
Days 1-3 — The Southwest Deserts & Canyons
~250–350 mi across this legLeave the low deserts behind and climb into the cooler, canyon-carved landscapes of northern Arizona.
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| Distance | 1,589 mi |
| Duration | 14 Days |
| Start / End | Phoenix, AZ to Billings, MT |
| States Crossed | Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana |
| Best Season | Late Spring to Early Fall (Summer is ideal for northern elevations) |
| Ideal For | Families, nature enthusiasts, and cross-country explorers |
Connecting the desert landscapes of the Southwest to the rugged peaks of the Northern Rockies, this 1,589 mi journey is a masterclass in geographical diversity. Traveling from Phoenix to Billings allows you to experience a dramatic shift in climate, flora, and topography. With 14 days on the calendar, you have ample time to embrace slow travel, letting the vast distances unfold at a comfortable pace without rushing through the transition from red rock canyons to alpine forests.
Because this route spans multiple states—Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana—it offers an extraordinary variety of activities. Whether you are looking for a scenic drive-through wildlife experience, a deep dive into natural caves, or a relaxing afternoon at a botanical garden, this trajectory delivers a well-rounded motorhome adventure.
To make the most of your 14 days, we recommend breaking the 1,589 mi drive into distinct regional stages. This prevents driver fatigue and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the changing landscapes. For the exact day-by-day stops and campground recommendations, check the full itinerary on RV PLANET.
Based on the rich data for this route, travelers can expect a highly diverse array of attractions. The itinerary data highlights an expansive collection of points of interest that cover a wide geographical footprint, offering inspiration for extended detours and cross-country variations.
Nature takes center stage on this trip. A major highlight is Bearizona Wildlife Park, offering a fantastic drive-thru experience starring wolves, bears, bison, and mountain goats. Water lovers can enjoy mind-blowing swimming and relaxation at Slide Rock State Park. The route also features stunning views at Mather Point Café and deep underground exploration at the Caverns of Sonora. For a peaceful afternoon, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center provides relaxation that is truly beyond imagination.
History and human ingenuity are woven throughout the journey. Notable landmarks mentioned in the route data include the Hoover Dam Parking Garage and Visitors Center, the Texas Capitol Visitors Center, and the Goldstone Deep Space Network Visitor Center. You will also find excellent opportunities for heritage tours and museum visits along the way.
When you are ready to park the RV and stretch your legs, the route offers plenty of vibrant stops. Enjoy a nostalgic meal at Peggy Sue's 50's Diner, or take in the neon sights at Seven Magic Mountains and the Las Vegas Strip. For panoramic views, The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod reimagines your experience from top to bottom. Active travelers will appreciate stops like Bright Angel Bicycles for two-wheeled exploration, alongside options for horseback riding, day tours, and even sailing or cruise terminal visits depending on your extended detours.
A 14-day timeline is optimal for a 1,589 mi trip. It allows you to average just over 110 miles per day, which is the perfect rhythm for a motorhome vacation. You will spend less time behind the wheel and more time exploring hiking areas, aquariums, zoos, and fine dining establishments.
Because this route concludes in Montana and involves high-elevation areas like Wyoming, the best time to travel is between late May and September. Traveling outside this window increases the risk of encountering snow, ice, and seasonal campground closures in the northern states.
This itinerary is incredibly versatile. The mix of traditional visits, caves, botanical gardens, and thrilling wildlife parks makes it perfect for families with children. Meanwhile, the scenic drives and fine dining options appeal to couples seeking a memorable cross-country getaway.
Planning a one-way trip from Phoenix to Billings requires careful attention to your rental agreement. Because you are dropping the vehicle off in a different state, a one-way drop fee will apply. This fee varies by fleet operator but is a standard part of cross-country logistics.
Additionally, you will need to account for mileage. With a baseline of 1,589 mi, we highly recommend purchasing a pre-paid mileage package that covers at least 1,800 to 2,000 miles. This buffer ensures you can take scenic detours to places like Seven Magic Mountains or various state parks without incurring steep per-mile overage charges at the end of your trip. Whether you need a nimble Class B campervan for two or a spacious Class C motorhome for the whole family, booking early secures the best vehicle for your needs.
Ready to lock in your dates and hit the road? Head over to RV PLANET to view the complete day-by-day itinerary, check live availability, and book your perfect RV today.
See the full polyline, drag stops to customize, and get live pricing in one click.
Open this route in RV PLAN →
| Nearby RV rental stations | Blacksford USA - 26 E (Phoenix (PHX area)), Indie Campers USA - 26 E (Phoenix (PHX area)), Native Campervans-24 E (Phoenix (PHX area)), Cruise America- 26-E (Phoenix (PHX area)) |
|---|---|
| Sample RV cost — 4 travelers (Class A / B / C) | {{BANDANA_PRICING_TABLE}} |
| Estimated fuel cost (total) | $500–$650 |
| Estimated campground cost (total) | $580–$1,040 |
| Estimated attractions & entrance fees — family of 4 | $300–$600 |
| Estimated groceries / self-catered food — family of 4 | $450–$700 |
| Live availability & pricing | Check live availability & pricing on Rent Motorhome → |
Estimate assumptions: Assumes 10 MPG fuel efficiency, a mix of state park and private campground rates, and summer travel pricing. All figures are estimates — verify on Rent Motorhome and RV PLAN for your travel dates.
A high-level look at how the route flows in stages. The exact daily stops, overnight picks, and detour options are built for you inside RV PLAN — open the route to see the full plan.

Leave the low deserts behind and climb into the cooler, canyon-carved landscapes of northern Arizona.

Navigate vast open highways flanked by striking geological formations as you transition through Utah's dramatic terrain.

Pace yourself as the elevation steadily rises through Idaho and into Wyoming, where forests replace the high desert scrub.

Slow down for mountain passes, abundant wildlife viewing, and expansive valley vistas before descending into Billings.
Total cost for this 14-day itinerary depends on the rig you pick, the pickup season, mileage add-ons, and any one-way drop-off fee across the 1,589 mi route. Check live availability and a real quote for the Phoenix → Billings pickup window on Rent Motorhome.
Live availability & pricing for this exact route
Prices update daily. See the full breakdown — nightly rate, taxes, one-way fee, mileage package — for your travel dates.
These are real vehicles in our Phoenix pickup fleet that fit a multi-week western U.S. itinerary. Configure dates on rvplan.net to see live availability and the total trip cost for the exact rig you want.
| Motorhome | Class | Sleeps | Length | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort Space Select Indie Campers USA - 26 E |
Class A - Integrated | 8 | 29.2 ft | Auto Transmission |
| Nexus Triumph 29T Blacksford USA - 26 E |
Class C - Alcove | 8 | 29.0 ft | Auto Transmission |
| Comfort Family Indie Campers USA - 26 E |
Class C - Alcove | 7 | 30.0 ft | Auto Transmission |
| Thor Quantum LC28 Blacksford USA - 26 E |
Class C - Alcove | 7 | 30.0 ft | Auto Transmission |
| Comfort Standard Select Indie Campers USA - 26 E |
Class C - Alcove | 7 | 24.1 ft | Auto Transmission |
Pick your dates below and we'll open the live RV PLANET booking flow for the Phoenix → Billings route.
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