Best Desert Road Trip Destinations in the U.S.

So, picture this: you’re cruising down an open highway, windows rolled down, your playlist blasting, and nothing but desert landscapes stretching out for miles. Sounds dreamy, right? Desert road trips in the U.S. are seriously underrated. Sure, beaches and mountains get all the hype, but the desert? It’s a whole different vibe—raw, colorful, and unbelievably peaceful. Let’s talk about some of the best desert road trip destinations in the U.S. that are 100% worth adding to your bucket list.

1. Route 66 through the Southwest

Ah, the classic. Route 66 isn’t just a road—it’s a legend. The stretch that cuts through Arizona and New Mexico is pure desert magic. You’ll find quirky roadside attractions, old-school diners, and ghost towns that feel frozen in time.

One of the best parts? The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. The colors of the painted desert there are wild—reds, oranges, purples—all blending together like some giant watercolor painting. And just a few hours away? Meteor Crater, which literally looks like something from another planet.

Pro tip: Stop in small towns along the way. They’ve got that retro Route 66 charm you just can’t fake.

2. Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you want desert landscapes with a side of funky, otherworldly vibes, Joshua Tree is where it’s at. The park is filled with these twisted, spiky Joshua trees (hence the name), massive boulder piles, and trails that make you feel like you’re wandering through a Dr. Seuss book.

And here’s the kicker: at night, the stargazing is next-level. The desert sky is ridiculously clear, and you can actually see the Milky Way. Camping here is like being dropped into your own desert planet.

Road trip idea: Pair Joshua Tree with a drive through Palm Springs. You’ll get the best of both worlds—mid-century modern cool and rugged desert wilderness.

3. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

You know those towering red rock buttes that pop up in every Western movie ever? That’s Monument Valley. Driving through here feels like you’ve entered an old John Wayne film. The formations are massive, and the views just go on forever.

There’s a scenic drive inside the valley, but honestly, even the highway views are jaw-dropping. Sunrises and sunsets? Unreal. The rocks light up in fiery oranges and deep purples—it’s the kind of beauty that sticks with you forever.

Don’t miss: The Navajo Tribal Park. Local guides can take you to hidden spots you won’t see on your own.

4. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada

Okay, the name sounds a little intense, but Death Valley is stunning. It’s one of the hottest places on Earth, sure, but it’s also filled with wild contrasts—sand dunes, salt flats, colorful canyons, and even snow-capped mountains in the distance.

Badwater Basin is a must-stop. It’s the lowest point in North America, and standing there feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Then there’s Zabriskie Point, where sunrise paints the hills in golden shades you didn’t even know existed.

Heads up: Go in the cooler months. Summer temps are no joke here.

5. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend is one of those places that feels remote in the best way possible. It’s tucked right along the Rio Grande and has this mix of desert, mountains, and river canyons. You can spend days hiking, soaking in hot springs, or just driving through and taking in the views.

The stars here are incredible, too—it’s actually an International Dark Sky Park. Imagine sitting outside your campsite, with zero light pollution, and just looking up at a sky full of stars. Pure magic.

Road trip bonus: Since it’s on the border, you can actually see Mexico across the river.

6. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is technically a desert, but it’s way more colorful than you’d expect. The red rock formations here are insane—they look like giant cathedrals glowing in the sun. The town itself is artsy and laid-back, with plenty of spots to grab a bite or check out local galleries.

There are tons of trails for hiking and off-roading, but even just driving through Oak Creek Canyon will give you views that’ll make you pull over every five minutes for photos.

Extra perk: People say Sedona has this “energy vortex” thing going on. Whether you buy into it or not, there’s definitely something special in the air here.

7. Moab and Arches National Park, Utah

Last but definitely not least: Moab. This little town is the perfect base for exploring two jaw-dropping parks—Arches and Canyonlands.

Arches National Park is exactly what it sounds like: a desert filled with natural rock arches. Delicate Arch is the most famous, and seeing it at sunset is unforgettable. Canyonlands, on the other hand, is like a desert version of the Grand Canyon—massive, rugged, and full of overlooks that make you feel tiny.

Road trip tip: Rent a jeep or go on a 4x4 tour. Moab is famous for its off-roading trails.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you go—some of the best desert road trip destinations in the U.S. Whether you’re into stargazing, hiking, quirky roadside stops, or just soaking up jaw-dropping views, the desert has something for you. The beauty of a desert road trip is that it slows you down. The landscapes are wide open, the skies are massive, and you can really just breathe.

Pack extra water, load up your favorite playlist, and hit the road. Who knows? The desert might just become your new favorite escape.