When people ask me about my favorite places in the world, I always share my love for the USA, particularly the Southwest. The big skies, vast landscapes, and rich history of the American Southwest have kept me coming back again and again.

Over the years, I’ve explored this stunning region, and every time I return, there’s something new to discover.

If you’re considering a USA trip, the Southwest offers some of the most memorable experiences. From hiking majestic trails to witnessing breathtaking sunsets, the Southwest travel experience is unlike any other.

So, if you’re planning a USA tour in 2025, here’s a list of 10 unforgettable things to do in the Southwest USA.

Ready for a month-by-month travel plan? Dive into the 2025 Tour USA itinerary now!

10 Things to Do in the Southwest USA

1. Watch a Sunset at the Grand Canyon

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with the best sunsets in spring and fall

Tourist Spot: Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Grand Canyon Village, Arizona

There’s no experience quite like witnessing a sunset over the Grand Canyon. The sight of the sun casting its warm, golden hues over the vast, multi-colored canyon walls is a memory you’ll cherish forever. Popular spots like Mather Point, Hopi Point, and Yavapai Point are perfect for catching the best views. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot!

2. Visit the Mighty 5 National Parks

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Tourist Spot: Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park

Location: Utah

Utah is home to five of the USA’s most stunning national parks collectively known as the Mighty 5. Each park is unique, offering vast red-rock landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and awe-inspiring geological formations.

Whether you’re hiking through Zion’s towering cliffs, marveling at the arch formations in Arches, or exploring the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the Mighty 5 offers an unparalleled Southwest experience. Visit in the spring or fall for optimal weather and fewer crowds.

3. Hike Angels Landing or The Narrows at Zion

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Tourist Spot: Angels Landing

Location: Springdale, Utah

Zion National Park is home to some of the most iconic hikes in the Southwest USA. If you’re up for a challenge, don’t miss the Angels Landing trail. It’s a tough 5-mile hike with breathtaking views at the top.

Hike the Narrows, a unique trail that takes you through the Virgin River. Whether you’re hiking in the river or scaling the cliffs, these trails promise unforgettable experiences.

Learn more about Zion National Park here!

4. Sunset Hike to Delicate Arch

Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall

Tourist Spot: Arches National Park

Location: Moab, Utah

No visit to Arches National Park is complete without hiking to Delicate Arch, Utah’s iconic rock formation. As you make your way to the arch, you’ll witness the rock changing colors as the light fades, making for an unforgettable sight.

Bring a picnic dinner, relax, and let the sunset light up the desert sky. It’s a magical moment that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of the American Southwest.

5. Hike the Navajo Loop at Bryce Canyon

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Tourist Spot: Bryce Canyon National Park

Location: Bryce, Utah

Bryce Canyon’s unique hoodoos and rock formations make it one of the most striking national parks in the Southwest USA. For a short but memorable hike, the Navajo Loop is the way to go. This 1.4-mile loop trail takes you down into the hoodoos, offering a completely different perspective of the park.

Add the Queens Garden Trail to extend the hike and enjoy more of Bryce’s surreal landscape.

6. Take a Tour of Monument Valley

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Tourist Spot: Monument Valley Tribal Park

Location: Arizona/Utah border

Monument Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes of the American Southwest. Known for its vast, flat terrain dotted with massive sandstone buttes, this 92,000-acre Tribal Park is located on the Arizona-Utah border. Take a guided Navajo tour to learn about the history and culture of the area while exploring its remote backcountry.

7. Play in the Dunes at White Sands National Park

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Tourist Spot: White Sands National Park

Location: Alamogordo, New Mexico

White Sands National Park is a hidden gem in the Southwest USA, offering a unique desert landscape. Unlike other desert areas, White Sands is covered in white gypsum dunes that look like snow in certain lighting.

To make the most of your visit, rent a waxed plastic saucer from the gift shop and slide down the dunes. Stay until sunset for a stunning view of the desert landscape bathed in golden light.

Keep sand out with high-top boots! Visit PowerShopr now to grab yours at an affordable price.

8. Hike at the Grand Canyon

Best Time to Visit: Year-round (avoid summer heat)

Tourist Spot: Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Grand Canyon Village, Arizona

While many people visit the Grand Canyon just to take in the views, the park also offers a wide range of hiking trails for every skill level. The Rim Trail offers easy, paved access with stunning views, while more challenging hikes like the South Kaibab and Bright Angel Trails take you deep into the canyon.

If you’re looking for a real adventure, try the Rim-to-Rim hike, a strenuous 24-mile journey across the canyon.

9. Raft the Colorado River

Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall

Tourist Spot: Colorado River (Westwater Canyon, Cataract Canyon, Grand Canyon)

Location: Arizona, Utah

Rafting the Colorado River is a thrilling way to experience the American Southwest. The river is the lifeblood of the Grand Canyon, carving out the canyon’s iconic formations. You can opt for everything from a half-day rafting trip to multi-day adventures that take you deep into the Grand Canyon.

Westwater Canyon and Cataract Canyon in Utah are popular spots for white-water rafting. A more relaxing float around Horseshoe Bend offers an easier ride.

10. Explore Slot Canyons in Page

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall

Tourist Spot: Antelope Canyon and other slot canyons

Location: Page, Arizona

Page, Arizona, is famous for its slot canyons, which are narrow, twisting passageways carved into the desert by flash floods. The most famous slot canyon is Antelope Canyon, known for its stunning light beams that shine down into the narrow passageways. To explore these canyons, you’ll need to take a guided tour, as they are located on Navajo land.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Lower Antelope Canyon, Canyon X, and Rattlesnake Canyon, each offering unique rock formations and light displays. These slot canyons are one of the most unique landscapes you’ll encounter on your Southwest trip.

Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy: What You Need to Know

When planning your Southwest travel, it’s essential to understand the airline’s baggage policy to avoid any surprises at the airport. Southwest Airlines is known for its generous baggage allowances. It is a popular choice for travelers heading to the American Southwest.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Each passenger is allowed two free checked bags. Items like golf bags and skis count toward the free baggage allowance if they meet weight and size limits.
• Each bag must not exceed 50 pounds in weight.
• Golf bags and ski equipment can be checked as part of the free baggage allowance if within weight limits.
• Ski equipment includes one set of skis or snowboards, poles, and boots. Southwest allows two bags of ski equipment to count as one item if tagged separately.
• Restrictions apply to oversized, overweight, or extra-checked bags for certain destinations. Check if your destination has specific embargo rules.

Learn more about Southwest’s baggage policy here!

Here are 5 of the best luggage bags from PowerShopr to carry on your Southwest USA adventure:

5 Best Luggage Bags to Carry on Your Southwest USA Trip

1. The North Face Women Jester Backpack

The luggage bag is ideal for adventures across the Southwest USA. Its water-repellent design is perfect for unpredictable desert rains, while the durable fabric withstands rugged trails in places like the Grand Canyon or Zion National Park. The ergonomic FlexVent™ Suspension system ensures comfort during long hikes or sightseeing trips.

Features:

• Durable Construction: Crafted with 300D heathered polyester for long-lasting use.
• Water-Repellent Material: Keeps your belongings dry in light rain.
• Spacious Main Compartment: Fits books, binders, and essentials.
• Laptop Sleeve: Protects devices up to 15 inches.
• Front Compartment: Stores small items like keys, pens, and phones.
• Dual Water Bottle Pockets: Ensures hydration on the go.
• Comfortable Design: FlexVent™ Suspension system with padded back panel, lumbar support, and shoulder straps.
• Easy to Carry: Two webbing top handles for grab-and-go convenience.
• Secure Closures: Durable zipper system.
• Enhanced Visibility: 360-degree reflectivity for safety in low-light settings.

The reflective details enhance safety during early morning or evening explorations. It is a reliable and versatile companion for discovering the Southwest’s stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks.

2. The North Face Women Terra 55 Backpack

The luggage bag is perfect for discovering the stunning landscapes of the Southwest USA. Its water-repellent material keeps essentials safe during sudden desert rains. The lightweight design reduces strain during long treks through iconic trails like the Grand Canyon.

The adjustable Dyno Lift System and OPTIFIT suspension provide a custom fit for navigating uneven terrains in Zion or Bryce Canyon.

Features:

• Material: Made with lightweight, durable 210D polyester.
• Water Resistance: Durable water-repellent coating keeps gear dry.
• Main Compartment: J-zip allows quick access to spacious storage.
• Additional Storage: Large front stash pocket for organized packing.
• Gear Carrying: Floating lid secures sleeping bags or tents.
• Hydration Compatibility: Integrated hydration sleeve.
• Comfort: Cushioned foam and mesh back panel for breathability.
• Adjustability: Dyno Lift System self-equalizes and adjusts on the go.
• Fit: OPTIFIT suspension ensures a snug, secure ride.
• Support: Molded hip belt and sternum strap enhance stability.

The hydration sleeve ensures you stay hydrated in arid conditions. This backpack ensures comfort and reliability for your Southwest escapades.

3. Magellan Outdoors 30L Hydration Technical Frame Backpack

The luggage bag is a perfect companion for discovering the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. Its 30-liter capacity offers ample space for essentials like maps, snacks, and extra layers. The 2-liter hydration reservoir ensures you stay hydrated in the arid desert heat.

Features:

• Durable Build: Polyester ripstop, water-resistant body, and polyester lining for long-lasting performance.
• Spacious Design: 30-liter main compartment with three total storage compartments and additional front pockets.
• Hydration Ready: Includes a 2-liter hydration reservoir and two side water bottle pockets.
• Comfortable Carrying: High-density foam shoulder straps, padded waist wings, and back panel for enhanced comfort.
• Secure Fit: Adjustable sternum strap and compression straps for stability on the move.
• Safety Features: Reflective elements and quick-lashing attachment points for increased visibility and accessibility.

The water-resistant ripstop polyester protects your gear from unexpected rain or rugged terrain. The padded straps and waist wings provide comfort during long hikes. Reflective details enhance safety when exploring at dusk, and the multiple compartments keep you organized.

4. Stansport 20 L Day Pack with Hydration Bladder

The Stansport 20 L Day Pack is perfect for exploring the diverse terrains of the Southwest USA. The luggage bag’s durable polyester construction withstands rugged trails in areas like the Grand Canyon or Sedona.

Features:

• Durable Construction: Made with double diamond ripstop polyester for long-lasting use.
• Hydration System: Equipped with a 2-liter reservoir, hose, and drinking port for easy hydration.
• Comfortable Fit: Includes waist belt and sternum strap for added stability.
• Ample Storage: Features a zippered stash pocket for secure storage of essentials.
• Ease of Carrying: Padded shoulder straps ensure comfort during extended use.

The integrated hydration system ensures you stay refreshed under the region’s dry heat. With a secure fit provided by the waist belt and sternum strap, you’ll remain comfortable as you trek through desert landscapes. The zippered stash pocket offers convenient storage for maps or snacks, making it an indispensable tool for your Southwest adventures.

5. Lee 30 in Rolling Duffel Bag

The Lee 30-inch Rolling Duffel Bag is a perfect companion for exploring the Southwest USA. Its durable nylon construction withstands rugged terrains and unpredictable weather. It ensures your belongings are safe throughout your journey. The telescoping handle and in-line wheels make it easy to navigate through busy airports or uneven desert paths.

Features:

• Durable Construction: Nylon material with a hard-molded shell ensures long-lasting use.
• Easy Maneuverability: A telescoping handle allows smooth handling and control.
• Comfortable Carrying: Nylon-wrapped soft strap makes carrying hassle-free.
• Effortless Movement: Two in-line wheels glide seamlessly across various surfaces.
• Secure Storage: Zippered closure protects and secures your items.

With its spacious interior and zippered closure, you can pack all your essentials securely, from hiking gear to souvenirs. The soft strap adds comfort when carrying it over shorter distances. This rolling duffel effortlessly adapts to the demands of your Southwest adventure, making travel stress-free and enjoyable.

Your Southwest trip will undoubtedly be filled with unforgettable moments, whether you’re hiking through Zion, watching a sunset over the Grand Canyon, or rafting the Colorado River. The American Southwest is a destination that offers something for everyone.

So, pack your bags, and get ready for some incredible outdoor experiences. Start planning your USA travel adventure to the Southwest in 2025.

Power Shop

Discover the ultimate destination for all your travel needs at PowerShopr! With top-quality materials, smooth-rolling wheels, and secure closures, the bags are built to withstand every journey. Don’t let packing stress hold you back. Shop at PowerShopr today and make every trip your best one yet!

TRENDING

THE LATEST