7-Day Colorado to California Road Trip
From Mountain Peaks to Pacific Shores – The Ultimate RV Adventure
Start in the mountains and end by the ocean on this unforgettable 7-day Colorado to California road trip. From Denver’s alpine charm to the coastal glow of Los Angeles, you’ll wind through Utah’s desert skies, Arizona’s golden canyons, and dramatic desert landscapes. With spontaneous camping spots, scenic roads, and no marathon drives, this 1,200-mile one-way journey strikes the perfect balance of adventure and ease. Rent your RV, hit play on your road trip soundtrack, and let the journey unfold.
Route: Denver ➤ Moab ➤ Monument Valley ➤ Flagstaff ➤ Joshua Tree ➤ Los Angeles
Distance: Approximately 1,200 miles
Duration: 7 Days
Landmarks & Scenic Spots: Arches National Park, Capitol Reef Scenic Byway, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), Route 66 in Flagstaff, Joshua Tree National Park, Santa Monica Pier
Best Travel Time: May to October (ideal weather in both the Rockies and desert; avoid snow in spring and extreme heat mid-summer)
Tolls & Fees: Expect occasional tolls near Denver (E-470). National park entry fees apply; an America the Beautiful pass is recommended if visiting multiple parks.
Stop 1: Denver, Colorado
Our recommendation: 1 day
Denver is the perfect launch point for your RV rental in Denver — a mountain-fringed city that blends craft culture with wide-open energy. It’s an ideal first stop for adventure seekers and first-time RV travelers to stock up, settle in, and get ready to head west into the wild.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre – Famous for its outdoor concerts, this red rock canyon also offers scenic hiking trails and jaw-dropping views just outside the city.
- Mount Falcon Park – A mellow hike through Colorado foothills with panoramic views of Denver and the Rockies — perfect for adjusting to the altitude.
- City Park – A local favorite for relaxing walks, skyline views, and lakeside picnic spots to ease into your road trip pace.
Local Culture
- RiNo Arts District – This walkable creative hub is bursting with murals, microbreweries, and food halls — ideal for stretching your legs and grabbing a bite.
- Denver Art Museum – With bold architecture and engaging exhibits, it’s a great cultural stop for art lovers of all levels.
- Meow Wolf – Convergence Station – Step into a massive, immersive art world that feels part sci-fi playground, part psychedelic dreamscape.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- City, O’ City (V, VG, GF) – Creative vegetarian comfort food with oat milk lattes, hearty burritos, and waffles — perfect for plant-based travelers.
- Bodega Denver – Elevated deli-style sandwiches and crispy hash browns make this a fast and satisfying stop before hitting the road.
- Stowaway Kitchen (V, VG options) – A peaceful brunch café with Aussie-Japanese fusion dishes and a sunny patio that’s perfect for slow mornings.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Root Down (V, VG, GF) – Globally inspired plates served in a converted gas station with a funky vibe and menus to suit nearly every dietary need.
- Santo (GF options) – A flavorful Northern New Mexican kitchen offering cozy classics like green chile stew and tamales with allergy-friendly options.
- The Wolf’s Tailor (V, GF on request) – A splurge-worthy tasting experience that fuses local ingredients with Japanese and Italian influences — ideal for foodies starting their adventure in style.
Stop 2: Moab, Utah
Our recommendation: 1 day
As you leave the alpine air of Denver behind, Moab welcomes you with heat, color, and surreal terrain. This high-desert playground is made for hikers, photographers, and desert dreamers — a bold shift into red rock country that feels like stepping onto another planet.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Arches National Park – Famous for its iconic rock formations and golden-hour hikes. Don’t miss the Windows section or the sunset view at Delicate Arch.
- Dead Horse Point State Park – An easy-access overlook with sweeping canyon views. Perfect for sunrise or a peaceful picnic between hikes.
- Colorado River Scenic Byway (UT-128) – A gorgeous riverside drive with red cliffs and RV-friendly pull-offs — great for photo ops and slower-paced afternoons.
Local Culture
- Moab Museum – A small but thoughtful stop to explore the region’s Indigenous heritage, geology, and wild outdoor history.
- Gallery Moab – Local art co-op with desert-inspired paintings, photography, and handmade goods. Often affordable and easy to browse.
- Moab Giants Dinosaur Park – Life-size dino statues, a 3D theater, and fossil exhibits. A fun and educational stop for kids (or dino-loving adults).
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- Love Muffin Café (V, VG, GF) – A go-to for strong coffee, smoothie bowls, and breakfast burritos. Fuel up early for your desert adventures.
- Quesadilla Mobilla (V, GF options) – A local food truck favorite offering bold flavors and quick service with vegetarian-friendly swaps.
- Sweet Cravings Bakery + Bistro (V, GF options) – Sandwiches, wraps, and baked goods with lots of gluten-free and veggie choices.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Desert Bistro (GF options) – Upscale Southwestern cuisine in a laid-back setting. Ideal for a slow, celebratory night out after a big hike.
- 98 Center (V, VG, GF) – Vietnamese-fusion menu with pho, banh mi, and plenty of plant-based options. A fresh surprise in the desert.
- The Broken Oar (GF, DF options) – Rustic and welcoming with burgers, BBQ, and hearty comfort food. Great for families and larger groups.
Stop 3: Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
Our recommendation: 1 day
After Moab’s intensity, Capitol Reef offers a welcome quiet — fewer crowds, gentler trails, and a rhythm that invites you to slow down. Ideal for laid-back explorers and solitude seekers, this underrated national park blends desert stillness with unexpected surprises, like fruit orchards tucked beneath towering cliffs.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Scenic Drive (Capitol Gorge & Grand Wash) – A relaxing route through red rock canyons with optional short hikes at the end. Easy, beautiful, and photo-ready.
- Hickman Bridge Trail – A short but satisfying hike to a towering natural arch. Balanced elevation and sweeping views make it a park favorite.
- Fruita Historic District & Orchards – A quiet green valley with old homesteads, deer sightings, and seasonal fruit picking under the cliffs.
Local Culture
- Gifford Homestead – Famous for its mini fruit pies, handmade jams, and rustic charm. A must-stop for a sweet snack and local crafts.
- Ripple Rock Nature Center (seasonal) – Family-friendly learning space with fossils, touch tables, and junior ranger fun during the warmer months.
- Wayne County Visitor Center (Torrey) – A small but informative stop for maps, history, and tips before heading deeper into central Utah.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- Austin’s Chuckwagon Deli (V, GF options) – Road-ready sandwiches and wraps from a general store–style deli. Quick, reliable, and right in Torrey.
- The Wild Rabbit Café (V, VG, GF) – Smoothies, avocado toast, and pastries in a cozy café with a laid-back patio — great for slow mornings.
- Slackers Burger Joint (GF options) – Casual roadside stop for burgers, fries, and shakes. Offers gluten-free buns and fast service.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Hunt & Gather Restaurant (GF, DF options) – Seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients and flexible options. Ideal for a relaxed, refined evening meal.
- Red Cliff Restaurant (V, GF options) – Comfort food in a scenic setting with vegetarian choices and a peaceful patio.
- Café Diablo (GF, DF) – Creative Southwestern cuisine with bold flavors and desert views. A longtime local favorite worth lingering over.
Stop 4: Page, Arizona
Our recommendation: 1 day
From Capitol Reef’s quiet canyons, Page reintroduces drama — but this time, with water. Ideal for photographers, paddlers, and anyone chasing iconic landscapes, this desert town delivers slot canyons carved by light, lake views that stretch forever, and that first hint of Southwest sun-soaked adventure.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Antelope Canyon (Upper & Lower) – Famous slot canyons with swirling sandstone walls. Tours must be booked in advance with a local guide.
- Horseshoe Bend – A short and popular walk to one of the most iconic views of the Colorado River. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best light.
- Lake Powell – Paddle, rent a boat, or simply enjoy the shoreline. A perfect way to cool off after exploring the desert terrain.
Local Culture
- John Wesley Powell Museum – A small but informative museum focused on river expeditions, geology, and Glen Canyon’s early history.
- Glen Canyon Dam Overlook – A quick scenic stop with panoramic views of the dam and interpretive signs about the region’s water story.
- Page Community Market (seasonal) – Local farmers’ market featuring handmade goods, fresh produce, and regional snacks if you’re there on the right day.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- BirdHouse (GF options) – Crispy fried chicken, rice bowls, and gluten-free options. Fast, flavorful, and perfect after a hike.
- Into the Grand (V, GF, DF options) – Evening takeout with a twist: enjoy Navajo cuisine alongside live cultural performances and storytelling.
- Nomad Café (V, VG, GF) – Espresso drinks, smoothies, and hearty grain bowls with plenty of plant-based and gluten-free choices.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- El Tapatio (GF, DF options) – Generous portions of Mexican comfort food in a friendly, lively space. Great for groups and families.
- Bonkers Restaurant (V, GF options) – A casual indoor-outdoor spot with a varied menu, including gluten-free pastas and vegetarian mains.
- State 48 Tavern (GF options) – Laid-back pub fare with burgers, beers, and gluten-free options. Ideal for winding down your desert day.
Stop 5: Las Vegas, Nevada
Our recommendation: 1 day
After days of sandstone silence, Las Vegas explodes onto the scene with neon lights, late-night eats, and high-voltage energy. Whether you’re craving a bit of luxury or just a real bed, this stop is perfect for recharging — or going all in — before the road winds back to nature.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – A stunning scenic drive with short hikes just 30 minutes from the Strip. Ideal for a sunrise visit or a quiet escape between city adventures.
- Springs Preserve – Tranquil desert gardens, trails, and resident tortoises close to downtown. A peaceful option for families or anyone needing a slower pace.
Local Culture
- Neon Museum – Vintage neon signs come to life in this glowing outdoor gallery. Visit at dusk for the full effect.
- The Mob Museum – Dive into Vegas’ shady past with interactive exhibits, a crime lab simulation, and a hidden speakeasy — all housed in a historic courthouse.
- Fremont Street Experience – A throwback downtown Vegas spectacle with zip lines, street performers, and a canopy of 12 million LEDs. Loud, wild, and worth a walk-through.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- Tacotarian (V, VG, GF) – Flavor-packed vegan tacos with bold sauces and plant-based meats. Casual, fun, and filling.
- Eggslut (GF options) – Famous for rich egg sandwiches on brioche or gluten-free bread. A fast and satisfying pit stop.
- Cinnaholic (V, GF options) – Customizable vegan cinnamon rolls with decadent toppings and gluten-free bases. Great for dessert or a sugar-fueled break.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Lotus of Siam (GF, DF options) – Award-winning Thai cuisine with a wide selection of allergy-conscious dishes. Spicy, authentic, and beloved by locals.
- Esther’s Kitchen (V, GF options) – Rustic Italian eats in the Arts District, featuring vegan pasta options and inventive vegetable sides.
- True Food Kitchen (V, VG, GF, DF, AF) – A stylish spot for fresh, seasonal meals that cater to nearly every dietary preference — perfect for a clean and nourishing reset.
Stop 6: Joshua Tree, California
Our recommendation: 1 day
Trading Vegas lights for desert starlight, Joshua Tree feels like stepping into a dream — quiet, strange, and deeply magnetic. Ideal for stargazers, climbers, and spiritual resetters, this otherworldly landscape invites you to slow down, look up, and tune in.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Hidden Valley Trail – A short, family-friendly loop through surreal rock formations. Great for beginner climbers, sunset photos, and stretching your legs after long drive days.
- Keys View – Sweeping panorama over the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault, with clear-day views all the way to Mexico. Magical at sunset.
- Cholla Cactus Garden – A field of glowing “teddy bear” cholla, best visited during sunrise or sunset when the desert floor lights up in gold.
Local Culture
- Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum – A free, open-air art space filled with large-scale sculptures built from salvaged materials by a visionary local artist.
- Joshua Tree Certified Farmers’ Market (Saturday only) – Handcrafted goods, fresh produce, and warm desert town energy. Worth timing your visit if possible.
- Sky’s The Limit Observatory & Nature Center (seasonal events) – Volunteer-led stargazing nights with telescopes and celestial storytelling under some of the darkest skies in California.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- Natural Sisters Café (V, VG, GF) – Smoothies, wraps, and sweet treats with plenty of plant-based and gluten-free options. A healthy favorite for locals and travelers alike.
- Crossroads Café (V, GF options) – A cozy roadside stop with filling breakfasts, tasty lunch plates, and flexible subs for most diets.
- Joshua Tree Coffee Company – Strong espresso, micro-roasted beans, and a casual walk-up vibe. Perfect for a quick morning boost.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Pappy & Harriet’s (GF options) – A legendary desert roadhouse in nearby Pioneertown offering live music, BBQ, and unbeatable atmosphere.
- La Copine (V, GF, DF options) – Elevated diner fare with big flavors and plenty of vegan/gluten-free choices. A beloved local gem worth the detour.
- Kitchen in the Desert (V, GF options) – Caribbean-Southwest fusion with bold, creative dishes and relaxed outdoor dining in nearby Twentynine Palms.
Stop 7: Los Angeles, California
Our recommendation: 1 day
After seven days on the road, Los Angeles marks more than just the final stop — it’s your moment to exhale. Whether you’re unwinding by the Pacific or diving into the city’s creative pulse, LA gives you time to soak in what this Colorado to California road trip has been: mountains, canyons, deserts, stars — and the freedom to chase every mile on your terms. You’ll also find a roadsurfer rental station in Los Angeles, making it easy to drop off your RV and explore the city hands-free.
Things to Do
Natural Highlights
- Venice Beach & Boardwalk – A classic SoCal experience with ocean views, street performers, skate parks, and sandy stretches perfect for relaxing or people-watching.
- Griffith Park & Observatory – Hike to the Hollywood Sign or explore the observatory for some of the best panoramic views in LA.
- Santa Monica Pier – Iconic pier with amusement rides, casual eats, and perfect sunset photo ops over the Pacific Ocean.
Local Culture
- The Broad – Contemporary art museum known for bold installations and immersive experiences. Free to enter with a timed reservation.
- LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) – The largest art museum in the western U.S., home to diverse exhibits ranging from ancient works to modern pieces.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – A fun and touristy stroll among the stars. Pair it with a scenic drive along Mulholland for that classic LA skyline moment.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites & Takeaway
- Gjusta (V, GF options) – Trendy Venice bakery and deli offering hearty sandwiches, fresh juices, and gluten-free options in a casual, buzzy setting.
- Gracias Madre (V, VG, GF) – Upscale, organic Mexican cuisine with a plant-based twist and a dreamy outdoor patio in West Hollywood.
- Tocaya Organica (V, VG, GF) – A local favorite for fast-casual tacos, burritos, and bowls with vegan proteins and dairy-free sauces.
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Republique (V, GF options) – A lively, stylish space for modern French-Californian cuisine. Perfect for brunch or a celebratory last-night meal.
- Little Pine (V, VG, GF) – Sleek, 100% vegan comfort food in Silver Lake. Creative seasonal plates and a great final treat for plant-based travelers.
- Great White Venice (V, GF options) – Aussie-inspired coastal dining just blocks from the beach. Think fish tacos, grain bowls, and excellent coffee.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Colorado to California RV Road Trip
These are the key tips to help you prepare for your Colorado to California RV adventure — from timing your trip to staying safe in remote landscapes.
- Best Time to Go: May through October offers the best weather balance — after snow season in the Rockies and before peak heat in the desert. Spring and fall are ideal for smaller crowds and mild temps.
- Tolls & Entry Fees: Expect tolls near Denver. Use a mobile app or check the Colorado ExpressToll website. National and state parks charge between $10–$35 per vehicle. For unlimited access, consider the America the Beautiful Pass.
- Gas Stops & Supplies: Fill up often — especially across Utah and northern Arizona, where towns are spread out. Always keep at least half a tank and bring extra water, snacks, and a backup meal before remote stretches like Capitol Reef or Lake Powell.
- Time Zones: You’ll pass through Mountain Time (Colorado/Utah), Arizona (no daylight savings), and Pacific Time (Nevada/California). Double-check tour times and campground check-ins.
- What to Pack: From desert heat to cool mountain mornings, layers are key. For a complete list of essentials, check out our RV camping packing list.
From high elevations to desert heat, here’s how to stay safe and respectful as you explore the wild terrain between Colorado and California.
- Altitude Awareness: Denver sits at 5,280 feet, and you’ll reach even higher elevations in the Rockies. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol on day one, and give your body time to adjust if you’re coming from sea level.
- Leave No Trace: Always follow the 7 Leave No Trace principles — stick to trails, pack out trash, and never feed wildlife. These are especially important in remote parks like Capitol Reef and Joshua Tree.
- Desert Prep: In Utah, Arizona, and Southern California, dehydration is a real risk. Pack more water than you think you’ll need, wear a hat, and avoid hiking during peak sun hours.
- Wildlife Safety: You may spot elk, bighorn sheep, or bears in Colorado. Read the National Park Service’s wildlife safety tips and always store food securely in bear country.
Camping with an RV gives you freedom, but popular destinations require some planning. Here’s how to secure your spot and stay campground-smart.
- Reserve Early: Campgrounds at Moab, Capitol Reef, Lake Powell, and Joshua Tree fill up fast. Use Recreation.gov to book ahead on public lands.
- Road Conditions: Most routes are well maintained, but always check Colorado road conditions and monitor Utah emergency updates for flash flood warnings. Cell service is limited in many areas — download offline maps.
- Quiet Hours & Etiquette: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Respect your neighbors by keeping noise down, lights low, and using only designated fire rings. Always pack out your trash.
- Bonus Tip: After dropping off your RV at the Los Angeles roadsurfer station, head to the coast. Don’t miss our list of the best beaches in Los Angeles for one last golden-hour moment.
Your Colorado to California RV Adventure Starts Here!
From Denver’s alpine charm to the golden glow of the Pacific, discover stunning national parks, desert landscapes, and unforgettable stops on a 7-day Colorado to California road trip. Rent your RV and hit the road with total freedom./p>