The Ultimate Road Trip: Big Sky to Phoenix

Are you looking for an adventure-packed road trip? The journey from Big Sky, Montana to Phoenix, Arizona offers scenic views, diverse landscapes and some of the best pit-stops you could imagine. Let’s dive into your options so you can plan your trip with ease.

Going South through Idaho

Distance: approx. 1,200 miles | Drive time: 20 hours

One option is to head south through Idaho. You’ll be welcomed with a rugged landscape, rolling hills, and stunning views of the Snake River. You can also take a detour to explore Boise on your way. A perfect pit-stop to stretch your legs, grab some food and enjoy the city life for a few hours. Don't forget to check out the world's largest Basque community within the city while you’re there! From Boise, you will continue your journey towards Utah where the scenery changes to beautiful canyons filled with red rocks. If you have time, we recommend visiting the Utah national parks (Bryce Canyon, Zion and Arches) before making your way to Phoenix.

The Scenic Route via Yellowstone

Distance: approx. 1,500 miles | Drive time: 24 hours

Want to see some of the most picturesque national parks in the United States? Head to Yellowstone National Park and experience one of the most beautiful places in the world. Most people fly or drive straight to Yellowstone, but if you're up for a road trip, this journey will not disappoint you. After a few days exploring the park, you can then continue the journey towards Grand Teton National Park. The breathtaking views of the mountains and clear lakes will leave you in awe. From here, head south via Rock Springs and explore the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, which is famous for its incredibly red cliffs. Finally, take a drive through Monument Valley and catch a sunset over the famous mittens before making your way to Phoenix.

The Direct Route via Salt Lake City

Distance: approx. 1,000 miles | Drive time: 16 hours

If your goal is to reach Phoenix as quickly as possible, this is the route for you. Head to Salt Lake City and discover the city’s beautiful downtown with its stunning Mormon temple and Tabernacle music hall. From Salt Lake City, you can continue on to Moab to see Arches National Park and the Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south towards Phoenix. This route provides you with a perfect balance of striking cities and natural beauty before reaching your final destination.

Where to stop on the way

No matter which route you choose, there are endless pit-stop options to break up the journey from Big Sky to Phoenix. Our top recommendations include Jackson Hole, WY, Zion National Park, UT, Monument Valley, UT, and Sedona, AZ. And if you're driving through Idaho, don't forget to stop by Boise and explore its vibrant nightlife and food scene.

Now that you have three options to choose from, take a look at your interests and plan your ultimate Big Sky to Phoenix road trip today. Get ready to hit the road and explore some of the most stunning landscapes in America. Safe travels!