How to Plan an Epic Phoenix to Yellowstone Road Trip
Planning a road trip from Phoenix to Yellowstone is an adventure filled with diverse landscapes, iconic national parks, and unique small towns. Covering approximately 1000 miles, this journey takes you from the desert scenery of Arizona to the alpine beauty of Wyoming.
Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore Sedona, the Grand Canyon, the spectacular Teton Range, or one of the Southwest’s hidden gems, Kanab, UT. Whether you’re looking to hike, sightsee, or enjoy scenic drives, this route has it all. Here are suggested stops to help you plan an epic Phoenix to Yellowstone Road Trip!
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Phoenix to Yellowstone: The Details
Phoenix is approximately 1000 miles from Yellowstone. It takes about 14-16 hours of driving time (without long stops), depending on route, traffic and road conditions.
The fastest route takes you from Phoenix to Yellowstone’s West Entrance (near West Yellowstone, MT) via I-17 N to Flagstaff, then up US-89 N through Page and Kanab, and continuing on I-15 N through Salt Lake City to US-20 E. Another option is to drive from Phoenix to Yellowstone’s South Entrance, near Moran, WY. This route adds an hour to your driving time but follows US-191 N/US-287 N/US-89 N through Grand Teton National Park.
It’s possible to complete this drive in 1-2 days of driving; however, you’re passing many incredible destinations and could easily turn this into a week-long road trip. Key stops include Sedona, AZ; Grand Canyon National Park; Page, AZ (for Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend); Kanab, UT (gateway to Zion and Bryce Canyon); Park City, UT; and Jackson, WY (gateway to Grand Teton National Park).
Consider booking overnight stays in Page or Kanab for your first night and Provo, Salt Lake City, or Park City for the second night. There are also many campgrounds in Grand Canyon National Park, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Teton National Park.
Major fuel stops are available in Sedona, Flagstaff, Page, Kanab, and Jackson. Fuel up before long stretches, especially between Kanab and Jackson, where gas stations become more sparse.
You’ll enter Yellowstone National Park via the West Entrance, near West Yellowstone, MT, or the South Entrance, which brings you to the east side of Grand Teton National Park. We highly recommend driving from Phoenix to Yellowstone’s South Entrance to explore Grand Teton National Park on your way to or from Yellowstone. Once you pass through Yellowstone’s South Entrance, you’ll be close to popular attractions like the Old Faithful Geyser and Yellowstone Lake.
Late May through early June and September or October are generally the best months to drive from Phoenix to Yellowstone, as roads are clear, national parks are fully accessible, and weather conditions are more favorable for hiking and sightseeing.
(Fastest) 2-Day Phoenix to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary
When driving to Yellowstone from Arizona, your driving time is similar whether you’re headed to Yellowstone’s West or South Entrance. It’s about an hour faster to Yellowstone’s West Entrance, but the South Entrance will take you through Grand Teton National Park on the way. We’ll detail both potential routes in the post… Here’s a look at the fastest route from Phoenix to Yellowstone’s West Entrance.
The fastest route from Phoenix to Yellowstone has you stopping in Provo, UT, or Salt Lake City for one night and only making stops for food, gas, and restroom breaks, but if you're looking for just one or two fun other stops, consider the following ideas.
Stop 1: Page, AZ
Roadside Overlook: Glen Canyon Dam Overlook: This viewpoint provides a close-up view of the Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River. Stop here to take in the scale of the dam and learn about its history through interpretive signs.
Roadside Highlight: Horseshoe Bend: Just a few miles south of Page, Horseshoe Bend is an iconic overlook where the Colorado River makes a dramatic, horseshoe-shaped curve. It’s an easy, short hike from the parking lot to the viewpoint, where you can take in breathtaking views of the river below.
Famous Attraction: Antelope Canyon (Lower or Upper): One of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, Antelope Canyon is famous for its wave-like walls and light beams filtering through the cracks. You can explore either the Lower or Upper Canyon, but be sure to book a guided tour in advance, as this popular site requires permits and fills up fast.
Lower Antelope Canyon
Lower Antelope Canyon
Stop 2: Kanab, UT
Roadside Restaurant: Big Al's Burgers at The Junction: This casual diner in Kanab is known for its classic American comfort food and friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The menu features favorites like burgers, fries, and milkshakes, making it a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.
Roadside Attraction: Moqui Cave: Moqui Cave is a fascinating natural formation located just outside Kanab. The cave's cool, dark interior provides a refreshing contrast to the warm desert climate, making it an intriguing spot to explore. After your visit, be sure to stop by the museum and onsite food truck for a delicious acai bowl.
Roadside Hiking: Red Hollow Slot Canyon: Located in Orderville, this hidden gem is known for its dramatic, narrow passageways and vibrant red rock formations. This relatively easy hike allows visitors to explore the enchanting slot canyon, where sunlight filters through the towering walls, creating mesmerizing patterns on the canyon floor.
Moqui Cave
Red Hollow Slot Canyon
Stop 3: Provo, UT, or Salt Lake City
Nearby State Park: Antelope Island State Park: Antelope Island State Park is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. The island is accessible via a causeway and features scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities to see free-roaming bison, antelope, and various bird species. The park also offers picnic areas and beaches along the lake, making it a perfect spot to relax mid-drive.
Stretch Your Legs: Liberty Park: As one of Salt Lake City’s largest and oldest parks, Liberty Park is a lovely urban oasis featuring expansive green spaces, walking paths, and beautiful gardens. The park is home to the Hogle Zoo and the Tracy Aviary, offering fun, family-friendly activities.
Restaurant: Two Jacks Pizza: Known for its delicious, handcrafted pizzas made with fresh ingredients and a variety of toppings, this is a great spot for a satisfying meal in the heart of Provo.
Hiking Highlight: Provo Canyon: A short drive from downtown, Provo Canyon is a breathtaking natural attraction featuring scenic views, hiking trails, and the stunning Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can also enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing along the Provo River.
Final Stop: Yellowstone National Park
Highlight: Everything! Enter through the West Entrance, then drive south to Yellowstone’s geysers and thermal areas to witness eruptions of the park's most famous geysers—or drive north to Mammoth Hot Springs and the incredible wildlife-watching opportunities along Yellowstone’s Northern Range.
(Most Scenic) 1-Week Epic Phoenix to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary
This epic week-long route from Phoenix to Yellowstone allows for even more overnight stops, scenic views, and excursions! Consider overnight stops in Sedona, Page, Kanab, Park City, and Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park. If you’re camping, consider campsites in Sedona, Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Grand Teton National Park.
Stop 1: Sedona, AZ
Roadside Attraction: Chapel of the Holy Cross: This architectural gem is built into the red rocks of Sedona and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Restaurant: Elote Cafe: Known for its upscale, modern take on Mexican cuisine, Elote Cafe is a local favorite and has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Hiking Highlight: Cathedral Rock Trail: This steep and challenging hike rewards you with panoramic views of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations.
Stop 2: Grand Canyon National Park
Scenic Overlooks: Mather Point: Mather Point is one of the most popular and easily accessible overlooks at the Grand Canyon South Rim, located just a short walk from the Visitor Center.
Hiking Highlight: South Kaibab Trail: This trail offers some of the most breathtaking views in the park, with several scenic lookout points along the way.
Scenic Overlook: Cape Royal: Located on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Cape Royal offers one of the most expansive and breathtaking panoramic views. Accessible via a scenic drive along Cape Royal Road, this viewpoint is especially popular at sunrise and sunset when the colors of the canyon walls are at their most vibrant.
Cape Royal, Grand Canyon North Rim
Stop 3: Page, AZ
Roadside Overlook: Glen Canyon Dam Overlook: This viewpoint provides a close-up view of the Glen Canyon Dam and the Colorado River. Stop here to take in the scale of the dam and learn about its history through interpretive signs.
Roadside Highlight: Horseshoe Bend: Just a few miles south of Page, Horseshoe Bend is an iconic overlook where the Colorado River makes a dramatic, horseshoe-shaped curve. It’s an easy, short hike from the parking lot to the viewpoint, where you can take in breathtaking views of the river below.
Famous Attraction: Antelope Canyon (Lower or Upper): One of the most photographed slot canyons in the world, Antelope Canyon is famous for its wave-like walls and light beams filtering through the cracks. You can explore either the Lower or Upper Canyon, but be sure to book a guided tour in advance, as this popular site requires permits and fills up fast.
Restaurant: Big John’s Texas BBQ: Known for its delicious smoked meats and lively atmosphere, this barbecue joint is a favorite among locals and visitors. The outdoor seating area often features live music, adding to the fun, casual vibe. Try the brisket or ribs, and don’t forget the house-made sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
Stop 4: Kanab, UT
Kanab is a roadtripper’s paradise! Stop for a meal on your drive through town, spend one night here to take advantage of a few nearby attractions, or spend a couple of nights enjoying the many national and state parks near Kanab. There’s so much to do in and around Kanab; here are a few highlights!
Roadside Restaurant: Big Al's Burgers at The Junction: This casual diner in Kanab is known for its classic American comfort food and friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The menu features favorites like burgers, fries, and milkshakes, making it a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.
Downtown Restaurant: Rocking V Cafe: A charming eatery in the heart of Kanab, Rocking V Cafe offers a varied menu with Southwestern and international flavors. Don’t miss the desserts, especially the famous cheesecake.
Roadside Attraction: Moqui Cave: Moqui Cave is a fascinating natural formation located just outside Kanab. The cave's cool, dark interior provides a refreshing contrast to the warm desert climate, making it an intriguing spot to explore. After your visit, be sure to stop by the museum and onsite food truck for a delicious acai bowl.
Roadside Hiking: Red Hollow Slot Canyon: Located in Orderville, this hidden gem is known for its dramatic, narrow passageways and vibrant red rock formations. This relatively easy hike allows visitors to explore the enchanting slot canyon, where sunlight filters through the towering walls, creating mesmerizing patterns on the canyon floor.
Exclusive Excursion: The Wave (Coyote Buttes North): Located on the border of Arizona and Utah, The Wave is a stunning sandstone formation known for its swirling, wave-like patterns. Access is highly restricted, with a permit lottery required to limit the number of daily visitors, making it an exclusive and coveted destination for hikers and photographers. If you’re lucky enough to secure a permit, the 6-mile round-trip hike offers an unforgettable experience through a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
State Park Excursion: Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park: Just a 30-minute drive west of Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is a stunning desert area with rolling, brightly colored sand dunes. These unique dunes, formed over thousands of years by wind erosion, are ideal for activities like sandboarding, hiking, and off-road ATV adventures. Visitors can explore the dunes on foot or rent equipment from local outfitters.
National Park Detour: Zion National Park: Located about an hour’s drive north of Kanab, Zion National Park can be accessed via the East Entrance along UT-9, passing through the impressive Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by towering sandstone cliffs, lush valleys, and an array of hiking opportunities. One of the best things to do is hike The Narrows, a slot canyon adventure where you wade through the Virgin River along the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. Another iconic experience is the Angel’s Landing trail, a challenging climb with steep drop-offs and incredible summit views.
National Park Roadside Detour: Bryce Canyon National Park: Bryce Canyon is about 1.5 hours northeast of Kanab—but only about 20 minutes off your route from Kanab to Yellowstone’s South Entrance. Known for its unique hoodoos (tall, thin rock spires), Bryce Canyon offers one of the most surreal landscapes in the American Southwest. A must-do activity is Bryce Canyon’s 18-mile scenic drive, leading to 13 viewpoints that showcase the stunning hoodoo-filled amphitheaters and sweeping vistas.
Extended Roadtrips or RV Trips: The Mighty 5: If you have the time, consider taking the super scenic detour from Kanab to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks. After Zion and Bryce Canyon, head toward Torrey, UT, to visit Capitol Reef National Park. Then, keep driving to Moab to visit Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. From there, connect back with the main route in Provo.
Stop 5: Salt Lake City or Park City, UT
Roadside Attraction: Utah Olympic Park: Built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, this park features a museum, zip lines, and bobsled experiences. It’s a fun stop to learn about the history of the Winter Games and get insight into the life of an Olympic athlete.
Hiking Highlight: Armstrong Trail: This moderately difficult trail offers stunning views and can be accessed from the base of Park City Mountain, allowing for easy integration into a day of exploration.
Shopping & Dining: Historic Main Street: Downtown Park City is a lively hub filled with charming shops, art galleries, and a variety of dining options. Stroll along the brick-lined sidewalks, and when it’s time for a break, choose from cozy cafes, vibrant pubs, or fine dining establishments, like popular spots Riverhorse on Main or No Name Saloon.
Nearby State Park: Antelope Island State Park: Antelope Island State Park is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife watchers. The island is accessible via a causeway and features scenic views, hiking trails, and opportunities to see free-roaming bison, antelope, and various bird species. The park also offers picnic areas and beaches along the lake, making it a perfect spot to relax mid-drive.
Stretch Your Legs: Liberty Park: As one of Salt Lake City’s largest and oldest parks, Liberty Park is a lovely urban oasis featuring expansive green spaces, walking paths, and beautiful gardens. The park is home to the Hogle Zoo and the Tracy Aviary, offering fun, family-friendly activities.
Stop 6: Grand Teton National Park
Quick View: Colter Bay Marina: To explore the Tetons, we highly recommend extending your road trip with lodging for one or two nights in Jackson, WY, or Grand Teton National Park. However, if you’re just driving through and want a quick but beautiful Teton view, stop in Colter Bay Village. This is on your way to Yellowstone’s South Entrance and offers a gorgeous marina and mountain view.
Highlight Hiking: Jenny Lake: One of the park's most iconic spots, Jenny Lake offers breathtaking views, scenic boat rides, and easy access to hiking trails. The nearby Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, and Cascade Canyon hikes are popular hiking trails.
Highlight Photography: Schwabacher Landing & Mormon Row: Schwabacher Landing is a peaceful spot along the Snake River known for its stunning reflections of the Teton Range, especially at sunrise. It's an ideal place for photography and wildlife viewing, often with sightings of moose, beavers, and various bird species. Mormon Row, on the other hand, is a historic area famous for the iconic Moulton Barn, one of the most photographed barns in America. With the Teton Range as a backdrop, it’s a favorite spot for photographers.
Get Lodging Near: Grand Teton National Park or Jackson, Wyoming: Jackson serves as the gateway to Grand Teton National Park and a destination in its own right. While in Jackson, explore the historic Town Square with its famous antler arches, enjoy boutique shopping, or experience world-class dining. For adventure, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers activities year-round. The National Elk Refuge is another must-see, providing opportunities to see thousands of elk in their winter habitat.
Restaurant With A View: Dornan’s Restaurant: Close to Moose Wilson Road, Dornan's is a beloved restaurant offering a terrace with stunning views of the Tetons.
Colter Bay Marina in Grand Teton National Park
Final Stop: Yellowstone National Park
Highlight: Everything! Enter through the South Entrance, then drive west to Old Faithful to witness an eruption of one of the park's most famous geysers—or drive east to pass by the shore of Yellowstone Lake on your way to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can’t go wrong no matter which direction you head first.
Keep Planning Your Trip to Yellowstone
Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries for each season, ensure you don’t miss out on the best things to do and see in Yellowstone year-round.
Created from personal experience over 9 years and 10 trips (& counting), our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the overwhelm out of planning a vacation to one of America’s largest national parks and make the most of your visit with our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide.
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