West USA Road Trip Journal & Guide ππ
βοΈ Day 1: Las Vegas Las Vegas is the classic starting point for a West Coast road trip β perfect for travelers needing to adjust after a long flight π¬. The city offers endless entertainment: Casinos β οΈ: Just pick one that catches your eye! Shows & Performances: From magic to music β thereβs even an official website listing all options π. Active Fun: Shooting ranges π―: Indoor and outdoor options. Some indoor ranges offer free shuttle service (check their websites). Outdoor ranges are usually in the suburbs and require a car. Climbing: Try Refuge Climbing Gym β huge facility, full equipment. A day pass is ~$25, and you can easily spend 5β6 hours there! π§ββοΈ βοΈ Day 2: Las Vegas β Zion National Park Drive: ~2.5 hours from LV to Springdale π£οΈ. Springdale is super close to the park β just 15 minutes to the Zion entrance ποΈ. Inside the park, you can drive or take the shuttle. We recommend parking at the Visitor Center and using the shuttle β itβs easier and stress-free! π Zion offers hikes for all levels. We arrived in the afternoon and chose the Overlook Trail β an easy, scenic 1-hour round trip with stunning valley views π. βοΈ Day 3: Zion β Angels Landing Hike Take the shuttle from the Visitor Center to Stop #6: The Grotto π. Angels Landing is the final segment of the West Rim Trail π§βοΈ. Permit required! You must enter the daily lottery one day in advance (search βAngels Landing Permitsβ). The Grotto β Scout Lookout: Moderate difficulty, but the scenery doesnβt change much β can feel repetitive. Scout Lookout β Angels Landing (Permit Section): This is the real challenge! πͺ¨ Narrow paths, steep drop-offs on both sides β hold the chains tightly at all times! Rangers may check permits randomly β we had one but saw no one (money wasted? π ). Dangerous: Hikers have died here β know your limits! β οΈ But the thrill and the breathtaking summit views are worth it β youβll see the whole valley and a mini Horseshoe Bend! π #RoadTripUSA #WestCoastAdventure #ZionNationalPark #LasVegas #HikingAngelsLanding #TravelSafe #NatureMeetsThrill