandstone formations.

The park’s terrain might remind you of Mars, with its wavering rocks and arches. It’s in my opinion really worth a stop!

There, you can also take a short hike to witness ancient petroglyphs.

When mapping your route for the day, always check the road conditions, especially if you’re traveling during off-peak seasons. You best bet is to use a GPS map with real time traffic data such as Google Maps or Waze.

Spend one night around Death Valley.

Where to stay around Death Valley

• El Portal Motel: Located in Beatty. Double room from 90€. Strong points: free parking, outdoor swimming pool, clean.
• The Ranch At Death Valley: Located in Furnace Creek. Double room from 150€. Strong points: comfortable, nice swimming pool and outdoor area, ideal location.
• The Inn at Death Valley: Located in Death Valley. Double room from 320€. Strong points: the garden, the setting, the pool, provision of buggies to get around. For sure the best hotel in the area!

Day 9 – Death Valley

On the 9th Day of your 10 days trip on the USA West Coast, you will discover Death Valley, the hottest and driest national park in the US.

Here, rugged mountains rise over 3000 meters right next to the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin (86m below sea level!).

This desolate land is surprisingly full of life and history, with its ancient rock formations and the stories of the Native Americans.

To explore the heart of Death Valley, you should take Badwater Road.

Stretching for kilometers, this road will allow you to discover some of the park’s most iconic landmarks:

• Badwater Basin: This salt flat marks the lowest point in North America, sitting at 86 meters below sea level. White salt crystals stretches as far as the eye can see, offering a landscape that seems almost otherworldly.
• Dante’s View: From the depths, ascend to one of the highest vantage points in the valley. Dante’s View provides a panoramic vista of the valley below, with the Black Mountains on one side and the Sierra Nevada on the other.
• Devil’s Golf Course: Here, the terrain is so rugged that it’s said only the devil could play golf on such a course!
• Artist’s Palette: As you continue on Badwater Road, the Artist’s Palette emerges as a splash of color against the desert backdrop. This area is known for its oxidized metals, resulting in a spectrum of colors—from blues and purples to reds and yellows.
• Zabriskie Point: Another must-visit viewpoint, Zabriskie Point, offers a maze of beautifully eroded badlands.
• Ubehebe Crater: This massive volcanic crater, 800m wide and 235m deep, is a testament to the violent geothermal forces that once shaped this land. The crater was formed following a steam explosion, and the dark, ash-covered landscape that surrounds it offers a stark contrast to the rest of the valley.

For the last night of your 10-day stay in the American West, you can spend another night in Death Valley or drive to Las Vegas at the end of the day (a 2-hour drive from Death Valley).

Day 10 – Las Vegas

It’s hard to believe that your 10 days road trip on USA West Coast is almost over!

Today, as you’re back in Vegas, you can revisit spots you missed on your first day or venture just outside the city limits.

For example, you can head to Red Rock Canyon, located just 32 kilometers west of Las Vegas. It’s the perfect spot if you want to spend one more day exploring the great outdoors before leaving!

You can embark on scenic drives or enjoy the numerous hiking trails that meander through the crimson rock formations.

At the end of your last day of exploration, go back to the airport and catch your return flight.

9 or 11 days West coast itinerary

If you have only 9 days to visit the American West, I would recommend you that for day 8, you leave early in the morning and go directly to Death Valley, without stopping along the way.

Alternatively, you can also remove the day at Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon or Death Valley.

On the contrary, if you’ve got 11 days for your West coast road trip, you have 2 options:

• If you enjoy hiking, add a day in one of the National parks
• You can also add 1 day in Las Vegas.

Tips before starting your 10-day road trip on the USA West Coast

To wrap things up, here are a few important things to know before embarking on a road trip in Western USA.

Get your ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)

If you’re not living in the USA, it’s mandatory. You can’t enter the United States without it. 

• What is it? It’s an online application system introduced by the U.S. government to pre-screen travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries.
• Before You Apply: Ensure your country is a member of the VWP.
• Duration: It’s typically valid for 2 years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

Apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your trip.

Of course, use only the official website to avoid scams.

Travel Insurance

• Why is it Important? Medical care in the U.S. is extremely expensive. Having insurance is the only way to avoid unexpected medical bills and other travel-related mishaps.
• Coverage: The basic insurances cover medical emergencies, and more expensive ones also cover trip cancellations and lost luggage.

On my side, I always opt for ACS: it’s a great deal and they are very reliable. You can check their price and purchase your travel insurance by clicking here.

Driving in the US

I already talked about that at the beginning at this article but here is a quick reminder. To drive in the US, here are the important things to know:

• International Driving Permit (IDP): If your driver’s license is not in English, or if you’re planning to rent a car, it’s a good idea to get an IDP from your home country.
• American cars are usually automatic. If you’re not used to it, learn the basic functions and controls before hitting the road.
• Stay Updated: Download navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates.

Map of your 10 days itinerary in USA West Coast

To help you visualize your itinerary a bit better, I’ve created a map of all the best places to visit during your 10 days in the USA.

You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

And if you need any help to plan your 10 days road trip on the West coast, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

You’re traveling in the US? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about USA: All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• Las Vegas: Top 30 Best things to do and must-see attractions
• Los Angeles: The 45 best places to visit
• New York: The 57 best things to do
• San Francisco: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions

• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary
• 4 Days in New York – The perfect itinerary for your visit
• One Week in New York – The perfect 7-day itinerary

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!