Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Carlsbad, California and Colorado Springs, Colorado

The open road is an adventure waiting to happen for those seeking excitement and new experiences. Taking a road trip allows travelers to witness the beauty and culture of different parts of the country. When embarking on a cross-country road trip from Carlsbad, California, to Colorado Springs, Colorado, there is a lot to see and do along the way. Highlights of this trip include the cities of Las Vegas, NV, and Salt Lake City, UT, and the halfway point of Marysvale, UT.

Top Five Things to Do

Visit the Grand Canyon (Flagstaff, AZ)

No road trip across the country would be complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. Located in the northern part of Arizona, this natural wonder presents visitors with breathtaking views that leave a long-lasting impression. The Grand Canyon offers various activities such as hiking, mule rides, and river rafting. It is a national park with stunning views of layered bands of red rock that showcase geological history. Visitors can take guided tours to better understand the history of this iconic destination.

Interesting Fact: The Grand Canyon is considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.

Explore Hoover Dam (Boulder City, NV)

Located on the border of Arizona and Nevada, the Hoover Dam is a remarkable feat of engineering. This massive concrete structure stands 726 feet tall and has a length of 1,244 feet. It was built during the Great Depression to provide jobs and electricity to the surrounding areas. Visitors can take various guided tours of the dam, explore the museum, or simply marvel at this engineering marvel.

Interesting Fact: The Hoover Dam is named after President Herbert Hoover who oversaw the project's construction.

Experience the Beauty of Zion National Park (Springdale, UT)

Zion National Park features incredible natural beauty and a chance to reconnect with nature. This park features breathtaking rock formations, forests, waterfalls, and rivers. Visitors can go hiking or take a shuttle bus to explore the park's many trails. The park is an opportunity to this place with incredible history.

Interesting Fact: In 1919, Zion National Park became Utah’s first national park.

See the Red Rocks of Colorado National Monument (Grand Junction, CO)

Colorado National Monument is located near Grand Junction, Colorado, and is a hidden gem of the American Southwest. It features stunning views of red rocks, canyons, and mesas. Visitors can go hiking or horseback riding to witness this area’s natural beauty. This destination also offers breathtaking geological formations, wildlife, and outdoor activities that guests can indulge in.

Interesting Fact: Colorado National Monument was established in 1911 as a National Monument by President William Howard Taft.

Discover Historic Manitou Springs (Manitou Springs, CO)

Manitou Springs, Colorado is a unique place that is rich with history and culture. This small town features scenic hiking trails, natural mineral hot springs, and unique local artisan shops. Visitors can also check out the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, which showcase ancient Anasazi Indian ruins. Manitou Springs is a family-friendly town with a variety of things to see and do.

Interesting Fact: Manitou Springs has eight natural mineral springs that are believed to have healing properties.

Conclusion

The road trip from Carlsbad, California, to Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a journey with a diverse range of experiences to be enjoyed. With stops at popular destinations such as the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam, visitors will witness some of the most breathtaking views and feats of engineering. From natural beauty and outdoor activities to local culture and history, these destinations offer something for everyone. The trip took approximately 23 hours with Marysvale, UT, being the halfway point. Despite being long, it is a trip worth taking that offers a lifetime of memories.