33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (2024)

The top stops along the way from San Antonio to Provo (with short detours) are Arches National Park, Sandia Peak Tramway, and Dead Horse Point State Park. Other popular stops include Old Town, Four Corners Monument, and Canyon de Chelly National Monument.

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Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument Abó Unit

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Historic Sites

Monuments & Statues

Amazing place! The Ranger as very friendly and helpful.

Mike B — Google review

Great place to visit with family. Such cool history we have in NM

Stephanie B — Google review

Incredible history and so well preserved. We really enjoyed walking the self-guided tour.

Jonathan H — Google review

Nice little display area and informative video. Nice displays at each of the 3 ruins sites . English and Spanish.

JL Y — Google review

Great visit to ancient Franciscan ruins built around Pueblo villages. An opportunity to see how catholicism appeared to understand and accept indigenous New Mexican religion.

Jay B — Google review

Great out of the way, place to visit. Lots of history of New Mexico. Nice hiking areas as well and a covered picnic area.

Manolo P — Google review

Amazing place lost in time. Only a 2-300 acre site but due to its remoteness it’s vast in its overall perspective. Steeped in history going initially 400 years back to the actual mission but the people settling the land in that area go back another 500 years. Worth a slow walk through and wonder back. Enjoy.

Christopher P — Google review

Nice place to visit; short and nice walk, clean, with nice paths. The signs are informative, and the person who greeted us was very nice. The ruins were interesting and beautiful. I am glad we could bring our dogs as long as they were leashed and we cleaned up after them 😊

EmmaLia M — Google review

Beautiful history, great walking paths, and beautiful pictureistic scenery!! Learn alot at visitors center too. Love it out there, so peaceful and enjoyable. Bring water!!

Jolene P — Google review

Such a great stop on a road trip. The Ranger, Alex, was the most knowledgeable and pleasant person you could hope to meet. The stories of the area he shared and exploring the Ruins were so exciting. Great picnic area and clean flushing bathrooms. And the rolling hills, some red rock, spotted with bush is so delightful. Great way to spend a couple of hours. Keep in mind that our national and state parks are slowly disappearing because of budget cuts so I try to help by making a purchase from the gift shops whenever I can. ❤️

Nancy F — Google review

Free! Nice little walk around the ruins. Covered benches to have lunch and bathrooms. Check out the other ruins just 25 minutes away as well!

Chaz R — Google review

4.9

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4.5

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69 Ruins Road, Mountainair, NM 87036, USA

(505) 847-2400

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Sandia Peak Tramway

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Transportation

Hiking area

Tramways

The Sandia Peak Tramway is a 3,163-metre aerial tram that takes tourists to the top of the Sandia Mountains for an amazing view. This tourist attraction is a great way for those looking for an adventure and something different to do in Albuquerque.

So let me start off I’m not fan of heights. We bought tickets the day before which they recommend. Check in was easy with friendly staff at the front desk. The bathrooms were clean and tidy. We waited about 15 minutes to board. Once boarded the tram the tour guide / cabin operator was very informative and safety was a top priority. The the ride up is breath taking you go from Desert to Canadian geography. The tour guide was very informing on the ride up with different information on geography and history. Once up top there was snow on the ground and very cold “bring a jacket” The restaurant was closed at the time. The air is very thin so keep your breath. You can walk around and see some of the nature in the area but be careful with ice and animals. During the decent I got a little nervous cause of my height fear. But it was a smooth ride the beginning on the decent was a little stomach kicking but you get used to it. And the ride down was way better than coming up in my opinion. I recommend the people were great and very professional.

Hunter G — Google review

I would say this was definitely worth the money. My one complaint (and it’s a big one) is that the tram is too packed with people to enjoy the view unless you’re directly by the window. Wait for a group to go, then get to the front of the line to fully enjoy this experience.It’s an incredible view even if you don’t get in the restaurant. If you DO want a reservation, make sure to make one a few weeks in advance.There’s hiking trails at the top, and the last ride of the day back down is at 9. I would pick one path or another: go up for pictures and go to the restaurant, or go to the trails.We went the picture route this time but next year we will probably choose to do some hiking instead. Beautiful spot definitely worth seeing.

Madie R — Google review

First and foremost, the views from the tramway are absolutely breathtaking. As you ascend the mountain, you're treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Albuquerque and the rugged Sandia Mountains. The tramway offers a unique perspective, allowing you to see the beauty of the area from a completely different vantage point. Whether you're visiting during the day or catching a sunset ride, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring.The tram cars themselves are spacious and comfortable. They are designed to hold a large number of passengers, but even when the tram is full, there is still plenty of room to move around and enjoy the ride. The large windows provide excellent visibility, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to take in the magnificent views. The tram operators are friendly and professional, providing interesting commentary about the area and making the journey even more enjoyable.Upon reaching the top, there are several activities and amenities to explore. The Sandia Peak Observation Deck offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also hiking trails for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the area on foot. The Kawanis Cabin Trail is easy enough and is worth the spectacular views.Additionally, the weather at the top of the mountain can be cooler than in the city, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or extra layers, especially during the colder months.

Daryl M — Google review

Was a really cool experience! The Tram going up was at capacity and didn't get a be right next to a window but still could have a pretty good view. There weren't a ton of people at the top. The hiking trails were beautiful and pretty easy to walk for most people I would say. The Tram operator was great and I wish I could remember her unique name. The views were out of this world! For a family of 4 it cost about $120 and I think it was worth it for the experience.

Jennifer M — Google review

So my father and I was happy that we made the journey to the top. Being at 6,000 feet then make a trip up the tram to 10,000 feet. You have to go to the top to find out the actual total height. Got to leave a little desire. 😌 this is a hard experience for someone not used to the height but as you see the pics of the scenery were breath taken and so beautiful that I would tell anyone to go take in all that beauty. I took the pic of the bee to show that by just taking the pics of the skyline and terrain you can miss out on the flowers and beauty of nature in front of you.

Robert T — Google review

Despite my own extreme fear of heights, this is an experience you don't want to miss. The views of Albuquerque are extraordinary, the ride up is a little scary, but coming down was much easier. The gondola was large, and the trip up was full to capacity. Being crowded made it more difficult to see the views, but there is enough glad to make it work for everyone. Once at the top, you saw both sides of the mountain. And, if you like to hike, the ski trails are open to hikers in the summer. Even the gift shop was not only well-stocked, but very well priced. Parking is plentiful and free. You'll be glad you went.

Dennis S — Google review

The Sandia Tramway up to the top of the mountain is a just beautiful and stunning view of the mountains and Albuquerque as a whole metropolitan area. If you're a tourist, this is a great thing to do for at least 2 or 3 hours. There's also a great gift shop too for the tourists. There are some great hiking trails and overall amazing picture opportunities.

Jack V — Google review

Absolutely breathtaking experience! The highlight of our New Mexico trip! The views were spectacular during the ride and at the top. It was a 15 minute ride with an attendant who explained some things along the ride. And it felt very safe. Even if you're scared of heights, just do it!! You'll love it!Note - make sure to bring a jacket because it can get cold and windy at the top. It was May and probably in the 40s at the top.Note - buy your ticket online the day of or before. But watch out for the website, because it sometimes closes due to the wind.Note - I saw some people complaining of the fee of $35 to do this, but it's totally worth it in my opinion - you get a 15 minute ride each way, spectacular views, an informational operator/attendant, and the views of a lifetime!But I highly recommend doing this, because it was truly remarkable!!

David N — Google review

Very cool experience 😎 Definitely recommend! We purchased tram tickets last minute as we were passing through town. We arrived and once in line to board, the wait was about 45 minutes. The views were beautiful even from the line! The ride took about 15 minutes and was stunning! You pass over a few canyons and valleys, so the views are constantly changing. Once at the top, the temperature was a brisk 35 degrees (25 degrees colder than on the ground)! We weren't able to eat at the restaurant, but they did allow us to buy co*cktails and enjoy outside. So many photo ops, and we'll kept grounds.

Katie Z — Google review

The tram is always always worth it. I’ve been multiple times and whether you’re a local or you’re visiting it’s always breathtaking. There are windows to go up and down (noon to 4, or 5-8) the ride is about 14 min and usually you have a good view no matter where you’re standing. If you’re visiting near sunset, make sure to head back to the line once it’s over otherwise you might miss the tram and have to wait another 30+ min. Bring a jacket too, it’s always surprisingly chilly and windy up there, but so beautiful!

Cecilia W — Google review

We loved the Tram. We were driving through in our RV and decided to stop and take it to the top of Sandia Peak. Enough parking for our RV although on a weekend it may be different. They don't have designated RV or bus parking. The ride up is awesome and the operator gave a nice commentary. The view from on top is great. It's 20° cooler so bring a light jacket. There is a nice restaurant on top with awesome views. We loved it.

Scott F — Google review

Very cool experience! 10,300 ft overlooking Albuquerque and surrounding areas. We purchased tickets a head of time. They sell out fast! Had to wait 45-60 minutes past our time as it was the same weekend as the International Balloon Fiesta so there were many more people than normal, which was fine. The sun was shining and a small band playing which kept everyone entertained. The main facility and gift shop at the base is pretty cool. Beautiful views from the tram ride up to the top of the peak with 47ish of your closest strangers! The employees were very knowledgeable and shared many facts on the way up and down the peak. Once atop the peak, you are able to hike around the area at your leisure. There is a restaurant called ten3. Reservations are highly recommended for the main restaurant, be prepared to wait for bar seating and service, drinks and food are a bit pricey for some ($18 for specialty drinks, sandwiches $12-18, but at that moment, well, does it matter?) Be sure to hydrate before going up and bring water with you while there. The elevation change affects many so be prepared. And it’s windy and cold at the top so dress accordingly!!! Enjoy!!!

Anessa M — Google review

We enjoyed the ride up the mountain,it was beautiful. We went up towards the afternoon, so the air was a bit chilly,so I would recommend taking a light sweater if you plan on staying at the top of the peak for a while,everyone who works there is very friendly so if you have questions they will help you out or answer them. Also, if you want to get next to the window, get there early so you can be towards the front of the line,other than that if you don't mind standing in the middle of the car you're fine 😉 I also enjoyed how clean everything was,they do a very good job 😀 everyone should go here at least once and ride the tram

Liberty W — Google review

Worth if you haven’t done any tramway experience before. Bit expensive. Good if you like hike as there are trails up there. Would not recommend if you just want scenic view and check mark this attraction in todo list. Wheeler peak is great place if you like scenic view. Sandia peak is good place if you need tramway experience, hiking, skiing or some scenic view.

Avani J — Google review

By far this was the coolest thing to do in Albuquerque! IT’s fairly priced and the views were just stunning! They only have 2 cable cars which come about every 15 minutes. The ride is about 15 minutes from point to point and was really smooth. There are no seats in the cable car, but there are plenty of poles to grab. There are also several short and long hiking trails at the top which we definitely took advantage of. I would highly recommend!

Dan R — Google review

Not crowded, which was fantastic. The ride up and back were pretty uneventful. The views were gorgeous and with the price of the team ride.Our "guide" on the way up was fantastic. Interacted with everyone answering questions, etc. The one going down need to find a new job. She basically told everyone that she didn't answer questions and struggled to keep her eyes open. I, literally, watched her with her eyes drifting closed more than once.

Cindy R — Google review

Pictures from the top of the tram. Bought tickets in advance online. When I got there, I was told there was some weather that may cause them to stop running the tram temporarily. The staff kept me informed and there ended up being no weather delay. At the top, you can explore the area and come back down when you’re ready. There is a restaurant at the top, I believe reservations are recommended and there is a dress code after 7 pm.It is a fun stop. There’s a gift shop too.

Gabrielle D — Google review

Spectacular views! Did a trail hike ( lol- less than 1/2 mile) was worth the Amazing views. Great weather hi 20’s and such small flurries I thought for a sec that it was pollen… Deducted 1 Star bc the Host & Hostess seated at table with minimal view despite repeated requests.. they claimed for larger group tho later they seated others just like ours (2)… the waiter Mike & others made up quite a bit for hospitality and attentiveness.. The Host & Hostess need more training in hospitality…Thoroughly enjoyed Tram ride, weather & view… Sandia & Ten3 is a great place for pics or romantic date (ignore the Host/Hostess pair)

Gregory L — Google review

Went up to catch the sunset and it did not disappoint. Great view of Albuquerque and surrounding area. Temperature was about 25 degrees cooler than the city. Ride takes about 15 minutes one way. Would do this again on future trips to Albuquerque.

David K — Google review

4 stars only because the wait seemed extremely long. With small children, I wish there had been a better system where upon a arrival you are given a ticket with your place in line with a much smaller time window 15 or 20 minutes. By the time we had waited in the outside line and then the inside line, our youngest was getting cranky.With that said this was a truly unique experience. We visited the Tramway the Monday before Thanksgiving. There was a lot of waiting. That was hard for our 2.5 year old. But the experience was worth the wait.Being November, it was below freezing at the top of the mountain, and we got to experience some fresh snowfall.There is a snack machine and restrooms at the top as well as the fine dining restaurant.We took in the panoramic views and the snow and then headed back down.The ride was about 15 minutes up, and the same was true for the way down. The tram operator gives you information about the mountain on the way up, and then the way down was a bit quieter just taking in the scenery.This is definitely a unique experience you won't get to experience often.It was fun for our 2.5 year old all the way up to my 71 year old mom!

Laurel W — Google review

This has to be on your bucket list. I went up there at the end of April, and even though it was fairly warm at the bottom, it was windy and freezing at the top. The ride is smooth and shouldn't be a problem for anyone, unless you have severe vertigo. It's less scary than a ski lift. I highly recommend it. It's definitely worth the wait.***One thing all tourists should know, that they don't say on the website, the trams leave every 20 min. What you purchase is a 2-hour arrival window. When you get there it's like Disney: you wait in line until you can board. They only board a certain number of people to stay safe. We waited about 45 min at the bottom. At the top the wait was less, as some people choose to get right back on and come down and some choose to stay at the top longer. If you stay all day, you might experience longer wait time in the evening.

Cristina T — Google review

Fun, and it gives you something to do in Albuquerque. The tram line is quite long and you climb a lot, so if you're coming from somewhere that is at sea level, just be advised that you may feel a little odd. You have to get the tickets online in advance, but once you get there the wait is not long. The tram runs every 15-ish minutes. The only thing we noticed is that, well... how to say this? I don't know if it's the change in altitude or what but in both directions, people were farting in the tram, and it's not fun you're trapped with ~20 people in a box with two tiny windows. I felt bad for the tram operators who probably have to smell stinky farts all day long. Other than that, the tram, a fun experience.

Valeria L — Google review

This was my second time riding the tram.The views and sunsets are exceptional I recommend riding around sunset, so you can witness scenery and sunset on the way up and the city lights on the way down.Bring a coat, dress warm, it was freezing and windy at the top.And we did have a little wind on our ride, which was a bit scary but great to see the employees in communication immediately upon the wind gusts, with the tram receiving a call at what seemed like the exact moment of the wind to check on us.The staff was friendly, professional and shared fun facts on the rides.Worth it, clearly I've rode it twice and would probably do it again just to see/ share all that beauty again. The colors in the sky were so absolutely incredible.

AdvoK8great — Google review

Sandia Peak Tramway, located near Albuquerque, New Mexico, holds the title of the longest tramway in the USA. The journey from the base station to the mountain's top, at 10,378 feet, takes about 15 minutes each way. The trams are sturdy and adhere to strict safety protocols. The breathtaking mountain views can be enjoyed throughout the ride. At the mountain top, there's a restaurant called Ten 3, offering stunning scenic views. I visited around 4 PM and witnessed a spectacular sunset, painting the sky in fiery orange hues. Every moment was truly enjoyable. Additionally, skiing is available during the winter season.

PATHIPATI V — Google review

This was a up and down (forgive my pun) experience. On the one hand, the tram going up was incredible. Very exhilarating 14 minutes. The views at the top? A+. Can’t be beat anywhere.The cons: I got stuck up there for about 5 hours with a group of another 100 or so people because the power went out at the base station and the tram was not running. We had one last tram down and unfortunately due to a critical medical emergency we let the person having the medical situation use it to get down. The rest of us had to wait all night for shuttle buses to make it up the mountain and pick us up. Luckily for me I was a solo traveler and the first bus had one open seat for me to make it down. Yes, some families were stuck up there even longer as they waited for more buses, though all the buses were kind of arriving at the same time so it wasn’t too much for all of them. Eventually made it home around 1am after a long ordeal and an expensive Uber ride yhat ended up being a really long wait because drivers kept cancelling thinking that the tram had closed hours ago so no one should be ip there.Anyway, I plan on going back sometime this year (this all happened two years ago) and going for it again, hoping for better results.The tramway is out of the way, so Uber/Lyft will be pricey (get a rental car) and the restaurant at the top has very limited seating so don’t expect to be able to eat especially around common meal times or in worst case scenario, you get stuck up there with 3 tram loads of people because the power goes out.Because of the power outage, I never did get to stop by the gift shop, so thats on the top of my agenda this next time around. And this time I will go there first instead of “going there on my way out”

Bronson A — Google review

The Sandia Peak Tramway is a ride you will not forget . It goes up to 10378 ft. elevation. At 7000 feet you go into the clouds or the mist if it is there. Coming down out of the clouds and boom there is Albuquerque. At the top is a bar and a very nice restaurant. There are not cheap as everything has to come up in the tram. On this day there were still patches of snow at the top and it was about 30 degrees cooler at the top than at the bottom. At the bottom there is a nice gift shop and plenty of restrooms at the bottom and at the top.

Scott H — Google review

Wow the views! And the service was great. Make sure to buy your tickets on the website they don’t sell them there. Bring a coat or sweatshirt it is cold at the top!

Thomas C — Google review

This is the longest trams in the USA. Get your tickets online and be prepared to stand in line a while. Trust me, it's worth every penny. At the top of the mountain you'll find a nice restaurant TEN3. Great views from wither the bar area or the main dining room.

Lemmie K — Google review

I have always had a fear of heights (except when flying) but this was an experience I did not want to miss. I wanted to conquer my fears and live in the moment to appreciate the beauty from over 10k elevation to speak about for years to come. From the ground, the elevation did not seem so terrifying but once in and the ascend started, I soon began to feel a bit nervous but the magnificent views soon made me forget my freight as I was in awe.The view from the top was superb and frigid! We went in late November so snow was present. We wanted to walk down the steps on the other side but the steps were covered in snow and a bit slippery but managed to get some pictures and videos. The descending ride seemed quicker and we were luck to watch hang gliders in the distance - it was magnificent! Perfect trip to take in the warmer months with friends and family.

Izod M — Google review

This was our second trip on the Tram. each time was a fun event with a breathtaking destination at the top of Sandia mountains. we returned home at night and got to see the city lit up. It was a great experience and the staff is always so personable and friendly. It feels like a family run company with how kind everyone is. Great experience and a must do when in ABQ

Ernest B — Google review

Tram was great. Hike to the cabin was snowy and we post holed a bit but worth it. Restaurant was closed which was a bummer but that was on us. But tickets in advance but you can do it on your phone when u get there too.

Heidi M — Google review

This is such an amazing experience! You will be so glad you saw it! Dress warm. It's cold up on top! And get those tickets in advance!

Laurence J — Google review

Kids love this experience. It is little Windy at the top and bring your jacket for sure. Per person was $27 but it was worth it. You can hike to the mountains and have fun with your family. It has a magnificent sunset. Do not forget to be careful to not miss the last tramway to go back. There are so many parking space. You need to close your stroller in the tramway and bring your water.

Hatice K — Google review

4.7

(10161)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (12)

4.5

(7195)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (13)

30 Tramway Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87122, USA

(505) 856-1532

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33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (14)

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ABQ BioPark Zoo

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

The Albuquerque BioPark is a large and diverse attraction located in the heart of Old Town. The zoo houses more than 250 species of animal life, including polar bears, monkeys and koalas. Outdoors, the park includes a playground, picnic areas and beaches. The aquarium is especially popular with kids and features sharks as well as other marine creatures.

The zoo was awesome!! We had so much fun for Mother's day!! We saw so many beautiful animals. Take a blanket and food. So you can enjoy a nice lunch on the grass. Thank you!!

Katrina M — Google review

We've been coming here for years and it's a nice outing each time, The park has seen some upgrades with some currently in progress, which is nice to see.The animals appear healthy and well taken care of. There's a brand new elephant viewing area and even an indoor penguin exhibit.If I had any complaints, it would be the main cafe in the middle of the park. It's not as clean as it could be and the cost is quite high for simple meal items. There is a shaded grass area though, so just pack your own food to save some money.Speaking of saving money, get on the bio park website and grab the yearly pass. Then you can visit as often as you want for a year. The pass also covers the Botanical gardens and aquarium to boot.The zoo itself does get a bit tight during busy times. We made the mistake of coming during spring break and it's way too many people. You feel like you're getting herded along since there are people waiting to get the best spot to look at animals, and with all the strollers around... Yeah, if you can manage it, go when the kiddos are in school.All in all, it's still a nice outing. Definitely worth visiting.

Cam C — Google review

Albuquerque Zoo is absolutely one of my all-time favorite zoo experiences. From start to finish it is wonderful. There is plenty of parking at the front so you don't have to worry about battling anyone for a good spot. There is a huge variety of animals and educational opportunities. The penguin exhibit is breathtaking, such an awesome addition. So many animals on display and such awesome exhibits. Definitely a 10 out of 10 experience.I've been to quite a few zoos and always have taken my service dog with me. I will say I was a little shocked when I was not asked the two questions at the front. Especially considering that there are geese, swans and peaco*cks loose around the zoo. Since no one is checking the legitimacy of service dogs I would just be slightly concerned for the safety of other animals. Luckily we didn't see any random dogs in the zoo, but it's something the city should do better training on for the zoo location.Aside for some minor safety concerns in regards to ADA. There's truly is a wonderful Zoo to visit.

Alysha M — Google review

This was a pretty nice zoo. The New Mexico desert aesthetic is really nice and they kept that up throughout the zoo.It's a little on the small side, and it gets Really Hot, but they designed it to offer an okay amount of shade cover over walk ways and it has free covered parking which is GREAT! I'd definitely recommend taking a sun umbrella and/or going first thing in the morning during warm months.I don't I would pay to come to JUST the zoo, but they make it easy to bundle with the botanical gardens and the aquarium which makes for a nice 5 hours or so of entertainment (more if you get lunch in between or stop for dippin dots etc).Side note- the main parking lot, or at least what Google maps THINKS is the parking lot, is under construction so you're on your own to wiggle around and find the entrance.

Mandy S — Google review

What an incredible zoo! My husband and I enjoyed every minute of our visit (there about 2 hours). We saw animals we’d never seen before. All the animals looked happy and well taken care of. The penguin exhibit was amazing, so was the new Asia exhibit. Some areas were still under construction but easy to navigate the closures. We got in line when the zoo opened (while it was still cool out). It took about 7 minutes to buy our combo tickets (zoo, aquarium, botanical gardens). You can skip the line if you buy tickets online. I do recommend arriving early because the zoo was quiet when it opened and the animals were fresh. It was definitely busy by the time we left. The zoo also offers a shuttle between the aquarium so you only have to park once.

Emily P — Google review

The zoo itself was very nice. We found it to be clean and well maintained. The lady inside the office, right inside the entrance that sold us our membership ,was amazing and very informative. Our son had a blast getting to run around and seeing all the animals. The food was surprisingly good….our 6 year old said it was the best pizza he has ever had. Unfortunately there are many improvements that need to happen to earn anything more than 3 stars. The staff were all too busy on cell phones to help anyone. While trying to let my son ride the carousel, we were told to go to the cone shop to buy tickets…. There was no one there and a line of angry parents had formed with the employee just hanging out in the cafe with her friends… we went into the cafe and asked if we could buy tickets and we were bounced around between them saying I can’t but she can until my wife lost her cool and all of a sudden we were able to purchase tickets in there after all….A LOT of the exhibits were either closed , under construction, or the animals were just missing??? Speaking of construction, there is A-LOT of very loud construction going on very close to some of the attractions. Having a son with sensory issues, the noise really got to him.The facility is too nice for a trip to end on a bad note due to lazy and undertrained staff. I really hope these issues can be addressed sooner than later.

Josh S — Google review

Went for a company event, so the zoo was super packed. The animals were mostly sleeping, but well kept. The glass on some exhibits (polar bear, penguins) was so dirty you had a hard time seeing in some places, it could use a cleaning. There was some construction areas and areas were no animals were in the exhibit. The layout is nice and easy to go around without missing spots. The center of the zoo where the cafes are, is nice for a sit down, but could use more seating in the grass. Lots of people sitting on the grass but there are ducks and geese that poop there. The line for the cafe was ridiculously long at around 1pm. If you’re in Albuquerque and have kids, it’s worth a visit.

Catherine C — Google review

We just took our family and it was so fun! Although we went on a very hot day, it was not crowded at all. I do recommend going when it is not so hot so that the animals will be more active. They, for good reason, were very hard to see sometimes because they were in the shade. We are non-residents of New Mexico, so it was a little more expensive for an adult. We decided to buy the package so that we could see the aquarium too! It was $22 per adult for us. But residents cost less. Lunch at the Shark Reef Cafe was very good! We all loved it!

Danielle S — Google review

Our recent visit was better than expected. We had little wait time to enter and the ticket lady even gave us a discount on my sons birthday. Cottonwood Cafe was great, too. $15 for a delicious pizza that fed 4 people. Walking the park was easy to navigate. Carousel tickets should have a separate booth. One employee operating the ride was falling asleep, and some of the seats on the Carousel did not work. Overall, it was a great experience and will be going again.

Araseli A — Google review

What a great zoo! The layout and design is well thought out and pretty. Shade, seating and bathrooms located throughout park. Lots of construction going on and some exhibits closed due to this. Still was able to see a lot. Low crowds, came on a Monday. Not much for a gift shop just a couple of things sitting outside toward the front.

Jesska86 — Google review

This is a wonderful place to spend a few hours with your friends or family. This zoo has standard draws: elephants, monkeys, zebras, and flamingos. So your average child will be very happy visiting.I really enjoyed the African aviary--the creaky wooden bridge to walk in on was a little bit of adventure, too! The amphibian exhibit has a lot of activity, much in small tanks. It's definitely worth checking out.The hippo habitat was a crowd pleaser. We arrived during play time. This is absolutely the best time! The hippos were playing with a ball, splashing around their habitat.There is an expansion project in progress right now: Australia experience. I look forward to seeing how that turns out. A large section of the park is committed to this.If you are visiting Albuquerque, consider spending some time here.

Heather C — Google review

We're members of our local zoo which has reciprocal benefits with ABQ BioPark Zoo. Unfortunately, the ticket person didn't understand that the name of the zoo was not the same as the name of the city it's in. He told us that our zoo was not listed but fortunately some ABQ members behind us graciously brought us in as their guests today.ABQ BioPark is small so it's really only accessible by foot or wheelchair/scooter. There is no train or bus tour. There's no need for them and the paths are too small anyway. I didn't see many areas for visitors to rest. I would have liked to see more benches throughout the park. There are also no mirrors in the bathrooms I used, which I found a bit odd. I specifically went into the restroom to look at a scrape on my face from hitting a branch by accident. It was a shame I couldn't properly address my minor injury because of that. Most of the concession stands were also not open. I saw maybe one education session listed for the day.Besides those little hiccups, we enjoyed meeting all of the zoo inhabitants. We came at opening so most of the animals were active. The polar bears and tiger didn't make an appearance while we were visiting but we got to interact with all of the others. The chimps were especially energetic and tried to play with us on the other side of the enclosure. Unfortunately, the lions have been moved to a new zoo. As far as specimens go, I do feel like this zoo does lack in variety but it's very apparent that they care about all of their charges. All of the enclosures were clean, water and food bowls were full, the reptiles seemed to be adequately moist, etc. I felt like I was able to safely get close to all of the animals. I believe in ABQ BioPark Zoo and their mission. They are just capable of being better. There is quite a bit of construction so maybe my complaints are unjustified.

Melinda B — Google review

Good, interesting place to visit. Great for kids and families. Lots of groups attend as well. Still lots of construction going on which can be kind of annoying and some of the animals were not out that I really wanted to see. Plenty of bathrooms no matter where you are in the park. Lots of benches when you get tired. The new tiger remodel was great too see. Very interesting to see it. Overall a good value for the money.

Angelique T — Google review

Different areas under construction but the available exhibits are beautiful and well done. Bring your own water bottle, there's plenty of areas to refill them. Restroom locations have increased.

Gaby G — Google review

Albuquerque Zoo is by far the nicest zoo I've been to...from the layout, the staff, and the amazing animals. Can't wait to see the other area that they are working currently, all finished...the Asia are is amazing. I went on Christmas Eve, so not a wait or line and for the weather it surprised me on how many animals were out....I'm definitely going back in the summer. I would purchase tickets in advance if only you know its going to be busy. I highly recommend you checking it our at least once.

Foodie 4 — Google review

This was a very good family experience! Seeing it first thing in the morning was great timing, as the animals were sunning and feeding. Looking forward to when more areas open up.

Lou C — Google review

It is one of the best attractions in Albuquerque. Very clean and friendly, decent enclosures for most of the residents. Nice area for picnicking in Central Parq, very reasonable prices for tickets, food, and drinks. My only complaint is there is no security, bags weren't checked, and I saw multiple people smoking cigarettes inside the zoo, and there was no one telling them it was prohibited.

Adam S — Google review

Awesome zoo. We don’t live in New Mexico and have attended zoos before but this one takes the win. Never had we seen hippos and polar bears back home. Very spaceful and plenty of trails to walk. It was easy to enter unlike the Houston Zoo which is always crowded. Would go back if we could!

Alondra G — Google review

This zoo is absolutely worth the time or effort to see it. The exhibits are really good except the tiny amphibian area which is ridiculously tiny and hard to navigate. There are animals that even have their babies with them which was a huge hit with the children. The new Asia exhibit is open and neat. We just really enjoyed ourselves. We rented the two kid strollers at the front and they were so lightweight and easy to push. Made the trip around so easy. It was just a great time.

Yvonne S — Google review

I just love animals and zoos, so maybe I'm a bit biased. But they are doing tons of work here to make the place better. The Asia area is nice. Plenty of parking is available, entry is simple, I bought my tickets online and they scanned the QR codes at the gate, easy as that. Shops are nice and there's plenty to do in the zoo, you'll have fun!

Ryan L — Google review

Went to the ABQ zoo for my bday on March 21st, and we had so much fun! 🥰 This was our first time visiting the ABQ zoo, and I will definitely be back again! It's quite a trip from Tucumcari NM, but it was worth it! 😊 Absolutely loved seeing all the beautiful animals! The hippos were my favorite, the second time we came back to see them the beautiful female hippo went for a swim and came right over to me and popped outta the water to look right at me like she was saying "Hi Happy Birthday" and it made me feel so special and honored since there were tons of other ppl around, I'm still smiling about it! 😍 I didn't have my camera ready for that, but I'll remember it forever! ☺️ Will return soon cause I already miss the hippos! I also want to come do a rino tour and get to meet them how awesome that would be! 🤩 Thank you, ABQ zoo, for a really fun birthday! 🫶

Christina G — Google review

A great Zoo. The polar bear and penguins were exciting and active. The chimpanzees and orangutans were out and lounging - we even saw some babies climbing. We got some solid time with the giraffe and his caretakers, who were so pleasant and gave us lots of interesting facts and answered all of our questions.A bonus was we pulled right up to a covered parking spot. The only downside was that we had to wait about 10 minutes for someone to scan our pre-purchased tickets after the scanner left his station when he scanned the people right ahead of us. I don't know what the issue was, but we were left wondering if we should just go in since we'd already paid and everyone around us was being assisted.

Tessa R — Google review

4.5

(12253)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (19)

4.5

(1621)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (20)

903 10th St SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA

(505) 768-2000

4

Old Town

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Sights & Landmarks

Historic Walking Areas

Neighborhoods

Old Town is a historic district characterized by its narrow streets and old adobe houses. The area is known for its New Mexican cuisine, including popular dishes like enchiladas and sopaipilla pastries. Visitors can also browse numerous artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, rugs, and pottery. At the center of Old Town Plaza stands the 18th-century San Felipe de Neri Church.

4.0

(5380)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (28)

Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA

5

Petroglyph National Monument

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National reserve

Sights & Landmarks

The Petroglyph National Monument is a hiking and biking destination located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It contains thousands of prehistoric Native American drawings on stone walls.

Incredible! So amazing to see all the petroglyphs in the lava rocks! Felt like time melting, being able to see these ancestral drawings. . It was heartbreaking tho to witness destruction from people carving their names and dirty drawings. Please honor these Sacred places if you go!

BrainFreeze L — Google review

It was cool view and it was really hot, but that’s New Mexico especially in the summer. National park service worker was really helpful with guiding my boyfriend and I to the monuments. Only went to one that was closest to the visitor center. It was an easy hike up but at the top it’s a bit steep. It was cool to see them and get a glimpse of history. I would recommend this monument!

Brian C — Google review

Very disappointing National Park. First, the Visitors Center is not located at the actual park itself. The two hiking areas are located miles apart. Second, neither trail is ADA accessible so if you have mobility disability or use a wheelchair you can skip this park as it will be inaccessible to you. Third, the trails are poorly maintained and likewise for the Visitors Center. All in all this is a hard pass if you’re flying or driving in to visit the area.

Susan H — Google review

Visitors center was just a booth. The worker at the gift shop was making sure to follow CDC guidelines to keep a small enough number of people inside. Toilet vaults were less than ideal. Wonderful experience overall though!

Hanna H — Google review

When you arrive at the visitors center, you are given a map and a video is showing to give you background on the locations.There are three locations; all a few miles drive from the visitors center. We chose the first canyon due to time constraints. It was the most strenuous of the three according to the brochures. And a $1 parking fee.We climbed our way to the top on rugged paths. Not for flip flops for sure. Gravel paths with steep inclines, steps, and some places you have to step over large rocks. But worth the view at the top and the amazing petroglyphs along the way!We spent about 2 hours and only saw a fraction of the vast canyon.Definitely recommend!

LeeAnna M — Google review

Worth a visit if you’re in the area. They have a few short trails where you can spot several petroglyphs. We hit it up early on a late July summer day and it was pleasant. Spotted a rattlesnake which was a bonus and super exciting. Several millipedes under the rocks and trails.

Vrajesh K — Google review

This area is not located where the visitors' entrance is. It's a cave that requires a few miles in hike north of the 3 sisters volcanos. Not frequently visited, which is why I like it. The roof of the cave was all green from moisture. It smelled a little like sulfur. Nice spot to watch the city lights, drink some wine, if you are not scared to hike back in the dark.

Bonnie C — Google review

We hiked the Petroglyph National park trail. Trail is sand and an easy hike. We enjoyed the hike. We were ointed because the Petroglyphs we're roped off so we were not allowed to get us close to them. We did take pictures and water able to zoom in on them but it would of been nice to get up close to them. The weather was great. It was sunny and not hot. The trail is great for an easy hike for kids and dogs on a leash. I doubt you could take stroller because it is sandy.

LaWanda B — Google review

Very nice trail to go for a hike/walk. However, there are no trees thus no shade (besides a couple of shade structures), so plan accordingly. Initial leg of the trail is pretty smooth gravel trail (probably wheelchair accessible), but later parts (including going up the volcano) has some rough spots, nothing terrible, but watch your footing.

Abesh M — Google review

Very interesting but you really need to take the time to understand why this is important to know about. Make sure you either don't take your dog or at least have some shoes for them.

Alex D — Google review

An interesting place. While you can definitely find a sense of peace and place in this park, several hiring trails are adjacent to housing complexes! It makes for interesting juxtaposition of an ancient indigenous site and contemporary living.

Fileve T — Google review

We did the Boca Negra Canyon. Just because it's the shorter hike, doesn't mean it's easy, so keep that in mind. Really cool to see the petroglyphs but so heartbreaking to see the vandalism surrounding it.

Vanessa B — Google review

Great place to explore. Really cool petroglyphs to check out. Come explore something that's really awesome!!!

Barbara H — Google review

This is definitely a must see. Plan on spending at least 2-3 hours here. They have several areas with easy to difficult trails so wear comfortable shoes. There are thousands of petroglyphs carved into basalt rocks on these trails and some wonderful views from the top. We visited late March and it was already fairly warm so I highly recommend sunblock, comfortable closed toe shoes and a bottle of water.

Suz N — Google review

It’s a free very relevant historic landmark. You will receive messages from our ancestors. Amazing indeed. There are also very helpful guides and they’ll give you maps and directions for free. If you are in the area, it’s a must. In a few hours you can get an amazing idea of how things were hundreds of years ago. We also saw roadrunners, lizards and rattle snakes.

Johnny — Google review

On our way to the airport. We were looking for an interesting place to visit before we leave Albuquerque and this was a perfect place for this. Very interesting. Easy to reach, we visited and walked around in about an hour.

W. B — Google review

Very cool place! Short hiking trails and lots of peyroglyphs to see. We went to two different locations. It was free and the trails were pretty easy.

Paul G — Google review

We went to the hike near Golf Course rd and Paradise. Dog friendly. Short loop hike hood for kids too. Sandy trail. Many petroglyphs to spot.

Renee T — Google review

We hiked Rinconada Canyon. It was 2.5 miles rounds trip. For those who want a shorter trip, hike in and when you get to the bench turnaround and exit the same way you came in. Some of the pictographs where hard to find but that is part of the fun!

K. W — Google review

4.6

(3653)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (34)

4.5

(2002)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (35)

Western Trail NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120, USA

(505) 899-0205

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6

Route 66 Casino Hotel

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Casino

Casinos & Gambling

Bingo hall

Buffet restaurant

Concert hall

Hotel

Was a good experience. Was not too crowded, people were friendly, and everything was nice and clean. Did not stay too long just gambled a little bit. I actually won and came home with $60 more than I went with. So that's definitely a plus. I will have to expand my review when I'm able to spend more time there. But for me it is a recommendation. A little far out of the way but definitely worth the drive

Leo T — Google review

If you want a clean, comfortable room and bed, this place is for you. If you want to have fun, gamble all night , smoke and drink while you party at the casino, you will have to move on. There is no longer any smoking in the casino (except in designated areas)and no drinking on the casino floor either. You can only drink in the bars. You must wear a mask at all times as well and the casino closes at 2am. The room prices have increased $50.00 per night since I last stayed there prior to the pandemic as well. I understand the increase....everything is going up. I'm used to walking in here and hearing all of the slots going like Vegas, but I walked in and it was like a morgue. Almost no sounds at all, just a speaker in the middle of the casino playing music that sounded like I turned my PC computer speaker all the way up. Very disappointing and I will not be back unless they can return to the fun place it used to be. It was Saturday night and the casino was probably 1/3 capacity. Sad. It's a quick cheap flight to Vegas and you will experience a much more normal exciting time.

Chris W — Google review

This has become a regular stopover on our commute between Texas and California. Easy access... big parking lot and very clean. As a place to rest for a bit and unwind it's great. They have extremely well cleaned restrooms. But the main attraction is the food. Great hamburgers.... well worth the stop.

Randol R — Google review

This place is pretty awesome. I don’t gamble much but I have met some winners today and I’m here because I have to do a 34 hour reset for trucking. I am a smoker and although this is a non-smoking place is very clean everything is well-maintained with the exception of the smoking area outback but it’s in the windiest spot so I usually just go out front. Everyone that I have met here that works here that comes in here is all smiles. It’s crowded and I can’t wait to see the car rise at 7 PM for the band at thunder Road.. I have been told all about it, so I’m biding my time just to see this.

Teresa J — Google review

We stopped here because our previous experience with the RV park was amazing. However, it seems like they decided to dwell on outdated covid concepts so long they have killed their own business. certain amenities are just not open, the atmosphere is slow and somber. Our food was high priced and low quality with drinks served by the bottle even though they have fountain drinks on the gambling floor. The room had at least one piece of trash in it from about 10 months before our visit and the elevators were quirky enough to give us pause when boarding. The fitness center was simply closed with no real explanation of why. The whole thing wasn't bad, it just wasn't great for the price. Our room, with a veteran discount was only about 130 bucks, but we spent almost as much eating one mediocre meal in the restaurant. I will say the exception to the food was breakfast. They give guests a 3 dollar discount, the food was good, and the portions were generous.

paulsmithinform — Google review

Didn't get a room.I stop here once in a while while passing through New Mexico. I've always had a good time. I usually kick it in the Irish pub, then move on to the shorts bar. The bartenders are always nice, respectful, and prompt. I always leave a fat tip. I like this place!

Alan B — Google review

I didn't stay at the hotel, so I am unable to rate rooms.Overall a very nice small casino with many restaurants. Unfortunately the buffet has been closed since COVID. I would like to see it re-open. I love buffets.The burger was fantastic and the best homestyle skinny fries. They actually tasted like potatoes. Super yummy.

L T — Google review

Great casino. We stayed in the RV park and it was perfect. In the casino we were pleased to see everyone was wearing a mask. There were plastic dividers between slot machines so we felt very safe. Good food too. What more could anyone ask for. We'll stay longer next time.

Barbara R — Google review

My stay here made for a great getaway. From check-in to the casino, to the staff in the restaurants, everyone was extremely courteous, professional and very friendly. No one gave me any hassle about my service dog, and the room was spotless and comfortable. Dinner was at the Laguna Burger restaurant and the service matched the food; excellent. Breakfast was at the Stadium and Carlos, my waiter, saw that all was good. I will definitely return.

Rick — Google review

This is a nice midway stop on our way to Laughlin. Casino is clean and has fun slots. We went to the 7 p.m bingo it was fun but was a really long session. The hotel room was very clean, and comfy beds were comfortable. We definitely will make this our midway stop again!

Johnell H — Google review

Great place to stop! They offer truck drivers a free steak dinner, once, this is my 3rd time eating here and it’s been fantastic each time.!!! Sometime I might get a room, if I have a reset here. Everything here is absolutely fantastic.!!! I’ve had steak twice and shrimp tacos tonight, a lot of food, well worth the price.!!!

Jodi S — Google review

Great place to eat but a bit pricey at times. A great rib eye 14oz with 2 sides is my favorite but will set you back $34. Luckily I get $20 off as a coupon but still overpriced. Pizza in sports bar is the right way to go at $22.00 for a large and lots of toppings, and cannot top the green chili stew. Onion rings is another favorite as I always get and priced right at $7.99 as they are plentiful and meaty.

Steven H — Google review

I have gambled at route 66 for several years. It used to be fun! At one point I was one of the highest tiers they had. It has run down drastically over the past few years. The travel center is poorly run and no maintenance at all, pumps are slow meaning 25 minutes to fill my tanks on a pick-up 50 gallons. You can not use your card at the pumps anymore. You have to go inside. The casino seems very old and machines are in need of up grade and maintenance. They are not interested in keeping people coming back so beware they don't play much! For myself I will use the few points I have left for fuel and win loss statement for this year and never return. Not worth the effort to drive out there.

Keith T — Google review

We did not stay in the hotel as my husband is a truck driver and there is ample parking due to the fueling station next door. Atmosphere is great. Drinks weren't served when we were there. Bathrooms are good. We ate at The Laguna Burger and it was great. Slots were awesome. Hubby won twice and I won once. . . Nice pots!

Tracy — Google review

Wife and I used the casinos adjacent RV resort and boy were we happy that we did! All components of the park are high quality as is the professionalism of the staff. All RV facilities are immaculately cleaned and well equipped. PICKLEBALL courts have great playing surface. Rec room has fireplace, Foosball, bar shuffleboard, etc! We're not frequent casino goers but did pop in and was impressed with a whole bunch of gaming options. I highly recommend this facility for an RV stay with casino option.

Joe K — Google review

First time here. Very glittery place. Very clean and it looks like there are people cleaning all the time too. We lost about $200 in about 30 minutes but it did seem like a fun place overall. Lots of different food options and it was certainly bigger that I expected. I'd be interested to try staying at the hotel sometime just to have a short getaway. If you read this please click "like"... it helps my feelings. Thanks 😊

Kristi R — Google review

Can't drink or smoke on the floor. But still tons of fun. And they do have a designated smoking section outside in the back, tented and heated with comfortable patio furniture. Truck drivers can get a free steak dinner. Which was very good. 14 oz ribeye at Thunder Road restraint, cooked perfectly and seasoned well. Definitely will be stopping here again.

Kay P — Google review

This review is for the pub and the blonde lady bartender that works in the day on Fridays. I do understand she was the only worker @ the time but there was a handful of patrons and she was too busy talking and having her back rubbed by a male patron instead of waiting on her customers. I then specifically asked her if it was happy hour and she said yes so we ordered the draft special. After asking for an itemized receipt she charged full price and then tried to tell me it wasn’t happy hour when we ordered when in fact it was. She needs to be trained on customer service, not only servicing the men. Not the same service as in the past!

D D — Google review

Good news!! This hotel is service animals friendly. Rms were amazing. No microwave however to heat up left overs. Ps the bar makes delicious pizzas. I did not gamble. I was behaving myself for once. Bar staff were amazing. This will always be my stop when traveling.

Summer V — Google review

The casino is in a great location, right off of the highway. The casino area was clean, big and staff was friendly. Food is just okay. Good enough to eat if your hungry but not good enough to brag about. The rooms appeared clean but with the age of the room I was in (looked like 80’s), it needed to be updated. The bathroom especially needed attention. The price was right though.

Teresa S — Google review

Great place to enjoy the weekend! The service was outstanding and our room was exceptionally clean and away from the others! Our Executive Hotel Host Kimberly, made sure we arrived to the location safely and answered any questions we had prior to checking in. Having previously stayed here, we were pleasantly surprised with the different promotions the casino offered as well as the variety of food options available. It couldn’t have been any better. Great service, great hotel, great food, and great amenities… and to top it off I walked away with some money in my pocket. I’d definitely recommend the resort to anyone visiting the Albuquerque and Santa Fe area!

Ernesto C — Google review

We were driving 18-wheelers from Mesa, AZ to Denver, CO. We weren't sure how far we would make it but knew this was a good half-way point especially since they have truck parking. We called the hotel, explained our situation and was told we didn't need reservations, that they had plenty of rooms. We arrived, their two fuel islands were not working so we just parked. Went to the front desk to check-in and was informed they only had one room left - we need four. Not happy at all. Had to leave our trucks there and find another hotel. Wore to the wise, apparently they always say they have plenty of rooms when they don't so make reservations. On a positive note we did eat in their steakhouse restaurant and the food and service was very good.

Neil — Google review

Decent for a middle of nowhere stay and play. Was sad they got rid of the Travel gift shop. Room was clean. Had towels brought to our room and they left the door open. We were gone until the evening, luckily nothing was taken. Heard a huge dog barking on our floor at night and in the morning. Stayed there a couple times when I travel and it seems like the excitement that I used to feel when going there is dying out. They had a nice Steakhouse and how can you go wrong with a Laguna Burger!

Randi S — Google review

The staff was great. Brought $200 worth of change and cashed it in at no charge. Tables dealers were also helpful to those in need and efficient and courteous. Free soft drinks and coffee. After so late all the places to eat on the inside quit serving food most of the late night hours. They should have at least some lil spot to grab a snack. I understand not having the bigger restaurant open but nothing. A lil hungry and that sure could have made my empty pockets not feel too bad cause at least my belly would be full.

Jason J — Google review

Wow, what an incredible experience! We recently stayed at the Route 66 RV Resort and it exceeded our expectations in every way.The resort is immaculately maintained, with beautiful landscaping and spotless facilities. The staff is friendly and welcoming, going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.The RV sites are spacious and well-equipped, with full hookups and plenty of amenities. We loved the resort's nostalgic theme, paying homage to the classic Route 66 era. The pool and hot tub were perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.

Yerika P — Google review

We've stayed at both the hotel and the RV park and have thoroughly enjoyed both of them! The hotel staff is super friendly from check in to check out. It seems that most of them enjoy their job and are happy to have you there. The rooms in the hotel are very clean and well appointed with perhaps some of the most comfortable beds in Albuquerque! The RV park is very nice with nice large spaces and is extremely well maintained. We've stayed a few times and there is always someone out cleaning, raking and tending to the sites. Highly recommend both of them! The casino itself is a bit odd, no drinking on the floor of the casino and very little staff to help out when needed. It was also very tight for us!

Cindy P — Google review

It does not have a view, the casino staff are very unfriendly, not accommodating in beverages. Floor manager, very nice, only one with a smile! Plus everyone complains no one wins, so save your money and go to Sandia now that's a view! Snack bar is horrid eat before u go! You'll be in and out there! Machines so tight the eagle screams!

Denisha R — Google review

Clean, comfortable room, easy check in, moderately priced but made that back in the Casino! Excellent burgers at the Cantina where Marta provided friendly, professional, quick table service. Also enjoyed a night-cap at Stadium 66. Friendly and efficient staff there, as well.

J J — Google review

Very clean and right off the interstate. Rates beat the local hotels by $100 a night. Service was slow in the bar but the food was good. Drink prices were extremely high. Casino is non smoking.

Charlotte G — Google review

I used to really like staying here..... "used to" are the key words. It's become a big disappointment for the price you pay for a room. The buffet & Sidewalk cafe are closed. The snack bar has extremely limited items. No fries & no burgers so you have to wait for the Laguna Burger place to open. I tried ordering a tuna salad & was told it would be about 2 hours for them to cut tomatoes. I told them I'll take it without tomatoes & the staff told me to come back in 2 hours. I asked for popcorn because the Bingo snack bar wasn't open & again I was told it's not ready. I offered to wait but the staff got loud & told me to come back in 2 hours. I went back 2 hours later & before I could open my mouth to place my order, they snapped & said the tomatoes still had not been cut. WTH! They don't even have yogurt at the snack bar. They no longer have a gift shop where you could go to buy necessities. You have to WALK to the gas station because the shuttle isn't running any more. There is no bell staff so be prepared to load & unload your luggage yourself. I got there early, with my luggage in tow, and the front desk wouldn't store my bag any where so I took it back to my vehicle. The chair in the room at the desk was dirty. Good thing I still carry gloves & disinfectant wipes with me.Basically, you pay resort fees but it's far from being a resort. I have pictures of the chair but my tablet won't let me attach pictures.

Laura B — Google review

This is a very good Casino to visit. The facilities are nice and clean. It has a variety of food. They offer great customer service. They also offer courtesy drinks to the customers.They also offer Truck Parking... so this is a Truck Driver Friendly Casino. ExcellentI would definitely recommend Route 66 Casino Hotel.

Alberto A — Google review

Love the fact this casino is not FREEZING! Out of three in Albuquerque it was the warmest. The food at either restaurant is good quality. The staff there (either place) is very attentive.

Barbara R — Google review

Getting My Kicks and Winning Big at Route 66 Hotel and CasinoI recently had a fabulous experience at Route 66 Hotel and Casino, and it truly lived up to the iconic reputation of the historic highway. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a memorable time.The casino vibe was electric, and I'm thrilled to say that luck was on my side. I not only got my kicks but also walked away with more than $800 in winnings. The variety of games and the overall setup of the casino created an exciting atmosphere that added to the thrill of the gaming experience.The staff at Route 66 were friendly and accommodating, contributing to the overall positive ambiance of the venue. Whether I was trying my luck at the slots or enjoying other amenities, the service was top-notch.What sets Route 66 Hotel and Casino apart is not just the gaming but the overall entertainment experience. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the place exuded a sense of excitement that kept me engaged throughout my visit.In conclusion, if you're looking for a great time, fantastic gaming opportunities, and a chance to win big, Route 66 Hotel and Casino is the place to be. My experience was nothing short of fabulous, and I can't wait to return for another round of kicks and, hopefully, more winnings. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an unforgettable casino adventure!

Christopher H — Google review

Well they didn’t honor the truck drivers dinner that I’ve heard so many people talk about. The steak I ordered was cooked the way I asked and sides were fine. Just nothing to write home about and lack of service from wait staff made for a regrettable decision to stop. No poker tables? I don’t understand how they can stay popular, oh well I guess that’s why the parking lot is mostly empty on a weekend at 5pm

Joshua S — Google review

The slots pay great, the parking lot is safe for travelers, with security driving around. Some furniture is a little messed up in the rooms but clean sheets and bathroom and shower were very clean.

Amir A — Google review

We live in TX and my mom lives in California. Every once or twice a year we’ll drive to her place to stay a while, then we’ll drive her to TX to stay with us a while. Every trip she wants us to stay at the Route 66 Casino Hotel, so we do! It’s a great place to spend a night or three.

Jose D — Google review

Lots of new slots as well as the classics. I was down two-fity but I always play one new machine before I go and came away with three-fity. Not a hand pay but it put me above water nonethelessFood is hit and miss. Burger Cafe was below ave. That is why 4 stars. Had a ribeye at the steakhouse about a year ago and ranked in my all time top ten ribeyes! Not as good since. Lots of gaming here including tables, very friendly staff will make you feel at home!10 miles from Albequerque right on 40.

Scott F — Google review

4.1

(10526)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (47)

3.5

(196)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (48)

14500 Central Ave SW, Rio Puerco, Albuquerque, NM 87121, USA

(505) 352-7866

7

El Malpais National Monument

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33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (51)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (52)

Monument

Sights & Landmarks

Geological landscape created by ancient volcanic activity, popular for hiking & permit-only caving.

Only drove through on the highway, but it was very beautiful. I had to stop a couple times for photos. Lovely rock formations rise above you, sprouting from the sage plains.

Foodtruck T — Google review

Mar 31. 2024I was exploring google maps for places to explore near ABQ area on weekend while on business trip and this place showed up, reviews convinced me to visit this place. 90 minute drive was 100% worth it.This place consists of multiple places that you can visit which includes:El Malpais Ranger Station (open only on Fri-Sun)Sandstone BluffsLa Ventana Natrual ArchLava Falls TrailheadEvery place is a hidden jam. I’d recommend one full day to visit all those places to grasp it all fully.

Artem M — Google review

Visiting the bluffs was much better this time around! Last time it was so windy that the sand and dirt painfully whipped our skin, but it was a still and clear day. Love being able to free climb the rocks without any clear trail. Only wish I had more time to read a book amongst the rocks

Morghan T — Google review

Skylight was still there as of 11/23/2023. Was able to go in and check it out. Would definitely recommend using proper shoes for this! Over all very neat to see!

Amber S — Google review

Joe Steen campground is a beautiful little nine site campground. Each site has a covered picnic table, grill and fire pit. Several very clean pit toilets and garbage cans too. It’s also free so that’s great. Dry camp / boondock.

Noelle M — Google review

We stopped at the Visitor Center on Tuesday the 24th. The center was nice, had plenty of details regarding the ring of volcanoes and the lava glow. A Thank you to the Ranger who shared details about the park with us. She was on loan from a nearby park, but was knowledgeable enough to enhance our visit.

Temecula6 — Google review

Stopped by for a day hike and was super impressed by the visitor center...clean and bright. The short film was well worth watching and made me excited to return during the summer months. It was cold and snowy while we were there which made the lava trail hike a bit more challenging to find good footing under the snow but overall it was a great little scramble and the snow added a certain beauty to the experience. We were the only ones on the trails and at the visitor center. Will head back to try the Sand stone bluffs trail and Rl Calderon. Also looks like a good bat program during the summer evenings. New Mexico is blessed with so many beautiful, uncrowded National monuments with good hiking.

C W — Google review

One of the most magical places if you can slow down to take it in. You can definitely hear the voices of the past here. I have passed through twice now and am very eager to stay in the grounds. There is a BLM campground with a few dedicated spots. Seems to fill early. There are hikes as well as a few unmaintained roads to explore.

I W — Google review

We stopped here by chance after grabbing some lunch and gas. It made for a great 2 hour stop. We climbed all around the sandstone bluffs and then hit the La Ventana Arch. I would have liked to have more time to spend there. Highly recommended to visit.

Robert H — Google review

4/1/2018: I drove through and stopped at the Visitor Center which had a wonderful film to watch which showed all the places I couldn't get to. I did stop at El Cauldron to take pics of the lava and the landscapes were magnificent.

Terri M — Google review

WOW! So many awesome things to see here. Be sure to pull off at all the stops and explore. The views are amazing. They also all have bathrooms which is nice.

Jeffrey D — Google review

Amazing! I’m from NW NM and never knew this kind of beauty existed in the state! Now when people comment on how beautiful NM is, I will heartily agree. This little known National Monument is worth retiring off the interstate to visit. We all loved climbing on the rocks at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook - what a view! Further up the road is La Ventana Natural Arch. I was expecting something small, but was amazed at the size of the arch! Forget Utah National Parks - NM has amazing rock formations too!

Jana M — Google review

4.7

(683)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (53)

4.5

(331)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (54)

1900 E Santa Fe Ave, Grants, NM 87020, USA

(505) 285-4641

8

El Morro National Monument

Mentioned on

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Monument

Sights & Landmarks

El Morro National Monument is a historic park with sandstone bluffs towering over 200 feet high. The area contains over 2,000 signatures etched into the rock dating back to ancient Pueblo times. This pristine and well-maintained park features Inscription Trail, which provides informative markers about the many travelers who visited throughout history, including Indians, explorers, soldiers, and pioneers. It's recommended to visit in the morning when the light shines spectacularly on the sheer cliffs.

One of the most pristine, historical and well maintained parks we have ever been to. Inscription trail was amazing..the numbered markers provided excellent information about the many travelers that visited over the centuries...Definitely go in the morning, the light on the sheer cliffs is spectacular. Park rangers were VERY helpful and knowledgeable about the park and the surrounding area.

Chuck T — Google review

Paid a visit to El Morro National Monument during the winter season, primarily as a overnight stop along my cross country road trip route. There are no entrance or use fees here, including the free campground. The eight site campground features well spaced, mostly private sites and his & hers vault toilets. The views of the surrounding valley and bluffs are rather lovely. Would definitely recommend for anyone in the area or transiting I-40 as a scenic byway that's worth a visit. There was snow during my visit, but the road into the facility and campground loop were plowed; the trail network near the visitors center was partially closed for safety due to ice.

Ben B — Google review

Great National Monument, sometimes it seems that the smaller ones are better. No crowds great views and some awesome history. It was so cool to see all of the carvings from Native Americans to Knights in the Spanish army to Civil War captains. Great place to visit. So super cool!

Rob M — Google review

A beautiful scenic location with amazing rock formation. Driving up here (from the east) passing the continental divide at 7800 feet is itself an experience.

Rashid F — Google review

We got there late and only had time to walk along the cliff looking at the historic graffiti. Native American and settlers carved into the sandstone.The visitors center was nice. Bathroom clean.

Bracken S — Google review

Spectacular! Can't miss this. Took one of the most extraordinary hikes ever... Stunningly beautiful. The trail winds around Inscription rock where you see petroglyphs, and inscriptions from the Conquistadors, and other soldiers, scientists etc. then winds around to top the top of Inscription rock where there are ruins of an ancient Pueblo, but what comes after, is the best surprise...

Aargh42 G — Google review

El Morro National Monument is a great place to view historical messages and petroglyphs. Take the half mile Inscription Trail to see the pool of water that collects near the base of the sandstone Bluff, which drew Puebloans, Spanish, and Americans to this location. The Juniper trees make the area smell amazing. Kids will enjoy earning Junior Ranger badges, and the trail is paved and doable for most people.

Krystle G — Google review

One of the best experiences!! I was so happy to be able to visit a place where my dogs could go on the hike with me. It was a beautiful hike with lots of information. The park rangers were super nice. I especially was thankful for the information given to me about the camels. It is great information I will pass on. I recommend hiking the whole circle it is worth the views at the top. Please anyone taking pups, clean up after them so this park can stay dog friendly. Dog friendly parks are rare.

Mopsy M — Google review

This monument combines staggering natural beauty with historical significance. Three waves of visitors--Pueblo, Spanish and American--have etched writings and drawings into this massive sandstone bluff over the course of many centuries. This has been a real highlight of our trip to New Mexico.

Michael Y — Google review

The monument is beautiful and well worth the detour. The staff, however, treated my group with prejudice. They were very kind and welcoming to the white guest. We did not let that ruin our experience and remained respectful.

Aku3a — Google review

On a cold, snowy Monday afternoon we had the entire park to ourselves. Due to snow not all hiking trails were open. That didn't diminish this trip at all. The area is just beautiful, and the history here is incredible. Carved into the sandstone bluff are petroglyphs, names, and dates, dating back to the 1500's. Onate carved his name into this rock over 10 years before anyone had landed at Plymouth Rock. This is really a must see for anyone who loves the history of the Southwest. The park is also a designated Dark Sky Park and there are stargazing events held here in the warmer months. As of the date of this review the park is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Mark G — Google review

This place is why New Mexico is call the land of enchantment. Wow! The petroglyphs were fantastic. The signatures of the Spanish from the with dates from the 1700’s, the American military signatures from the 1800’s, amazing stone work art with the signatures too. The ancient pond was great. The hike to the top of the cliffs to see the ruins of native peoples was way cool. This park is so well kept. The rangers are very well informed and happy to share any and all information with you. This was treat an indeed. Get there early because they close the hike up to the top of the mountain at 2 or 3pm. Clean bathrooms too. And don’t ignore the thick forest that surrounds the park. So peaceful.Warning! This park will be hard for folks who have difficulty walking. Plus, there is no wheelchair access to the top of the cliff to see the the Native American site ruins. However, a wheelchair can easily do the 1/4 mile loop to see the engravings, petroglyphs, and the water hole. If you are disabled, don’t attempt to hike to the top. It’s a challenge. I didn’t make it. I had to send my son with the camera. Very steep climb with stairs.Amazing place.

Melody E — Google review

This was an unexpected gem. We toured the monument on a bright, cool, blustery New Mexico Spring day. Stopped into the Center (the trails are accessed through the back) to view a short video and pick up a trail guide (you can borrow one or buy for $2). The trail is designed to be hiked counter clockwise starting with the inscriptions and continuing to the top of the Mesa. The Mesa is scaled through a series of switchbacks with a 400 foot vertical ascent. Nothing too strenuous. The trail is well marked with some stretches across barren rock where you are exposed to the winds. The descent is mostly by stairs hewn into the rock. I suffer from Vertigo but had no trouble navigating some of the more exposed areas. I did see dogs on the trail. The hike takes over 2 hours with much of the time spent taking photos and reading inscriptions. There were about a dozen people on the trail when we were there but I suspect it gets crowded when the schools let out.

Jeff B — Google review

El Morro National Monument is definitely worth a visit. It was supposed to be a quick stop but it turned out to be one of the better hikes that we took while we were on vacation. Definitely would suggest that everyone should stop and spend a half a day or more.

Thomas S — Google review

Beautiful light hike for a couple hours! Inscription’s are incredible!

Jason M — Google review

4.8

(959)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (59)

4.5

(266)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (60)

NM-53, Ramah, NM 87321, USA

(505) 783-4226

9

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

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Historical place

Nature & Parks

Chaco Culture National Historical Park comprises a remote network of ancient Puebloan ruins that provide insight into ancestral life. The park offers opportunities for camping and stargazing, as well as hiking and exploring the various sites and petroglyphs. While the rugged dirt roads accessing Chaco Canyon may deter some visitors, a 9-mile loop through downtown passes six major sites, with further options for more secluded exploration.

Not easy to get to....20 +miles of washboard dirt roads at a speed of maybe 15-20 Mph, but so worth it when you come upon this immense area of ancestral pueblo ruins....amazing architecture. No services at Chaco...no gas, food, lodging other than basic campground facilities....bathrooms.Excellent visitor center with good selection of books and usual National Park sundries. Arrive early in the morning to see most of the ruins....ruins close at Sunset....no light on the roads out of there when it gets dark......come prepared with water...snacks...good tires....cell service sketchy at best.....If you are a student of ancestral pueblo cultures, don't miss a chance to go there. It's an adventure!

Gerlinde T — Google review

Amazing experience! We went for a day trip and it was plenty of time to explore the main road round trip inside the park as well as the trails that led around the park! Very maintained park and visitor center was very informational! Only problem we had is that we saw number markers at different spots on the trail but none of the paperwork we had identified what the numbers meant! Overall, well worth the drive. Restrooms at each stop as well!

Christoph R — Google review

A remote and fascinating location for experiencing ancient cultural sites in New Mexico. A long gravel and unimproved road is used to access the park, but (at least in dry conditions) easily accommodates standard autos (20-30 mph). Once in the park, most sites are easily accessible from pull-off parking areas. Trails are available for those who want a more immersive desert experience with the pueblo ruins. Well organized by NPS.I did not use the campground but am certain the nights are fantastic for sky viewing in some of the darkest skies in the US.

David B — Google review

AMAZING park. One of the best experiences I've had in a national monument. Lots of space, very well kept park and structures. Incredible to see these ancient buildings. The ability to walk through many of them, around them right up to the walls of the structures. The main area even has a whole section where you can walk through the different rooms. Very cool for kids and adults alike.Don't be turned off by the remoteness or the roads; just drive slow and take your time.Bring lots of food, water, and a full tank of gas.

Joseph — Google review

Haven't been to Chaco Canyon over 25years, sites are unbelievably unique, hiking up to pueblo alto was a good hike. Seen elk, deer as well, park rangers are nice. Only bad part of this trip was the 14miles of "washboard" dirt road 'to & from' the park.

Ca S — Google review

To reach this park you have to drive down a pretty bumpy road, but it’s totally worth it! I highly recommend watching the 30 minute video in the visitors center before exploring the sites because it really gives you a deep appreciation for what you’re seeing. I also encourage some hiking if you can but make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection! Solid footwear with ankle support recommended.

Jasmin F — Google review

Worth the effort to see. Ranger talks were a big help to understanding the history of the site. Only drawback was there were no exhibits on display in the visitor center which was disappointing. County maintained dirt road from 550 was not bad. The last section of roughly 4 miles that is not county maintained was a little rough but passable with no problem.

Mike G — Google review

Let's talk about the dirt road, to get to this site. Its HORRID. Its not just a typical dirt road, its grooved with lines that make it extra bumpy. The whole time, you feel like your car is going to be shaken apart. I'm not entirely sure my car did make it out unscathed, it rattles now. It was nerve wracking and I did think about turning around. For the love of man, please pave this road.Now that that's out of the way. The site is huge. There is sooo much to explore and I doubt I even came close to 1/2 of it. Bring tons of extra water, especially if it's hot. I recommend coming during cooler months so that it is more enjoyable. They do have campsites here and if you want to see everything, you could definitely get a site. I imagine you would need a full day to see all of it, but as I said, I only saw about half. Make sure you stop at the visitor center to get a map.

Lisa W — Google review

Last 6 miles was very bumpy road. Staff at center very knowledgeable. Walked through sites. So interesting. Plan to go again and camp there.

Sandy F — Google review

This was a bucket list stop and was well worth it. We've seen many of the ruins in Mesa Verde, Canyon de Chelly, etc and this place ties them all together in a way that makes sense about the intricate and connected culture that has inhabited this place for centuries. The park staff is very helpful.HOWEVER, really research getting there and take into consideration the weather and the vehicle you are using. The road in for NM Highway 550 is 27 miles. 13 miles of that are gravel, washboard and the final 4 are not even that-clay soil, washes and ruts. We were in a 20ft. camper van and had to drive about 5-10 miles an hour. Once we got into the park, which is paved, the rain clouds gathered so we were uncomfortable thinking about the drive out and had to hurry through the ruins. Bummer. It is a good thing we did because as we drove out and got on the pavement, the rain started. The soil here gets VERY slick when wet. Next time, we are going to opt for a tour-there are several-and let someone else do the driving in a 4WD.

Kathleen D — Google review

Chaco Canyon was awesome. Went in September. Not too hot and nobody there. We spent 2 days in the park. Hiked to the Supernova Pictograph and ran into 2 other people the entire way. Scambled up to the top of Pueblo Alto and saw nobody else. Love the 1☆ reviews complaining about the roads. That's the reason we had the place to ourselves. I hope they never fix that road. Go. It's well worth it.

M R — Google review

First, stop by the visitor center. They are all super nice and know the area well. We always appreciate staff who are as excited about the area as we are. It’s a very simple place. You can drive the loop and see everything from your car if you want. Lots of hiking areas. If you only have 2-4 hours, stop and walk at Pueblo Bonito. There’s a loop you can walk to the right or if you’re in a hurry walk to the left. It’s the bigger of the two ruins, you can walk through it and see inside. It’s probably one of the bigger ruins sites we seen.

Joel C — Google review

Pretty cool place to check out. $25 per vehicle or 10 per person. A few sites right off the road but a few hikes you can do. You could spend a few days here but 1 day is sufficient. It was fairly empty when we came at 10 AM on a Sunday. Your ticket is good for a week so you can come back. Note there is no gas for 20 miles so make sure to come prepared. Restrooms and water are available at the visitors center. Don’t forget a hat and sun screen!

Chaz R — Google review

Visited here on May 23, 2023 (after waiting 20 years to do it - thankfully I'm finally retired). Loved seeing this historic park with all the ruins, and envisioning the Native American culture here that taught their children values, including how to survive and how to care for one another - note: I saw the Kivas as more of classrooms and discussion areas (sharing stories and giving advice).

Gerry B — Google review

So much to see here. It's more engaging here. There's also a lot of animals. Bathrooms are the cleanest we have seen. Maybe cuz not many people come here. The road to get here is rough. Please drive in a vehicle that can handle terrain or you could get stuck in mud.Be prepared to spend a whole day or two here if you want to make the most of it. We spent 4 hours there and saw 1/8th of everything. We will definitely come back to see the other sites on top of the mountains.Also, we were able to renew our park pass there. The ladies were very informative and kind.

Mirasol C — Google review

This review is for Pueblo Bonito Overlook Trail which was a ~2 miles round trip that took ~1.5 hours to complete.About ~20 miles of driving through light snow over dirt road on Navajo Service Rte 14 (From Petrified Forest NP).A little bit of steep incline and rock scrambling behind the Kin Kletso near the beginning of the trail. This will take you through a slot canyon and up to the mesa. Follow the ridges until you reach the "End of trail" sign which is the Pueblo Bonito Overlook. Look for the trail marker for the descent back down. Beautiful views from the top of the mesa!Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/qL4yU22HJ3U

Ed — Google review

Fantastic for the heartland of Anasazi history, archaeoastronomy, International Dark Sky nighttime viewing (was at the autumn equinox event in 2018) and more. I just hope they never pave the entrance roads: I don't want this to become Mesa Verde.

Steve S — Google review

Beautifully kept secret. Not easy to get to in the off season. We had the whole place to ourselves. The staff at the center were very knowledgeable super friendly

Kelly H — Google review

This was much more amazing than expected. Much more remote to get to as well. You'll definitely want a capable vehicle to come visit. Lots to see and experience. If you want to go for a hike or even 4x4 off roading there are opportunities for that as well. Easily a full days worth of activities and things to see.

Joseph E — Google review

Amazing North American site. Lots to see. Hiking or no hiking up to you. I don’t think it’s very handicap accessible. From Farmington or Albq the entrance off the highway is 22 miles further. It’s 8 miles paved, 7 miles dirt county maintained road, 5 miles of badly rutted, washboard, dips an dives then your at the entrance to the park which is a 9 mile paved loop. Don’t recommend trailers or rvs on this road. Could do damage. Overnight camping by reservation is available. No fires allowed though. Worth the trip if you’re interested in Anasazi culture. Fall visit early morning before it gets hot.

JENNIFER J — Google review

Wonderful experience. We really worried that we were getting lost, taking the dirt washboarded roads leading there, but it was a beautiful place .

Jan G — Google review

4.7

(1341)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (65)

4.5

(762)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (66)

New Mexico, USA

(505) 786-7014

10

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (67)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (68)

33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (69)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (70)

Park

Nature & Parks

Wilderness area with a striking landscape of iconic rock formations, with hiking & horseback trails.

Such and amazing hidden gem! We were looking to go somewhere not crowded during spring break. Found the perfect place! Spent many hours exploring this very unique place:)

Angela W — Google review

Wow!! The pictures don’t justify the beauty of this place. We did few trails on this BLM managed wilderness and badlands. This place is wide spread, high clearance vehicle is recommended by not necessary on dry days! Trails are not marked, we had trails and maps downloaded in All Trails App and it was easy to follow the track through app. Without maps we would not have made it to alien throne and wings! Unbelievable and awesome rock formations throughout.

Imran H — Google review

Loved the place but there are NO signs or path to direct you to the main sights: Bisti rock gardens, Great Flat topped arch, Petrified wood/ log, and Cracked eggs. There is a map when you enter but, after that NO signs. We couldn't find the main sights and neither could another couple. What we did see was out of this world and mesmerizing and worth a visit. Comments to help others: 1 As tou go in there is a row of power/ electrical posts. These can be seen from all high places. Thus, knowing that, it is hard to get lost. 2. There are bathrooms there. 3 7 miles further South from the spot marked by Google maps there is another sign and a road for the Bisti Badlands. Don't go there, we drove 5 miles into it and all we saw was a flat desert.

Guillermo L — Google review

Wonderful hiking experience. Was here in October 2023. As others have noted, trails (if any) are not marked, so a VERY good topo map or GPS is required. If using an app like Gaia or AllTrails, download the maps as there is very minimal cell service. Another hint if you're using an app, make sure you phone is fully charged and turn off your Wi-Fi as this will save battery power (you won't be able to use it within Bisti, anyway).And, as others have noted, bring plenty of water. Use sunscreen and wear a wide brim hat. Plus a kerchief or Neck Gaiter might be helpful to keep out dust as it does get pretty windy at times.

Richard L — Google review

Beautiful, I would definitely recommend coming here. Make sure to bring a GPS as it is easy to get lost, it does not look like much from the outside when you first park but after a short walk it starts to look like you are on another planet. I recommend bringing some water as well.

Amanda K — Google review

Unsigned Trail. Beginning easily identified at parking lot by footprints. Trail dips in and out of washes. After about one and 1/2 miles, the footprints disappeared; I never located any unusual erosion features.One could easily get lost, look back often for landmarks to use on your return trip. Bring a hat and water.I went in April 15, 2024. There was much evidence of rain runoff. Perhaps later in the season after more people who know the way have made a trail, one might find attractions advertised.

Ralph C — Google review

What a surreal place. The scenery is stunning. Having read lots of reports about no signs and easy to get lost we used All Trails app which helped keep us focused when we kept wandering off entranced by the rock formations!

Catherine S — Google review

Interessante Landschaft. Parkplatz ist vorhanden und Toilette. Genügend Wasser sollte man mitnehmen. Es sieht dort aus wie auf einem anderen Planeten. Wir hatten viel Spaß die Gegend zu erkunden.(Translated by Google)Interesting landscape. Parking space is available and toilet. You should take enough water with you. It looks like another planet there. We had a lot of fun exploring the area.

S. T — Google review

2 entrances, choose the "Parking/Access" option!De-Na-Zin Trailhead - A trail leads from the parking area approximately 3/4 mile to the De-Na-Zin Wash. You are basically dumped in a dry river bed, footprints go in 10 directions, there are lots of petrified trees around here but pretty shy on the formations the area is famous for. I hiked for 2 hours before heading out.Parking/Access - this is within 2 miles of 371, has Pit toilets, a map, plenty of people and i was seeing hoodoos within 15 minutes of going through the gate, unfortunately I ran out of sunlight. Lots of people camping here.Bring water and sunscreen for both as there is no shelter.

Trypp A — Google review

Such a great place, very unique to our area. Only 1 hour from Farmington!

Margie J — Google review

We just drove here expecting to catch some views, but realised later that we need to catch up on a hike which is around 3mi round-trip. We started hiking for almost a mile and then saw some footprints of an animal(which my friends guessed could of a mountain lion) since they were very fresh on wet sand, so returned back to the lot.

Sanju — Google review

Was a bit disappointed and unimpressed. One definitely needs to download the trail map or prepare to get lost. There are no marked trails and it's very easy to get off track. No bathrooms around and access is about 7 miles down a dirt/gravel road.

Elaine M — Google review

Great drive beautiful quiet weather . After visiting my fiancé and I pulled off to the side to view another section of the land, when we were hit with a sound similar to a distant helicopter (but pulsating) was very interesting and it disappeared just as quick as it arrived . After this we scanned the area we were standing in and notice HUMAN foot prints walking on sand covered in thorns and sharp sticks. These steps walked straight off a 20ft high cliff into desert

Adrean S — Google review

We came here a few months back and it's incredible! It's huge with plenty of sites to see. This spot makes for a perfect day hike. There's a few tables and a portable bathroom if needed too.

Alejandro T — Google review

4.7

(148)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (71)

4.5

(258)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (72)

County Road 7297, Bloomfield, NM 87413, USA

(505) 564-7600

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11

Aztec Ruins National Monument

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Ruin

Sights & Landmarks

Ancient Ruins

Aztec Ruins National Monument is a prehistoric Puebloan site constructed circa AD 1100, featuring a Great Kiva and interconnected ceremonial structures. The location was connected to Chaco through a southern road. Notably, the Great Kiva has been reconstructed to provide insight into its original appearance. Additionally, several rooms maintain their original roofs intact. Visitors can learn more about the site through the informative museum attached to it.

Fantastic walk through site. Great for kids education and growth. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.Good parking, and parking for RVs and trailers in the back.Approximately 30 to 45 walking tour outside through amazing ruins. Great display of unearthed artifacts and information. Recommend watching the free short welcome Film in the theater before the walking tour.All Free, but try donating a little of that colone cancer McDonald's Burger money you suck down to a good cause and help keep places like this open.We highly recommend this for a visit.

RGRAPPLER I — Google review

Extremely friendly staff, interacted with 4 members, all helpful and friendly. Nice walking trail with points of interest to learn about the ancient culture. Nice small museum, large ruins, largely original with some minor reconstruction. Several intact rooms, with decorative banding in and the walls intact. Fantastic experience. Good parking and clean restrooms.

Steven H — Google review

After spending 6-weeks at Mesa Verde, and absorbing knowledge it was cool to visit another site with ruins. The way these buildings were built, the time, effort, knowledge is all extraordinary. We enjoyed walking through and reading from the $2 guidebook versus the free audio tour available on your phone. Learning about the ancient ones is always fascinating.

Trippin? S — Google review

What a gem. One of the most unique national monuments I've been to. So much history. There's a small informative exhibit and a gift store. A lovely picnic area. The staff was very friendly and knowledgable. Definitely worth a visit/detour.

Katrina W — Google review

Definitely a fun place to visit. Free to park and go in. Cute little gift shop, then go outside and have a blast exploring the ruins. Follow the trails and markers. You can even climb inside a few of them and crawl around or bend down to get through the halls. There’s a tall trail up to the top to see the whole view of the ruins. Lots of play areas, great for all ages. It’s a historic site so that’s fun. I had so much fun crawling into dark places to see what’s on the other side. There was lots of people there too but everyone was pretty spread apart and respectful.

Tiffany C — Google review

Know your history! Our family had an amazing time. Great audio tour, good short movie prior to the tour. My boys enjoyed walking through the almost labyrinth like ruins. Stay on the paved walkways unless you would like to drag mud in your car. They have a shoe cleaner by the door on the way back. ;) Restrooms were clean. Staff was welcoming. Highly recommended family adventure.

Eva J — Google review

This is a must see site. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. The site looks big but actually very easy to navigate. There was a choice of a guidebook or cell phone audio app, or you could use a loaned spiral bound guide. Halfway through, a guide came out to give more information and answer questions. He pointed out little factoids that we would not have known like the numbered plugs found on the wood beams. I came away with a much greater appreciation of the ancient Pueblo and their unique way of life.

Lola P — Google review

The place was incredible and so much history. I bought the trail guide and it was very helpful! The NPS staff is always helpful. If you come, you have to take the time to watch the 15 minute video it is well worth it! So much info

Kimberly F — Google review

From all of the ruins we visited we enjoyed this the most. Walking through the rooms really gave you a feel for the living conditions. Very clean, helpful staff, nice gift shop with some high quality items. Museum was informative. No crowds on the Sunday we visited.

E B — Google review

Super cool place where you can learn about the place and people who lived there in the past. A very interesting introduction video is played in the Visitor Center. There’s also a National Park Passport stamp station.Outside at the ruins, it’s possible to walk around, and even inside and see them up close. There’s also QR codes where you can get more information of the place you’re standing.Staff very kind and helpful. Restrooms available onsite.

Uki B — Google review

Easy to get to and of a manageable scale, these well preserved ruins were a delight. There were hardly any people there when we went, and the park staff was very helpful. To see the original timbers, and to be able to look from room to room is really remarkable

Yoga C — Google review

Real nice. Not a steep or long trail to go through the homes of the ancient people of the 4 Corners area. You can go right up and into the ancient homes. The visitor center is nice and informative. If you are interested in history, you will love this. Free admission and free parking. A little guide book is available for $2.

Shelley B — Google review

Wow this place is so cool!! Seeing the archaeologists at work was a treat. The great kiva is beautiful. So many artifacts in the museum as well. 5 ⭐️ for this well maintained national monument!

Sarah D — Google review

A compact site that's accessible to everyone. There are steps but much can be seen from a paved path. The visitor center is very informative. Don't forget to pack a lunch for the adjoining park that is great for kids and pets (no pets at ruins site, please).

Ellis C — Google review

Small museum rich with history. You can view the museum, watch a short 15-minute video, take a tour with a ranger, or use an interactive map with commentary available. The area around ruins is well paved. Clean restrooms and picnic area.

LauraLee B — Google review

This place is so neat! The history is very well preserved, the museum and walking trails are a really nice outing. Highly recommend!

Kitty M — Google review

Nice place to stop. Free parking, free entry and clean restrooms.This a small complex that can be viewed in an hour. Yet the buildings are amazing ! Note the smooth facing of the exterior stones and the varied patterns and colors of the structures.There are some short and narrow doorways to negotiate.

Roger ( — Google review

Another great National Park site. 15 minute video is a great place to start your learning journey. Then take the short, paved walk around the ruins. There are numbered stops on the walkway where you scan the QR code, then you can listen to a recording that explains what you are looking at. Which is perfect when you aren’t there during Ranger tours. This site is cool because many of the ruins you can actually go inside of and explore. Picnic area for lunch. I’d say you’d probably need a minimum of 2 hours to explore the main areas this park and the visitor center.

Travel C — Google review

absolutely incredible historical site with a beautiful parks building. the parks building is less than 1000 feet from the ruins which is great for anyone looking to visit ruins without the long hike out to them. this site holds a restored kiva which truly sparks the imagination: it must have been incredible to see when communities gathered there. hand-constructed before stone tools, chacoan structure of significant beauty and importance: please respect it as a sacred site if you visit (and be sure to check the audio!)

Simone E — Google review

Very interesting site. Enjoyed the museums and the ruins. I am disabled and it’s mostly wheelchair accessible, so that is a definite plus. And it’s free!

Linda G — Google review

Highly recommend stopping here if you’re in the area! The welcome center/museum/gift shop is full of artifacts and information, and friendly staff! There’s an interesting 15-minute video you can watch. Free audio tour available through your phone or you can purchase the brochure/paper tour. There’s a walkway around the ruins and the tour takes you inside several areas. Incredible parts of history have been preserved and re-created here. Absolutely worth seeing!

Mallory C — Google review

It was very impressive to see what this culture was able to construct so long ago. The fact that a majority of the construction is still standing is a testament to this. We were able to walk through a majority of the ruins, which was really informative.

Laurence M — Google review

Quick unplanned stop during our long roadtrip and was well worth it.Small museum, but very informative and site is wonderful. You have the opportunity to take a self guided tour through the ruins while listening to the pre-recorded audio through your phone.My little guy also got to do the extra activities to become a junior ranger and get his badge.Staff is very welcoming and knowledgeable. Great experience and it's FREE.

Jorge F — Google review

Great historical site. I was downplaying this site because of the major national sites that are nearby. However, this easy access national monument offers just as much insight into the region only in a thimble full.

S K — Google review

This is by far one of the coolest archeological sites I’ve ever seen. And the fact that you can go inside some of the buildings is incredible—if you come here please be respectful and careful because I don’t want people to lose that privilege. The restored great kiva is an incredible place to stand in

Matt J — Google review

This NPS site does not charge an entry fee. However, I recommend strongly purchasing a guide for the nominal cost of $2, such that you know what the structures are (they are labeled with numbers). The visitor centre also serves as a small but nicely done museum telling the history of the site and the Pueblo people. Although there is no unequivocal evidence, it is speculated that the thriving Aztec community, which took a century from design to completion, was abandoned due to the combination of social instability, drought and exhaustion of resources. We spent the whole morning exploring the site, and the most amazing of which is the reconstructed great kiva (the largest kiva on this site). The Pueblo people are probably the most religious population ever existed.

Small U — Google review

Really great historical place to visit and very thankful for the opportunity to visit. Fascinating and impressive. Visited at a great time, barely and visitors, plenty of time to explore and enjoy the entire monument.

William H — Google review

4.8

(1964)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (84)

4.5

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725 Ruins Rd, Aztec, NM 87410, USA

(505) 334-6174

12

Three Rivers Eatery & Brewhouse

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$$$$affordable

Brewpub

Hamburger restaurant

Pizza restaurant

Three Rivers Eatery & Brewhouse, located in a historic building in Farmington, is a popular spot known for its craft beers and delicious food. The menu features daily specials like Green Chile Chicken Lasagna and Build-Your-Own Burger. Despite the occasional wait on busy nights, the outstanding food and great service make it well worth it. The brewery offers a variety of brews to try, including an impressive sour.

While passing through on a road trip, we stopped and ate here. Let me say this was the best choice by far. The burgers and fries were delicious. The margarita was made with fresh juice and the sky high beer 🍺 was tasteful. The service was also exceptional 👏

Camie B — Google review

We enjoyed the turkey sandwich that was upscale with green chile, avocado, and baby spinach. The fries could have been better. The beers were good and our server was efficient and friendly. A nice experience as we passed through town.

The B — Google review

Beers are good, dishes are great, services are perfect. The menu offers half-sized dishes which are very convenient. You can take a walk tour around the downtown streets after dinner. There are quite a few of nice wall paintings in the area. Highly recommended!

Simon X — Google review

We went to the brewhouse and had a beer each. They had an excellent Pale Ale which is an unusual offer but my personal favorite. I ask the bar tender for a recommendation between two close by restaurants She recommended Boon's Thai BBQ, and it was a fantastic suggestion.

JCTucson — Google review

Pizza was 4.5 out of 10. Was not good hardly any cheese or pepperoni they weight there pizzas and it’s skimp. Dough and crust not good.

Keith D — Google review

I normally don't give 5 stars, I believe that there is always room for improvement. Well this time at this business I felt well there wasn't much that would have asked for, great service, great food, everyone at this establishment was very classy.Your restaurant should go very far with this staff. Even the chef's. if you're reading this far, you must treat yourself to one of Farmington greatest lunch meal.

Riley P — Google review

We’ve been here many times. This last time was not a good experience. Beer was hot. Something was malfunctioning with equipment. Told over one hour wait for food. Service was terrible this go around. Food prices have become super expensive.

Gayle V — Google review

A breath of fresh air! Loved the great meal we enjoyed. The service was wonderful! Their beer was some of the best. And the prices were very reasonable! If we lived in the area we would be there every few days. Love to go through a menu where people Love what they're doing!Thank You for the beautiful evening!

Paul A — Google review

A little loud but that’s to be expected. The waitress was great, and the food was almost better. Did have to ask for a little more dressing, but it was great

Reese E — Google review

Great service and even better food. We had the Green Chile Lasagna and Drunken Sandwich. Both were amazing. You must try the spicy Ghost Pepper Ranch for your fires. The Chicken Fried Steak is also great. Several great brews to try. I was impressed by the sour. You have to try this place at least once, maybe twice.

Margie W — Google review

Bartender was a bit overwhelmed and looking to clock out. The beers I tried were ice cold and very tasty! I grabbed a pool table( all were recently refurbished) which played like brand new! Locals started to filter in for happy hour, and warned me that after 6 pm tables are hard to get or keep when the sharks start swimming,Overall, I was impressed with the entire 3 Rivers concept, definitely not what I expected to find in a town whose sidewalks role up at 9pm. Give it a go !

Sean G — Google review

Love the servers there, they are always helpful and friendly. Food is always good … especially the fish and chips. Dessert was phenomenal tonight

Monique H — Google review

What a wonderful little place with some great historical significance! We did not have any problems with getting a seat right away! The waiter ( bartender as well) was quick and efficient, friendly and attentive. Our meal didn’t take long despite the fact that they had a house full. Loved the steak sand and Cajun fries and the waiter recommended a good brew. My husband enjoyed his pulled pork sandwich as well.

Jewell F — Google review

My husband and I ate here on Sat eve, on our way back home thru Farmington NM. We clearly picked the happening spot in town. The place was packed, with people coming in faster than they were leaving.The food seemed to take a little while to come out, but that's because they were so busy! - and it was well worth the wait.I had the Open Faced Bomb, with black beans as my side, which I would definitely have again. It's one of the meals I enjoyed the most during our road trip - and in a little town called Farmington, NM. Quite a surprise!My husband had the smoked turkey sandwich and fries, which he enjoyed as well. The atmosphere was great and they had a good selection of beers from around the area. (I'm not a beer drinker, but my husband is).The building was a pharmacy in its earlier life, so it was Cicero to see the preserved , and photos.We will definitely eat here again next time we're driving thru.

Marita T — Google review

Today’s experience here was unacceptable, my mom and I stopped in for lunch and ordered a burger and a wrap of some sort, we waited over 30 minutes for our food but I saw my burger sitting in their window for about 10 minutes then my moms order came out after, my fries were super cold and my moms tortilla wrap was cold also, which is weird since everything is supposed to be made to order, we sent the food back just to hear the lady in their kitchen saying “thats stupid” and “well obviously it’s cold it has lettuce and tomato in it” which we asked for no tomato btw but that wouldn’t explain why her onion rings/ meat and tortilla were barely warm. When we told the server that if the kitchen was so upset we could just take our ticket for our drinks and appetizer she tried to argue with “I’m sorry I just try to ignore them” (the kitchen). It’s understandable being understaffed but they weren’t even busy. :/

Mariah W — Google review

Food was ok...not very flavorful. Nice atmosphere. Husband ordered fish and chips, a bit too much crust which ruined taste of fish. The vegetable side order was swimming in butter and lacked flavor I had grilled cheese - a bit overgrilled. The potato salad had way too much mayo.

Cindy — Google review

4.4

(933)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (86)

4.0

(659)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (87)

101 E Main St, Farmington, NM 87401, USA

(505) 324-2187

13

Canyon de Chelly National Monument

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Park

Nature & Parks

Canyon de Chelly National Monument, located on the Navajo Nation, is a vast park preserving archaeological resources spanning over 5,000 years of human occupation. Visitors can take tours and enjoy overlooks of ruins and the famous Spider Rock spire. The area is home to Navajo families who engage in livestock raising and farming within the canyons. While exploring the monument, visitors can drive through two scenic routes with multiple pullouts, some of which are wheelchair accessible.

Canyon de Chelley was even more impressive than I thought it would be. You can view the canyon from above for free or pay a guide for a Jeep tour or hiking tour of the canyon. There are some amazing ruins in the canyon, so the guided tour is understandable. Highly recommend and if you have the time and money a guided tour is a great way to go.

James C — Google review

Beautiful scenery! The White House pull off and trail were closed due to snow I guess. There was a nice cover of fresh snow on the ground making the canyon a winter wonderland!

Jacky C — Google review

A wonderful small park in the Navajo lands of northeastern Arizona. The park has two scenic drives on each side of the canyon. The southern side is best to visit in the afternoon and it has more view points. The north side has three stops and it is best in the morning. The visitor center is nice and they run different programs during the year. November is Native American month. We enjoyed an evening program presented by a Navajo Range. Very good. Currently, you are not allowed on the hike in to the canyon. Too bad because it is very good. If you are interested in going into the canyon you must hire a guide. The jeep tours are very good. In the past we hire a guide with a small jeep for the morning . It was great fun.

Lisha — Google review

Beautiful canyon. On the reservation and masks were still required inside the visitor center and bathrooms. Take binoculars!! overlook areas some had vendors selling jewelry but they were not pushy. Recommend on the south rim drive, go all the way to the spider Rock overlook first. Then go back. That way you are turning right instead of left at each area. You can book tours of the canyon floor but COVID -19 restrictions have made them limited. Call ahead if you want to do one. We stayed at the Thunderbird lodge. A little older building but has been well maintained. Was clean and comfortable. We spent about 4 hours doing both rim drives.

Michele S — Google review

This is a must do stop if you are passing through. It is free to drive yourself through the park. There are two drives with multiple pull outs. Some are wheelchair accessible. There are a few where you can follow trails to overlook. Trails are not clearly defined in some areas, but it is light hiking in some places that have arrows marking the path others footprints. Some sections are lined by rocks, and some have stairs. Locals are friendly and talked to the kids about their culture. It is truly an amazing experience we highly recommended the trip.

Fidele M — Google review

This place is just breathtaking! It’s a must see ! Plan in advance to do a ride into the canyon , they have several different options, give yourself time to just enjoy these spectacular views! Several native Americans were selling jewelry at the overlooks if you’re interested.

Jessica J — Google review

If you are planning on visiting areas near Canyon de Chelly, please stop here! The community is friendly and very helpful. They were all so eager to share their culture and it made for a great experience! The monument itself is worth the visit and I'd easily put it up there with the Grand Canyon.

Michelle B — Google review

This is a beautiful place to visit. The colors and the scenery is a jaw dropping. The drive to the place is a scenery in itself. This is a place where you stop and pull over because you can't escape the beautiful clear sky and combine with the landscaping.

Osman C — Google review

Insanely beautiful area! Very well kept walk ways to all the view points. Both the north and south view drives have many stops along the way for view points. They offer private day tours. Spider rock was my favorite!!

Madeline C — Google review

Amazing canyons! Turns out there are two canyons that seemed like one to us. We also learned the pronunciation for Chelly is “SHAY”. We were surprised at how much we loved this place. The canyons were interesting to just sit and be with them. We saw different things as the clouds moved. We did the South drive in the morning, went out for lunch, and did the North drive in the afternoon. There isn’t admission, so we could come and go as we pleased. The ruins were hard to see from the rims, but the sheer cliff drops, amazing rock formations, different rock types and varnish were sights to behold.

Claudia B — Google review

Absolutely stunning scenery of the canyon. You almost have the place yourself on the south rim, the north rim we had it to ourselves.Unfortunately the White House trail is closed so the only way to hike is with a (free) ranger tour or take an organised tour which works out pretty expensive.We were somewhat disconcerted at the amount of broken glass and empty alcohol bottle on the main route, and also in places in the park.Whilst the location is off the beaten track I would certainly recommend a visit.

Catherine S — Google review

Beautiful and under-appreciated canyon! Very peaceful, hardly any visitors (at least while we were there). A must visit for “Makkena’s Gold” fans :)At some vista points it’s possible to buy Native American souvenirs.You can’t hike into the canyon without a guide.Near the visitor centre we met a sweet but hungry stray dog. Please, if you like dogs, take some dog food with you when you visit. I hope she gets spayed and maybe finds a forever home 🥺

Victoria — Google review

I do not have the words to describe how big and beautiful it is. If you can afford it, I highly recommend you take one of the tours. We took the Thunderbird Lodge four hour tour, and it was more than worth the money. There are a bunch of other tours in the area too.

Jim B — Google review

I and my family enjoy walking on a cold,cloudy,rainy day at Canyon de Chelly National Park in Chinle Az.we enjoyed ourselves, took picture's 🖼 ,walked off our big holiday meal,we didn't get to spider rock tho,next time. If you haven't gone,seen Canyon de Chelly it's beautiful. 💕,check it out 👍,there a restroom in the welcome Center.

0 R — Google review

Chinle is the access point to Canyon de Chelly National Monument on Indian Reservation Hwy 7. There are some modern hotels in town for tourists. We decided to visit the monument, hoping to find a shady picnic ground, but we stopped first at the Visitor Center to freshen up. The facilities were ADA compliant and very clean and the Visitor’s Center was inviting looking. Somehow, we got misdirected and ended up in the Heritage area for the Navajo people, near Thunderbird Lodge. We left quickly, realizing that we were not where we should have been. Our experience was nothing like what we have enjoyed at any other National Monument we have ever visited.

Celeste R — Google review

Beautiful canyon! Red rocks are brilliant and Spider Rock is a must to see! Free to enter and enjoy however a Navajo guide must be present in your own vehicle if you’re looking to drive around on the canyon floor in your own vehicle and/or jeep/ATV tours.

Anessa M — Google review

Beautiful views of the canyon at each overlook. If you have the time (5+ hours), visit all of the open overlooks. If you only have a couple of hours, I suggest visiting the North Rim for the best view of some ruins. The nice lady in the visitor center let me know for the best views, "Morning, North Rim. Afternoon, South Rim". Heed her advice :)It was not busy while I was there. No cell service at most viewpoints. No restrooms once you leave the Visitor Center, except at Antelope House Ruin, but they were closed for winter. The North Rim is 34 miles round-trip. The South Rim is 37 miles round-trip.

J. — Google review

What a surprise amazing place . This is one fergoten place in AZ as it is far from PHX . We had great time with kids on the tour and in the canyon.

Alena D — Google review

Really beautiful trip taken via jeep tour. Took four hours. Interesting stops along the way. Quite cold in November so dress warmly.

Danny G — Google review

We were here on 11/4/23. We had a flat tire the day before so we didn't get here until the afternoon. Drove out to Spider Rock and worked our way back. Great views. If we had it to do again (and had the time), we would definitely take a tour on the canyon floor. This is a really neat place. My wife and I both liked it better than the monument valley drive through we did.

LarryS — Google review

4.8

(2657)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (92)

4.5

(1918)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (93)

Arizona, USA

(928) 674-5500

14

Balcony House

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Balcony House is an impressive 1200s cliff dwelling located in Mesa Verde National Park. Guided tours are available seasonally, offering visitors the chance to embark on adventurous experiences. The tour of Balcony House involves climbing a 32-foot ladder, crawling through a 12-foot tunnel, and scaling a 60-foot open rock face. Additionally, there is the option to explore Long House on a two-hour tour that includes a hike of just over two miles round-trip.

Don’t be scared to take this tour based on the ridiculous description by the park or some crazy people. It’s like they are trying to scare people away. I’m 65 and there were several kids even a 5 year old. No problems whatsoever. Even the few people who had reservations about going said after there was nothing to be afraid of. The photos that look like the ladder goes straight up are from an angle. No walkways without rails. The only people that would have a problem are extremely out of shape or overweight. I just don’t understand the scare tactics. Enjoy the experience

Debby H — Google review

very wow. This was my favorite tour. The kids were a little worried by the tall ladder climbs. I was a little worried about the tight squeezes. Afterward, everyone thought it was really cool.

Daniel B — Google review

Unlike Spruce Tree House & Cliff Palace, there is no viewing platform for guests without tour tickets, so my only recommendation here would be to enable advancement down the trail to a point where it would be visible — but it otherwise seems to be yet another amazing archeological site to visit!

Ken J — Google review

It’s so unfortunate that you can’t at the very least spot the archaeological site from a view deck / overlook. To see the site you need to buy your tickets in advance, and not at the site itself. If you really want to see this site, book and print your tickets in advance. Great canyon views however and easy parking. If you want to see an even bigger site for free, nearby cliff palace has a free view deck.

Costa C — Google review

This was definitely a fun tour, don't let what you read scare your... there are some areas where the height might be an issue but the ladders are stable and don't move, wobble or shake,...the tunnel isn't as daunting as it is made to sound, there were people of all sizes on our tour and nobody got stuck. I would recommend it at least once... very small children could make it a bit harder, so I might recommend against that, but if the parent can get them in or out physically.... All the power to them.

Richard S — Google review

An amazing tour. The ranger will say this is strenuous hike but it was not bad. I have some claustrophobic feelings in tight spaces and you do have to crawl through a small space but I had no issues with it. It is ten feet long but goes by so fast. If you have a chance go on this tour!!

Robert Z — Google review

Balcony house was 100% my favorite of the tours offered. Get to come closer to the house and learn all about the people who once lived here, how the dwelling was created, the age of the dwelling, and some history behind the balcony house.This tour I would not recommend for small children due to the climbing, height, needing to take extra caution throughout the tour.Would also not recommend if you are scared of heights. We also had someone in our group decide to not do the tour due to bad knees as this tour you need to crawl on your knees.Tickets to the tour gets released 2 weeks in advance.

Tanner P — Google review

Such a fun tour. The first and tallest ladder was more disconcerting than I thought it would be when I got half way up, but it’s very sturdy and everyone in the group was able to make it up. Loved crawling through the tunnel too. Great tour guide, beautifully preserved ancient buildings, and just a really cool experience.

Cher O — Google review

Fantastic!!! Incredible place to visit and our tour guides (Ranger Dave and Volunteer Mike) did a great job. Really enjoyed it. The NPS description makes it sound difficult but it really was was not difficult and was a great time.You have to be amazed at what people could accomplish a thousand plus years ago without any modern tools and getting the building materials up the side of a cliff. Amazing.

Stan O — Google review

It's really neat to experience the Pueblo dwellings up close. If you have fear of heights, you might consider passing on this because of a 20 - and 30-foot ladder climb. Safe but nervy if u have fear of heights. Even with my fear of heights, I would do it once but not again. Also, you can drive stood the area and see dwellings without taking this tour, so it's still worth the trip.If planning a trip near here, make sure you visit Monument Valley and definitely take a private Navajo jeep tour. The private tour at Monument Valley was the best experience during my two weeks traveling the west. The tours are relatively inexpensive and take you onto private priperty to see sacred locations you won't see on the park service loop.

A S — Google review

Very cool guided tour. Just too bad there isnt much shade for us pale folk! Some stone steps, ladders to climb, a narrow tunnel to crawl through. Very glad we went early ao it wasnt as hot.

DM H — Google review

Awesome tour had the best ranger ever..she was great and had hair like rapunzel..totally worth the 8$ if you're afraid of heights it will be a challenge. But doable...

Sarah S — Google review

4.9

(350)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (98)

5.0

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Mesa Verde National Park, CO 81330, USA

(970) 529-4465

15

Cliff Palace

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

The Cliff Palace is a remarkable archaeological site constructed by the Ancestral Puebloans between 1190 and 1260. Visitors can only view the palace through a ranger-led tour that follows the path taken by these ancient people. The tour involves climbing down a stairway and four ladders to reach the palace, which comprises of 217 rooms and 23 kivas. This impressive engineering feat once provided shelter for approximately 250 to 300 individuals.

The Cliff Palace road was closed when I visited, but you can still get a pretty good vantage point of the site from the Sun Point viewpoint. Just mind blowing to think this was built so long ago with such primitive tools. A testament to the people who built it.

Andrew B — Google review

Phenomenal indigenous cave dwelling inside Mesa Verde National Park. Must be on a ranger lead tour to visit up close. Can view from a distance on Mesa Loop drive. Only about quarter mile. But very steep hike with several ladders. Site itself is an amazing feat of architecture. Ranger presentation was great. Highly recommended.

William L — Google review

Such an incredible place. In order to go down into the Palace, you have to book a tour with a ranger (I believe it was $8 per adult) and you must be able to climb up up a few sturdy but steep ladders that could pose a problem for folks with mobility issues. You can see the palace for free from a viewpoint above, but going down into the palace was so special.Our ranger (shoutout Michael!) truly had such a great love for what he does, and it made what was already a moving experience all the more meaningful.My toddler was allowed to come on the tour on my husbands back, and was allowed out of the carrier to walk near the palace with the rest of us on the tour, which was a very generous accommodation from the park and our ranger.Be mindful of the time you book your tour. Our ranger was able to accommodate some people who missed their booked time, but that will not always be the case, especially with high season coming up. Book early, as the tours book up quickly!It was such a worthwhile, awe inspiring experience.

Victoria T — Google review

At the time of our visit there were no guided tours available for any of the below cliff ancient dwellings. All of the canyon rim drives were open and the cliff top ruins were available for self guided tours. This was the first visit for my wife and it had been years since I had visited and we enjoyed every stop and every view. Looking back into our regional history is quite humbling.

Craig P — Google review

Beautiful!! Incredible place to visit. The tour was a little flat compared to others we took at Mesa Verde but the site made up for it. Incredible visit.You have to be amazed at what people could accomplish a thousand plus years ago without any modern tools and getting the building materials up the side of a cliff. Amazing.

Stan O — Google review

Great place to visit. I highly recommend getting your passes a few months in advanced. My trip was last minute so I did not have the opportunity to take part in the tours. For this national park specifically, I think that's the only way to truly experience it.

Michelle B — Google review

Stunning archeological reconstruction and beautiful wilderness. The park is best viewed by a combination of driving and hiking. As of the time of this review not all services are open due to covid. Check with the rangers upon arrival to be up to date on what trails are available.

Russell D — Google review

Imagine an archaeological site in an impossible gravity-defying location. Unbelievable! And in such great condition. We took the $10 pre-booked tour down the cliff face via narrow stairs and passages to see the site up close. The view from the overlook / view deck is good enough however, so if you forgot to buy tickets, all is not lost. Highly recommend a visit to this unique and impressive site. Don’t miss it!

Costa C — Google review

Absolutely amazing visit. We didn't get to do the tour but would still recommend 100%. This was a park I considered leaving off if we didn't have time but ended up being one of our favorite stops. Please save an hour for the museum too it's work spending a whole day in this park.

Luke — Google review

Wow what an amazing stop and scenic view point. The walk way is very well maintained and safe. The walk is minutes from the road. The views are phenomenal. And you are very close to the cliff palace at the viewpoint. This is a must stop. I definitely highly recommend.

Carlos R — Google review

The stop of the park. Such an amazing view! When we came early fall, it was closed for the season, but was open this visit. Amazing to see the palace up close and appreciate all the work and time was put into the cliff palace.The tour might be challenging for smaller children so something to consider if doing the tour. You can still see it from above for free and 100% worth the visit.

Tanner P — Google review

Still highly viewable from a platform above the ancient city even if you don't snag a tour ticket to walk through the dwellings. Highly recommend visiting this and the other archeological sites!

Ken J — Google review

Great example of Cliff Dwellings on top of a really cool National Park. Make sure to take the "Cliff Palace" tour or you won't get the up close experience. The guides also provide interesting info along the way. It is really a place not to be missed.Do some research to make sure you can climb the steps and ladders that are required. Some steps are small and cut into the rock face with some narrow passageways. All 30+ in our group made it OK, with just a few of the elderly/out of shape people struggling a bit. Wear good sneakers/hiking shoes and bring water!We stayed at the Far View Lodge nearby inside the park, which was really convenient. A side note is the restaurant/bar at the lodge was just OK, but also convenient with nice views outside on the deck. This is not a fine dining spot.

Mr. B — Google review

Mesa Verde is amazing and I can't believe I've never been before this trip. While anyone can visit any time, free with a National Park Pass or a small fee for everyone else, get a reservation for one of the three tours. Unlike days of ols where folks would crowd into the major attractions, guided groups are well spaced out to that you can experience the amazing cliff palace free of crowds. Spacing between crowds provide opportunities to photograph the area without people! The rangers are very knowledgeable and provided great information. While there is some climbing, I would not characterize the hike as strenuous.

Aristides I — Google review

Wonderful views, need to reserve a tour with the park rangers to go down to them, best to reserve in advance, all sold out when we got there

R C — Google review

This was a wonderful expression. I would highly recommend this place! :)

Livingincolor — Google review

This was a wonderful experience. It was truly breathtaking to see how people lived like this, and the skills that they exhibited. We would highly recommend this as a must do on your list if you happen to be going through this area.

Lynn C — Google review

We did this tour as an add on to our park visit. This is about an hour drive from the gate entrance. The guides are so knowledgeable and the stories are interesting for all age levels.

Genx F — Google review

We visited Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park in late August 2023. What a great experience! You just can't know the scale of the buildings until you're right next to them. You can't go into any of the buildings but that doesn't detract from the experience at all. A definite must if you are in the park. You can't beat the deal for $8 per person. Highly recommended.

David S — Google review

4.8

(1343)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (104)

5.0

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Cliff Palace Loop, Mesa Verde National Park, CO 81330, USA

(970) 529-4465

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16

Four Corners Monument

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Sights & Landmarks

Historical landmark

The Four Corners Monument, located at the southeastern tip of Utah on Navajo Nation land, is a historical landmark where guests can stand in four states at once. Visitors can pay $5 per person for admission to take photos and experience this unique feature. Though there may be craft vendors available, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid any crowds and long lines. This attraction presents an opportunity for travelers interested in crossing off items from their USA bucket list while exploring the beauty of the American Southwest.

It's a little out there, but it was a great stop on our road trip. We went early day it was easy to get some pictures without other people in them. The shops along the outer part of the moment were great to look at and talk to the vendors. It is kid friendly and a great place to bring your family.

Balakay S — Google review

This is a great monument to discover where four states come together! Each placard displays information on how each state got their shape! Many vendors are on site with plenty of local jewelry and souvenirs for purchase. The area is isolated but on the Colorado side they do have a little food trailer selling Indian tacos. FYI dogs are welcome in the parking lot but cannot go into the monument area. Entry is $8 per person.

Cloudy C — Google review

Very cool! Get there early to avoid a line and get as many pics as you want. We got there at 7:45, it opens at 8 and were 4th in line for it to open. We took several pictures and had fun walking around. There are lots of vendors there as well. Very fun to stand in four states at once. Worth the journey and the $8 a person fee.

Rikki M — Google review

One of a kind place to visit mainly because you can be sitting on four states all at once.There are a lot of nice Navajo vendors who offers native crafts like bracelets, chokers, tomahawks, hair ornaments, shirts, etc. These items are really well made and beautiful. Be ready because even though they are priced appropriately, the amount adds up specially if you are going to buy souvenirs for friends, family and for yourself.If im not mistaken, there is a small store that also sells food like navajo tacos but when we went there, maybe because of the pandemic, the store didn't open.The only thing is, the drive is very long and there are no other places near by to go to.

?b?l?ne H — Google review

About 45 minutes from the closest town, but worth the trip if you're in the area. All around the monument are vendors selling their wares (similar to a county fair) but not overwhelming or detrimental to the monument itself.We arrived when fewer people were there and were able to get some photos without having to wait too long. If you're just arriving, and there is a crowd, please be considerate that others who are just standing there may be waiting to take a photo (some people just walk up with little to no awareness of what is going on).

Joe P — Google review

It's a cool place to see but not something I'd care to visit again. It's really just a photo opportunity aimed more for adults who understand the idea, with vendors that have mostly hand maid items for sale. There was a taco stand but we didn't purchase any food.It was nice to see some authentic Indian art and jewelry, but that was probably the most exciting part. They accept cards, but I would recommend bringing cash as some booths haggle, and they are more inclined to do a deal if you have cash.All in all, it's an ok place but for $8 per person for what you get... I probably won't be back

Liz C — Google review

Took a last minute road trip and this happened to be our final destination before returning home... let's point out first, just before you reach this place how amazing is the scene surrounding the drive?! We need to quit taking for granted how beautiful our world we live in can be! Then... Pretty cool to be in 4 states at one time! Especially since I feel like I'm never in one place all together at one time 😄 It was surprisingly not crowded like anywhere where else. If you are hungry or thirsty they have drinks and snack vendors. Set up around the seal, vendors are there with incredible art full of bright colors, hand-made jewelry, and knives made out of bone and antlers. Fur babies are sadly not allowed out of the parking lot

CAROLYN C — Google review

I had sooo much fun. There are multiple hiking/walking trails. The owners of the booths explained things to us. I liked the fact they were not extra pushy about buying their items, so that made me buy lots!! Everyone was very nice and welcoming. I arrived roughly an hour after it opened, so no line getting in, no line for pictures and no crowd. However, by the time we left, it was packed. There was also a line of cars waiting to get in😳. I really enjoyed my time here. Very peaceful!

Zhenay N — Google review

This literally in the middle of nowhere. Every side is surrounded by a row of 10 vendor stalls that mostly sell T-shirts, magnets, jewelry, knives, arrows ,etc. Most all of them are native American styled. I would say you'd spend maybe 15 minutes here max.

Russ C — Google review

You do have to pay $5 per person for a quick visit. But it check it off the bucket list is worth it. We arrived just after 9am in Jan and we're the only ones there. Several others showed up but not busy. No food vendors were open that early and a few craft vendors were setting up. So go early and no line to take pictures.

Upper S — Google review

Great place to be 4 places in one place. I loved walking across four states in mere seconds. This costs $8 per person (not vehicle) but I would say it’s worth it. The winter looks to be the off-season which was nice. There were about 30 people, but it wasn’t as crazy as the summers would be. There are little stalls where people sell items. Sadly the food was not available, but still a fun experience nevertheless.

Traveling F — Google review

This has been on my bucket list since I was a kid. Glad I came but it wasn’t a big whoop but it’s cool.It’s a do it once in your life time and that’s enough.The entrance fee for 8 dollars per person in your vehicle I thought was pretty steep but it’s works.When you get into the park, find a parking spot for your vehicle and get in line to take photos. The line may very depending on what time of day.It was interesting because when you get to the monument and get ready for pictures you can only take three pictures at the monument and move on.That was really odd for me considering the wait in line just to take a picture @ the four corners.It would be cool if it were 3 minutes to take pictures instead of limiting photos to only 3.There are booths the monument area where you can purchase gifts, they accept card and cash, so be prepared to spend money.You can purchase food @ booths surrounding the area as well.It was a cool experience, checked off my list, I visited once and that’s enough.

Loana G — Google review

We travelled from Arlington TX all the way to the Four Corner Monument. This is on my bucket list for years. I was so glad we made it. The weather was nice today. It was cloudy. The temperature was pleasant with a soothing breeze.After taking the history-making photos, we walked all four corner states in just minutes.

Huagang C — Google review

Four Corners Monument is a place to visit once but really not much there for the cost per person instead of a vehicle to visit. There are small shops on the perimeter in sections of the building. There is a small shaded sitting area and a line to take a picture at the four corner marker. There is at least one food vendor as well. Parking is OK and the gravel is rough so drive carefully. Overall an OK place to visit especially if in the area.

Andrew H — Google review

LONG drive for a short visit. Not a whole lot to do or see. The monument is clean and well maintained. The vendor booths were mostly empty, and those that were occupied were lots of the same items, just from different people. The vendors weren't friendly or talkative, most of them just sat in their car until someone acted interested in buying something. Definitely a one time visit only sort of place unless you're a local.

Princess S — Google review

One of those must see places just to say you've been there and stood at the intersection of 4 states. We've been nearby several times and finally we're able to stop here. It's on tribal lands and currently costs $8 each to enter. You can take pictures at the marker although if it were really busy you might have to wait a while. There are native Americans selling items in booths surrounding the monument. There are also several hiking trails. Worth the stop just to say you've done it.

Paul R — Google review

Really fun! Love the thought of being in 4 states at once! I also enjoyed speaking with some of the vendors, especially Elsie and Elberta. They each were patient and explained the meaning behind the items they created. I learned a little bit about The Rainbow Dancers... I had a Navajo Taco and Indian Fry Bread from some great gals, too. Yep, a really neat little place....

Bernie F — Google review

Wonderful to see. Wish we had more time. We arrived around 415pm, they were closing early for some reason, but are only open til 445 regularly. We were traveling thru from west coast to east coast, so had to go when we could. If you can come early on days when they have vendors, I am sure it's a great experience. Enjoyed it nonetheless.

Jill C — Google review

Went here in the winter and there was literally no one here and I had the whole place to myself. Now I can say to everyone I stood in four U.S. states Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah at the same time! To enter there is a small fee and the monument is on Navajo land so no national park passes are accepted. Other than that, this was a pretty cool place to stop by as part of my Arizona trip.

Kiet T — Google review

I had a wonderful experience visiting the Four Corners Monument in mid-November. Despite the rain and chilly weather upon my arrival, the overall experience was fantastic. Arriving just two minutes before opening at 7:58 am, I had the advantage of avoiding long lines, which gradually formed over the next hour and a half.I highly recommend getting there early, as the site can fill up quickly. During my visit, people from all over the country gathered to capture pictures at the unique intersection of four states. I approached from the Arizona side, but it was evident that visitors came from various directions to partake in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.The scenery was breathtaking, and the Four Corners Monument is truly a beautiful location. It’s worth noting that there is an admission fee of eight dollars per person, administered by the Navajo Nation. This fee supports the maintenance of the site, ensuring a well-preserved and enjoyable visit. Overall, if you have the chance, I highly recommend taking the time to explore this iconic landmark. Oh, and they only accept credit cards or debit cards. Do not take cash

JFKennedy1961 — Google review

Pretty cool to experience. The site rests in Navajo Nation therefore there is a pay per view station set up (credit card only) with an $8 fee per person to enter. There is a nice facility with vendors and a platform with the four corners mapped out and an area with the four corners to stand above and take pictures. Very cool and worthwhile. Ps I’m told (by a worker) that before the new facility was built the original marker was 150 yards off! 😉

Anessa M — Google review

This is on the smaller side for National Monuments, but worth the visit. This is on Navajo Nation land, and there is a bit of a drive without ammenities to reach the site so plan accordingly. No electricity on site, and the Monument only takes cash. There is an ATM 5 miles down the road. Tickets are $8.00 per person. There are open air vendors and food booths surrounding the site, some seating, shade and free parking. Expect to wait in line to take pictures - it wasn't too busy when we visited at the end of December, and the weather was fairly moderate. Busier in the spring and summer months.

Bethany L — Google review

Appalling and shameful is what immediately comes to mind. Although the monument itself was nice, it severely lacked things like a welcome center and museum where people could further learn about the origins of the monument itself in a more comprehensive way. The surrounding grounds look like a construction site and very desolate. The food vendors were so few and out of the way that it wasn't hard not to want any food, and yet the vendor booths that surrounded the monument were only for jewelry and such. The bathrooms had no sanitizers, and the seat liners were all empty. One of the women's bathroom doors had no way of locking as a visitor had to try to keep the door from swinging open due to the wind and was unsuccessful. A simple bolt lock is a simple fix when the actual handle is defective. Now, let's talk about the entry fee, shall we??? At 8 dollars PER PERSON for such a tourist attraction vs. the lack of presentation and experience, the entry fee feels like a tourist trap cash grab. With an estimated visitation of about 250,000 people per year, that's about 2 MILLION DOLLARS. The math ain't mathing with what you pay versus what you get. As a unique destination, I am disappointed fully in how they can justify such a price per head. Unpaved road, smelly, and under maintained restrooms with an almost invisible food vendor area? Shame on you, Navaho Nation, for even doing it like this. Had I known it would have been this way, I would have never made the mindful extension of my trip to even do this. I will NOT be recommending this place despite the novelty it uniquely holds.

Joseph R — Google review

Tourist trap / Money grab.... It's a shame that they outsourced the management of such an awkward but unique place to (what I have to deduct by the simple things you notice when you visit) a bunch of incompetent fools. They are only there to collect 8 bucks a head and for that you get no explanation, no guides, no decent parking lot, no working washrooms... No nothing. Moreover you are only allowed 3 pictures !!! What a bunch of crooks !!!! These fellows should be prosecuted and jailed for fraud. Hereby enclosed my 3 carefully selected pictures.... At least now I know what a trash can is, I'm so happy now 😁

Guy C — Google review

Nice geographic marker. Good crowd taking photos. Would have liked to get there earlier before Navajo merchant's took their crafts and wares display down. Pretty flag display.

Dee H — Google review

Interesting to be there. Trails to walk. Most just pay their $8/person, take photos and go. There are picnic tables further out. Around the outside of the central monument there are sellers of goods. Beyond that there are a few food trucks. None had coffee. Pit toilets. An interesting historical stop.

Lois R — Google review

4.0

(12144)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (117)

3.5

(2132)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (118)

597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514, USA

(928) 206-2540

17

Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum

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Visitor center

Museums

Veteran museum dedicated to local Native American cultures featuring artifacts & 2 archeology sites.

The visitor center museum was well worth the stop. Very educational and informative. We came here with three young kids (9, 5 & 4) and spent a couple hours exploring the museum. The rangers were very kind and knowledgeable. They gave the kids child friendly maps and scavenger hunt materials to earn a token at the end of their exploring. This kept the kids behaved and engaged. There are tons of ancient artifacts of the Anasazi Native Americans and a couple short films explaining the history. We had a great experience and definitely recommend. (*Note: If you have a 4th grader, this museum is part of the National Park free admission program; *Note: The visitor center/museum is closed on Sunday & Monday).

MA 1 — Google review

Staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Had a very pleasant time in the museum. Would recommend as a first stop if you are going to see any of the ruins in the monument.

Laura C — Google review

This is a great, clean, small museum that packs quite a punch. There's a trail just outside of the visitor center where you can see some great views and the Escalante Pueblo. There are a lot of interactive displays here and some amazing artifacts on display. They have a nice little gift shop, and we got in with our America the Beautiful National Park Pass. There are other remote sites around the area to visit as well.

Diana O — Google review

This is probably the most comprehensive collection of Native American history I have ever seen in one place. It's beautiful. It's not huge but the pieces and the exhibits they have are very well done. If you're even slightly interested in history like this I 100% recommend checking this out. There is also a .5 mile walk you can do that leads to some Indian ruins. It's very cool with wonderful views.

Taylor H — Google review

Excellent museum. Informative. Staff are very helpful. Lots of maps and specific information for the area.

J. H — Google review

A very warm welcome at this fascinating place. The museum was very interesting, giving a timeline of indigenous people and their lives and culture. Very well displayed and detailed explanations were fascinating. we walked from the museum along a pretty trail, with lots of description of the plants which were planted along the way, and their traditional uses. The trail ended with views over the McPhee reservoir, and the pueblo which was built in a great location.

Catherine S — Google review

Super cool place. Went on a day they were closed so took the path up to the ruins and outlook. It's a cold windy slightly snowy day. The path isn't clear and a lite icy but easy to get up there

Michael M — Google review

Make time to stop at this small museum. Lots of rich history inside and out. Very well kept area, clean bathrooms, small gift shop, great museum and a nice paved trail leading to an overlook of the reservoir and ruins. Picnic tables and shade available.

Traci R — Google review

This is a great place to start your exploration of the Southwest Colorado archaeological sites. There is a small museum inside with a very large concentration of information and artifacts on the ancient puebloan cultures and way of and way of life in this region. There are also care centers that show the work and research done in this field with identification and excavation and preservation of other sites. You could spend hours here and really leave with a great understanding of much of the work that's being done in this region to better understand the early inhabitants. It's also a great way to get a better sense of what you're looking at as you head out around the region to look at other sites. Is it cost to visit the museum portion of the facility but if you have a national parks pass that covers the cost. The facility is nicely kept beautifully designed and there's also a small gift shop and restrooms along with a good offering of books maps and other resources for your adventure and exploration around the region.There's a short half mile walk that is fully paved from The visitor center up to a site that sits atop the hill. It's easy to access and a beautiful sight and gives you an amazing view over the reservoir and the valley.

Chris W — Google review

Sadly it was closed on Monday. We did enjoy the walk around their garden up to the summit where we could take in the gorgeous view of the reservoir. Unfortunately we couldn't see the museum.

DL M — Google review

Amazing to think how many people lived in this area before European settlers headed this way. We only did a few miles at the very beginning, but to see houses and structures over a thousand years old was pretty cool. Also at the visitor center is the museum, and I have to say this is one of the most informative displays I have ever seen at a welcome center. I learned so much in the 15 minutes it took me to look around that it was incredible.

Will M — Google review

Wish we would have had more time to explore! We could have spent hours in the museum alone but wanted to hike and check out the ruins on the hill above. Lucky enough to be there on a free day so no cost at all. Staff is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Beautiful view from the top with informational signs on the trail.

Susan P — Google review

The visitors center was closed. I'm not sure why. The hike to the top is fun and easy. Great views. The volunteers are wonderful.

Gator T — Google review

Lovely spot, great exhibits and a movie about the history of the area. Short walk to an outstanding overlook and native plant descriptions.

Ann B — Google review

One of the best visitor centers we've been to. Beautiful facility with large number of interesting artifacts on display. Wonderful staff! The store is also well stocked with a nice variety of books, mugs, etc. Don't miss the half mile paved hike to Escalante ruins that includes a spectacular 360 view of the area.

Fran S — Google review

Very helpful and knowledgeable about the area. They knew everything about the visitor center and will help anyone who wants to explore! 5star for sure

David G — Google review

The pit house replica is cool. We enjoyed walking up the paved path to the ruins. It was a pretty overlook up there too! The kids loved looking in the observation viewers.

Cher O — Google review

The site is AMAZING! It really wasn't on my radar. I think it is because it is managed by BLM. They stink at getting historical sites advertised. I'm not really sure why the National Parks and Bureau of Land Management are separate. The visitor center is closed on Sunday and Monday, which is ridiculous since most people are off on Sat and Sun.The plus for BLM is that even though they were closed, the grounds were open. It was a nice hike up and the view itself was amazing. But the ruins were wow!

Dustie B — Google review

The visitor center is informative and interesting. It is set aside to preserve artifacts and records of archeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloan and Native American peoples in the Four Corners area. The exhibits on the history and of the people are fascinating and should not be missed. Water and restrooms are available. Plenty of parking.

Linda H — Google review

The staff here were all so friendly and helpful! We stopped by while on a road trip with two small children under 6 and the staff pointed out age-appropriate activities for them (scavenger hunt, microscopes, discovery drawers, a short film). It was better than I expected for little kids. The temporary art exhibit was lovely as well!

Mel M — Google review

4.8

(951)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (123)

5.0

(267)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (124)

27501 CO-184, Dolores, CO 81323, USA

(970) 882-5600

18

Hovenweep National Monument

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Visitor center

Sights & Landmarks

Hovenweep National Monument is dedicated to preserving six prehistoric Puebloan villages that were built between A.D. 1200 and 1300 on canyon rims. The Ancestral Puebloans utilized flat land farming in the areas surrounding Cortez, CO, in addition to cliff dwellings. The Hovenweep towers remain a mystery as their exact purpose is unknown but serve as a memorial to a past civilization.

I wish I could've stayed here longer to do the entire 4 miles loop because the trail to the castle is so beautiful! I saw all kinds of birds, rodents, and lizards. I was here in spring and went for a morning hike and it was pleasant but I could see it being hot when the sun is at full capacity. Remember you are in the desert! Bring plenty of water!

Brittani W — Google review

Nice place. Paved roads all the way with clear signage to get you there. Concrete path to the first overlook is wheelchair safe. After that the 2 mile loop walk along the canyon rim is easy with most on bedrock then a short trip into the canyon and back up the other side is fun with narrow spots to keep your interest. Trail is marked well with signs and the free map explains it all well.Beautiful ruins all over in easy and close view.

Stewart — Google review

A beautiful place full of history, little far away from the main road but worth the visit. The main trail right of the visitor center is about 2 miles long and provides amazing views of the canyon and ruins all around it. The path leads in and out of the canyon and it is steep in some areas, the rest of it is flat around the canyon.

Kaja S — Google review

The Ancestral Puebloans did not always build cliff dwellings. The areas around Cortez, CO are evidence of the large amount of flat land farming done by the Ancients in this region. The exact purpose of towers at Hovenweep is unknown. They stand as a memorial to a past civilization.

Bill C — Google review

Awesome place to visit and fantastic for taking children. It has short and long walks to enjoy the incredible ruins around the area and my kids loved spotting the many, many ruins surrounding this place. It was amazing to see a community that used to exist in the area. Definitely take your family here!

Jordan G — Google review

Incredible site with a large number of differenly-shaped ruins perched on and around the rim of a horseshoe canyon. Beautifully photogenic.

Marcus L — Google review

Totally worth the visit. Out of the way but awesome. There is a not too hard of a hike starting right at the visitors center. Two miles. Great views. There are other trails that are more remote. Gets very sunny and hot so prepare for that and bring a lot of water. Definitely go there if you have the time and the Lowry House.

Maryna G — Google review

You can enter with a national parks pass. It’s not a very crowded place. I arrived after the visitors center was closed but there is a visitors center with a gift shop. The trails are well-marked and there is an fairly easy 2 mile hike but it involves going down steep stairs/steps through.

Bethany C — Google review

Well worth the journey to get here. Helpful visitor centre, easy paved route to the overview. A well laid out trail around the site, a helpful trail guide brings the towers to life. The trail is easy although often over large rocks. Towards the end it descends steeply into the canyon and then steep uphill to the end of the trail.

Catherine S — Google review

More incredible proof of people who came before us. These people were so resourceful. I am so incredibly grateful to have had a taste of what life was like for them. Go!

Teresa G — Google review

Off the beaten path and totally worth the trip. Very few tourists but an amazing visitor center with friendly rangers. The two mile walking path is well maintained and goes near all the ruins. I considered it moderately difficult due to the part that goes into the valley. You could do an out and back to avoid that section and still see everything.

Elizabeth H — Google review

Great visitor center... Only open a few days a week. Great trail behind. Some concrete and then a light trail to see the ruins.

Kevin — Google review

Didn't know what to expect after spending yesterday at Mesa Verde. Quite the drive to get to Hovenweep, but it was well worth it. Did the 2 mile loop hike from the visitor center and thoroughly enjoyed the hike and the visitor center. A very nice day trip.

Mark C — Google review

Really cool to see ancient ruins and those Native Americans ingenuity. A rare bonus is cool lizards.

Gavin B — Google review

Hovenweep is a great but out of the way place to view prehistoric dwellings from about 800 years ago. A relatively flat loop trail takes you around a small ravine with remains of numerous buildings. The visitor center was closed when we visited on a Tuesday and it seems that the days it is open varies. The restrooms were open and they were nice with flush toilets and sinks with soap and water. Brochures and trail maps were available to guide your walk.

Bob J — Google review

It’s a nice place to visit. We ended up here because the Mesa Verde roads were closed due to snow.Since it rained the day before, it was recommend to not complete the whole loop due to possible mud. The trail itself was not difficult at all and not very muddy.

Mike T — Google review

Good for a day trip or for very lightly visited overnight backpacking trails to other Native American sites in the area. The loop can be done by almost anyone. I would avoid the section that goes into the canyon for anyone who has trouble with up and down. You can go around it.One of the best National Monument Visitor Centers/ Campsites I’ve been to. There are places to tent camp and for RV’s. I don’t think there are RV hookups. Bathroom is super clean. No showers. Drinking water at the campground but there’s a 5 gallon limit.Rolled in on at 7pm Saturday night in late May and there were multiple campsites open. Campsites have a beautiful canopy, fire pit, sandy area for tents, and views of the mountains.Rangers were super nice. Didn’t pay for my campsite because I didn’t have cash and they helped me pay inside the visitor center.

Leandro S — Google review

Awesome. The history and the beauty was stunning. Went on a Thursday and only saw 4 people. The ruins are beautiful.

Wes J — Google review

A little gem of a park in the middle of nowhere Utah. A fantastic walking trail around and through a small canyon full of unique tower structures. Dogs are welcome on the trails. Nice little visitor center with shaded picnic areas. The Campground has awesome panoramic views of Sleeping Ute mountain. Sunsets are awesome! Flush toilets and some pull through sites.be disappointed.

Loren H — Google review

They had a great little visitor center.Lots of walkable trails spread throughout the park.A little off the beaten path. Which is part of the draw and allure of the place. We enjoyed the drive in and out as there is soo much to see. Roads were good. The views awesome.

Adam V — Google review

4.8

(1243)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (129)

4.5

(709)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (130)

Montezuma Creek, UT 84534, USA

(970) 562-4282

19

Bluff Fort Historic Site

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Historical place museum

Sights & Landmarks

Museum

Historic Sites

We weren't sure what was here but stopped in. We were pleasantly surprised! You can tell that a huge amount of effort and thought went into it. The "talking" photos thing at the gift shop was a little corny but we had seen similar at the Mormon Battlion center in San Diego. It appeals to kids. They show 2 short movies about the journey the settlers took. Both are very well done. All of the cabins have narrative and the stories were great. Really brought the stories of the settlers to life. We ate amazing cookies at the concessions stand. Pricey at 4 bucks each. Nice clean bathrooms. So many nice helpful people to guide you around. We spent about 2 hours.

Michele S — Google review

On our way out of Utah we randomly saw this place and decided to stop since we were already on a road trip.It was free and we start in the gift shop. They had a nice selection of things. My mom found a very nice wooden cane that was only $15! Great price for s nice piece of wood. She loves the cane. The walk around the Fort was nice and educational. We stopped when it was the middle of the day, so it wast hot hot. My mom is disabled so we hurried through the last few. Even in a rush we had a good time. We stopped by the outside booth and got some treats. My daughter got a free small ice cream cone. She accidentally dropped it and the nice woman gave her another one. My mom and I ordered the old fashioned lemonade and soda, jalapeno brittle, zucchini bread with lemon, and some of the ice cream for ourselves. All of it tasted great. We had a nice snack in a shaded area before hitting the road again. Great little experience.

Saving C — Google review

Had no idea this visitor center was in Bluff. They tell an interesting story of the pioneers that settled the area in video and displays. There is a lot to see in the fort with cabins that each told a family story and other pioneer displays. We didn’t have didn’t go to all of it as we were there mid afternoon, and it was really hot. Fortunately, the visitor center with the video was air conditioned. It's definitely worth a stop if you're in town.

Bryan N — Google review

Very place to learn about the history in the area. We went on Sunday and there was several volunteers dressed up there to give you a little history on how the settlers made their way through Hole in the Rock and how they made it up San Juan Hill with their wagon train. The store and visitors center was closed because it was Sunday, but still very cool visit! And it’s free.

Brandi O — Google review

Wonderful learning experience for all ages. Tactile and kinesthetic learners can enjoyably experience these historical sites and have meaningful take aways. We are blessed to learn from the triumph and trials of those that came before us. They had such faith. My kids didn't want to leave. The wall of pictures was a fun start to learning from the historical videos of these pioneers.

Jill W — Google review

Interesting little place. Lots of old time items to explore. Staff were super friendly. There is a nice gift shop and concession stand.

Fern S — Google review

Amazing place, especially for families to show what the pioneer days were like. This gem is free and liking walking back in time. Also a general store andsmall movie area.

Mamie Z — Google review

This was so fun!!!! We saw an original cabin from the 1800's and there were wooden cows to lasso with some videos of how the original settlers came to the area. There is also a working water wheel. It is a wonderful place. They have a working pump organ.

Elinor R — Google review

The Morman volunteers do an outstanding job of making you understand the hardships, sacrifices, love and devotion it took to arrive and settle at Bluff Fort. Take the time to go back in history. Today, a hangnail is too much for many to edure!endure! Entry is free but please leave a tip.

Anna P — Google review

This place is historic. They have volunteers telling you about the history of this place and how difficult it was for the pioneers to get there. This pioneers were made of stunner stuff, brave, courageous with a beautiful dream to make a better life for themselves and their families. Don't sell their women short the keept the family cohesion and their children together. I'm impressed by the homes that are here and the artifacts that their ancestors have loaned this place. Is very impressive what they did. Let we don't forget the pioneers that went trough great hardship, decease, starvation, lack of water,hostile natives,and conditions that were unimaginable. I'm proud of this people that made this country what it is today.

Melvin A — Google review

Absolutely amazing visit very informative history. Authentic factual homesteads with antiques from founding families

Deborah C — Google review

I've been to a number of historic sites in Utah and Bluff Fort is the most outstanding. It's free admission and clean bathrooms. It's staffed by unpaid volunteers who take anywhere from 4 months to 1-year of their lives and spend it there preserving the recreated site of the old civilian fort created by the Hole in the Rock Pioneers. That's a labor of love. They have a kitchen with proprietary hand made desserts such as the outstanding lemon zuccini cookie. They also hand make the candy, my favorite is the English Toffee. The volunteers help create many of the gift shop items such as rolling pins, bread boards, hand carved utensils, wooden toys, quilts, purses, bags, toys, costumes, metal items forged on site, and much more. The replica Co-Op has the best gift shop ever. It's stocked with artwork, jewelry, pots, baskets, figurines made my local Native Americans and other local artists. The volunteers dress in costume to help visitors feel as if they've traveled back in time. They have a clever video presentation that introduces the story of the pioneers and the fort starting with a funny "talking wall". The fort is stocked with well preserved artifacts donated from descendants of the pioneers. The replica cabins were also built by the descendants. There are two original buildings that have been restored as far as possible. The tour is self guided and has audio in several languages. You have to spend minimum 2 hours to really immerse yourself in all there is to see. The most prominent feature there is the strong feeling of peace and it's carefully maintained by the kindness and hospitality of the volunteers.

Angela G — Google review

Really nice must-go place if you are thinking on stopping at Bluff. The Fort includes a main building with videos, information and a gift shop and an outside area with many carriages, houses, UTE and Navajo tepees and other gadgets from the gold era on the east side of Utah (late 1800s). The house and carriages are nicely restored and the entire area to walk around looks very inviting with audio clips explaining the history in English, Spanish, German and French languages. There is plenty of space to park outside, restrooms, and it is free of charge, just donations based if you want to donate. Some volunteers will help you with any doubts you may have!

Victor D — Google review

Excellent! Bluff Fort is well worth a visit. Our family learned much about the courage of the hole in the rock pioneers and got to visit the re-created cabins honoring our ancestors. Our kids loved playing around the fort and the bakery cookies were delicious. Great gift shop, too. Thank you for preserving this important and inspiring history!

Kristine N — Google review

I love history museums as a former history teacher and this was one of my favorites. It had a well done movie to give the back story to the community and the people who created Bluff Utah and the Fort. There resilience was overwhelming and the pioneer spirit as well as the devotion to family and faith were noteworthy. The initial museum opens up to a hands-on walk through tour of the Fort with the stories of the spces and families told in multiple languages. We walked through and explored each home and listened to the family stories of struggles, successes and hardwork that make this place exist. I appreciated learning more about their experiences and work to live peacefully with the local Native American tribes. I did not know this was a museum that highlighted Mormon history as there was nothing forced upon you. This was a gem of a stop and it is even better as it is free and they sold goodies as well as ice cream on the hot day and had a room with a mister to cool down and air conditioning in the main museum and gift shop area with locally made crafts. If you are nearby this is well worth the visit to better understand the struggles to settle in these areas.

Daniel M — Google review

We just stopped because I wanted to use the bathroom. When we entered this amazing (big) collection of the Navajo and the Mormons we were blown away. It was all so neat and made with love, felt really authentic. Couple of times we pressed the button to hear the stories from the cabin owners. It was awesome. When we left, a really nice guy kept talking with us and answered all my questions. Would really recommend to stop by!

Sarah N — Google review

4.8

(1410)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (135)

4.5

(705)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (136)

550 Black Locust Ave, Bluff, UT 84512, USA

(435) 672-9995

20

Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum

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Museum

Nature & Parks

State Parks

Museum with exhibits on Indian culture & history, offering an outdoor Puebloan village & sculptures.

This was a pleasant surprise and gave us a good preview of the historic wonders in the area. Fascinating and informative exhibits. They featured an amazing gallery of photography of local pictographs. The images were so clear they appeared to be in 3D. There is an indoor exhibit and also an outdoor exhibit with a kiva and walking path around contemporary impressions of ancient artifacts. Definitely worth your time .

Carol F — Google review

Southeast Utah is pure magic! And this park and museum just continues to add to the magic. We went last Sunday and were basically the only people there. Dogs on leash are welcome! The museum is overflowing with history, art, artifacts, and pottery. A person could spend hours wandering this museum! Outside, there are sculptures, a giant kiva with extensive historical reads. The views go on forever. There is an entrance, but it's worth every dime! Go to Edge of the Cedars State Park!

Sandy G — Google review

The level of archeological detail and quality of artifacts were completely unexpected. The photo exhibit on pictographs and petroglyphs were amazing and made you feel you were staring at the actual sites. Many people passed right by the images barely glancing but if you take a moment to read descriptions you’ll be immersed in these ancient cultures.It was only $5 for an adult but I’d have paid much more if I knew what was inside. The pottery was so beautiful! Read about the discoveries of pieces by hikers and amateur archeologists and their stories to protect these artifacts from scavengers.The architectural ruins in the back are nice but the highlight here is the contents of the museum. The staff was super friendly as well! Also the gift shop is thoughtfully stocked and reasonably in priced.

Harlan P — Google review

This is where you should start your visit to the area. It kind of puts everything in perspective from an historical point of view. The exhibits are some of the best Native American artefacts I have seen in the US... really a must-see. There is a 15 minute video which I would suggest is your starting point if you visit here. The contemporary artwork on display is also brilliant. The ruins outside are fascinating and there is a very fairly priced gift shop inside. Well done guys!

Tim A — Google review

An awesome complex of extensive Pueblo dwellings containing Kivas and many other structures. Most impressive and a must see. with extensive information provided outlining how the Pueblo advanced and improved their building techniques over several centuries. Unlike many of the other sites at Mess Verde you can walk around up close to these buildings.

Markus — Google review

Great museum if you're paying though the area. Only takes an hour or two to see everything and there is so much interesting history you won't be disappointed.

Jared S — Google review

Stopped for the night while on an adventure to the 4 corners and found this place while exploring the area. It's absolutely amazing place where the the native Americans have made their homeland for thousands of years.. I felt very privileged to have visited this place and given a glimpse of their way of life.. they live as one with the land and we could all take notes and learn from their way of life and knowledge. I definitely recommend stopping by and checking it out for yourself..

D A — Google review

Great introduction to the pueblos & other artifact sites in the area. I'd recommend coming here first before exploring other southern Utah, northern Arizona & New Mexico parks. The overview really helps set the stage for your other visits.

James B — Google review

Highly recommend. The ruins at the museum are interesting and the museum is outstanding! Well worth your time to visit, if you are interested in ancient Indian artifacts. The staff was nice and helpful. The displays were clean, well maintained, and self explanatory. The displays are much better than those at some of the national parks that I have been to.

Sherrill N — Google review

This is a real hidden gem! You can get up close with the ruins - even climb down into the kiva. On a holiday weekend, very few other people were around. Amazing to have that kind of experience without having to rub elbows with other people.The museum has an extensive collection of pottery, tools, etc. Wide range of displays to check out. There's also a lot of great artwork on the premises - sculptures and paintings.

Nicky — Google review

You must stop here if you are visiting the historic sites in the area. The rich education you receive is well worth it. Plus, there are guides and rescources to help you make the most of tour trio, navigate the sites respectfully, and better understand what you're looking at.The opportunity to see so many pieces of ancient relecs was breathtaking. The opportunity to see and also enter a ruin feels very sacred. We did go outside but I didn't feel comfortable going inside out of respect for the folks who once called this place home.1000% recommend!Also, they have books with images and explanations of the petroglyphs that are on the walls of the museum. Most of these were lost when the US allowed the site of now Lake Mead to become flooded with water, so they aren't visible anymore. The book is at the counter and free to take. It starts your journey near the room for the short video screening, which we also recommend.Have the best time and plan a few hours or full day! There is THAT much to look at.

A.E. B — Google review

This was a great stop! I only had an hour and wish I would’ve had more time because I felt like I had to rush through. There is a 15 minute video at the start and then there is art and historical artifacts. Once you go outside you can see some of the ruins. It is $5 per ticket. The gift shop had great souvenirs.

Bethany C — Google review

Absolutely spectacular museum,extremely well done. If you have any interest in ancient Native Americans a must stop.

Bob W — Google review

One of our stops on our Southern Utah Trip. Definitely a highlight! The ruins are great but the museum is amazing! Well worth the time to visit, if you are interested in ancient Indian artifacts. Staff was very helpful and nice. Had a Kiva you could climb into. The displays were clean, well maintained, and self explanatory. The displays are much better than those at some of the national parks that I have been too.

Russell M — Google review

4.8

(442)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (141)

4.5

(228)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (142)

660 W 400 N, Blanding, UT 84511, USA

(435) 678-2238

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21

Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument

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Cultural landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument is a small Utah landmark that boasts a rock panel adorned with an extensive collection of petroglyphs. Located on Highway 211 en route to the Visitor Centre, it is worth taking a break from driving to appreciate the vast emptiness of the area. Unlike Arches and Canyonlands, Newspaper Rock offers a unique environment and appearance. Visitors can explore the trail and learn about ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region.

This is a drive from Moab, but I will say, it is well worth the trip!! The environment and look of the area is so much different than Arches and Canyon lands. Get out of the car at news paper rock, it is very impressive, drive to the end and walk the trail, learn about the people that live so long ago!!! Might be the best part of Canyon Lands National Park!!

Shawn S — Google review

There is nothing better than to explore our History. This is a beautiful spot to hang out, have a lunch or to hike around. Newspaper Rock is amazing and the first time I saw petroglyphs live. The surrounding area is beautiful with lots to do. Go have fun and learn! Perfect for a family outing.

C. M — Google review

So. Cool!! I’ve never seen petroglyphs before and this was amazing. It almost didn’t look authentic. It was a lovely stop. There’s a restroom and it was pretty quiet when we were there so we stayed as long as we wanted to. We got lovely photographs with no one else in them and that was wonderful and unexpected. We highly recommend a stop here. It was one of our favorites in 3 parks. Or between. lol

Kelly H — Google review

Such a cool historical place! So sad it has been defaced. We arrived early, only one other group there at the time.

Teresa G — Google review

They're old, but no one knows (or can test) how old. Don't ask their meaning, no one knows. Merely appreciate how difficult it is to make images on rock, and appreciate their endurance through the centuries. Have a visit, don't disturb them or make your own graffiti and enjoy!

Mike W — Google review

Absolutely incredible witnessing petroglyphs. It’s heartbreaking to see that people have vandalized it by writing their initials along the rock or drawn on it, but people will be people. Please help preserve history and do your part. Highly recommend visiting this area and witnessing this spectacle. It was massive and made me want to step back into history with them.

Madison T — Google review

Pretty awesome when you consider how old it is.Certainly view if passing - may not be worth a long trip out as limited thing to see.

Crazysurfkidd — Google review

Was in the area, went to see these amazing petroglyphs. 2000 yrs old and so clear and basically untouched. It's pretty awesome. I missed the turn the first time kind of sneaks up on you and had to make a u turn. Definitely worth the stop, also saw some colorful leaves for fall!!

Jason B — Google review

Way cool to see in person! We were there a week ago in Feb and not another soul there.. got to really spend time looking at them :)

Ruby C — Google review

Great spot especially if you're interested in Native American history or just "ancient" stuff in general. Sad to see that people have defaced the wall with their names and other drawings. I was most fascinated by the kid/adult footprints and "monster men" drawings.

Michelle B — Google review

An historical site.Ancient drawings on 'desert vanished' rock. The description plaque is unsure of the origins of the depictions.These may be notes or directions left for those following.Ideas or memories to share with like travelers, or merely artwork to be shared.Think of a community bulletin board.Interesting and thought-provoking.A few recent scratchings by twerpigans. (Read vandals without supervision in their lives.)

Stephen B — Google review

Interesting collection of petrogliphics in their natural environment. Really worth a visit if you're in the area, it's a short 12 mile detour from the main road. The site could do with a bit of maintenance and the restrooms smelled terrible even from a distance. Otherwise a pleasant experience

Tim A — Google review

This was amazing. Just a short easy walk. Very beautiful and educational.

Donnell B — Google review

Newspaper Rock is incredible and well preserved. The sign at this location says the petroglyphs could be a few 1000 years old! This is an amazing site to visit and experience the ancient history of this land.

Stormy C — Google review

Very easy place to visit en route to other attractions. This is a quick stop with restrooms and a very generous parking lot. There is a short trail that you can walk and enjoy the beautiful nature. The Newspaper rock itself is very close to the parking lot and can be admired just steps away from your car!

Ela M — Google review

Another jump back in time hanging with the ancients! A beautiful drive right outside Canyonlands National Park, Moab and more. It gets HOT in the summer. Have lots of liquid on hand. We went in the fall and the trees were magnificent!

Sandy G — Google review

Amazing site full of petroglyphs. There's a fence surrounding the site, and it is just off the road. It's absolutely worth visiting.

Diana O — Google review

So cool! I wish people wouldn’t vandalize ancient history. Leave it for our future generations to enjoy.

Cassi S — Google review

4.7

(885)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (154)

4.5

(241)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (155)

UT-211, Monticello, UT 84535, USA

(435) 587-1500

22

Hole 'N' The Rock

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Nature & Parks

Gift shop

Hole 'N' The Rock is a popular tourist attraction that features a unique home carved into a massive sandstone boulder. Visitors can also enjoy a souvenir store and zoo for a small fee. The zoo boasts beautiful animals, including alpacas, raccoons, and camels. The attraction is easily recognizable from afar thanks to the large jeep on top of the rock.

I like that this is an iconic place. You can see this from far away. But boy when you are there it is huge. The jeep on top of the rock is awesome. This is a very nice place to visit. Go in the shop and get yourself a nice fridge magnet. There is a good feeling being there. I like that stop.

Osman C — Google review

A cute tourist stop. There was something for everyone, but the best was the tour of the Hole in the Rock house ($6.00). It was created by an eccentric but talented couple that had a vision and went about making it a reality. Their craftsmanship and ingenuity are truly admirable. There was a petting zoo ($4.75), gift shop, trading post and General Store. There were lots of quirky items scattered around the property to add to the whimsy. It was a fun way to spend a couple of hours.

Karen Z — Google review

They have a mini Zoo with a camel named Cooper and a white buffalo named Wally! Ice cream, bathrooms and avery cool tour of a house chiseled into a huge rock. It's a cool tour, it's not expensive, its a boat just to listen to the weird comments of the other people in your tour. I bet the people giving the tour are so sick of hearing the same comments over and over again but it's fun! there's even a place around the corner about a third of a mile away to park your semi truck in the rest stop!

David W — Google review

This is such a great little place. We had driven by several times but just this Monday we decided to stop and it's now one of my favorite places because of the beautiful animals they have at the zoo. It's a small fee to go visit the animals and I highly recommend it, they have a camel, racoon and some insanely cute alpacas. They have nice jewelry as well.

Sandra R — Google review

Came here as a kid and wanted to check it out as an adult. Stopped by to check out the store (didn't have time for the tour, which I'm sure is pretty cool). Lots of fun items, but I was looking for more merchandise with "Hole 'N' The Rock" on it as coming here as a child was a fond memory, but they didn't have a whole lot. I suggested they get shot glasses with it, a deck of cards and other common collectibles that tourists would like to have in memory of it. They did have a mug with the actual name on it so I bought 2. But there was lots of jewelry, some cool hunting knives, and other things.They also have a petting zoo, and another gift shop (that was somewhat low on stock of items [mostly Native American themed]) and a separate quick mart.If your passing by or are in the area I'd suggest stopping by. I did lose cell reception in this area so just be aware your carrier might not work here & plan ahead.

Kyra R — Google review

I really enjoyed seeing the lovely hand-carved cave home, and the site also has a few stores with snacks and knickknacks. The petting zoo is fun for kiddos but not wildly exotic. My only complaint was how they rush you through the tour and don't allow any photos (presumably to keep you going speedily). It's a 15-minute tour and we felt like the guide whittled that down to get us out.

Strangers' G — Google review

Fun roadside attraction with so much to see. The animals were fun to feed, and the camel gave you a kiss. It did cost extra to get a bucket of food to feed the animals, but fun nonetheless. We did go on the tour of the inside on the homestead where you can not take pictures. It was a great short tour, and the other displays, zoo, and gift shops were fun as well. This really is a fun stop. You do have to pay for the tour inside the home, but it was fun and cool to see.

Diana O — Google review

I love roadside attractions and this one is a gem! The home is unique and has a great story to go along. The outside area is great for kids of all ages and you might just find a zoo tucked in somewhere. All in all, 2 thumbs up!

A K — Google review

Friendly, helpful staff, cool collection of bumper stickers, pins, photos,souvenirs. There's also a petting zoo & tours. Kids can pose on the giant jeep. I didn't tour, pet animals or pose on the jeep (I did take a pic of mine for "bragging rights" tho', 😁😎). But I did enjoy a cold juice & the beautiful scenery.

Celeste C — Google review

This place is a must to check out if your in the area.. Absolutely amazing tour through a home that was carved out of a massive rock.. unfortunately there was no picture or video taking inside.. However there are lots of great things to photograph outside..definitely recommend stopping by and talking the tour.. glad I did

D A — Google review

This was an interesting experience. The attendants were super friendly and accommodating. The story is very interesting and if you like the odd factor you are going to dig the taxidermy and the decor. I am glad I experienced this. I recommend you go at least once.

Carlos R — Google review

Just stopped to go to the bathroom which is a walk... into the area... follow the signs. I guess they offer tours of the place but I don't know if you have to sign up ahead of time or right then.The holes in the rock is actually filled with houses. Loved looking at alot of the different oddities that are there. Really love the FDR carving in the rock, giant lizard on the side of the rock and Mater!

Karla Z — Google review

Nice stop over point with good souvenir shops and a mini zoo (no patting)They charge you if you wanna get into the zoo and if you wanna feed the animals it is 5 for a small bucket and 10 for a big oneThe other side was a 12 mins tour to the caveI will consider this place a good stop if you have kids

Wanson L — Google review

Pretty cool place , very unique lots of random stuff scattered about. U can tour the home inside the rock , go to the petting zoo or browse the gift shop. Good for an hour or two.

Anthony N — Google review

This is such a cool place. Went on the tour was very interesting. So worth the stop. Was a good time.

Brittney J — Google review

Fun stop along Hwy 191!We spent a bit of time checking out the displays. There are a lot of very creative, clever ones!Be sure to check out the unique home in the rock.The restrooms were clean.

David L — Google review

Pretty cool. I wanted to go back and look around since it was just us on the tour but the guide wouldn’t let me. She kept saying she’d give us a chance to look around but we didn’t get too.

Barry C — Google review

We had a good experience. What a unique story they tell. And it's a must stop if you get the chance. They have a sparce gift shop due to limited availability on products, so if your lucky enough to see that special something gravity while you can. Very cool place and great for all ages. Clean bathrooms and polite staff.

Tiffany L — Google review

Why haven't you been here yet? What an awesome place! Take the tour and see how real homesteaders made it work in the desert. Enjoy the zoo and feed the animals (including getting a camel kiss). Laugh at the dad joke signs everywhere, including a view of the illusive Bigfoot. By far, the highlight is the actual living quarters. It does take a minimal fee to tour, but the price is worth the admission just to admire the work of a husband and wife who lived a dream. Not interested in a tour??? Well, at least stop and walk the gift shop for a taste of the hollowed out mountain. I'm certain you'll be amazed at the talent this creation took. It's one of the greatest roadside attractions I could recommend.

Justin H — Google review

We've driven past a few times & never had time to stop. I'm so glad we did! Trading Post, General Store, Petting Zoo, and even have guided tours! Clean restrooms, lots of nostalgic, novel signs and decor. Fun stop! Highly recommend!

GeralynK R — Google review

4.4

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4.0

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11037 S Hwy 191, Moab, UT 84532, USA

(435) 686-2250

23

The Needles Visitor Center

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Visitor center

Sights & Landmarks

Scenic Drives

The modern facility of the Needles Visitor Center is open for visitors from spring to fall, providing maps, permits, water, Wi-Fi and a picnic shelter. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park which is located 74 miles southwest of Moab. The drive into this area offers stunning views and easy hiking trails that are less crowded than those in Island in the Sky area.

Nice little visitor center with a gift shop and museum at the entrance of the Needles section of Canyon lands NP. Very informative and friendly staff. Good place to buy some souvenirs and learn about the park before going further.

Casey M — Google review

Wow. I enjoyed the Needles area more than the Island in the Sky area. I heard other people say the same thing. The drive into Needles is similar to a smaller Zion Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs and some Monument Valley all rolled into one. Great views and easy hiking trails. One of the best things was almost no people visit this side since it's about 50 miles for Moab but well worth the drive.

Capt. N — Google review

I love the Needles district. It's not a place to view from your car, you must get out and hike in order to experince it. I visited early March....it was cold but oh so beautiful and pretty empty. Shout out to ranger Jen for helping me decide which hikes to do over a 3 day period and for offering up a ton of information about the park and the local geology.

Sam U — Google review

This is an excellent visitor center with plenty of stickers and magnets, and stuffed animals. There are some modest supplies like Advil, sunscreen, and hats and shirts too. The staff are very friendly and the place is very clean and well kept. There is a bottle fillup fountain near the bathrooms as well.

Jan-Michael ( — Google review

Beautiful park. Great campsites, great views and stellar hiking opportunities.

Just J — Google review

This visitors center has some of the most helpful and friendliest rangers. They helped us navigate one of first off-roading adventures in the park. So glad we stopped in.

Deb C — Google review

Very informative. They offer masks for those that don’t have one. Decent restrooms. WiFi is ok, can’t download offline maps. There is a self serve water refill. Passport book items and stamps are located outside the store.

Crystal — Google review

Our second trip to Canyonland and was able to visit the Needles District. We loved it more than Island in the Sky!! Would def recommend stopping here if possible!

Hien L — Google review

Nice visitor center. There’s a small museum with some informational displays about the area. Good selection of souvenirs and gifts in the store.

Arthur W — Google review

Lovely place for photography, camping and hiking. I really loved campsite A, which had a short walk to the toilets. The nights there where beautiful, the open sky with all the stars was just magnificent.The rangers are also really nice and has a great program.

Remi N — Google review

Overpriced everything mostly from china.Better goods and information can be found on the street.If you can find someone in there to assist you then you are one lucky person.

Mark K — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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UT-211, Moab, UT 84532, USA

(435) 259-4711

24

Canyonlands National Park

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National park

Nature & Parks

Canyonlands National Park is a grand park split by two rivers into four zones, showcasing sandstone spires and the Island in the Sky mesa. Accessible from Moab, which is about a 4-hour drive from SLC via Interstate 15 or scenic route 92 through Sundance and 189 before rejoining -15. Arches National Park and Canyonlands are must-visit places that offer numerous self-drivable formations to explore.

Astonishing and eye-pleasing, most importantly a really underrated National Park in the Southeast of Utah. The landscape of this park along with its majestic beauty will amaze anybody. By far Canyonlands is one of the best National Park in United states, travelers can have Grand Canyon, Zion and Arches National parks kind of artistry at the same time in here. A must go National park for hiking and recreation.

Sourav U — Google review

Probably my favorite part of Canyonlands, the Needles has incredible hiking and views. There are parts of Canyonlands that are so vast that my brain can't fully take it all in. The Needles are up-close and personal and still a bit mind bending. If you can only spend time in one section of the park, I recommend it be this one.

Elyssa B — Google review

We did not get to fully explore this park but the views of the canyons were incredible! It does get very dusty and windy at the top so keep that in mind!I would go back and explore the Needles when we have a full extra day.

Nikolai B — Google review

Absolutely stunning views, on par with the Grand Canyon but you can see more from the vehicle (or with a very short walk) which makes it great for older folks. If you're going to do just one hour hike during your time hear, hit the Grand View Point Overlook in the Island of the Sky section. You won't regret it.

Matt C — Google review

Absolutely stunning piece of planet earth. Unlike many National parks that tend to be overcrowded, this park is massive and people are dispersed so you don’t really see anyone else. We drove White Rim Road during Thanksgiving (spent two nights on the trail) and thoroughly enjoyed everything about the trip. I highly recommend White Rim Road in Canyonlands National Park and can’t wait to do it again.

Craig M — Google review

Okay well this is our first visit to this amazing and beautiful park. The staff at the visitor center is amazing and very helpful. They have a water place inside to fill up water. We stayed at the willow flat campground which is very nice and very close to a lot of different hikes. The view points around the park are amazing that are hard really get you to some amazing sites.

Team B — Google review

Canyonlands' breathtaking vistas and intricate rock formations paint an awe-inspiring masterpiece of nature's artistry. The play of sunlight across its rugged terrain creates a captivating symphony of colors, showcasing the ancient geological history etched into every canyon wall.

Maithreyi P — Google review

This national park was one of my favorites while on our small road trip. This reminded me so much of the Grand Canyon, but less busy. We went there on a Friday and it was quiet. We were able to do quite a few trails with ease. Bring water, it’s hot with little to no shade.

Steph G — Google review

This park is unreal! The Visitors Center has the most amazing canyon view just across from the parking and it only gets better from there. They have a very creative, interactive display on the local geology in the Visitors Center. I visited in early November and I had no issues with crowds or parking. The weather and sights were gorgeous! I highly recommend visiting if you're in the area.

Winter G — Google review

One of the most epic things I’ve ever seen. Highly recommend white rim trail; less busy than grand view and offers a slightly different lanscape. Also— cleanest outhouse I’ve ever used at white rim trail.

Emmett B — Google review

this place was awesome! The views and viewing access are outstanding. The park is clean and well maintained... lots of restrooms throughout the park. The hiking trails are really fun. I highly recommend seeing the Canyons

Randol R — Google review

We had a great time visiting Canyonlands national park and were completely awe struck by the majestic beauty here. Shafer trail, potash trail were our favorite experience but they required 4x4 and excellent driving skills. Common attractions such as Grand view point, and mesa arch did not disappoint. We witnessed the best sunset ever. Camping out at night under the starry sky was best memory material for a lifetime. Words can’t describe how beautiful this park is and we will certainly be back for more.

Boobery M — Google review

Underrated national park. The north and the south sides are not connected. Camp facilities are good. This park has less visitors, so you can enjoy the quietness in most of the points. Some points do require some serious hiking. My favorite point is the Upheaval dome.

Ora O — Google review

Amazing Park. Recommend hiking Mesa Arch very first thing in the morning (6/7am) so you get the view all to yourself. I would then recommend hiking Upheaval Dome (do bring water). Then to top it off, drive to the grand view point for an overlook and a pretty easy flat platform stroll.

Raymond — Google review

Plan ahead for some driving time. There was a wait to enter, about 30 minutes, but it's totally worth it.Breathtaking views, lots of hiking trails. I definitely recommend a visit.It did NOT require an advance booking like Arches did. Arches required it, even though the website said it didn't when we checked. For Arches,I recommend calling and confirming the day before so you can book a time.

Joe S — Google review

I was only able to do the island in the sky section which was really cool. You can see all the trails in the canyon for 4wd cars. Not my favorite national park but still pretty amazing.

Daniel K — Google review

A beautiful, sweltering hot park in the summer. We visited 2/3 of the districts, Island in the Sky and Needles. In Needles, we did the 6 mile Chesler Park hike to the viewpoint in brutal 100 degree heat before turning around. We did not complete the whole 10 mile loop. If you do decide to hike here in the summer, bring an umbrella for shade and a ton of water. There are several crevices in the park that provide shade but the umbrella was essential when hiking long stretches without any rock formations nearby. Other notable hikes in this district include Cave Spring Trail and Pothole Point. In Island in the Sky, the highlight was Mesa Arch at sunrise and the Grand View Point Overlook hike. Other hikes we did included Upheaval Dome, Whale Rock and a bunch of short overlook hikes. Get a head start if you’re hiking in summer to beat the heat. Overall this is a beautiful and vast park. Although they look extremely close, the driving time between these two districts is over 2 hours.

Aliza B — Google review

Very pretty park, the views are amazing. I’d recommend driving all the road and stopping at the viewpoints and doing the short hikes if you only have a day there. I’d love to come back and explore some of the longer 4wd trails as well. Wasn’t expecting much, and was pleasantly surprised with how beautiful the park was. There was no line to get in, while arches NP had 45 min wait and timed entry just to get in. Canyonlands NP is definitely worth the visit.

Chris L — Google review

Beautiful and scenic at every stop. It was surprisingly busy on a Friday but we eventually found parking at each viewpoint . I haven’t been to the Grand Canyon in years but this was equally impressive in my opinion. The vistas were stunning and the way the scenery changed at each turn was amazing. As usual the photos don’t do Justice to the size and depth of the area.

Jacque L — Google review

Canyonlands was amazing! Absolutely love the snow capped La Sal Mountains in the distance. Could've spent days seeing every trail but, again no dogs allowed on trails. We had high winds and storm heading in as we were heading out. Perfect timing to start back home.

Nanette S — Google review

Island in the sky worked great for our first visit. We camped out by the Green River overlook and it was perfectly empty for the sunrise. Very nice park, not too crowded, plenty of trails and overlooks with breathtaking views. No facilities.

Robert Q — Google review

Canyonlands National ParkVisited on : weekendLast weekend, I ventured into Canyonlands National Park, where gusty winds accompanied stunning views. Despite the weather, the park's panoramic vistas of towering rock formations and vast canyons were awe-inspiring. While one day sufficed for sightseeing without extensive hiking, be prepared for the wind. Canyonlands is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking unforgettable scenery.

Kiran R — Google review

Great views at this National Park ! If you don’t have a 4x4 vehicle or have limited time I recommend Grand view Overlook . Great views and a short walk . Visitor Center has a little pull off that has some pretty good views too! Spend around 2 hrs here after going to arches .

Daisy F — Google review

Incredible park and underrated in my opinion. Went in not knowing a ton about it and was blown away by the canyon vistas. Parts of the park are super remote and tougher to reach so prepare in advance. Don’t go on icy switchbacks too quickly because we saw a car get stranded on the way down into the canyon. Off season was otherwise a great time to visit with very little crowds - felt like we had the park to ourselves.

Kaylan M — Google review

Such a beautiful place. It would get five stars for me if I could at least walk my dog out to the overlooks. I understand the trails but they were very unfriended to my girl.

Gregory E — Google review

The canyon is something else, the views are amazing. Went to that National Park as Arches had an unreserved time slot for 4pm unless previously purchased a ticket in advance. Canyonlands did not disappoint, Happy it worked out that way.

Edward E — Google review

Amazing vistas, easy access, and no wait on a holiday weekend. There were plenty of other visitors, but the park was so vast that it didn't feel crowded. We will return for a longer stay in the future.

Greg S — Google review

This is an amazing national park - vast! Truly, the breadth of it is breathtaking!Try to catch the sunset at Grand View point overlook. I’d recommend doing the in-and-out hike. The views are amazing at the end of the hike. The green river overlook is gorgeous too! We didn’t do the mesa arch since we’d seen a lot of arches that morning.The park actually has two parts - one is along the road of Island in the sky visitor center. The other one is by the needles visitor center(closed during winter).

Swap — Google review

The Canyonlands is a very beautiful National Park located about 40 minutes away from downtown Moab. We stopped at Dead Horse Point our last visit to the area, which is 20 minutes closer, and thought we'd try the Canyonlands this visit. We hit the Green River Overlook, the Island in the Sky, and the Mesa Arch. All three stops were awesome experiences!

A R — Google review

The view is incredible, the sunsets and sunrises are mesmerizing. But the sky at night... I was camping and I woke up at like 3am, I just glanced outside all sleepy. A sky full of stars like you've never experienced before.

Tamara T — Google review

Definitely a must. So beautiful. So much to do. You could spend a few hours or days here! The more time the better! Clean. Lots of cows around. I went in the first week of spring so not many other animals seen.

Jeanette — Google review

We visited the Islands in the Sky region and the views were beautiful, especially at the Grand View Overlook at the end.There are many hiking opportunities, which we were unable to do this time, as well as 4x4 roads which we didn't attempt.We went in March, which seems a good time as the park was less crowded but the weather was still nice if a little cool

Steve M — Google review

11% as popular as Albuquerque

7 hours off the main route, 59% of way to Provo

25

Hell's Revenge 4x4 Trail

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Off roading area

Nature & Parks

Off-Road & ATV Trails

Hells Revenge 4x4 Trail in Moab is a thrilling off-road adventure for those with a passion for 4x4 driving. The 6.5-mile trail presents challenges such as petrified dunes, sandstone domes, and Slickrock ledges that can be conquered in about 2-3 hours. Visitors can rent a Jeep or bring their own customized rock-crawler to navigate the route, which includes obstacles like Hells Gate and the Escalator.

For all the adventurous people in the world, this trail is a staple in Moab. We went on a weekend and it got a bit busy, and even saw new Land Rovers tested. But truly an amazing experience, and amazing views.

Kyle M — Google review

Awesome trail! Took our four runner up it, 3 inch lift, basically stock. Most parts of the trail were easy to traverse, we didn't make it up hells gate, maybe next time! Ended up joining up with a bunch of guys from Wisconsin, sorry friendly, definitely more fun being with a group, and much safer!

Erik B — Google review

Best trail we’ve run to date. Every bit as challenging as the ratings say, but soooo much fun. Very manageable if you want to make it easy (moderately) and insanely difficult if you’re up for it. Took us nearly six hours because we stopped a lot to look around.

Daniel P — Google review

Amazing views and it was an adrenaline rush from start to finish! We rented 2 seater stock RZR 1000s and they were great on this trail. We didn’t do the more difficult obstacles like hells gate or the escalator. The RZR did fine with Mickeys hot tub though. Hells Revenge and Poison Spider Mesa were our two favorite off road trails in Moab.

Jessica D — Google review

Awesome time! Go early before the place gets packed.

Michael S — Google review

Fun trail to run, we bypassed some of the obstacles like Mickey’s hot tub and Hell’s gate, probably will come back to run those when we are with a group, definitely recommend this trail!

Brandi O — Google review

Also had a great time here with my 54 Willys. Thought my son was trying to collect some insurance money but I lived so I guess not. First time off roading and it was a great experience.

Rich K — Google review

One of my favorite trails in Moab. Lots of obstacles, some easy, some hard, some with a pucker factor of 10! Great place to test your skills - and don't forget to try Hell's Gate and the escalator!

Kevin A — Google review

Wow, this trail can be tough, not all parts are for a stock vehicle, be careful not to end up on a one way through an area that is beyond your skill level or you could roll your vehicle! Great trail with terrain different than other parts of the US!!!

Rhonda T — Google review

I have run this trail every year for the last decade, it's always the first trail i hit when getting to town, and the first place i take new visitors. spectacular views, some challenges, but everything has a bypass. this is a trail not to miss.

Eric T — Google review

4.9

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5.0

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Moab, UT 84532, USA

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26

Dead Horse Point State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Park

The Dead Horse Point State Park is a natural wonder in Cliffside park that offers visitors the chance to camp, hike or bike on the trails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Colorado River. The park features an iconic lookout point that should not be missed. From there, visitors can drive through Canyonlands National Park and stop at various scenic overlooks to take photos or go for a hike.

The view was phenomenal! We went with a bunch of friends too and we took a lot of photos. I would definitely suggest going here with the family. The views are killer! There is also biking and hiking trails that you can go on. You just need to be careful because some areas don't have any railing or stuff like that.

James B — Google review

A great stop and so worth the 20 $ entry fee. I did the east west rim trail which is a loop during the sunset and it was very good. Start with the west rim. The trail over a long weekend was relatively empty and peaceful, probably due to the cloud coverage. The trail has some nice look out points which are worth stopping and spending a while. I would say it is family friendly and an easy trail with barely much elevation gain but do water.

Binit B — Google review

If you go to Moab, go to Dead Horse Point State Park! This place is absolutely stunning. Arches is great and so is Canyon Lands, but we almost missed Dead Horse Point thinking it wouldn't be as good... We were dead wrong. This place is something else. We went at sunset and it took our breath away.Our kids were able to walk around albeit with a death grip on their hands (very steep drop-offs).All in all, don't miss this place. It was probably our favorite stop in the area.

Mark B — Google review

Spared a few hours on a long road trip to visit.And it was worthwhile.Great views over the Mesa. Interesting colours and shadows. The trail walks are suitably 'dangerous' near the cliff edges so watch out.The Schaefer trail looked good - just too little time.

Oakwood W — Google review

Great park and campground! Stayed in a yurt and it was amazing. It has power and heating and cooling but it still felt like camping! The hiking trails are easy and you are only 15 minutes away from amazing views on the trails. Even if you visit for a day it is well worth checking out.

Colin K — Google review

Many people come here to share the maze of red rocks and canyons. They look like the Grand Canyon only in a smaller way. The trails along the rim are short, pleasant and extremely charming, and at the same time it is extremely quiet and you can hear the wind and the birds fly. I would highly recommend

Jacek R — Google review

Stunning views and a great place. The visitor shop is set up nicely, and the prices are fair. There are several mountain biking trails along the drive in. Entrance is $20 and there are lots of options for hiking or biking. The scenery is well worth the price

R — Google review

This was a great place to camp. Beautiful scenery and the camp sites are very nice, especially the covered eating area with a lockable pantry. Everyone in the store was very nice and helpful. The only downside, no showers. Just be advised, the campsites are not very sheltered and the wind can be brutal, especially for tent camping.

Dawn S — Google review

This is a beautiful Utah state park. We drove our RV up here to practice since it's only 1.5 hours from home. We didn't have any problems parking at the Visitor's Center or the overlook at the end. The views are gorgeous and the edge's are very scary. You could literally fall from many parts of the trails, so pay attention! :-) Restrooms were in great shape - see photos.

Juli R — Google review

What an absolutely amazing experience and park WOW! This is an absolute must see experience for everyone, especially families. The views are just simply beautiful and amazing. Stunning views from approximately 7,000 feet make for stunning pictures that you will never forget

Louie G — Google review

Worth the stop even if you’re just passing through. The view reminded me of a smaller Grand Canyon, which seems odd to say considering how wide and deep the canyon still is.The main overlook has a nice covered area that offers lots of shade as you take in the views. And the short path leading to it is paved for easy access.Make sure you stop by the visitors center and checkout the dinosaur footprint out front. One of the clearest foist prints I’ve seen.

Julia J — Google review

Beautiful park with large sites in a quiet area. Despite us arriving on the sage weekend as hundreds of motorcycles - attending the Thunder Valley Rally - we’re still enjoyed the park. Close to Cottonwood’s restaurants, grocery stores and Sedonas.Camp host was exceptional. Bathrooms were pristine.

Ann S — Google review

Really nice park. Great place to just come and relax, and be one with nature. The park design is very reminiscant of Frank Lloyd Wright type architectural design. Amazing views of the Colorado River and back side views of the canyons in Canyonland National Park.

Susan H — Google review

Gorgeous views all around! Dog friendly, great alternative to the National Parks if you want to hike with your dog. Dogs are not allowed in the visitor center though.

Alba H — Google review

The silence here is deafening! At any time the view is stunning; sunset (it faces west) and stargazing are my favorites, but sunrise and midday are incredible as well.Trails are a bit rocky, but plenty of stable ground for those a bit unsteady on their feet or who need walking aids. Bathrooms are clean, lots of natural and artificial seating available with great lookout points.

Malia M — Google review

I knew we will regret if we didn't stop by on our way from Canyonlands. Always curious why this is similar to Horseshoe Bend. Honestly, I find the view here more interesting. We actually stayed here longer than previous overlooks we visited!

Claudine M — Google review

A neighbor of Canyonlands with views of some of the canyons from that park. Great photo-ops and overlooks and not too crowded at all. $20 to get in but worth it imo.

FFKDTP1 — Google review

If you’re looking for beautiful views and an easy long hike, this is your place!We got into the park by 9 am and after a quick stop at the Visitor Center, (flush toilets, gift shop) we headed all of the way out to Dead Horse Point and the ~5 mile rim trail. This consists of an East Rim trail and a West Rim trail. We headed for the west side first but did the entire loop. It said that it would take around 4 hours, but we did it in 2.5 hours. For reference, my husband and I average 59.5 years old but are in fairly good shape.The trail is pretty well marked with painted lines showing where the route is. The trail is also lined with stones.The hike itself was pretty easy. Mainly flat and only a few spots where you have to watch your footing. The views are beautiful!This is the place where they filmed the end of Thelma and Louise but we never saw the exact spot.We ate a quick picnic lunch at our car in the Dead Horse Point parking area after our hike was completed. There were flush toilets and some picnic areas at the Dead Horse Point Overlook.We visited in mid-May and it was in the low 80’s. We drank a lot of water because it felt much hotter. There was basically no shade on the either of the Rim Trails. Poles were helpful (I have an ouchy knee) but not at all essential.

Michelle T — Google review

Beautiful state park with amazing views of the river snaking through the canyon. Nice visitor center and friendly employees. Plenty of areas to see the view without a big crowd. Worth a visit!

Casey M — Google review

I had the privilege of visiting this park as part of a cycling tour out of Moab. I had heard about it before so I was excited to experience it. I wasn’t able to spend much time there but what I did get to experience was beautiful! I’ll definitely do more exploring here if I find myself in the area again.

Steph W — Google review

Outstanding Hidden Gem! This park was awesome! Dead Horse Point canyon views rival any in Canyonlands and Arches. The park is well kept with bathrooms trails, picnic spots and gift shop. What a great surprise.

Randy — Google review

This Park is so well attended that it looks like a National Park. Very nice people working there. Interesting historical events you can see down part of the visitor center.

Ed A — Google review

Gorgeous state park that shouldn't be missed if you are in the area. There are several trails, lookout points, and incredible views. There's informative placards along the trails, and it's a beautiful place to spend the day . It's also dog friendly. Please leash your pups and clean up after them. Hiking the east rim and west rim trails together, make a great, beautiful loop trail.

Diana O — Google review

Super great experience. Had the luxury of being toured by the park rangers along with the clients I was chauffeuring. The park rangers are smart and very knowledgeable on the surroundings and the gift shop was amazing

Michael I — Google review

Beautiful vistas and amazing scenic views! Lots of cut outs for jumping out of the car and getting some great pictures and making memories!

Donna J — Google review

It was a 40 min scenic drive from arches national park. We did the west rim trail after a snow storm and loved hiking in 2-3” soft and fluffy snow. A few places were slippery but overall wonderful hike. Kids loved it.

S T — Google review

4.8

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4.5

(5574)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (190)

UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, USA

(800) 322-3770

27

Delicate Arch

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Landmark

Sights & Landmarks

The star attraction of Arches National Park in Moab, UT is the sandstone landmark known as Delicate Arch. It can be seen from both a trail and an overlook. The hike up to the arch is labeled strenuous but it's not too difficult, although it is quite long. It's best to arrive early since there's little shade and it gets crowded quickly, making it difficult to find parking or take photos without strangers in them.

Unique hike, it can be difficult some parts but it will be worth it, if visiting on summer bring lots of water and hat for shade.I find unique to visit on winter as not too many people and breath taking views and pictures to take.Make sure stay on the path and don’t adventure outside of it, you don’t want to get bitten by an animal or get lost.Be adventurous and respect nature.

Miguel L — Google review

Beautiful views while hiking to delicate arch and while by the arch. Many good pictures can be taken there. The hike is about 3 miles long which will take about an hour and a half. Bring lots of water especially when the weather is super hot as you will be sweating a lot from the heat of the desert.

Damian P — Google review

Very cool place! Iconic! Cool see the utah license plate in person!! The hike wasn't too bad, it was busy up at the top but a good hike overall. Took us an hour and a half total to get there and back.

Jacob G — Google review

The Delicate Arch Trail hike is an absolute gem! The scenery is breathtaking, and the arch itself is a marvel of nature. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels. This hike is a must-do when visiting Arches National Park.

Hiro E — Google review

It is always a pleasure to see the delicate arch. Nice little workout on the way up, beautiful scenery, and a fairly easy way back. If you've never been, definitely try to make the time for it! You do need reservations for parking ahead of time, so ensure you call or go online prior to heading down.

Jordie W — Google review

Oh the wonders of nature! Definitely worth the somewhat difficult hike. We went around late September and it’s still pretty hot.Things to note:✔️Parking is tight. Be sure to come early to beat the huge crowd.✔️The terrain is dusty, it’s sometimes slippery with many uphills and downhills. With sudden drops! But it’s still relatively easy✔️There are beautiful spots for photo op, not just the lovely arch. Be sure to explore around the area. Just be careful for those sudden drops✔️Bring enough water, food, sunscreen. Walking sticks are optional.Still worth one’s time. It’s a rock paradise really..

JM S — Google review

Delicate Arch is a great hike to do with the family and friends. I recommend doing this hike early or later in the evening when temperatures are cool.I’ve done it around noon in the summer and it was quite tiring. Unless you’re looking for a challenge which that’s perfectly fine.Be aware that kids will get tired be sure to bring water, sunscreen, take plenty of breaks and enjoy the views.

TEA R — Google review

The trail started out easy, but once we hit the rock face and started climbing up it was difficult. The climb once you get past the uphill portion isn't bad, but being from a near sea level state we struggled to breathe at times. We took it slow and carried plenty of water with us. I'd recommend hiking boots and a water bladder for the trip. The top was quite crowded since we hiked at sunset, but we found people quite respectful of everyone else. People stood in line and took turns taking photos of people under the arch. While crowded it was a nice atmosphere of people enjoying nature.

Jessica — Google review

The lower viewpoint is easy to get to but the hike up is totally worth it. I went for sunrise, and did lose the trail a bit walking up at night, but aside from a steady incline it was not challenging and offers some great distance shots of other arches by windows. It was cloudy that morning and the arch isn't really situated for sunrise so sunset might be better. Expect crowds anytime, on labor day weekend there were probably 40 people waiting by sunrise.The arch is lovely but don't neglect the surrounding views either!

Kevin H — Google review

This is my second time visiting the Arches National Park and seeing the Delicate Arch and I'm still in awe. It is definitely worth the hike. Just be careful, bring lots of water and shade is very limited, if any at all. This is one of the most popular arches, so parking may be limited depending on the time of day because of the crowd.

Rosallainne R — Google review

Sunset is legit, but get there early. Its possible to make it up in under an hour but its 40° up a sandstone rock for about a 1/4 mile and very crowded. Still nice though. Definitely worth getting the iconic utah pic

Brandon W — Google review

It’s pretty. Worth the visit! Been around this area many many times but never made the time to hike the Delicate Arch. Glad I finally did.Pretty short and easy hike overall. 3.2 miles out and back, so really short. I made it out and back in an hour and 10 minutes about and I had spent 20 or so minutes grabbing some photos.Try to go early, beat the rush and all the people. Don’t wait until it’s busy!I entered Arch’s at 6:40am and was hiking by just after 7.

Jeff T — Google review

The hike was amazing! The climb at the beginning is strenuous, but the rest of the way is fun and beautiful. The arch view is so worth the climb. We did it with our 4 year old and he really enjoyed it. We did it Mid November and the weather was perfect.

Marisela . — Google review

Absolutely worth the hike (even if it is 106° out). Make sure to bring water and the trail will kind of disappear at some points so try to go during the day unless you have a great sense of direction.

Brian B — Google review

Beautiful hike, I saw people of all ages hiking it. I would definitely recommend bringing more water than you think is necessary just to have it. As you go up it gets hotter and hotter. I would hike up this again in a heartbeat it was amazing!You need to get a ticket in advance to get in to the park, so i would recommend signing in to the ticket thing at 5:55 and reloading at 6 to get your ticket because they go fast. It cost $2 to get the ticket. Then when you go to the park itself you will get a day pass. I think it cost $30 but I have a parka pass so I could be a little off with the day pass cost!I would also recommend going in the morning because then you can exit and renter the park all day after! Their are hikes for kids and experienced hikers here! Definitely spend a day in the park!

Gaia B — Google review

Amazing creation of Mother Nature. Many of us might have seen this Arch as our windows wallpaper, i saw them through my own eyes. It takes around 1.6 miles of hike to reach the arch from the parking lot. It is worth the hike the views on the way are breathtaking. Would suggest visiting the arch early in the morning or in the evening. The hike through some steepest climb could be little difficult for some would suggest wearing a good pair of hiking shoes and drink lot of water. Definitely recommend visiting the arch. Take care of your glasses and caps this place is very windy. Be ready to be blown away

Biswanath D — Google review

What an amazing creation!!! If you plan to visit the park before October 31, make sure you have your reservation otherwise you will not be able to get in. We scheduled it for 8 am and it was perfect because by the time we got up there there was hardly anyone at the delicate arch. We took so many amazing pictures. It’s totally worth the hike.

Ana G — Google review

We hiked Delicate Arch with our 2, 4 and 9 year old. It is possible to hike with small children. Our visit was Monday, 2/19, with ample parking at approx. 11:15AM. The trail wasn’t loaded and it was a warm 66°. At first I worried we would be able to do it with our kids but with surprise we made it to the arch. If you’re taking small children just keep ahold of that hand and all should be fine. Our 2 year old hiked 90% of it holding my hand. I carried her the last little bit because that last part of the trail right before the arch is SCARY! It’s not an easy hike but it isn’t impossible. Definitely take plenty of water and a snack or packable meal to enjoy at the top. It’s a beautiful view and worth every step to it.

Jacynthe ( — Google review

If you are trying to decide which arches are worth the hike, pick this one! It's a somewhat difficult hike, I would not recommend for young children or elderly. Well worth it for those who are fit. I caught the sunrise here & will be back!

Robin I — Google review

Incredible hike and views! On a recent March day it was incredibly windy and lots of dust got in your eyes and facial orifices so would suggest being prepared for that. There is a substantial uphill climb too, so be ready! But well worth it.

Kaylan M — Google review

It is not a well marked trail. We went for sunrise and took a bunch of wrong turns with other fellow hikers. Make sure to do good research on the trail and which turns you’ll have to make. It was very beautiful at the end though.

Jacqueline Z — Google review

This review is for Delicate Arch Trail which was a ~3.2 miles round trip that took ~1.5 hours to complete.Steady inclines throughout the trail. Once the trail changes from dirt to rock; follow the trail markers. Stunning views of the arch and the surroundings.Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/5zibZuQDjo4

Ed — Google review

More impressive than I would have imagined! I was excited to see Delicate Arch and do the hike, but this exceeded expectations. Simply in awe.

Ally K — Google review

Great hike. Slightly challenging. View at top worth the 400 ft high 1 1/2 mile hike.

Patricia S — Google review

This was an amazing hike with views that will forever last in your mind!! The weather was perfect in February but I personally would not want to do this hike in the dead of summer.

Tammy S — Google review

The second half of the hike was my favorite, right before you get to the Arch there is a great view from a hole through the rocks which is where I took these pics

Rezkin — Google review

Beautiful hike. The hike was more enjoyable than watching the arch!

Soran — Google review

Its quite a walk to the site, be ready for it. Wear decent walking or light weight hiking shoes. Flipflops, heels, sandles poor choices. Especially prepare on a warm day. Leave early in the am to beat the heat. Take water and lunch for a snack if you like. We spent 2.5 hours round trip and prettyuch just kept moving. Trail would be very slippery in the rain as some of the rock is very smooth. Mostly uphill trail again be prepared.Views are well worth the effort.

Grant I — Google review

4.9

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5.0

(1925)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (196)

Utah, USA

(435) 719-2299

28

Arches National Park

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National park

Nature & Parks

Arches National Park is a picturesque area that offers camping and a variety of hiking trails with breathtaking red rock views and over 2,000 stone arches. If you have limited time, some must-see highlights include the scenic drive through the park with short stops at iconic spots like Balanced Rock, Double Arch, The Windows, and Park Avenue viewpoint. For an unforgettable hike, make sure to explore the Delicate Arch trail which also showcases remarkable rock art.

Breathtaking place. Amazing to visit with a family, solo trip, or as a couple. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. It gets very hot very quickly here. We visited in March 2022, before the time entry was implemented, but during spring break and yes it was very busy here, especially on the weekends. If I'd visit again would pick a different week, away from holidays, weekend, and target either spring or fall, it seems gets little too hot during summer time here. Overall loved it experience. Kids were so excited about all the trails. Most of the attractions are a very short hike. Some are little more advanced. I would recommend at least a week here. Alternating Canyonlands and Arches is best to give some rest.

Sasha S — Google review

Gorgeous. Spent half a day there on our family road trip out west. Definitely hope to make it back and spend more time. They do timed entry for an hour window. We were 6-7am, and at 6:36 we pulled right up to the entrance booth no waiting. By the time we left between 11 and noon, the lines were really long. Daughter participated in a ranger led program at the visitor center and loved learning about the grasshopper mouse.

Erin C — Google review

Arches National Park, located in Utah, is renowned for its over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, stunning red rock formations, and diverse landscapes. It's a photographer's paradise with vibrant colors, and it offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking and rock climbing. While some iconic arches are easily accessible, the park also provides opportunities for adventure and exploration. Don't forget to visit during sunrise or sunset for the best photo opportunities.

Sargam D — Google review

Better than expected. Great paved roads with lots of turnouts for taking photos all through the park. Lots and lots of different rock formations and things to see. Plan about 3 hours to drive through and see the whole park with some stops, but more time if you want to hike up to several of the rocks to get closer or explore more. Nice visitor center explaining a lot about the formations.

Brett L — Google review

Arches National Park is a really cool place to check out! Here's why you'll love it:It is famous for its big rock arches. They're like big, curvy bridges made of stone. They come in all different shapes and sizes, and they're really neat to see.There are lots of spots in the park where you can see awesome views of the arches and the area around them. Some spots are really high up, so you can see really far, while others are closer to the ground, where you can see the arches up close.Arches National Park has lots of trails that take you through the arches and let you explore the park. Some trails are easy and flat, while others are more challenging with steep climbs and narrow paths. There's a trail for everyone, no matter how much walking you've done before.Besides the arches, the park has lots of other cool rocks to see, like tall spires and giant fins. They come in all sorts of shapes and colors, and they're really interesting to look at.Arches National Park is home to lots of animals, like deer, rabbits, and even big-horn sheep! You might see them as you walk around the park, so keep your eyes open.At night, the park is one of the best places to look at the stars. The sky is really clear and dark, so you can see lots of stars twinkling overhead. It's really cool and peaceful.Arches National Park is a must-see place. It's beautiful with lots of cool things to see and do, from walking trails to stargazing. Don't miss out on visiting this amazing park!

Sergey D — Google review

What a beautiful National Park!! It was busy both days that we went, but that is expected. Many viewpoints or arches are just a short walk from the parking lot. This is a very family-friendly park because of the easy access. The park and restrooms were immaculate. We got to see several arches/viewpoints within few hours of being in the park.

Matt Z — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous landscape. There are tons of hikes to do, from super easy, to challenging. It’s a landscape photographer’s dream. I’d recommend going during the month of February, as it’s better hiking temps and way less crowded. I was able to get pics of every arch WITHOUT people in them! I’d absolutely recommend you go here if you’re into great hiking and scenery!

Ashley F — Google review

Amazing views! The rock formations, and Arches are absolutely beautiful. Scenic drive with several viewpoints, and trails from easy to more challenging but well worth it for the views. Restrooms available in each parking lot, and some also have picnic tables with shade. The visitor center has restrooms, gift shop, film and presentations about the park, and free filtered water faucets. Bring plenty of water, and food/snacks for the trip.

AnaP A — Google review

Amazing National park that you have to visit! The hikes are so fun and kid friendly. The rangers seem to love their job as they are very helpful and upbeat with any question you may have. The visitors center is a fun place as well. You get to learn more geology magic! All in all it’s an amazing breathtaking park that you won’t regret visiting!

Daniel S — Google review

Amazing area! Easy access for most areas. One Arch was a semi tough up hill, but so awesome! The Delicate Arch is a 2.5 to 3 hr. hike. There's other options to see that Arch though. Loved it all so much!! Was a great day!!

Deborah F — Google review

Simply stunning. Road tripping with our dogs, we were only able to view the sights through the car window & a few quick walks to a couple of overlooks. Well worth the hype & excitement!! They are doing timed entry October through May, so make sure you book your time. See details on their website.

Carmen M — Google review

Arches is a stunningly-beautiful national park, and well-worth the visit. Make sure to do a timed entry between 8 am-4 pm, and make sure to arrive right at the start of your timed entry, as it took us about 30-40 min to get through the line and into the park.We loved every bend and turn in the park. So many unbelievable structures and views to check out. Hard to imagine these are even real. Saw almost all of the arches and recommend hiking out to as many as you can! Even with only 4-6 hours, you can see most of the arches and all of the drives in the park. Easy to cut the super long hikes and still see the vast majority of the park. Loved the La Sal Mountain Range poised behind a ton of the most beautiful views and overlooks.Don’t miss this park on your national park journey! Personally enjoyed this park much more than Canyonlands, which was more vast and majestic, but Arches is almost poetic and artistic in its own right.

Chris S — Google review

We loved our visit and the trails and beauty of the park. It was fascinating to see the sculpted arches and balancing acts that defy gravity. I would highly suggest the visit and plan to return with my family to take in the scenery!

Josiah D — Google review

Awesome, must see National Park. Driving with short hikes works well, but next time, we will be taking one of the many available guided jeep tours to see many more arches not visible from the road. Mother nature has certainly worked her wonders here.

Herbert W — Google review

Wow... what a really cool park. Absolutely gorgeous rock formations line the entire park. There is some walking required and some of it is a bit technical. However there are some really good overlooks even just from the roads. Exceptionally neat place to visit.

David B — Google review

Beautiful park. $30 ticket (car) buys you 7 days access after 4pm. Between 7a-4p you pay $2 extra to reserve a slot on the website.The rangers are friendly. The whole park is well maintained and all of the visitors were polite and respectful. In September the weather was gorgeous and the temperature wonderful. Low humidity, lots of shade options, 70s.It’s about 15 miles in and then back out on the road. Lots of scenic pull offs. Lots of hiking and even a campground option.Highly recommend if you like breathtaking beauty, camping, hiking or any of these. The restrooms were composting toilets but throughout Utah they have all been exceptionally decent with no unpleasant odors or uncleanliness. Makes the whole experience more pleasant.Recommend going outside of the reservation times. The movement of the sun makes every view change before your eyes. The shadows are dramatic and beautiful.

Deepak J — Google review

An amazing national park! Wonderful views, easy access, plenty of different trails and options to explore. This park is amazing part of Utah. The nations park pass is a must !! You definitely need a day at least to explore and be able to see the sunset and stars ! A just for all to come and visit !

Anton G — Google review

If you're going to go to this national park, try to stay the night camping in the Devil's Garden campground. The sun rises are amazing. You can also take short hikes in nearly any direction.If you go off season, it is easy to find a spot. I expect during peak season, you had better have a reservation.

Marco P — Google review

Utah is truly such a beautiful state!! Arches NP does not disappoint! February seems to be a great time to visit as it wasn’t too cold and there were not a lot of people. Give yourself a full day if not two to explore!

Kris J — Google review

The view and natural landscape is outstanding. Be sure to stop in the visitor center there is a wealth of information that you don't get by just driving through and walking through popular stops. If you have a good 4 wheel drive there is some good 4x4 trails.

DREW L — Google review

No reservations needed after 4:40 pm. We came around 7pm and no tickets needed. The drive was easy with some quick turns. The sand dunes, rock formations, arches, sand formations were all breathtaking and out of this world. Majestic and awe inspiring. Some hikes are very manageable like under a mile but the views never disappoints!

Boobery M — Google review

This is great but note that there are long hikes like delicate arch and more so if you’re children are going make sure you take a close eye on them. Otherwise I would recommend going plan about 2-4 hours here

Chase H — Google review

Fantastic sights, rock formations like few places on earth. A great park. If you camp, hike or do a driving tour it is a beautiful place.

Stephen C — Google review

The Arches national Park drive is a beautiful one. The best way to explore a national park at your own pace. The views are amazing! Most recommended hike would be to see the Delicate Arch! Other good spots to stop at include - Balanced rock and Double Arch.

Preethi B — Google review

Awesome stop! Driven by without stopping too many times. It’s well worth the stop and make sure you save time to hike a bit to the different points of interest. Most all the hikes are very cool in my opinion. I look forward to exploring more next time. Highly recommend

Nick P — Google review

Beautiful, starting from the drive and continuing with many scenic views and amazing trails. Arche formations are everywhere, more famous are marked to be easy to find. This is one of my favorite places.

Kaja S — Google review

What a beautiful place! We only hiked the balance rock trail and delicate Arch trail. But what an amazing landscape! God's handy work at its finest! Thanks for preserving such great lands! #ExploringRocksFacebook

Alex — Google review

One of the most under rated parks in USA.Arches National Park is like nature’s own sculpture garden, right in the heart of Utah. Imagine over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch, standing tall against the backdrop of a crystal-clear blue sky. It’s a place where every turn on the trail promises a photo op that could easily become your next profile pic.This park isn’t just about arches, though. It’s a showcase of geological wizardry with towering spires, massive balanced rocks, and layers of earth history exposed like pages in a book. The red rock landscape is so surreal, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet or wandered into a real-life Western movie set.Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or just looking for some epic views from the comfort of your car, Arches has got you covered. The scenic drive through the park is a must-do, with plenty of spots to pull over, soak in the vistas, and snap some pics. And if you’re up for a little adventure, the trails will lead you to hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints that are totally worth the trek.So, pack your water bottle, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to explore one of Mother Nature’s most impressive art galleries. Trust me, Arches National Park is the kind of place that’ll have you saying “wow” around every bend.

Nitin J — Google review

Beautiful park. But it was a bit of a downer after finishing up at Zion and Bryce Canyon. Make sure to get there early so you’re able to get into the park.

Jacqueline Z — Google review

I loved arches national park! I was there in the end of July. It was extremely hot around 115* Fahrenheit. We came back around sunset and enjoyed a slightly cooler temperature. Arches was crowded however it is large enough you can drive to many different locations and spread out away from bigger crowds. All in all 10/10 recommend. Absolutely spectacular!

Joshua Y — Google review

Natural wonders! I really enjoyed 2 visits to the Arches park. The sites are breathtaking. I enjoyed the giant rock cliffs and formations and balanced rock as much or more than the incredible arches themselves. To stand back and see God's handiwork is amazing. The restrooms leave a lot to be desired and you should use one any chance you get. Great visitor center.

Randy — Google review

Magnificent national park! This is unlike anything I've seen before. We enjoyed the ability to drive and hike at different points in the park. The visitor's center was kind of blah, but it did have some good information about the different types of rocks, wild life, and plants found in the park.

Amanda H — Google review

Delicate Arch, Stunning sunset view. It's about 3 miles of moderate hike. Must visit. No luck with the sunrise view 😔 but the early morning hike was great too!

Pasang S — Google review

4.8

(26734)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (203)

5.0

(10993)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (204)

Utah, USA

(435) 719-2299

29

Landscape Arch

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Scenic spot

Nature & Parks

The Landscape Arch in Arches National Park is the longest sandstone span, measuring 290 ft. It can be reached via the Devils Garden trail, which offers a choose-your-own-adventure experience with seven different arches to see. These include Partition, Navajo, Double O, Private, Pine Tree, and Tunnel Arches. For a shorter hike of just 1.9 miles, visitors can reach the Landscape Arch - believed to be the world's longest natural stone archway.

Excellent hike! Such great views during the whole thing. The Arch is even more impressive in person. While we were there the ice on the trails was manageable without traction devices but I would recommend having them at least.

Sean M — Google review

We hiked through the Devil's Garden to get to the Landscape Arch. It was 1.7 miles out and back. Interestingly enough, this Arch was originally supposed to be named the Delicate Arch, which makes sense, but the park creator named the wrong arch, so they came up with the Landscape Arch for this one. In any event, what a cool arch and hike.

A R — Google review

This is a great trail to take the family on. It would seem to be wheelchair accessible as most of the trail has been paved. I remember when the trail used to go up closer to Landscape Arch, but I can definitely understand why they have pushed the trail further back and fenced it off. Nobody seems to listen to the whole "stay on the trail" markers. Very frustrating. But overall this is a great and easy trail for anyone. Very picturesque. You can continue on the trail and see more arches from there if you'd like. There's not a lot of elevation difference so the trail stays relatively flat the whole time and makes it a good trail for kids. There is also a restroom at the trailhead.

A P — Google review

It's a nice arch, biggest span in the park I believe. The Devil's Glen Trail leading to it is very nice. I went late in the day, and the sun was behind the arch making it very difficult to see. Better to do this hike in the morning.

Michael W — Google review

Nice hike of the first part of the fill devil's garden loop. About 1.8mi to the arch and back. Trail is easy, mostly flat with some inclined areas. Winder afternoons the trail can be chilly as it gets shaded by the rock walls.Parking available but will get filled quickly in peak times. Bathroom at the trailhead.

Jamila — Google review

Plan to visit the Pine Tree Arch, Tunnel Arch and the Landscape Arch. It's worth the hike and you will be amazed. The rock formation is mind blowing. It got extremely windy and we couldn't walk for like 10mins due to dust storm. Secure your hats!!

Pruthvi K — Google review

Where's the hike but take plenty of water and use sunscreen. Most of the hike is on hard surface but it plenty of ups and downs and hardly no shade and the current 100+ degrees makes it that more difficult. When you do finally make it to this famous arch there is very fine sand trail which makes the last push to see the arch in all its grandeur a bit difficult for some.

Manuel O — Google review

The scale of the arch is hard to imagine up until you're looking it in the face. It's so cool, and the hike is quite easy!

Kade D — Google review

1.9 miles out and back. 252 ft elevation gain. Get here early and see the magic of the Sun. Fun hike. But don’t stop here keep going to Double O Arch.

Mike T — Google review

Shortest hike to see a magnificent arch. However, the best part is the Primitive Trail. The arch is very heavy trafficked and akin to Disney with all of people; but you need to see it! After you view it, back down and go on the Primitive Trail. Stupendous views and exceptionally quiet. Best place to see the fins up close and personal.

Katy R — Google review

The trail path to Landscape Arch is flat and boring, but the views make it worth it. You get to see the easy part of devil's garden, and the don't miss it before it breaks Landscape Arch.Although short and easy, summer heat can make this tail quite hard. I did it at 3PM, after Fiery Furnace, and my kids had a hard time getting to the end. Maybe I shouldn't have made them take the detour to Tunnel and Pine tree arches.

Alfonso P — Google review

Landscape Arch is incredibly beautiful at sunrise. The arch is very thin and the longest arch in the park. The trail is well use and not dog friendly. Don't forget to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear a hat!

Stormy C — Google review

This was amazing. I had a buddy who was here in 2007 and I sent him a picture. He says it is in the exact same shape. How could this thin piece of rock not be eroded away in this time? Simply created well. I got a great pic from the primitive trail. Just walk down a bit until you see it clearly.

Jerry O — Google review

If you're able & you brought lots of water do the entire Devil's Garden trail, you will not be disappointed. One of the best hikes in Utah imo.

Juston L — Google review

4.9

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4.5

(572)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (211)

U.S. 191, Moab, UT 84532, USA

(435) 719-2299

30

Colorado River & Trail Expeditions

Raft trip outfitter

Tours

Canoe & kayak tour agency

Tour operator

River Rafting & Tubing

Day Trips

Had a fantastic amazing time River Rafting in the Colorado River. Visiting Moab, Utah! Gorgeous weather! Our Tour Guides were amazing! We were celebrating my future Daughter-in-laws bachelorettes party!! One of my best memorable weekends!!! We had a blast!!! This is a must visit place! Great adventure!

Chicago L — Google review

Just finished an 8 day Grand Canyon Float with CRATE and it was probably the coolest thing I have ever done!!! CRATE and their guides are top notch in every way. Would not float with anyone else!!! I highly recommend CRATE!!!

Matthew V — Google review

I can't correctly describe our experience with CRATE. We just got off a 4day row /ranch trip with Sebrina as head of crew and KC or Cassie as our row guide. I came to row so I chose to row as much as possible. IT WAS FANTASTIC! IT WAS AMAZING! It was something I will never forget and something I intend to do every year until my bones push up daisies! The best rafting trip and crew I have ever been on... Thank you!

D. S — Google review

Did 6 day women's solstice raft on green river. Great experience. Ģuides were superb - accomplished boatmen as well as great cooks, fun to be with. Good hikes with local interpretation. Very accommodating for All fitness levels. I recommend this company highly. They couldn't be nicer or more sincere. The scenery is spectacular and there are good wildlife watching opportunities.

Miriam D — Google review

Wow, I cannot say ENOUGH how amazing CRATE was for my August 2018 trip. I've always wanted to raft the Grand Canyon and I couldn't imagine doing it without this family-owned company. From the amazing pre-trip orientation with Bonnie at our hotel in Vegas, the comfortable bus ride out to Fredonia and of course our ABSOLUTELY AMAZING Boat Captains, Walker, and Johnny Ringo, but our Swampers were out of this world too, Yendor, Nayr and Robbie. These folks made our trip truly life-changing, interesting, and fun from the minute we met them at the warehouse. Not ONLY were they completely patient with those on our trip who weren't used to rafting, but they answered every stupid question un-related to rafting that we had-about the animals, their personal lives, stars, planets, their best stories, nothing was off limits with them. Walker's knowledge and obvious passion for the river and his stewardship of the Colorado and the Canyon are apparent in every conversation and action. His ability to make you feel completely comfortable with him from the first minute you meet him, and to make the canyon feel as much like home to us as it is to him, is one that not many have. Johnny Ringo, well, if you've met the man then no explanation needed :D A great personality and hilarious, sometimes subtle, sense of humor and his obvious geology nerdery made his boat fun for all. The fact that he too embraces a costume at camp made us kindred spirits. Yendor, Nayr, and Robbie-the best swampers we could have asked for! Always willing to help, always willing to laugh and so helpful with all the things. The side trips, the waterfalls, the hikes, the out-of-this-world-couldn't-possibly-be-real views, the histories, the connection to place...all happened because of the care that CRATE puts into and behind their business. You know that it is a passion for them first and a business endeavor second. EVERY thought was taken care of: comfortable cots with sleeping pads/bags, ground cover, chairs with backs and MY GOD THE FOOD! I don't eat that well when I'm at home, never would have expected I would eat better/more while on a secluded river trip. There's not enough that I could say about this company, they are amazing in every sense of the word and I cannot wait to get back on to the river with them! And awaaaaaaaaay we go!

Savannah R — Google review

Fantastic trip down Desolation Canyon this July! Thanks to guides Phoebe, Max, Bela, Chase, and Dylan.

Sandra K — Google review

Nice river

Peter H — Google review

4.9

(8)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (212)

5.0

(230)33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (213)

255 1000 N, Green River, UT 84525, USA

(800) 253-7328

33 Best Stops Between San Antonio and Provo (2024)
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