Back in my younger days, I never imagined I’d set foot in America. In my mind, it was a land of cold skyscrapers, crowded streets, and unfamiliar faces. But life always takes unexpected turns, and work brought me here. America unfolded before my eyes, completely different from what I had pictured. Wide-open highways replaced narrow streets, and the majestic nature captivated my heart, urging me to explore endless roads.
From snow-capped mountains to fiery red deserts, the American West awakened a spirit of adventure within me. I knew I would return. And I did, embarking on a 3-week road trip around the Grand Circle, a journey that changed my life forever.
I fell in love with a land of surreal landscapes
Overcoming Challenges, Conquering the Wild West
The American West is not an easy destination for beginners. Its wilderness and harshness can make you feel lonely and afraid. I still remember those nights driving through darkness, not a light to be seen, only the howling of wolves echoing from the cliffs. But it was these very challenges that brought me unforgettable experiences.
In exchange for those initial fears, I found peace and freedom amidst the vast nature. I felt small in the vast desert, and the majestic landscapes left me speechless. From sunrise to sunset, I roamed in the open space, enjoying my own glorious moments. The West poured into me golden sips of freedom, and I fell in love with it without even realizing it.
The road from Antelope Valley to Death Valley is deserted, with few people in sight
3-Week Grand Circle Itinerary
Three weeks is too short to explore all the beauty of the Grand Circle. However, it was enough for me to get an overview of this land and find my favorite destinations. Among them, the Cathedral Valley Capitol Reef hiking trail is one of the most memorable experiences.
To help you have a fulfilling trip, I would like to share my detailed itinerary, along with useful experiences and tips.
Map of the Grand Circle road trip route
Days 1-2: Los Angeles and Antelope Valley
Start your journey in Los Angeles, and take time to explore the city and shop for essentials for the trip. Then, drive to Antelope Valley to admire the brilliant flower fields (if you visit during the blooming season).
Days 3-4: Death Valley National Park and Las Vegas
Death Valley is one of the most impressive national parks I have ever visited. It features sand dunes, salt flats, high mountains, and volcanoes, creating an incredibly diverse landscape. After exploring Death Valley, head to Las Vegas to experience the vibrant nightlife.
Antelope Valley in spring covered in orange as far as the eye can see
Days 5-6: Valley of Fire State Park and Zion National Park
Valley of Fire is a small but beautiful state park, with unique sandstone formations. Zion National Park, on the other hand, has more greenery and towering cliffs, creating a majestic setting.
Days 7-8: Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon is one of the most beautiful national parks in America, with orange hoodoos standing close together. Come here to watch the sunrise and sunset, you won’t be disappointed!
Bryce Canyon has the most magical sunrise among the places I have ever been
Days 9-10: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park
Arches National Park has over 2000 natural stone arches, while Canyonlands National Park is a collection of countless canyons formed by the erosion of the Colorado and Green Rivers.
Early morning at Dead Horse Point National Park
Day 11: Valley of the Gods, Goosenecks State Park, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley are symbols of the American Southwest. This place has been used as a filming location for hundreds of movies, music videos, magazine covers, etc.
Valley of the Gods echoes Monument Valley and is completely free
Days 12-14: Page, Antelope Canyon Navajo Tribal Park, Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend
Page is a small town near Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and Horseshoe Bend. Antelope Canyon is a stunning narrow canyon, while Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend have majestic landscapes.
Is it rock or wind? Lower Antelope Canyon
Days 15-17: Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon is the largest canyon in America, created by the erosion of the Colorado River. No lens can capture the majestic and overwhelming vastness of the scenery here.
Lee's Ferry, where people used to cross the Colorado River. Now it looks like a boat in a park
Days 18-21: Road 66, Joshua Tree National Park and Los Angeles
On the way back to Los Angeles, take time to explore the legendary Route 66 and Joshua Tree National Park, home to unique Joshua trees.
Cathedral Valley Capitol Reef Hiking Trail: A Hidden Gem
During my Grand Circle exploration, I was particularly impressed with the Cathedral Valley Capitol Reef hiking trail. This is a pristine and lesser-known area, located in Capitol Reef National Park in Utah. It is famous for its massive sandstone monoliths, shaped like ancient cathedrals.
To reach Cathedral Valley, you need to drive on rough dirt roads and cross the Fremont River. This requires a 4-wheel drive vehicle and off-road driving experience. However, these difficulties will be well rewarded when you witness the majestic and unspoiled beauty of Cathedral Valley.
Highlights on the Cathedral Valley Capitol Reef hiking trail:
- Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon: The two largest and most famous sandstone monoliths in Cathedral Valley.
- Glass Mountain: A hill made of selenite gypsum, capable of reflecting sunlight.
- Upper Cathedral Valley Overlook: A great viewpoint to admire the panoramic view of Cathedral Valley.
- Cathedral Valley Loop Tour: A loop road around Cathedral Valley, allowing you to explore all the highlights of this area.
Tips:
- The best time to explore Cathedral Valley is in spring or fall, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture memorable moments.
Useful Information For Your American West Trip
To make your trip smooth and memorable, I would like to share some useful information:
- Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the two best seasons to explore the Grand Circle.
- Purchase a park pass: If you plan to visit many national parks, purchase the America the Beautiful Pass to save costs.
- Accommodation: You can choose hotels, motels, or camping in national parks.
- Car rental: Rent a car suitable for the terrain you will be traveling through. If you want to explore Cathedral Valley, rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
- Reference cost: The total cost for a 3-week trip can range from $5000 to $7000 USD for 2 adults.
Books and maps of the remaining National Parks after the trip
Conclusion
The American West is a land full of wonders and surprises. From bustling cities to pristine wilderness, it has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. I hope this article has provided you with useful information to plan your trip. Don’t forget to explore the Cathedral Valley Capitol Reef hiking trail, a hidden gem waiting for you to discover!
If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Wishing you a fun and meaningful trip!