A trip to the USA would not be complete without a road trip through the American Southwest.
The Southwest USA has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Starting in California and travelling through Arizona and Utah are 10 must see destinations in the American Southwest.
1. Joshua Tree National Park, California
The Joshua Tree can live to over 500 years old, and although not the oldest tree, it is definitely one that can withstand the harshest of climates through summer and winter.
Joshua Tree National Park is dotted with Joshua Trees and large rock formations.
2. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is known for its spectacular Tunnel View, ancient sequoia trees, Bridalveil Falls and the large granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.
There are viewpoints that you can drive to, short hikes, day hikes, and you can even see rock climbers on the face of both Half Dome and El Capitan.
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3. Watson Lake, Prescott, Arizona
Prescott is a little town in the mountains that has little trendy bars and outdoor adventures.
The Watson Lake shoreline is covered in granite boulders, giving it an out of this world feeling.
There are hiking trails that surround the lake and it is a great spot to kayak.
4. Sedona, Arizona
The town of Sedona in Arizona is nestled amongst red rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests.
There are numerous trails in and around Sedona that have stunning views of these steep canyon walls and red rock buttes.
Some highlights include Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, and Red Rock State Park.
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5. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
Horseshoe Bend lies just outside of Page, Arizona (where Antelope Canyon is located).
There is an easy walk to from the carpark, to this famous landmark.
Please be careful not getting too close to the edge as no photo is worth your life.
The park service is currently putting wheel chair accessibility and fencing in and a viewing platform.
6. Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Located on Navajo land just outside of Page, Arizona, this slot canyon is divided into upper and lower section and is know for the beautiful light shafts that beam through in the midday sun.
Antelope Canyon is a must see but beware that it does get very busy and you have to take a tour.
There are separate tours for photographers so that you can use a tripod and the guides will wait while the other groups move out of the way.
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7. Canyonlands National Park, Utah
There are 4 distinct sections to Canyonlands National Park. Island in the Sky is great for short hikes and great viewpoints from the road, including the famous Mesa Arch.
If you are very adventurous than The Needles and The Maze are a great option for hiking and off roading, which are over 130 miles away from the entrance of The Island in the Sky on the southern side of Moab.
8. Arches National Park, Utah
Located just outside of Moab, Utah, Arches National Park has over 2000 natural arches made from sandstone.
Set amongst the desert scenery, it provides a spectacular backdrop for amazing sunsets.
Highlights include Delicate Arch, Turret Arch, Double O Arch.
9. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park is so different from all of the other national parks throughout the southwest.
The crimson coloured hoodoos dot this national park with its spire shaped natural rock formations.
The best times to view the park are sunrise and sunset when the light is hitting agains the rocks.
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10. Zion National Park, Utah
Upon entering Zion National Park, you are immediately immersed between the canyon’s steep red cliffs.
The scenic drive cuts through the main section of the cliffs making for some spectacular views.
The main sites in Zion include, The Subway, Angels Landing, and the Emerald Pools.
