A Memorable Road Trip: Top Five Popular Attractions from Carrollton, Missouri to North Las Vegas, Nevada

Do you love the freedom of the open road? There is so much joy in exploring new places, marveling at natural beauty, and discovering local gems. If you're planning a road trip from Carrollton, Missouri to North Las Vegas, Nevada, we’re here to help! From capturing breathtaking views to indulging in culture, here are our Top Five Popular Attractions to consider:

Halfway Point: Dillon, CO

Before we dive into the top attractions, let's talk about the halfway point of your journey: Dillon, CO. Located at the heart of Summit County, Dillon is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and situated on the shoreline of the idyllic Lake Dillon. It is a quaint mountain town that will give you more than enough reasons to stay for a day or two. From sailing and kayaking to hiking and biking, Dillon has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. If you're more interested in local history and culture, check out the Dillon Schoolhouse Museum. It's an 1883 schoolhouse that now houses artifacts and tales from the area's past. In town, you can find charming coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques, perfect for a stroll or casual shopping.

Now, with that being said, let's move to our Top Five Popular Attractions.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Your route will take you right near Rocky Mountain National Park, and we highly recommend taking a detour to explore this natural wonder. This park is known for its jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 350 miles of hiking trails, the possibilities are endless. However, we suggest driving the Trail Ridge Road, which takes you to more than 12,000 feet above sea level and offers jaw-dropping vistas. If you want to get up close with wildlife, take a guided tour or keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, elk, or bear.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT

Bryce Canyon National Park should be on everyone's list of places to go in the western United States. It’s a vibrant, natural amphitheater that is not a canyon at all but a collection of natural amphitheaters. There are several trails to explore, but the most famous one is the Queen's Garden Trail. It descends from the rim through a stunning forest of hoodoos, spires of rock that have been shaped by erosion. This park is also an ideal stargazing destination. Here, you can do more than just look at the stars, as rangers organize telescope observation programs, which are an excellent way to experience the night sky.

3. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

It's no surprise that the Grand Canyon made it to this list. One of the world's most famous natural wonders, visiting the Grand Canyon will offer you views like you've never seen before. Its sheer size and splendor make it a must-visit location for adventurous travelers. There are several ways to explore the park, including hiking, river rafting, horseback riding, or helicopter tours. If you are planning to hit the trails, we recommend the Bright Angel Trail. This trail is traveled by mules and offers sweeping views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River.

4. Hoover Dam, NV

As you cross into Nevada, make sure you stop at the Hoover Dam. This engineering marvel was completed in 1935 and changed the course of the Colorado River. It's a great place to learn about the Hoover Dam's history and its operations, and it's only a short drive from North Las Vegas. If you have the time, take one of the tours available, and make your way down to the base of the dam. You'll experience its massive scale and learn more about the scale of the project.

5. Red Rocks Canyon National Conservation Area, NV

Before you reach your final destination, make sure you stop at the Red Rocks Canyon National Conservation Area. It's a peaceful escape from the bright lights of Las Vegas and is known for its towering red-rock formations, sweeping vistas, and unique desert wildlife. We recommend hiking one of the park's many trails that range in difficulty from easy to challenging. Or, take a scenic drive through the park and stop by the Visitor Center to learn about the area's geology and native history.

Conclusion

Traveling by road between Carrollton, Missouri, and North Las Vegas, Nevada, is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. By adding our top attractions to your itinerary, you'll witness the stunning beauty of the western United States. From the mountainous terrain of Colorado to the vast desert wilderness of Nevada, this road trip offers the perfect mix of adventure, history, and natural wonder. Don't forget to take breaks, stay hydrated, and enjoy the views!