you don't really even need to stay anywhere on the way up if all you're doing is driving, its about 6 hours
US 93 North for 285 miles and about a 5 hour drive.
The best route from Las Vegas to Death Valley is to take Highway 160 west from Las Vegas to Pahrump, then take Highway 190 east into Death Valley National Park. This route is the most direct and scenic way to reach Death Valley from Las Vegas.
On US-93.
If traveling from Phoenix to Las Vegas, the most direct route does not take you near the Grand Canyon. However, many people -- certainly myself -- would consider it worthwhile to make a longer drive and visit The Canyon.
The best driving route from Salt Lake City to Phoenix is to take I-15 South through Utah and Nevada, then merge onto I-40 East in Arizona until reaching Phoenix. This route is the most direct and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
The best route for driving from Phoenix to Salt Lake City is to take Interstate 17 North to Interstate 40 East, then merge onto Interstate 15 North. This route is the most direct and efficient way to reach Salt Lake City from Phoenix by car.
Phoenix to Las Vegas is about 290 miles (465 km).
I-10 all the way
Take I-10 WEST to Los Angeles.
The best route for driving from Salt Lake City to Phoenix is to take I-15 South through Utah and Nevada, then connect to I-40 East in Arizona. This route is the most direct and offers good road conditions and amenities along the way.
Phoenix is closer to Las Vegas by 53 miles according to Google Maps.