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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesWest USADesert to the Rockies
Banff N.P.

Desert to the Rockies Road Trip

Tucson - Phoenix - Kingman - Las Vegas - Ely - Twin Falls - Salmon - Missoula - Kalispell - Banff - Jasper

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Wildlife Wildlife
Desert to the Rockies Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages10 km3,201 h/stage3.8

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Desert to the Rockies Road Trip in West USA?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 540EUR drive & more 438EUR sleep & more 946EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,248EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,788EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 648EUR drive & more 575EUR sleep & more 1,430EUR eat & more 1,296EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,301EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,949EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,080EUR drive & more 775EUR sleep & more 2,376EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,879EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,959EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 863EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,387EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,087EUR
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Desert to the Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

The Desert to the Rockies Road Trip is an exciting journey that starts in Tucson, United States and ends in Jasper, Canada. This 3201km adventure takes you through Phoenix, Las Vegas, Twin Falls, Missoula, and Banff. Along the way, you will be able to experience the beauty of the desert, the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, and the vibrant cities of the Western US. The best time to take this road trip is from April to October. During this time, the roads are in excellent condition and the weather is ideal for this kind of trip. You will have the opportunity to visit UNESCO World Heritage monuments such as the Grand Canyon, the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, and the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. The roads are mostly well-maintained and not too curvy, although you should be aware that border crossing and seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur. This road trip is suitable for every driver and can be managed with a moderate budget. It is sure to provide a unique and unforgettable experience, full of memories that will last a lifetime.
number of days 12 number of days
route length 3,201 km route length
budget fair budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Tucson

Distance 3,201 km Driving time 38.5 h Pace: fast 960.2 kWh Airports TUS
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Tucson, located in the Sonoran Desert in the state of Arizona, is an ideal starting point for the "Desert to the Rockies Road Trip". It is a vibrant city with a rich history, culture, and activities to explore. Tucson is renowned for its many attractions, such as the Saguaro National Park, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, and the Mission San Xavier del Bac. All of these attractions are within easy reach of each other and offer a unique insight into the Sonoran Desert. For those who travel by air, the closest international airport is Tucson International Airport (TUS). At the airport, travelers can find a variety of car rental companies, such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis, which offer a wide selection of vehicles to suit any budget and travel needs. The city of Tucson is an ideal starting point for the "Desert to the Rockies Road Trip" and offers travelers a unique experience. From the picturesque Saguaro National Park to the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a relaxing break or an exciting adventure, Tucson is the perfect place to start your journey.

1 Tucson - Saguaro N.P. - Phoenix

Distance 227 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 68.1 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options interesting cultural site
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Take a memorable road trip from Tucson to Phoenix! This 141-mile journey takes less than 3 hours and is full of breathtaking sights and experiences. Start your journey at Saguaro National Park, where you can explore the unique desert landscape and get up close to the iconic saguaro cacti. Make sure to take some photos of the stunning desert sunsets! As you travel, take in the picturesque views of the rolling hills, and keep an eye out for historical sites. When you reach Phoenix, you'll find yourself in the bustling heart of the city. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and explore the many shops, restaurants, and galleries. This is just one leg of a longer journey, and more information about attractions, accommodation, and recommended restaurants and campsites along the route can be found in the Itinerary. So pack your bags and hit the road for a memorable Tucson to Phoenix road trip!

2 Phoenix - Kingman

Distance 318 km Driving time 3.4 h Pace: fast 95.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Phoenix to Kingman? This 197mi drive will take you fewer than 4 hours, so it's perfect for a weekend getaway. On the way, you'll get to explore some of the most interesting places in Arizona. Start your journey in Phoenix and head north to the city of Wickenburg. There you can take a break and explore the city's rich history. Learn about the area's mining and ranching history, and check out the unique shops and restaurants. Continue your journey north and you'll reach the city of Prescott. Here you can enjoy the beautiful mountain views and explore the city's historic downtown. You can also visit the Sharlot Hall Museum and learn about the city's rich history. From Prescott, you'll drive to the city of Seligman. This small town is home to the historic Route 66. Take a walk down the old highway and explore the unique shops, restaurants, and attractions. Finally, you'll reach your destination of Kingman. Here you can explore the historic downtown area and visit the Kingman Railroad Museum. The road trip from Phoenix to Kingman is a great way to explore some of the most interesting places in Arizona. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So pack your bags and hit the road - you're in for an exciting adventure!

3 Kingman - Grand Canyon N.P. - Las Vegas

Distance 172 km Driving time 1.7 h Pace: fast 51.5 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site attractive landscape interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a 107mi road trip from Kingman, United States and take in the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon National Park before arriving in the dazzling city of Las Vegas. Along the way, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes, picturesque vistas, and historical sites. Keep an eye out for the UNESCO World Heritage sites that you'll pass along the way. This two-hour drive is just one of the many stages of an unforgettable road trip. Make sure to keep your camera close to capture the magnificent views that you'll encounter. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, hop in your car and enjoy the beautiful drive!

4 Las Vegas - Ely

Distance 466 km Driving time 5.7 h Pace: fast 139.7 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Las Vegas to Ely? This 289-mile journey will take you fewer than 6 hours, so you will have plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views and take lots of pictures. The drive will take you through some spectacular desert scenery and the most breathtaking mountain passes. Keep an eye out for the many attractions along the way, such as the Hoover Dam, the Valley of Fire State Park, and the Great Basin National Park. Once you arrive in Ely, you can take a break and explore the city. There are plenty of restaurants and shops to check out, as well as a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. No matter where you go, you're sure to have a memorable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for a road trip from Las Vegas to Ely! You won't regret it.

5 Ely - Twin Falls

Distance 406 km Driving time 5.2 h Pace: fast 121.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome to the Ely to Twin Falls road trip! Get ready to explore the best of both these cities in just a few hours. The total distance of this journey is 252 miles, and the estimated driving time is under 6 hours. Start your journey in Ely, and make sure to visit the White Pine Public Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area. Then, take a stroll around Cave Lake State Park, and enjoy the scenic views of the lake and the surrounding forest. Once you reach Twin Falls, you can check out the Shoshone Falls, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the United States. Then, visit the Twin Falls Center for the Arts, and explore the many galleries and exhibits that showcase the city's culture and history. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic drive along the way. You can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

6 Twin Falls - Challis - Salmon

Distance 421 km Driving time 5.7 h Pace: fast 126.3 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on a 262mi road trip from Twin Falls to Salmon and explore the amazing attractions of Challis. This journey will take you fewer than 6 hours and you will be able to enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the area. The route is winding in some sections and some sections may be closed seasonally, so pay attention to the road signs. There are plenty of places to visit in Challis, such as the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park and the Challis National Forest. The Land of the Yankee Fork State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the area, while the Challis National Forest is a great place for camping and hiking. After Challis, head to Salmon, where you can explore the Salmon River and the Salmon National Forest. There are plenty of attractions in Salmon, such as the Salmon River Falls and the Salmon Rapids. Make sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.

7 Salmon - Missoula

Distance 225 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 67.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Salmon to Missoula! The 140mi drive will take you less than 3 hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views of the road. Be mindful that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. Start your journey in Salmon, where you can explore the Salmon River and the nearby Salmon-Challis National Forest. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Continue your journey to the city of Missoula, where you can explore the Clark Fork River and the Rattlesnake Wilderness. Here, you can hike, bike, kayak, and raft. You can also visit the University of Montana and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. These are just a few of the many attractions you can experience on your road trip from Salmon to Missoula. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!

8 Missoula - Kalispell

Distance 198 km Driving time 2.3 h Pace: fast 59.5 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome road-trippers! Let us take you on an amazing journey from Missoula to Kalispell, a distance of 123 miles that can be completed in fewer than 3 hours. As you drive along the scenic road, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains, the Flathead Valley, and the Flathead Lake. Your first stop should be the Missoula Art Museum, where you can admire the works of local and international artists. Then, you can explore the University of Montana campus and the vibrant downtown. Don't forget to visit the Missoula Farmers Market, where you can purchase fresh, locally grown produce. Kalispell is the next stop, and here you can explore the Conrad Mansion Museum, the Hockaday Museum of Art, and the Flathead Lake. If you're looking for outdoor activities, you can go hiking, biking, or fishing. You can also take a scenic drive to Glacier National Park and admire the breathtaking views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

9 Kalispell - Glacier N.P. - Banff

Distance 482 km Driving time 5.6 h Pace: fast 144.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Kalispell, United States and take a 300mi journey to Banff, Canada. Along the way, you'll be able to explore the stunning Glacier National Park, where you can admire the majestic mountain peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes. Make sure to take some time to explore the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds its way through the park and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country. As you continue your journey, you'll cross the state border and enter Canada. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and you'll encounter steep ramps and winding roads. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and historical sites along the way, and make sure to take lots of photos! With fewer than 6 hours of driving time, this is one of the stages of a larger tour that you won't want to miss. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

10 Banff - Jasper

Distance 286 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 85.9 kWh View map Itinerary
EV charging station dining venues scenic road !en!generator.stage-attribute.SeasonalClosure! junction of road trips accommodation options
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Banff to Jasper! This 286 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, but you'll want to take your time and savor the breathtaking views. As you drive through the iconic Banff National Park, be sure to look out for the stunning scenery and wildlife. Make sure to stop by the famous Lake Louise, where you can take in the picturesque turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop. Further down the road, you'll come across the stunning Bow Lake, where you can take in the incredible views of the surrounding glaciers. As you make your way to Jasper, don't forget to take a break at the Athabasca Glacier, where you can explore the stunning ice fields. Keep in mind that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

  Jasper

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Jasper, Canada is the perfect destination to finish off your Desert to the Rockies Road Trip. Jasper is a beautiful mountain town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, with an abundance of outdoor activities to explore. Jasper National Park is one of the best attractions for outdoor adventures. You can hike or bike on trails that lead to turquoise lakes, towering waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. For a truly unique experience, take a ride on the Jasper Skytram, a cable car that takes you over the stunning landscape of the Canadian Rockies. If you’re looking for some more relaxation, head to the Miette Hot Springs. Take a dip in the hot mineral springs, or take a leisurely walk around the boardwalk and take in the stunning views. For a unique shopping experience, hit the shops of Jasper’s downtown area. Discover unique stores, galleries, and restaurants, many of which feature handmade items. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, try the world-famous Alberta beef at one of the town’s many steakhouses. For those traveling by car, there are plenty of stunning roads to explore in the area. The Icefields Parkway is a popular route, as it takes you through some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery, including glaciers, waterfalls, and snow-covered peaks. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG). From there, you can rent a car and take the three-hour drive to Jasper. No matter how you arrive, you’ll be glad you made it to Jasper to finish off your Desert to the Rockies Road Trip. With its stunning scenery, unique shops, and abundance of outdoor activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in this Canadian mountain town.

Desert to the Rockies Road Trip at a glance

No doubt our trip will become a superb inspiration for your future holidays.
Our itinerary can be used as a foundation that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with diverse attractions of your choice.
If travelling by car is your plan when moving around West USA, there are a number of essential road rules to follow and a list of things to be mindful of to make your road adventure smooth and safe. These tips will also become useful for tourists who are interested in car hire or renting a camper in West USA.
In West USA, there are a number of traffic rules to be followed while on a trip. When moving around West USA in a car, it is best to avoid alcohol. Holidaymakers ought to remember that the legal alcohol limit is very low and cannot exceed 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum permissible speed, which is 40km/h, around the city streets may lead to a speeding ticket. If you are aiming for non-build-up areas, you cannot exceed the maximum allowed speed of 72km/h. On highways, the allowed speed is 129km/h. In order to stay safe, it is best to drive with your headlights on at daytime and equip your vehicle with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit.
One of the decisive factors when scheduling an itinerary is costs. Depending on the budget option that interests you, the money that you have to pay for your travel expenses will vary. A wide range of budget options is showed below.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 3,201km while travelling around West USA can cost roughly 438 EUR. Economy accommodation options can cost holidaymakers more or less 946 EUR. The travel expenses related to food and restaurants within this option may cost up to roughly 864 EUR. If you also choose the budget car hire offer, you will pay approximately 540 EUR. Thus, you can expect the travel expenses to be around 2,248 EUR without vehicle hire and 2,788 EUR with vehicle hire.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 438 EUR to cover the planned stages of the trip. Cost amounting to 1,430 EUR can be expected by all travellers who are looking for standard hotels. Food and restaurants from the standard range will cost around 1,296 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard rental car should expect a cost of around 648 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay more or less 3,949 EUR for the whole itinerary, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle hire will spend more or less 3,301 EUR.
Holidayers who would like to take advantage of the highest level of convenience will be pleased with the premium offer. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 5,959 EUR for holidayers who are considering car hire and 3,301 EUR for those who will not be renting. Travellers who would like to cover the trip in a premium rental vehicle should expect a cost of around 1,080 EUR. If you are interested in the highest comfort of the itinerary, you will pay more or less 775 EUR for gasoline. Holidayers who will go for top services in all aspects of their road trip should expect to pay around 2,376 EUR for hotels and roughly 1,728 EUR for restaurants and food.
Our tour will also come up to the expectations of all camper lovers. If you choose this mode of transport, you should expect the costs of approximately 2,700 EUR. Travel costs connected with camper travel will be about 863 EUR – especially if you would like to cover all the stages around West USA. Travellers who would like to go for camper hire should expect to pay approximately 660 EUR for accommodation and roughly 864 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the above-mentioned details in a simple way.
The part of West USA mentioned in our adventure idea is great to be explored between April and October. There are numerous thrilling journeys that we offer on our website if you like Desert to the Rockies Road Trip. Hopefully, the great diversity of road trips will surely meet the expectations of the most demanding holidaymakers.

Facts for safer driving in West USA

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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