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Why This Is the Road Trip of 2026: The Hidden Side of The West
The Hidden Side of the West reflects how people are traveling now: seeking quieter destinations, better value, and deeper connections with the landscape. With fewer crowds, flexible RV travel, and unforgettable scenery, this route offers a refreshing alternative to the usual national park checklist. If you’re looking for the road trip that defines 2026, this is it.
Designed for explorers who want wide-open spaces, fewer crowds, and unforgettable scenery, this expertly curated RV itinerary reveals a lesser-seen side of the American West. From historic highways and remote national park viewpoints and pet-friendly state parks to Nevada’s quiet desert landscapes, this route proves you don’t have to follow the crowds to experience something extraordinary.
The Hidden Side of the West: Suggested Road Trip Itinerary
Stop 1: Flagstaff, Arizona
Gateway to Route 66 & High-Elevation Adventure
Kick off the Road Trip of the Year in Flagstaff, a mountain town steeped in railroad history and surrounded by pine forests. Sitting along historic Route 66, Flagstaff offers the perfect blend of classic Americana and outdoor access.
Best Time to Visit:
May–October for mild temperatures; summer is ideal for escaping desert heat.
Key Considerations:
- Higher elevation means cooler nights, so pack layers.
- Book campgrounds early during summer and fall weekends.
Must-Do Activities:
- Drive and explore Historic Route 66 through downtown Flagstaff
- Visit Lowell Observatory for stargazing
- Hike in Coconino National Forest (Fatman’s Loop and Buffalo Park are local favorites)
Stop 2: North Rim of the Grand Canyon
A Quieter, Wilder Canyon Experience
From Flagstaff, head north toward one of the most underrated viewpoints in the country—the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. With fewer visitors and a higher elevation, this side of the canyon feels remote, peaceful, and profoundly awe-inspiring.
Best Time to Visit:
Mid-May to mid-October (the North Rim is closed in winter due to snow).
Key Considerations:
- Services are limited; fuel up before arriving.
- Plan for longer drive times but fewer crowds.
Must-Do Activities:
- Bright Angel Point Trail for iconic canyon views
- Cape Royal and Point Imperial scenic drives
- Sunrise or sunset overlooks without the crowds of the South Rim
Optional Detour: Zion National Park, Utah
Towering Sandstone & Iconic Hikes
For travelers looking to add another national park to the journey, an optional detour leads to Zion National Park. Known for its massive canyon walls and unforgettable hikes, Zion adds a dramatic contrast to the quieter stretches of the trip.
Best Time to Visit:
April–May and September–October for fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
Key Considerations:
- The shuttle system is required during peak season. Plan accordingly before your trip.
- RV parking is limited; remember to book campgrounds in advance.
Must-Do Activities:
- The Narrows (weather permitting)
- Canyon Overlook Trail for big views with minimal effort
- Scenic drive through Zion Canyon
Stop 3: Great Basin National Park, Nevada
One of America’s Most Underrated National Parks
Continue northwest toward Great Basin National Park, a true hidden gem where alpine lakes, ancient bristlecone pines, and desert valleys meet. This park is often overlooked—and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Best Time to Visit:
June–September for access to high-elevation areas and Lehman Caves tours.
Key Considerations:
- Extremely remote, remember to download offline maps for navigation.
- Elevation changes can affect the weather quickly; be prepared with layers.
Must-Do Activities:
- Lehman Caves guided tour
- Bristlecone Pine Trail
- Stargazing in one of the darkest night skies in the country
Stop 4: Nevada State Parks Along Route 93
Cathedral Gorge & Desert Discoveries
Traveling along Route 93 in Nevada, the landscape unfolds into a chain of quiet desert panoramas and striking state parks. Highlights include Cathedral Gorge State Park, where dramatic clay formations feel almost otherworldly.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for mild temperatures and fewer bugs.
Key Considerations:
- Limited cell service
- Bring extra water and supplies
Must-Do Activities:
- Slot canyon-style walks through Cathedral Gorge
- Scenic desert photography
- Nearby hot springs for a relaxing break
Final Stretch: The Loneliest Road in America (U.S. Route 50)
Peaceful Solitude & Classic Western Scenery
The journey ends along U.S. Route 50, famously dubbed The Loneliest Road in America. This final stretch is defined by rugged mountain ranges, historic mining towns, and a deep sense of solitude that perfectly caps off the trip.
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall.
Key Considerations:
- Long distances between services
- Ideal for travelers comfortable with remote driving
Must-Do Activities:
- Explore small towns like Ely and Austin
- Scenic pull-offs and wide-open desert views
- Slow travel and spontaneous stops
