Our family’s 25-day motorhome road trip from Los Angeles to Denver turned out to be an unforgettable journey packed with stunning landscapes, fascinating landmarks, and incredible family experiences. Traveling in a rented RV was the perfect choice for this adventure, giving us the flexibility to explore at our own pace and the convenience of always having our "home on wheels" with us. For anyone considering such a trip, careful road trip planning and using a solid route planner are key to making the most of every stop.
We kicked off our adventure in Los Angeles with a visit to the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, a must-see spot where the kids excitedly searched for their favorite stars. From there, we drove along the spectacular California coastline, stopping at Big Sur Way, where the views of the rugged cliffs and the Pacific Ocean left us in awe. We detoured to The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, which had everyone marveling at its gravity-defying illusions—fun for all ages!
As we made our way north, we couldn’t resist visiting Alcatraz Island in San Francisco. Taking the Alcatraz Cruises gave us a glimpse into the infamous prison’s history, while the view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the boat was postcard-perfect. From there, our motorhome took us inland to Yosemite National Park, where we spent a day biking through Yosemite Valley—a family-friendly way to experience the grandeur of El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.
Crossing Tioga Road, we discovered the stark beauty of the high Sierra and ventured onto the Mono Pass Trailhead, where short hikes revealed serene alpine lakes. As the landscape shifted, we explored the otherworldly Moon Caves Slot Canyons before heading to Antelope Canyon in Arizona. A guided tour through the swirling sandstone formations left us speechless; the canyon felt like walking through a natural cathedral of light and stone.
Driving along the scenic US Route 89, we stopped at the Young Living Lavender Farm in Utah. This peaceful spot was a sensory delight with its fragrant fields and hands-on family-friendly experiences, including learning how essential oils are made. Next, we arrived at Salt Lake City’s Natural History Museum of Utah, a fantastic blend of interactive exhibits and breathtaking architecture, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
The journey north led us to Yellowstone National Park, where the magic of Old Faithful captivated us. The park’s geothermal features, wildlife sightings, and rugged beauty made it one of the highlights of the trip. From there, we climbed the breathtaking Beartooth Highway, often referred to as one of America’s most scenic drives. The kids loved spotting wildlife along the route, and the snow-capped peaks were a surreal sight.
Next, we ventured into the iconic American West with stops at Devils Tower and Mount Rushmore, where history and nature collide in a way that captures the imagination of visitors of all ages. The nearby Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road offered up-close encounters with herds of bison and pronghorns, creating some of the best photo ops of the entire trip.
Finally, we wrapped up our journey in Denver, spending our last day strolling through the serene Denver Botanic Gardens. It was the perfect way to unwind after a road trip full of adventure.
This cross-country journey demonstrated how much there is to explore and enjoy as a family when you take the time to plan a well-thought-out route. Traveling by motorhome allowed us to balance exploration with comfort, turning the journey into a shared experience we’ll never forget. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first campervan adventure, this route is an ideal way to discover the wonders of the American West with your family.
