trip itinerary for grand canyon

8 Epic Grand Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of those bucket list adventures that is almost mandatory if you live in the US. It’s the fourth most-visited national park in the country, hosting over 4.5 million visitors in 2021.

And the best way to see it? Take a road trip.

The closest big airport is Phoenix, AZ and it’s 3.5 hours away. Las Vegas is 4 hours away, and in another time zone to boot. So, one way or another, you’re going to road trip to the Grand Canyon.

But the wonderful thing about the American Southwest is there are a ton of amazing national parks, monuments, forests, and historic sites to see.

So, while you’re here to see the Grand Canyon, you might as well stay a bit longer and check out some of the region’s other amazing sights.

Whether you have 3 days or 2 weeks, there’s a Grand Canyon road trip itinerary for you. Buckle up and let’s take a look!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Quick Intro to Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is appropriately named: it’s a big and awe-inspiring canyon that goes on for miles.

It’s such a fascinating piece of natural landscape that people come from all over the world to see it. Sunrises, sunsets, thunderstorms, and blankets of snow all look amazing here.

But you have to see it for yourself and bask in its hugeness to really appreciate it. Photos just can’t do justice to the truly grand scale of this canyon.

While this guide is focused on Grand Canyon road trip itineraries, we’d be remiss to not give you some background information about the Grand Canyon before we start throwing out things to do and places to see in the park and nearby, like you have any idea what we’re talking about.

We’ll answer a few basic questions and get you up to speed enough to understand the itineraries.

Where is the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon extends across the entirety of the northwest corner of Arizona. Much of the canyon’s 277 mile length is desolate desert.

There’s not much out here because it’s no small feat to build a bridge over a 10 mile-wide canyon with modern equipment.

Pioneers in horse-drawn wagons took one look at it and went around. We don’t blame them!

Grand Canyon National Park has two separate sections.

What many people don’t know is Grand Canyon National Park is actually split into two parts: the South Rim and the North Rim.

The South Rim is easier to get to and has more infrastructure built up, so it’s naturally the most popular.

The North Rim has a lodge and views of the same stunning canyon, looking the other direction of course, but sees just 10% of Grand Canyon visitors. Something to consider if you’re anti-crowds.

When we discuss visiting Grand Canyon in the road trip itineraries below, we are referring to the South Rim.

We will always call out the North Rim specifically as the North Rim.

Grand Canyon has a year-round free shuttle bus system.

The shuttle bus system on the South Rim is a major help for moving visitors around the park as well as reducing pollution.

Park your car once and take the shuttle bus everywhere. The only place they don’t go is along Desert View Road (the east section of the South Rim)

There are four routes: red, orange, blue, and purple. Shuttles all start very early (think 4AM in the summer) and run late (either 30 minutes after sunset or as late as 11PM).

Purple connects the town of Tusayan outside the park’s southern entrance to the central bus hub at the Visitor Center complex.

Leave your car at your hotel and take the shuttle in. Roundtrip loop is about 40 minutes, so it takes 20 minutes or so to get from town to the Visitor Center.

Blue is the park’s Village Route , connecting the Visitor Center with the park lodges, campgrounds, and restaurants in the Village and Market Plaza areas.

It’s also the connector to the Red Route from the Visitor Center. Roundtrip is 50 minutes.

The Red Route is Hermit’s Rest Road . This road is closed to private vehicles from March to November every year, so you have to take the shuttle or walk/hike/bike the sometimes paved, sometimes not Rim Trail.

This route takes 80 minutes roundtrip if you don’t get off the bus, but it also has some of the most popular overlooks and hikes in the park. Well worth the effort!

Also important to note: the eastbound Red Route bus does not stop at every overlook on the way back to the Village. Double check the schedules if you want a specific overlook.

Lastly, the Orange Route is the Kaibab Rim Route . The road up to Yaki Point is closed to private vehicles, all year round.

On Yaki Road, the South Kaibab Trailhead is the most popular trailhead in the park . Most visitors hike down to the Ooh Aah Point and turn around. Roundtrip rides on this shuttle are 50 minutes.

Now that you’ve got a basic understanding of the park, let’s get to the road trip itineraries already!

A Grand Canyon Road Trip: 8 Suggested Itineraries

The wonderful thing about road trips: there’s no one, single right way to do them.

You could follow the same route and have two very different trips, based solely on which roadside attractions you stop for, where you eat, and where you stay.

There are infinite possibilities for road trip routes to the Grand Canyon because you can start from almost anywhere, the canyon is huge, and it’s surrounded by fascinating landscapes and historical sites.

Today, we’re discussing the most popular Grand Canyon road trip routes, which generally start and end in either Las Vegas, NV or Phoenix, AZ.

We recommend a minimum of a 3 day weekend to get your money’s worth out of a Grand Canyon road trip.

But there is so much else within driving distance that you might want to extend your trip for a week or two to enjoy the area! We’ll discuss a few options for that as well.

In all cases, if you can snag a flight the night before your first day off, we highly recommend that. We call this the Day 0 trick.

It requires no extra time off and eliminates a bunch of wasted travel hours from your vacation days.

So, for the 3 day weekend example: fly out Friday night after work (Day 0), get in late Friday to Las Vegas or Phoenix, and spend the night nearby. Start your road trip as early as you want on Saturday (Day 1).

The 3 Day Weekend Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

Starting off with the fastest Grand Canyon road trip itinerary for all those travelers with limited time off.

This short and sweet road trip really only qualifies as a road trip because the park is so far from major cities and airports.

It’s a 4 hour drive from Las Vegas or a 3.5 hour drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon.

There are tons of roadside stops and major attractions along those routes, but this 3 day weekend itinerary is all about FOCUS.

You want to see the Grand Canyon, so you’ll see the Grand Canyon.

Pro Tip : The Day 0 trick is almost mandatory for this itinerary, especially if you’re flying in from the east coast.

(Day 0: Fly in to origin in the evening)

• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park, eat lunch in Tusayan or the park, stop into the Visitor Center, see Mather Point, and explore the Orange Route with a hike to Ooh Aah Point. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Explore the Red Route, drive the Grand Canyon Desert View scenic drive. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Drive back to the airport, fly home

Depending on your good fortune and flight times, you may be able to add another attraction on the third day.

If driving back to Las Vegas , consider stopping in Kingman, AZ for the Route 66 Museum, at the Hoover Dam for a photo and/or tour, or spending some time in Vegas itself.

If driving back to Phoenix , you will pass no less than 6 national monuments along the way.

We loved Walnut Canyon National Monument , a quick hour or so stop in Flagstaff to see ancient Native American cliff dwellings in the canyon walls.

5 Day Road Trip Itinerary: Grand Canyon + City Break

If you take two vacation days and add them to a 3 day weekend, you get a 5 day vacation.

This is a great way to save some PTO but go on a longer, more satisfying vacation.

Here’s how we’d suggest you break it down.

• Fly in and Explore Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Flagstaff.
• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park, arrive no later than lunchtime, stop in the Visitor Center and see Mather Point, explore the Orange Route, and take a short hike to the Ooh Aah Point. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Spend a full day in the park: explore the Red Route (views and hiking opportunities), drive the Desert View Scenic Drive. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Leisurely drive back to your origin city, stopping at attractions along the way.

Day 4 can be as adventurous or as laid back as you like.

Drive back to your origin city and enjoy some down time by the pool at your hotel before your busy travel day.

Las Vegas and Phoenix both have so much to do within their respective metro areas that you could easily spend another day sightseeing in each.

The route back to your origin city is guaranteed to have some interesting waypoints as well.

We strongly recommend the in-depth tour of the Hoover Dam if you’re going back to Las Vegas, and stopping in Sedona is always a good idea if you’re on the way back to Phoenix.

7 Day Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary: See Both Rims!

So, you lucked out and have an entire week for vacation. Booyah!

Now, if you have 5 vacation days, we would always encourage you to pair that with two weekends to give yourself a 9 day vacation.

However, we realize some people prefer a day at home before and after a trip, so they have time to decompress and mentally prepare themselves to go back to their ordinary lives.

Post-vacation depression is a real thing.

So for those that need the extra couple of days, this itinerary is for you.

For this timeframe you can see both the North and South Rims of Grand Canyon National Park and also spend a few days exploring nearby must-see sights.

• Fly in to Las Vegas, chill in the city
• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park, stopping along the way at Hoover Dam , the Grand Canyon Skywalk , or Kingman for the Route 66 Museum . Spend the afternoon in the park at the visitor center, Mather Point, and either the Orange Route or strolling along the Rim Trail. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Full day in Grand Canyon National Park: explore the Red Route, the Orange Route if you missed it yesterday, and the Desert View Scenic Drive. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Drive to Page, see Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend . Overnight in Page.
• Day trip to the Grand Canyon North Rim . Overnight in Page.
• Drive back to Las Vegas, considering a stop in Valley of Fire State Park along the way.

This itinerary works just as well if you fly into Phoenix rather than Vegas. On Day 6 you’d swap a stop in Valley of Fire for a stop in Flagstaff or Sedona.

9 Day Road Trip: So Many National Parks!

This Grand Canyon road trip itinerary is for all our fellow national park bucket list seekers!

When you’ve got a week in a new region and you really want to do some damage to your national park checklist , this is a great option.

Pro Tip : You only need 5 vacation days to go on a 9 day vacation. Use both the weekend before and the weekend after your 5 PTO days for a total of 9 days.

We’ll go ahead and warn you: this is highly ambitious and you cannot fully explore most of these parks with just one day. ( Well, maybe this one. )

But you can hit the highlights and see some pretty amazing stuff, and then plan a more in-depth trip later for your favorites.

• Fly in to Las Vegas, NV
• Day trip to Death Valley National Park. Overnight back in Vegas.
• Drive to Zion National Park (lose an hour for crossing time zones). Spend the rest of the day in the park. Drive to overnight in Bryce, UT.
• Visit Bryce Canyon National Park in the morning (early start). Spend the afternoon in Capitol Reef National Park. Drive to overnight in Moab, UT.
• Begin the day in Canyonlands National Park’s Island in the Sky area. End the day in Arches National Park. Overnight in Moab again.
• Drive to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park and spend a few hours here. Drive to and through Monument Valley as leisurely as you’d like. End in Page, AZ to overnight, possibly catching Horseshoe Bend at sunset.
• See Antelope Canyon (and Horseshoe Bend if you missed it yesterday) in the morning. Drive to Grand Canyon National Park and take the Desert View Scenic Drive from the east entrance. Overnight in the park or in Tusayan.
• Spend most of the day in Grand Canyon National Park. Drive back to Las Vegas to overnight (gain an hour for crossing time zones).

All said and done, this whirlwind road trip itinerary sprints through seven national parks and three nearby attractions that aren’t national parks but still impressive must-see sights nonetheless.

Day 4 will feel rushed. We suggest doing the scenic drive and a hike or two of your choice in each park, but don’t forget the 2.5hr drive in between parks when you split your day up.

On Day 5, don’t forget that Arches National Park requires advanced timed entry tickets from early April through early October.

9 Day Grand Canyon Road Trip: A More Relaxed Loop from Las Vegas

This 9 day itinerary offers more breathing room than some of the more ambitious routes discussed, and still only requires 5 vacation days.

You’ll still see a lot, but you won’t have to get up super early and stay up late to drive to the next destination to fit it all in.

• Fly in to Las Vegas .
• Spend the morning at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and the afternoon back in Vegas. Overnight in Las Vegas.
• Day trip out to Death Valley National Park. Overnight in Vegas again.
• Start the day by touring Hoover Dam . Drive to Grand Canyon National Park (lose an hour to time zone change), and catch a few hours in the park exploring the visitor center and Mather Point in late afternoon. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Explore Grand Canyon National Park: the Red Route, the Orange Route, hike to Ooh Aah Point, take in the Desert View Scenic Drive. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Drive to Page, tour Antelope Canyon , and see Horseshoe Bend . Check out Lake Powell or Glen Canyon National Conservation Area if you have extra time. Overnight in Page.
• Drive to Zion National Park and spend the day in the park. Overnight in Springdale.
• Drive to Valley of Fire State Park (gain an hour from time zone change) and spend the day in the park. Continue on to overnight in Las Vegas.

Red Rock Canyon has a timed entry system during its peak season from October through the end of May. The entry fee is covered by the America the Beautiful Annual Pass .

Zion National Park operates a free but mandatory shuttle bus system for the inner canyon from March through November and some busy weeks/weekends. Check their website for the current shuttle schedule.

When you enter Zion on Day 7 during this timeframe, you’ll have to drive to the Visitor Center first, park, and hop a shuttle to get to trailheads for popular hikes like the Narrows and Angel’s Landing.

The Grand Circle Road Trip – 10 Day Minimum

There are so many amazing sights to see in the Arizona/Colorado/Utah region!

Getting to them all is one giant circular route through northern Arizona, the southwest corner of Colorado, and southern Utah, and it’s become known as the Grand Circle.

This is easily one of the most epic Grand Canyon road trip itineraries out there , but it does not leave a lot of extra time for exploration.

You can still do this itinerary with only 5 vacation days, but you have to pair it with a 3 day holiday weekend to get the 10 th day without using PTO.

Of course, you can extend this itinerary if you can wring a few more PTO days out of work.

• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park (lose an hour to time zones). Overnight in Tusayan.
• Drive through Monument Valley and overnight in Cortez, CO.
• Visit Mesa Verde National Park in the morning, Canyon of the Ancients National Monument in the afternoon, and drive to Moab, UT.
• Spend the day in Arches National Park. Overnight in Moab.
• Explore the Island in the Sky area of Canyonlands National Park, with a side trip to Dead Horse Point State Park. Overnight in Moab.
• Drive to and spend the day in Capitol Reef National Park. Afterward, drive to and overnight in Bryce.
• Spend a full day in Bryce Canyon National Park. Drive to and overnight in Springdale.
• Explore Zion National Park. Drive to and overnight in St George.
• Drive to Las Vegas (gain an hour for time zone change). Fly home.

The itinerary above is the basic Grand Circle, but if you’ve got the time, it’s easy to add on several more parks.

Death Valley National Park is within driving distance of Las Vegas. Petrified Forest National Park could be added between the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley.

Both Great Sand Dunes National Park and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park could be added in Colorado before heading to Moab.

Don’t forget the national monuments and other historic sites! There are a ton of these, as well as state parks, that you’ll likely pass on your way to the other parks.

We loved our morning adventure in Walnut Canyon National Monument in Flagstaff and an afternoon exploring Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas.

10 Day Southwest Road Trip from Las Vegas

Heavy on national parks, this southwest road trip itinerary uses the Day 0 trick to allow for two full days in one of the national parks. (We chose Zion in the example.)

Feel free to shift the itinerary to spend two days in whichever park you choose.

(Day 0: Fly into Las Vegas)

• Day trip to Death Valley National Park. Overnight in Las Vegas.
• Day trip to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, just 30 minutes from downtown Vegas. Overnight in Las Vegas.
• Drive to Valley of Fire State Park and spend the day here (bring a lunch!). Drive up to Springdale late afternoon/evening (lose an hour to time zone change). Overnight in Springdale.
• First full day in Zion National Park: Hike Angel’s Landing. Overnight in Springdale.
• Second full day in Zion National Park: Hike the Narrows. Drive up and stay in Bryce tonight.
• Spend a full day exploring Bryce Canyon National Park. Drive to Page to overnight.
• Tour Antelope Canyon and see Horseshoe Bend in the morning. Grab an early lunch in Page before driving to the Grand Canyon North Rim for the afternoon. Drive back to overnight in Page.
• Drive to and spend a full day exploring Grand Canyon National Park. Overnight in Tusayan or Williams.
• Drive to the Hoover Dam and take a tour. Optional stop at the Grand Canyon Skywalk along the way. (Gain an hour from time zone change.) Overnight in Las Vegas.

Remember that Red Rock Canyon has timed entry in the winter, and Zion has mandatory shuttles from March to November.

As of 2022, the Angel’s Landing hike requires a permit to hike the portion from Scout Lookout up to Angel’s Landing. It’s incredibly popular and done by lottery, so may the odds be ever in your favor.

10 Day Arizona Highlights Road Trip

Arizona just has so much to see! This road trip itinerary focuses solely on Arizona sights.

Phoenix and its neighboring cities create a ginormous urban area that has quite a lot to explore. You won’t get to all of it in one day, but there is decent and affordable public transit to get around.

• Fly in to Phoenix
• Explore Phoenix and its huge urban area, including Tempe and Scottsdale.
• Day trip to Tucson to see Saguaro National Park. Drive back to Phoenix to overnight.
• Drive to Sedona and spend the day hiking and exploring. Overnight in Flagstaff.
• Day trip to Petrified Forest National Park. Overnight back in Flagstaff.
• Start the day at Walnut Canyon National Monument. Drive to Page. Tour Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in the afternoon. Overnight in Page.
• Day trip out to Monument Valley . Overnight back in Page.
• Drive to Grand Canyon National Park. Enter via the Desert View scenic drive, stop at the visitor center and Mather Point, and explore the Orange Route. Overnight in Tusayan.
• Spend most of the day in Grand Canyon National Park, exploring the Red Route. Drive back to and overnight in Phoenix.

What’s life without options? In this instance, you could swap the second day in Grand Canyon for a second day in Sedona.

Hiking in Grand Canyon is not for everyone, so your time may be better spent hiking in Sedona.

Which Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary is Right for You?

At this point, you might be a bit overwhelmed. You want to do all the things, but you’re a responsible adult that has bills to pay and mouths to feed (even if it’s just you and your dog).

Here are the top 3 excuses we often hear for staying in analysis paralysis and not choosing an itinerary.

Excuse #1: “I don’t have enough PTO for this.”

Remember: you can do a Grand Canyon road trip with just a 3 day weekend, no PTO required!

Even if you live on the east coast of the US and have to fly out to Arizona first.

East coasters have the time zone advantage when flying east to west, even without nonstop direct flights.

Flights leave at like 6PM and arrive in Las Vegas at midnight, or if you’re an early bird, leave at 6AM and get in by noon.

That means you could leave Friday after work, arrive in Vegas Friday night to sleep, and then have a full Saturday and Sunday to road trip before heading back Sunday night or Monday morning to Vegas and catching a midday flight home on Monday.

The time zone difference on the way back to the east coast is annoying, but you should be able to catch a noon flight in Vegas and arrive at your home airport by mid-evening.

Excuse #2: “This sounds expensive.”

This excuse irks me. It sounds expensive?

Have you even tried to price it out first, or are you just going back to the safety of your I-can’t-afford-anything-so-I-won’t-try-to-afford-anything-but-I’ll-still-complain-about-it life?

Of course, we understand that having the funds to travel is a privilege, and not everyone is fortunate enough to have the funds or access to travel. That’s not what we’re arguing here.

This excuse is almost always thrown out by people that actually do have some extra income; they just have no idea how to budget or no discipline to save.

Travel is about priorities. You have to prioritize it and then budget for it. It’s not just gonna happen if you don’t plan it.

Yes, it’s going to take some longer than others to save up for it, but there are plenty of travel options to make trips more affordable, if you plan them right.

Excuse #3: “This sounds too complicated.”

Maybe it’s not the PTO or the expense. Maybe you’re just intimidated by the number of stops on the itinerary, having to coordinate it all yourself.

You can do hard things! ( Read that again .)

Choose your favorite itinerary above, and the bulk of the planning is already done.

Now all you have to do is plug-and-play by choosing flights and a hotel or campground in each overnight spot.

Organizing isn’t your forte? No problem. I’m a pro at it, and I have this amazing trip organizer that will keep it all straight for you. ⬇️⬇️

I Found My Perfect Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary! Now What?

Congrats! The hard part is over. Now it’s simple plug and play.

Pick your dates, book your flights and rental car, and choose your hotels in the cities noted on your itinerary.

It really is that easy!

Now that you’ve got the base itinerary, here are some in-depth guides for destinations mentioned.

• Upper vs Lower Antelope Canyon: Which is the Best?
• See Everything in Bryce Canyon National Park in One Day
• Where to Stay near Zion National Park
• Everything You Need to Know to See Horseshoe Bend

Happy travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 38 US states and 17 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in the Grand Canyon Itinerary

Last Updated on July 8, 2024

by Sarah Dittmore

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect itinerary for the Grand Canyon can be a bit overwhelming when you consider all that this incredible natural area has to offer. Between the sprawling canyons, vibrant stone formations, and rushing Colorado River, it’s no wonder the Grand Canyon is one of the most visited National Parks in the world.

From hikes showcasing glorious vistas to some of the best stargazing in the world, 2 to 3 days exploring the Grand Canyon is the perfect way to enjoy one of the United States’ greatest natural wonders.

One of the perks of visiting the Grand Canyon is the balance of untouched nature and well-maintained infrastructure; you can enjoy off-the-beaten-path camping adventures, the comfort of elegant lodges, or a mix of both!

However you choose to spend your time, this itinerary will help you make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Grand Canyon?

It’s common to rush up to the Grand Canyon for a whistle-stop tour. Many will just see some of the viewpoints, walk a bit of the Rim Trail and then head out. However, it is so worth it to to spend a bit more time.

While you can visit the Grand Canyon as a day trip , most visitors find that 2 days is enough time to see the most popular sites while still fitting in some more casual hikes. For those interested in longer hikes and exploring some of the park’s hidden gems, you’ll want to schedule 3 days.

This itinerary will focus on seeing the park’s highlights in the first two days, including some of the best sunset and sunrise views, a few lovely hikes, and must-see vistas.

For those planning a 3-day trip, the last day will offer a few day-long adventures that take you into the canyon and get you up close and personal to the beauty of this breathtaking destination.

Getting To & Around the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is located near the northern border of Arizona and can be accessed from the southern or northern end. The South Rim entrance is open year-round and is located 60 miles north of Williams, Arizona.

You can access this entrance via route 64, whether coming from I-40 or US-180. The North Rim is closed from December 1 st through May 15 th , but when it is open, it can be accessed via Highway 67 and is located 30 miles south of Jacob Lake.

You can reach the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in about a four-hour drive from Phoenix , but there are plenty of great places to stop off along the way.

The Sedona to Grand Canyon drive is about 2 hours and the drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon West Rim is roughly 4 hours.

You can also reach the national park by driving from Los Angeles in about 7.5 hours and San Diego in about 8.5 hours. You can easily loop in a visit to the Grand Canyon with a trip to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park in Utah.

No matter which entrance you use, it’ll cost $35 USD per car for a weeklong pass (unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass , which costs $80 USD per year and gives you unlimited access to all National Parks in the United States).

When visiting the Grand Canyon, if you can afford to rent a car, it’s by far the preferable option. You can browse options on Rentalcars.com for cars to hire or check out Outdoorsy for RVs or campervans.

If you are not taking a car, there is a train from Williams, AZ that takes guests to the park via the Grand Canyon Railway. You can pre-book tickets here .

There are a variety of free shuttles that operate around the South Rim, and a few seasonal North Rim shuttles, but a car will give you greater access and freedom in exploring the Grand Canyon. You can also rely on guided tours of the area such as this jeep tour or this private tour .

The park can be a bit tricky to navigate, so pay attention to your maps. Luckily, if you do take a wrong turn, most side roads either loop back to the main road or offer plenty of easy turn-around spots, so it’s easy to remedy should you end up on the wrong road.

Overall, the roads are well-maintained and easy to drive. This itinerary focuses on the warmer seasons, since it’s the easiest and most enjoyable time to visit the park, but if you are visiting anytime from November through May, keep an eye out for icy roads.

This is more of a concern in deep winter, but depending on the snowfall that year, it’s something to be aware of in late fall and early spring as well. No matter when you visit, keep an eye out for wildlife. It is also worth noting that the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is closed to visitors from mid-October to mid-May.

Elk and mule deer have a tendency to cross the roads in search of food, so drive slow and keep your eyes on the road!

2 to 3-Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

Regardless if you’re spending 2 days or 3 at the Grand Canyon, there is plenty to do and see in this stunning park.

Below, we’ve created an ideal itinerary that will allow you to see some of the parks top attractions while also taking you off the beaten path to the more hidden wonders the park has to offer. 

Day 1 – Desert View Drive, Tusayan Ruins, Trail of Time & Sunset Viewpoints

Desert view drive & watchtower.

The Desert View Drive is a 23-mile scenic drive that takes you past some of the Grand Canyon’s most beautiful views along the South Rim. Starting your visit with cruising along Desert View Drive is a great way to get an overall look at what makes this park so spectacular.

Along the route, you’ll pass six different designated canyon viewpoints—great for gazing at the beauty of the canyon and capturing some photos—including the famous Yaki Point, Moran Point, Lipan Point, and more. There’s really no better way to see the Grand Canyon.

At the eastern end of the drive sits the Desert View Watchtower. The tower was constructed in 1932 and is inspired by the architecture of the Puebloan people who lived in the canyon many generations ago.

The watchtower provides some of the best birds-eye views of the Grand Canyon, but the tower is more than just another viewpoint. The bottom of the watchtower is home to one of the best retail shops in the park (away from Grand Canyon Village), so it’s a great place to do some souvenir shopping.

Desert View Cultural Demonstrations  

Within the Desert View Watchtower is the Kiva Room, a room is modelled after the Indigenous kiva: a large, circular, underground room often used for spiritual ceremonies, cultural rites, and political meetings. The Kiva Room in the Desert View Watchtower hosts regular cultural demonstrations.

These demonstrations include indigenous jewellers, painters, potters, weavers, silversmiths, and beyond.

Make sure to check out the Desert View Cultural Demonstrations schedule before visiting to see what will be on offer while you’re at the Grand Canyon!

Tusayan Ruins & Pueblo Museum

About three miles west of the Desert View Watchtower, halfway between the tower and Moran Point, lies the Tusayan Ruins and Pueblo Museum.

The ruins are 800 years old and feature the remains of what was once a living area, storage rooms, and kiva for the Indigenous Pueblo people who once lived in the area.

Studies of the ruins have shown that the area was inhabited for 20 years, starting in 1185. The ruins were uncovered by geologists in 1930 and are now open for visitors to explore vial a trail that wanders through the area.

In addition to viewing the ruins, you can visit the Tusayan Pueblo Museum and learn more about the people who once lived there. The museum has been temporarily closed, but make sure to check before your visit, as there are plans to open the park soon.

When it opens, you can see artefacts and traditional handicrafts dated from 2000 to 4000 years ago and learn about the prehistoric community that thrived in what is now the Grand Canyon National Park.

Walk the Trail of Time

In addition to the history of the people who lived in the Grand Canyon, the park has a fascinating geological history.

The Trail of Time allows visitors to stretch their legs and enjoy breathtaking vistas overlooking the canyon while learning more about how the canyon was formed and continues to change over time.

The 2.8-mile trail is paved and accessible to hikers of all levels. Each meter of the walk represents one million years of the Grand Canyon’s geologic history and as you walk the trail, markers show you how the Colorado River turned a small divot into the longest in the world.

If you’re visiting during peak tourism season (aka June or July), there will likely be ranger tours on offer, so if you’re interested in learning about the history and geology in greater detail, head to the Grand Canyon Visitor’s Center or ask at the front desk of any of the lodges to see what ranger tours are being offered and when (the schedule changes regularly).

Sunset at Hopi Point or Mohave Point

Some of the Grand Canyon’s greatest attractions are the sunrise and sunset views. Many points along the South and North Rim jut into the canyon and boast views of both the eastern and the western sky, meaning they offer incredible views for sunrise and sunset.

A quick Google search will pull up at least a dozen options of places to watch the sunset, and in all honesty, there’s no bad choice. That said, if you’re only planning on 2 days in the Grand Canyon, you’re going to have to make some choices, so we’ve narrowed it down to two favorite sunset spots: Hopi Point and Mohave Point.

Hopi Point is one of the most popular sunset views in the Grand Canyon and with good reason. It’s very accessible (the viewpoint is just off the parking lot) and it offers sweeping views of the canyon, over which you can watch the sky shift from blue to pink to orange.

However, if you’re looking for an equally stunning view without the crowds, Mohave Point is a great option. The view is just as good, but it requires walking down a short, paved trail to reach it. It’s still easy to get to, but the short trail means that it doesn’t get quite the same level of crowds that Hopi Point draws in.

Wherever you choose the watch the sunset, get there early to get a good view and make sure your camera is charged… it’s going to be gorgeous!

Day 2 – Mather Point, Mule Ride, South Kaibab Trail & Stargazing

Sunrise at mather point.

Whether or not you’re a morning person, including a sunrise is a must during your time at the Grand Canyon. Sure, it requires waking up a bit early, but you’ll face way less of a crowd and you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views as the morning sun paints the entire canyon with a soft pink glow.

Watching the shadows disappear as the sun rises feels like something out of a movie and the rainbow colors that cross the stone walls of the canyon will take your breath away.

Mather Point is a short walk from the Grand Canyon Visitor’s Center and offers expansive views of the canyon, making it a great place to watch the sunrise.

Geology Glimpse: South Rim Village Ranger Program

Since you’re already up early for the sunrise, take advantage of the morning and head to the Yavapai Geology Museum for the South Rim Village Ranger Program .

Every day, a ranger guides visitors on a 30-minute tour known as the “Geology Glimpse”.

The program is free and an experienced ranger will teach you about the geology of how the Grand Canyon was formed, what makes the ecosystem of the Grand Canyon one of a kind, and how time will continue to shape the park you see today into something unrecognizable.

It’s a short, easy program full of fascinating information that will help you better understand the Grand Canyon.

The Canyon Vistas Mule Ride

One of the Grand Canyon’s most unique offerings are the mule rides that travel along the rim of the canyon. The Canyon Vistas Mule Ride is a 2-hour ride that costs $177.72 USD per person.

In addition to a mule, a guide, and a truly unique experience, you’ll get a souvenir water bottle to commemorate the experience. Reservations are required , so call in advance to plan your ride.

Hike the South Kaibab Trail

By now, you’ve gotten tons of views of the canyon, and it’s time to go over the edge and get a new perspective.

The South Kaibab Trail is an easy day hike that will take you below the lip and into the inner edge of the canyon. This is a great way to get a sense of just how big that canyon is and see its beauty through a different lens.

The South Kaibab Trail is a 6-mile round-trip trail, but there are tons of viewpoints where hikers can turn around if they’re looking for something shorter (like the Ooh-Aah Point or Cedar Ridge).

Exiting the canyon requires a bit of a climb, but the rest of the trail is relatively easy and accessible to hikers of a variety of levels. If you plan on hiking, consider whether you should buy a travel insurance policy through a provider like Heymondo .

Stargaze & Learn about Dark Skies

The Grand Canyon is a certified International Dark Sky Park , which means the park has made efforts to limit light pollution and maximize the amount of the night sky visible from the national park. In layman’s terms, this means the Grand Canyon is an incredible place to stargaze.

Depending on the weather, you can even see the Milky Way, various star clusters, galaxies, and seasonal meteor showers.

The park offers occasional stargazing tours, but they change regularly, so it’s best to check with the visitor’s center when you arrive. However, even if there are no tours on offer, simply going outside and enjoying the beauty of the night sky is well worth your time.

Day 3 – North Rim, Colorado River Rafting or Havasu Falls

Your first 2 days were dedicated to learning about the park, exploring some scenic viewpoints, and enjoying beautiful hikes. For those planning a 3-day trip to the Grand Canyon, your third day can be a great opportunity to explore some of the park’s harder-to-reach points.

Things like exploring the North Rim, rafting the Colorado River, or visiting Havasu Falls require at least 3 days in the area, though some will even extend their trip to 4 or 5 days to fully experience these extended offerings.

Explore the North Rim

While the South Rim is the most popular spot for visitors to the Grand Canyon, there’s plenty of beauty to explore on the North Rim as well. Driving from the South Rim to the North Rim is a day in and of itself; it’s a 4.5-hour drive that covers 220 miles, so if you’re planning to visit, you’ll want to wake up early.

On the North Rim, you’ll find tons of hiking trails that take you over the rim of the canyon, a paved trail to Bright Angel Point, and the North Rim Visitor’s Center, which is home to an exhibit, bookstore, and gift shop.

Visiting the North Rim is a great option for those seeking a different perspective on the canyon and is especially nice for people who are heading north on their trip after the Grand Canyon.

Raft the Colorado River

The more adventure-minded visitors will enjoy a day of rafting the Colorado River. There are plenty of multi-day river excursions for those looking to raft and camp along the base of the canyon but Grand Canyon West offers one-day adventures for anyone who wants to add a little adventure to their Grand Canyon visit.

Not only is the rafting an adrenaline-filled day of fun, but you’ll get to see the canyon from the bottom, a truly unique and spectacular view of the Grand Canyon’s towering beauty. 

Visit Havasu Falls

Realistically, visiting Havasu Falls is a 2-day adventure, so in order to add this to your trip, you’d either have to replace day 2 of this itinerary or add a day 4 to your trip.

Still, it’s such an incredible experience, it’s worth mentioning.

To visit Havasu Falls, you’ll need a permit and a fair amount of comfort with hiking, but your reward is a cerulean waterfall tucked between the Grand Canyon’s formidable rock structures.

Once there, you can swim, paddleboard, or just take in the beautiful views while you rest and enjoy a picnic. Though it does add an extra day to your visit, it adds so much more than that to your experience. 

Where to Stay near the Grand Canyon

Little America Hotel Flagstaff   – If you’re after a luxury base near the Grand Canyon, then this hotel is an excellent option. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer – all furnished in a lodge-like style, and there is an on-site swimming pool and a restaurant on offer, as well.

Hotel Elev8   – This hotel is a great mid-range option for those looking to explore the Grand Canyon. They have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and there is even an on-site swimming pool to splash around in! 

Private Rental – If you’re after a private rental near the Grand Canyon, then there are countless options to choose from — such as  this beautiful home near Williams  or  this cosy cabin in Flagstaff . 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels near the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the United States’ most famous attractions, and with good reason. In addition to being downright gorgeous, there is tons to do while you visit.

From hiking and stargazing to mule rides and white-water rafting, your time in the Grand Canyon will be anything but boring! 

Are you planning a trip to the Grand Canyon? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Sarah Dittmore

Sarah is a writer for The World Was Here First. A California native, she loves travelling around her home state as well as visiting places further afield. She has spent over a decade travelling the world and writing stories inspired by the people and places she encounters along the way.

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ARIZONA , UNITED STATES · September 2, 2020 Last Updated on July 22, 2024

THE PERFECT 3 DAY GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM ITINERARY

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The Grand Canyon is larger than the state of Rhode Island and an entire mile deep. It’s HUGE! As you draw close to the edge of the rim, it’s easy to get insane vertigo, it’s a long, long, long way down.

This itinerary is for the traveler who wants to see more – far more – than you can get from a bus tour stopping by from another state, but hasn’t quite reached backcountry hike status yet.

It’s the perfect way to ease into hands-on travel, or maybe not easy, since you’ll likely be sore afterward!

Note: I like to travel fast, so this itinerary is a full 3-day itinerary, absolutely jam-packed with activities. 

If you’d like to take it a little slower, I’d recommend spreading this itinerary out over 4 or even 5 days! Some bonus options are included at the bottom in case you want to add in some extra sights.

Here is my 3-day Grand Canyon south rim itinerary, true to what my friends and I tackled a few months ago.

Check out the map below for all of the view points and trails mentioned in this post.

Grand Canyon Guided Tours

This blog post is a self guided tour itinerary, but if you are looking for a good option for a guided tour with luxury transportation, food and drinks, and visits to all the top spots we recommend the Grand Canyon National Park Tour.

For a longer 3 day itinerary we recommend this tour of Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon that leaves from Las Vegas

Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon

The best hotels.

• Luxurious Mountain View Golf Resort – Set in 2,200 acres retreat surrounded by incredible mountain views. Perfectly located to explore the Grand Canyon or access to nearby cities such as Phoenix, Sedona and Lake Havasu. 
• Little America Flagstaff – This hotel features a restaurant, free airport shuttle, hot tub and a bar/lounge.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff – Only a short walk to all of the best cafes and restaurants in downtown Flagstaff, it is a great choice for exploring with friends.

The Best Holiday Homes

• Beautiful Westside Townhouse  
• 100 Pines Modern Retreat – A beautifully decorated holiday home with a private hot tub.
• Luxury on Birch Avenue – With incredible amenities such as a outdoor fire pit and built-in outdoor grill, perfect for summer evenings!

Good morning. Today’s plan is the most relaxed out of all of the days, got to take baby steps, with the most strenuous activities culminating on the last day. For now, let’s take a ride.

Desert View Drive

The Desert View Drive is a 25-mile scenic drive that runs east from Grand Canyon Village but is full of beautiful vistas and expansive viewpoints – the perfect introduction to this natural wonder of the world.

You can either take your own car, or the Grand Canyon’s shuttle, which will run the whole way to the end of the drive as well!

Because the canyon will be on your left, I recommend driving all the way to the end of the trail (marked by the Desert View Watchtower) and then making all your stops on the way back.

Here are all the prettiest stops along the Desert View Drive, going backward:

• Desert View Watch Tower (endpoint – was closed for construction when we went)
• Navajo Point (you can see the Big Bend in the Colorado River from here!)
• Lipan Point
• Moran Point
• Grandview Point

Take your time, soak in the Grand Canyon , and be careful if you’re looking over the rim!

I think Navajo Point and Moran Point were my favorites; they offer a couple of spots to actually climb down a couple of meters in the canyon with pretty much zero risks, and also makes for a great picnic spot (we brought chips and salsa!)

As you hit all these viewpoints, you might find yourself becoming less and less impressed with the vastness of the canyon because you’ve been seeing the same thing for a couple of hours.

My favorite trick when this starts to happen is to stare out into the canyon and look for a tree. Once you’ve found that teeny tiny tree, think about how large you are compared to the size of a tree near you – and then scale yourself down to how large you would be compared to that tree all the way out in the canyon.

It gives me a renewed sense of awe and wonder every time!

Shoshone Point Trailhead

You’ll have some free time after that, but an hour or so before sunset, pull up at the Shoshone Point Trailhead .

It can be a bit hard to find and doesn’t look like much, just an unmarked dirt path with a makeshift lot, but this may be my favorite rim point in the entire Grand Canyon because it seems that almost no one really knows about it!

The trail is about a mile one-way and opens up to just the most incredible sunset views overlooking the enormous canyon, and sitting on the rocks without tourists bothering you or crowding around is a dream come true.

There’s also no railing to spoil the sense of immersion (just be careful, of course). Take a seat, watch the sun go down, and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Today marks the beginning of the actual hiking! Don’t worry, today’s is still quite reasonable, tomorrow will be the real challenge.

South Kaibab Trail

You’ll want to get up early to go hike the South Kaibab Trail , the most popular trail on the Grand Canyon south rim – and for good reason! You get to descend through winding switchbacks, treated to a stunning view of the endless canyon pretty much the entire time.

Keep in mind that however far you decide to go down, you’ll have to make the climb back up, and it takes twice as long to hike back up to the rim than it does to scurry down.

There’s also no water stops along the trail itself and very little shade, so make sure to bring your bottle nice and full! Don’t forget to bring food, your body will need the energy.

The South Kaibab Trail runs all the way to the Colorado River, but you should NOT attempt to hike nearly that far and back in one day.

There are plenty of well-marked viewpoints to turn around along the length of the trail. The further you go, the thinner the crowd will get.

• Ooh-Aah Point (1.8mi rt)
• Cedar Ridge (3mi rt)
• Skeleton Point (6mi rt) – do not hike past here for a day hike.

Remember that hiking back up will most likely be in the heat of midday, without much shade, up a steep incline while you’re already somewhat fatigued.

Because of the elevation change, the hike feels much longer than it really is. We hiked this trail in summer and the sun was entirely unforgiving!

Eat some well-deserved lunch while sitting out at Yavapai Point or the Trail of Time, which is a short, paved trail with benches and a great place to eat!

Just make sure to leave the place cleaner than you found it. A nap might be in order too!

Mather Point

For sunset, stake out your place at Mather Point early – it’s one of the most popular sunset points in the entire park, so there will certainly be tourists flocking to it.

Honestly, after enjoying the sunset at Shoshone Point without dozens of people around, I couldn’t really get into the spirit of Mather Point. Still, it was a really beautiful viewpoint!

Head home and sleep early, because tomorrow is an EARLY day.

Head out before sunrise, because it’ll be worth watching the new day today!

We were scheduled to drive out to Hopi Point and catch the sunrise there since we hadn’t been to that viewpoint before. Unfortunately, the road was blocked and we were running short on time, so we decided to swing back to Shoshone Point instead.

You can either grab the sunrise at the end of the trail or wander off-trail to explore some more hidden quiet spots – we did both!

Bright Angel Trailhead

Eat some snacks, grab your water, and head out to the Bright Angel Trailhead . This is the big momma trail, and it’s going to take pretty much the whole day!

The Bright Angel Trail descends straight into the Grand Canyon. Yesterday’s South Kaibab Trail was the warmup for this one, which is about 10 miles long one-way down a steep incline, and runs all the way to the Colorado River!

Like the South Kaibab Trail, it is NOT recommended to try and hike all the way to the river in one day, especially during the summer when the heat saps the life straight out of you. And like before, the return hike will take 2 to 3 times as long as the way down.

There are water and rest stops along the way, but make sure to bring a full bottle (or two!), food, and something to protect you from the sun!

I would recommend hiking Bright Angel as early in the day as possible—hiking 5 miles straight back up at the hottest part of the day was not the most intelligent move on our part.

But if you have the energy, I cannot recommend Bright Angel enough. Watching the Grand Canyon transform into a rich green ecosystem around you as you hike down into the canyon is an unforgettable experience.

The popular turnaround points are at 1.5 miles, 3 miles, and 5 miles. Most people turn around at the 3-mile mark – the trail really starts to descend after this point, and the terrain around you will completely change.

As my friend and I passed down towards the 5-mile point called the Indian Garden, the landscape transformed around us, tall, thick green grass, deciduous trees, and a refreshing cold creek to run along.

The best part is that the creek is freezing cold, and pouring cold water all over yourself feels unbelievably good!

After you pass Indian Garden, however, there’s practically no shade all the way to the end of the plateau, from where you can look down into the river running below—so I seriously wouldn’t recommend it in the summer unless you’re an experienced hiker going for a 2-day hike!

Seriously, there was a temperature reader at the base of the 5-mile valley, and it was 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

We turned around at the end of Indian Garden to have a clean 10-mile round trip hike, and the whole thing ended up taking the better part of a day—by the time we got back to the top, it was dinnertime!

Suggested tours of the Grand Canyon

• Grand Canyon Full-Day Hike from Sedona or Flagstaff – Hike one of the best trails on the south rim! Experience the Grand Canyon along with a certified guide.
• Red Rock West Jeep Tour – Head off road and through the red rocks of Sedona in an open top jeep! A unique way to experience the stunning Red Rocks.
• Sedona: Grand Canyon Sunset Tour With Dinner – Watch the sun set across the vast Canyon, see the best views of the east and south rim. Learn about the flora and fauna, in addition to the history of the Canyon.
• West Sedona: Canyon 3 hour ATV Tour – Experience an incredible view of Verde Valley and be in with the chance of watching antelope running across the valley floor. Discover famous movie spots on this tour!

Have Extra Time? Here Are A Couple Of Extra Suggestions!

Bike hermit road.

Hermit Road is closed to private vehicles in the summer, so you’ll need to take the bus or bike along if you’re heading there during high season. Bright Angel Bicycles near Mather Point rents out bikes by the hour or overnight, as well.

Check Out The North Rim

The North Rim is way less popular than the south rim – you won’t find trails as well-marked, and little to no restaurants, restrooms, lodging, and water fountains.

However, if you’d like to have a more naturalistic experience, the Cape Final Trail (4 miles roundtrip) and Widforss Trail/Viewpoint (10 miles roundtrip) both look absolutely stunning.

However, it takes multiple hours to drive to the North Rim from the South Rim because you have to drive around the canyon, so keep that in mind.

Star Gazing

If you can stay awake long enough for the sky to get dark, go out and watch the stars on this last night. You can see the Milky Way clear as day in the summer, and the stars are absolutely heavenly!

Just make sure you have a jacket or two it gets quite cold at night. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to get any good pictures (looks like our astrophotography needs some practice), but it should give you a good idea of how beautiful the night sky was!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i pack.

• If it’s summer, bring all your light, breathable clothes for those hot hikes!
• Make sure to have a hat, sunblock, walkable shoes, and plenty of water/snacks on hand.
• Sunglasses to help protect your eyes during the glare of midday aren’t a bad idea either if you’re light-sensitive like me!
• You should only need a thicker jacket/blanket if you’re planning on going stargazing.
• And make sure to download your maps offline – while Grand Canyon National Park has probably the best service out of all the national parks I’ve visited, there’s no service at some points, especially the deeper you go.

What Was Your Favorite Part Of The Park?

For viewpoints, definitely Shoshone Point (both sunrise and sunset). And for trails, definitely the Bright Angel Trail!

Shoshone is just stunning no matter what time of day you’re there, and it feels so natural with the lack of railing and people, but it’s also very safe.

And Bright Angel Trail is just incredible to see, with amazing views and the magical transforming landscape – not to mention it feels incredibly rewarding.

And there you have it, an incredible, action-packed, thrilling Grand Canyon 3-day itinerary! I hope you fall in love with it as much as I did, something about the natural wonder and beauty of the place has an irresistible pull.

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit the Grand Canyon. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About The Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon

• A Guide To Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon & The Grand Canyon
• How To Kayak And Paddle Board Antelope Canyon, Arizona
• How To Take Stunning Photos In Antelope Canyon
• 9 Tips For Visiting Lower Antelope Canyon
• Havasu Falls: The Ultimate Guide

We Are Travel Girls Contributor Angelina Suwoto Angisusu.github.io Connect with Angelina  Instagram  |  Facebook

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Monica says

June 15, 2021 at 1:42 pm

Thanks for the Grand Canyon advice! Where did you stay? Food/restaurant t recommendations?

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6 Best Road Trips

Driving to the Grand Canyon is the ultimate road trip. Here are scenic, adventure-packed road-trip itineraries complete with maps and the best towns, attractions and smaller parks to stop at along the way.

Launch your Grand Canyon road trip from Phoenix , Las Vegas , Salt Lake City , Denver , New Mexico or drive a section of the famous Route 66 . But don’t be in a hurry. You’ll find that the surrounding Americana, Native American culture and Arizona’s wine country can be as enchanting as the national park itself.

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How to Plan an Amazing Grand Canyon Itinerary (2 Days)

The scale of the Grand Canyon is absolutely mind-blowing. Standing on the rim of the canyon, you’ll be staring thousands of feet down into crags and crevices winding through the world-famous chasm that millions of people flock to every year. It’s one of those places that makes you go “I wonder what the first people who came across this place thought?” 

It was probably something like “Oh damn, what do we do now?” 

Though I, Matt, have been to the Grand Canyon multiple times over the years, we spent more time on our latest trip, which allowed me to explore a little deeper into the canyon (both literally and figuratively). One thing I will say is that, in order to truly appreciate the “grandness” of the Grand Canyon, you should do your best to do a hike that takes you down below the rim. 

From below the canyon rim, you’ll be looking up at towering rock structures that, just hours before, you were looking down on. And they look A LOT bigger from the bottom, especially when there’s a steep climb back to the rim ahead of you. 

We put together this 2 day Grand Canyon itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Grand Canyon National Park. 

If you have more time – 3 days in the Grand Canyon – or less time – one day in the Grand Canyon – we have suggestions at the bottom of the itinerary for how you might adjust this for your trip. Plus, you’ll find all the logistics you need to know to plan the perfect trip. 

Wondering where to stay at the Grand Canyon ? We’ve got you covered with a complete guide to the best places to stay at the Grand Canyon , plus exactly how to choose where to stay based on your style and budget.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

South Rim vs. North Rim? Which to Choose

The two rims of the Grand Canyon – the more visited Grand Canyon South Rim and the more remote North Rim – may be under 20 miles apart at the widest point as the crow flies, but it actually takes several hours to drive around. 

Because, you know, there’s a big canyon in the way. 

If it’s your first time in the Grand Canyon, then you should focus on the South Rim. Full stop. 

If you’ve been to the South Rim before and done a few of the hikes, seen the sights, and feel up for something new, then consider the North Rim. 

Be aware, the North Rim is 1,000 feet higher in elevation, which means the season is much shorter (it’s basically only summer through early fall). It’s also pretty hard to get to, at least compared to the South Rim. 

This itinerary will focus on the South Rim , though we have some suggestions on what to do with more time that includes the North Rim too.  

How Many Days in the Grand Canyon?

After spending four days on this trip (and having been multiple times in the past, though never together), we think two days is the perfect amount of time to spend on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon if you want to see the main sights.

Two days allows you to do the three things that we think are “must-do” while you’re there: Do one hike below the rim, Walk the Rim Trail, and drive Desert View Road at sunset.  

However, it’s not like you’ll be able to see EVERYTHING in just two days. Here are some things that you might want to add, and how much time to add on for each. 

• If you want to do another big hike , like the Bright Angel Trail, add an extra day. 
• If you want to do the bucket list-worthy overnight hike into the canyon down to Phantom Ranch and back, add two to three extra days. You could also hike rim-to-rim, which is more like five days.
• If you want to visit the North Rim , add one or two extra days and be prepared for a long drive to get from rim to rim. 

Tips for Visiting Grand Canyon National Park

Here are some tips that we picked up over the course of our trip that you may (or may not) find useful as you plan your trip to the Grand Canyon.

• We didn’t really realize how high the Grand Canyon’s rim is until we were researching for our latest trip. The South Rim is at 7,000 feet. , and the North Rim is over 8,000 feet! Be prepared for the elevation – stay hydrated, bring chapstick (I’m writing this at our campsite at Mather Campground and can confirm that my lips are a disaster), and give yourself a day to acclimate before attempting one of the hikes below the rim. 
• Sun protection is essential . In the summer, it’s blazing hot. The National Park Service has to rescue countless people every summer who are suffering from heat exhaustion. To avoid being one of those people, wear plenty of sunscreen, a sun hat, drink a gallon of water a day (can’t tell you how many people we saw hiking with one small plastic water bottle – do not do that!), and plan on being off the hiking trail between 10 am and 4 pm to avoid the hottest part of the day. 
• Related to the note on high temperatures , as you drop into the canyon, the temperature rises FAST . There’s often a 20+ degree difference between the temperature at the rim, and the temperature in the canyon. We were skeptical, but as soon as we hiked down into the canyon and back, we understood. Many of the hikes are fully exposed in the middle of the day, which can make it feel even hotter. 
• Arizona has spectacular sunsets . We’re from the West Coast, where the marine layer and rainy days ruin countless sunsets. Not so in Arizona! Plan on catching sunset every night you’re at the Grand Canyon – you won’t regret it. The best places to catch a sunset are Mather Point, which is a five minute walk from the main Visitor Center, Hopi Point out on Hermit’s Rest Road (you’ll have to shuttle), and Desert View near the East Entrance of the park. 
• Monsoon season arrives in July and stays through August , which means daily afternoon thunderstorms. I’ve done a houseboat trip on nearby Lake Powell in August with my family, and got caught on a jet ski in a monsoon and I wholeheartedly do not recommend it. Plan on being inside during the monsoon hour. 
• The Rim Trail , which we think you should DEFINITELY walk a portion of, runs from Yaki Point at the eastern end all the way to Hermit’s Rest at its western end. Along the way, you’ll notice subtle changes in the canyon as you see it from all sorts of slightly different angles, and there are a bunch of informational signs along the way.

A Complete Guide to Planning an Amazing 2 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

Below, you’ll find a fairly detailed guide to our take on how to plan an amazing 2 days in the Grand Canyon with a focus on the South Rim, which is more easily accessed year round. 

Plus, below that, we have an additional section on what to do with some extra time in the park 

Note : We’re assuming you arrive in the Grand Canyon the night before, and have two full days to spend on the South Rim, leaving on the morning of the third day to head home, or onto your next stop (might we suggest Zion National Park or Sedona?). 

Day 1: The Entirety of the Rim Trail

On your first day, we wouldn’t recommend tackling a big hike, since you’ll be acclimating to the elevation (it’s 7,000 feet above sea level!). 

Instead, we think it’s worth doing the entire rim trail , which runs from Yaki Point to Hermits Rest.

To do that, you have a few options. 

• First is hiking, but you won’t be able to hike the whole thing. 
• Second is the shuttle, which is a viable option. 
• Third is renting bikes from Bright Angel Bicycles (adjacent to the main Visitor Center) to do part of the rim trail on two wheels. 

We think a combination of the three is the way to go, which is what you’ll see below.

The Rim Trail is special because you’ll get to see how the Grand Canyon changes drastically as you traverse the rim. At points, you’ll only be able to see the opposite rim. At others, you’ll get a view down the canyon, either to the east or west. You’ll even catch glimpses of the Colorado River on Hermits Road! 

Notice the subtle changes in the canyon as you move from east to west, and marvel at the scale of what you’re seeing and the time it took to become what it is today. 

Rent Bikes and Ride Along the Rim to Yaki Point

Riding bikes along the rim was one of the highlights of our trip, which is why you’ll find it here in your itinerary. You can’t bike along most of the rim trail, but you CAN on the way out to Yaki Point, which is a gorgeous ride. 

First, head to Bright Angel Bicycles at the Visitor Center. They rent bikes from 8 am to 5 pm (though you can rent them for 24 hours, which means you can keep them overnight which is what we did), and you can rent them by the hour, for a half day (five hours), a full day (more than five hours – rent and return same day), or 24 hours (keep it overnight). They also have rentals for kids, various attachments for shuttling kids around, and even tagalong bikes. 

As far as routes go, they also have helpful maps that are useful for planning your trip. We did both the ride to Yaki Point and the ride out on Hermit Road. You can’t follow the rim between the Visitor Center and Bright Angel Lodge, which is why we recommend walking that section below. 

If you wanted to ride on Hermit Road, do Yaki Point first, then head out that way, where you’ll ride along the same road as the shuttle bus – when you hear / see a shuttle behind you, you need to pull completely off the road and stop to let the bus pass. Keep in mind, the first mile or two of that road is steep! Then, return the bikes, and do the walk from Mather to the Bright Angel Lodge. 

From the Visitor Center, take the bikes on the greenway trail out to Yaki Point . It’s a mostly flat ride, with some rolling hills that aren’t too bad. Along the way, you’ll pass the South Kaibab Trailhead and Pipe Creek Vista , which are both worth a stop. There are also plenty of other unmarked viewpoints along the rim trail that are worth stopping for as you ride by. 

Walk from Mather Point to the Bright Angel Lodge

After you drop your bikes off, head out to Mather Point from the Visitor Center. It’s about a five minute walk to the most popular viewpoint in the Grand Canyon, mostly because of its accessibility. From the well-developed viewing platform, you can see up and down the canyon in both directions. 

This is where your stroll along the rim begins. It’s just over 2.5 miles from Mather Point to Village Route Transfer , which is where you’ll pick up the shuttle for the afternoon adventure on Hermits Road. 

For the trip out there, there are a couple of stops worth making.

• Yavapai Point: More panoramic views of the Grand Canyon? BOOOOORING. Just kidding – stop here and admire the vastness of the canyon. 
• Yavapai Geology Museum : Worth a stop for the information about the Grand Canyon’s geology. 
• Trail of Time: Not necessarily a single stop, but a series of informational signs tracking the formation of the Grand Canyon over the years. Coming from the east, you’ll start with the most recent times and go back in time as you walk the rim. The signage and information is fantastic. 

Use the Shuttle to Explore Hermits Rest Road

Grab lunch at the Bright Angel Lodge or El Tovar Hotel (or eat your packed picnic lunch along the rim, which is what we do since we’re on a budget) and take a minute to relax and admire the views of the canyon. Then, get ready to head out to Hermit Road, which was a highlight of our time in the park.

Note : We loved biking this route because Hermit Road is accessible only by shuttle to most people (March – November), which means you’ll have the road largely to yourself. If that sounds like fun, take your rental bikes out to Hermit Road for the afternoon, giving yourself plenty of time to get back to drop them off before 5pm. It’ll take you about three to four hours to do the whole thing, depending on how fast you’re traveling. This does mean you’ll likely miss sunset at Hopi Point because you’ll have to return the bikes before sunset. We’d recommend Mather Point for sunset if that’s the case. 

The best time to do the journey out to Hermits Rest is late afternoon to sunset , so you might have a few hours to kill depending on how long the morning takes you. Spend it either at your hotel, or by walking a portion of the Rim Trail out on Hermit Road, which gives you a more up-close-and-personal perspective of the Grand Canyon than the road, which is what shuttles and bikes take. 

Refill water bottles for the afternoon journey at one of the many water filling stations (the easiest ones are probably at the Bright Angel Trailhead ) and head over to catch the shuttle along Hermit Road from Village Route Transfer . From here, the shuttle goes all the way out to Hermits Rest, which as one of the shuttle drivers put it “is just an excuse for another gift shop.”  

We think you should stop at every stop along the way, get out, and check out the viewpoints. The shuttles run every 10-15 minutes, so you shouldn’t have too much of a problem getting on. That leaves the perfect amount of time to get out, ooh and ahh, take some pictures, and catch the next shuttle. 

Our favorite stops were: 

• Trailview Point: This is the first stop along the route. Cool view of the Bright Angel Trail, the San Francisco mountains in the distance, and across the canyon to the North Rim. 
• The Abyss: A little different than other viewpoints because it’s basically a sheer cliff. 
• Hopi Point : One of the best sunset spots in the park, according to at least one ranger and at least one bus driver.

Once you reach Hermits Rest , grab the shuttle back to Hopi Point, which is a great sunset location – you can see out to the setting sun to the west which illuminates the canyon straight ahead and out to the east with brilliant colors ranging from yellow to red.

Day 2: The South Kaibab Trail and Desert View Road

On your second day in the Grand Canyon, hike the South Kaibab Trail before driving Desert View Road, the most scenic drive in the park open to private vehicles (except in the winter, when Hermit road allows private vehicles), and end with sunset at Mather Point. 

Hiking the South Kaibab Trail

Like we mentioned above, the South Kaibab Trail is our pick for the best hike in the Grand Canyon if you only have time for one day hike. 

To get to the trailhead, take the shuttle from the Visitor Center out to the South Kaibab Trailhead (it’s the Orange Line). It’s a popular route, so try to get there early. You can also drive to the point where Yaki Point Road meets Desert View Road, park, and hike the extra half mile from there to the trailhead, which adds a full mile (roundtrip) to your hike. 

This hike is super customizable, with turnaround points at 0.75 miles in ( Ooh Aah Point ), 1.5 miles in ( Cedar Ridge ), 3 miles in ( Skeleton Point ), and 4.5 miles in (the Tipoff ). Keep in mind those distances are one-way, so you’ll need to double them to get roundtrip distances. 

For most hikers, we’d recommend going no further than Skeleton Point, ESPECIALLY IN THE SUMMER.

There is no water on this trail, and it will likely be 90 – 100 degrees, if not hotter in the canyon during the summer. The heat is no joke, and you’ll have to climb 3,000+ feet back to the rim if you go further than Skeleton Point. From Skeleton Point, you can see the Colorado River, and get views both east and west into the canyon. It’s a 6 mile hike, with 2,000 feet of elevation gain on the way back up to the rim. Pack plenty of water and snacks for the journey. 

Driving Desert View Road

After your hike, head back to camp or your hotel and take a mini siesta and eat some lunch. In the afternoon, head out to Desert View Road, which is the best scenic drive in the park that’s open to private vehicles year round. 

Stop at all the viewpoints, starting with Pipe Creek and ending with Desert View itself. We were stunned at the changes in the canyon along this 22 mile drive. Eventually you can see multiple different views of the river, which you have to hike 5-10 miles to see from the part of the canyon around the Visitor Center. 

We were particularly enamored with Moran Point (where we caught sunset), Desert View , and Grandview Point (mostly because there’s a story about a hotel on one of the informational signs, but no mention of why or how it disappeared – what a mystery!). 

Here are some pictures, which someone once said are worth a thousand words (honestly, it’s probably more when it comes to the Grand Canyon). 

Sunset at Mather Point

The drive to Desert View is best in the late afternoon, which gives you exactly enough time to head back to Mather Point for sunset. 

Finish out your time in the park with a spectacular sunset (just guessing, because it’s Arizona) at Mather Point. It’s a busy spot since it’s so close to the Visitor Center, so you might be sharing it with a crowd. Bring a cold beer, some snacks, and watch the light show as the sun descends towards the horizon, and the Grand Canyon lights up with shades of yellow, orange, and red. 

The colors of the canyon really pop when the sun dips low, and if you’re lucky you’ll have some clouds to add color in the sky. 

What to Do with 3 Days in the Grand Canyon

With an extra day, we think you should follow the 2 day itinerary above and add another of the long hikes down below the canyon rim on the third day. 

Both of the hikes below are hard because of the elevation gain on the way back up to the rim, but the Bright Angel Trail is far more customizable if you’re not an experienced hiker – you can just go down to 1.5 mile guesthouse (3 miles roundtrip). 

The two best options, we think, are the: 

• Bright Angel Trail (which we covered above) down to 3 mile resthouse (6 miles / 2,000 ft of elevation) or Indian Gardens (9 miles / 3,000 ft of elevation). Unfortunately, the scenery really doesn’t change that much along the way, as it never really heads out into the canyon until you get to Plateau Point, which is too long for a day hike for most people. 
• Grandview Point to Horseshoe Mesa (5.5 miles / 2,400 ft of elevation). This hike starts out on Desert View Road and makes its way down to Horseshoe Mesa, where you’ll have great views of the canyon. This is not an easy hike, and there is no drinking water along the trail – bring AT LEAST 3L of water with you if you plan to tackle it, and start early – it gets hot FAST in the canyon below the rim. 

What to Do with One Day in the Grand Canyon

If you only have one day in the Grand Canyon, we’d put a few elements of each day of the itinerary above together. 

Start your day early by catching the shuttle from the Visitor Center out to the South Kaibab Trailhead . Do the hike from there down to Cedar Ridge (3 miles / 1,100 ft elevation) or Skeleton Point (6.3 miles / 2,000 ft elevation), which will take most of the morning. 

Take the shuttle out to Yaki Point , ooh and ahh over the views, and hop back on the shuttle to the Visitor Center. Eat lunch, refill water bottles, and head out to Hermit Road (either via the shuttle, or by renting bikes) for the afternoon. Stop at all the viewpoints along the way (see above for our favorites), which will take you another three hours or so. 

In the late afternoon around sunset, tackle Desert View Drive , and stay at Desert View for sunset before heading back to your hotel to get some rest after your action-packed day. 

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, you have options that include camping, staying at a hotel or lodge inside the park, and staying at a hotel outside the park. All three offer different experiences at different price points, and we’ll go through each one with some recommendations to help you find the perfect home base for exploring the Grand Canyon. 

We’ll focus mainly on the South Rim, since this itinerary for the Grand Canyon heavily features the sights on the South Rim, and we think it’s the best choice for first timers. 

Hotels Inside the Park on the South Rim

If camping isn’t your jam, then consider staying at one of the hotels inside the park. 

PS : We’ve got a whole separate guide dedicated to helping you find the perfect place to stay at the Grand Canyon . Go read that for much more detail.

Look, most lodges and hotels inside national parks aren’t a great value. The facilities are outdated – mostly because they’re constantly at full capacity so when would they renovate? – and you’ll pay a premium for the convenient location. 

And the hotels inside Grand Canyon National Park are not particularly different. For a better value, consider staying just 15 minutes away outside the South Entrance in Tusayan , or even Grand Canyon Junction , which is more like 30 minutes away from the rim. You can find those picks in the next section. 

There are two distinct groups of lodging in the park – those that are actually on the rim, and those that are just off of the rim. As you might imagine, you’ll pay a premium for staying on the canyon rim itself . 

The hotel options on the rim are: 

• El Tovar : This building intrigued me, so I looked it up to figure out what the story behind the architecture was. It looks like a ski chalet, which seemed like a weird choice in the high desert, but the architects designed it based on Swiss Chalets because back in the day Europe was the peak of luxury for the high-end travelers it was built for. Rooms are actually pretty nice, and the location is pretty unbeatable. 
• Bright Angel Lodge : If you want less of a hotel-style room and more of a standalone cottage, consider the Bright Angel Lodge. It’s right at the trailhead for the Bright Angel Trail, and you catch the shuttle out to Hermit Road a few hundred yards away. It is a little further from the main Visitor Center, but you can drive or take the shuttle to get over there. 
• Thunderbird Lodge : Honestly, this place looks like a college dorm from the outside. So, not particularly inviting. But inside, the rooms are basic but clean, and not nearly as lifeless as it looks from the exterior. Plus, it’s right on the rim, next to El Tovar. Some rooms even have a canyon view!

For a slightly cheaper stay, consider the lodges that aren’t on the rim itself, but are still within a 10-15 minute walk of the Visitor Center. 

• Yavapai Lodge : This place is within a 15 minute walk of Mather Point and the Visitor Center, and is inside the Grand Canyon Village plaza where the main grocery store in the park is. It’s a great location, and it’s also the biggest lodge inside the park. Rooms are basic hotel-style rooms, but they’re plenty comfortable. And it’s about as affordable as it gets inside the park, though you’ll still pay a bit more for the privilege of staying within walking distance of the rim. 
• Maswik Lodge : Basic rooms that need updating, but it’s one of the most affordable places to stay inside the park. It’s near Bright Angel Trailhead and the entrance to Hermit Road, which means it’s a bit further away from the main Visitor Center. 

Camping Inside the Park (South Rim)

The best campground on the South Rim is Mather Campground, which is a three minute drive or a 20 minute walk to the Visitors Center, and is on the Blue Line shuttle. We stayed there and were honestly really impressed with the campsites and the facilities given the fact that it’s massive. It’s the only campground in the park that’s open year round. 

You’ll need to book well in advance, particularly in the summer (think like six months in advance). Reservations are highly, highly recommended as most of the sites are reserved. Don’t plan on showing up at 5 pm on a Friday and finding an open site. 

There’s an RV Park at the South Rim too called Trailer Village RV Park , with sites with full hookups. It’s also super conveniently located near the Visitor Center and market. 

There’s a first-come-first-served campground at Desert View , which is 20 miles east of the park’s main Visitor Center. It’s open roughly from May to October, and you can’t make reservations. It’s a good second option if you can’t snag a site at Mather, but you’ll need to get there early in the day if you want to get a site over the summer. 

Info on camping inside the park can be found here . 

Staying Outside the South Entrance

If you’re looking for a better value , look outside the South Entrance. 

The best options here are going to be in Tusayan , which is basically at the South Entrance, and Grand Canyon Junction , which is 15 minutes south, but has more options. Both will put you within a half hour of the rim, and offer a better value than the hotels inside the park. 

If you want to stay in a hotel , stay in Tusayan. If you want to stay in a vacation rental , stay in Grand Canyon Junction. More detail on specific places to stay below. 

The downside is that you won’t be able to walk to the rim, but that’s the tradeoff for more affordable rates, I suppose. 

For a truly unique and special stay, check out Grand Canyon Under Canvas , where you’ll stay in a canvas safari tent under the stars – which are incredible in this part of Arizona, where there’s very little light pollution to ruin them. It’s a little further away from the park, but that’s part of the charm. 

Staying in Tusayan

Tusayan is your best bet – it’s immediately outside the South Entrance of the park, and has a trio of solid hotels that will put you in the perfect spot for your trip. 

There’s a shuttle system that will take you to the Visitor Center – information here . (NOTE: It’s not in service for the 2021 season – you’ll have to drive). 

• Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn : First of all, what a mouthful. Second, this is one of three good value options in the area, and it has spacious rooms, both indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and even a bowling alley (what a weird thing to have at a hotel, but we’re into it). 
• The Holiday Inn Express : It’s a Holiday Inn Express, which means it’s clean, comfortable, and consistent. Comfortable beds, free breakfast in the morning, and an indoor pool (heated during the winter) make this hotel a winner. 
• Red Feather Lodge : A nice break from the chain hotels, this is a family owned business that has been around since the 1960’s. Rooms are basic but comfortable and clean, and they have laundry, a fitness center, and a seasonal pool. Basically, everything you’ll need for your stay. 

Staying in Grand Canyon Junction

You could also stay in Grand Canyon Junction, which is a little further south, and a little less convenient, but there are more choices in terms of vacation rentals. 

This area is also referred to as “Valle” and the only thing I could find on the difference is that residents are trying to get the name changed to Grand Canyon Junction from Valle. 

If you want to stay in a vacation rental, Grand Canyon Junction is your best bet. 

We like this cute loft for couples visiting the Grand Canyon (you could also stay in this retro campervan for a more unique stay), or this three bedroom / two bathroom ranch house for groups and families (sleeps up to eight). If that one is booked, this countryside lodge would be a good alternative.  

Click here to see all vacation rental listings in Grand Canyon Junction.

Where to Stay on the North Rim

When it comes to staying on the North Rim, there are far fewer choices than across the canyon on the more visited South Rim. It can be summed up in a couple of sentences. 

Interested in camping? Stay at North Rim Campground (closed during the winter). 

Not into camping? Then stay at the North Rim Lodge . 

That’s it. There aren’t too many other options that are close enough to the rim to make it worth your time. 

Hiking in the Grand Canyon 

There are three hikes that are super popular, and for good reason : the Rim Trail, the South Kaibab Trail, and the Bright Angel Trail . 

There are some other great hikes in the Grand Canyon that are less trafficked – like the Grandview trail and Hermit’s Trail – but with just a couple of days, we’d recommend the first three. 

The nice part about all three of those trails is that they are highly customizable based on your hiking experience and fitness level. 

For example, on the Bright Angel Trail, hikers who are less experienced or prepared for a daylong hike can hike the three miles down and back to the 1.5 mile guesthouse , which takes you below the canyon rim and gives you a different perspective and appreciation for the vastness of the canyon. Or, experienced hikers can hike all the way to Plateau Point , which is 12 miles and 3,000+ feet of climbing to get back to the rim. 

Here’s a brief overview of each trail:

• The Rim Trail : Running from Yaki Point all the way to Hermit’s Rest, the Rim Trail is a fantastic introduction to the Grand Canyon. Not only do the views change along the way, but there’s a lot of educational signage that helps you wrap your head around how exactly the Grand Canyon came to be. 
• The South Kaibab Trail : This is our pick between the two main trails that take you between the rim because the landscape changes, and you get to views of the Colorado River with significantly less effort than the Bright Angel Trail. There are turnaround points that you can use to make this a 1.5, 3, 6, or 9 mile hike. There’s no water along the trail, but there is a bathroom at Cedar Ridge. 
• The Bright Angel Trail : This trail starts from the Bright Angel Lodge, and basically drops straight down to a plateau that continues out to the Colorado River. Our favorite part about this trail was seeing the landscape from above, and then realizing once you’re down in the canyon that you’re now looking UP at the massive tower you were admiring from above just a few minutes ago. 

The South Kaibab Trail vs. the Bright Angel Trail

Both of these hikes are pretty spectacular, but if you only have time for one, which should you choose?

We think it’s the South Kaibab Trail, and we don’t think it’s that close. 

For the majority of the Bright Angel Trail, you’re looking at exactly the same landscape from a slightly different perspective. It’s just zig-zags its way down the canyon wall until you get to the plateau, when the views start to change slightly. However, unless you go all the way to Plateau Point, which is a 12 mile hike with 3,000 feet of elevation gain on the way back up and full sun for the middle 3 miles, you don’t get a glimpse of the river. There is, however, drinking water along this trail, which is a plus I suppose. And two bathrooms at 1.5 miles in and 3 miles in.

We think the South Kaibab Trail is the way to go if you only have time for one of them. The landscape varies, and you traverse a ridge out into the canyon where you’ll have views east and west down the canyon. Plus, you can see the river starting at 3 miles in! There’s no drinking water along the trail, so be prepared with plenty of water for the climb back to the trailhead. For most hikers, the hike to Skeleton Point is more than enough in terms of beauty and effort – it’s six miles with 2,000 feet of elevation gain on the way back up. 

When to Visit the Grand Canyon

In general, spring and fall are the most pleasant times to be at the Grand Canyon. Weather is more mild (though it can be unpredictable – we got a hailstorm in April), and crowds are slightly more thin than the summer, which is peak season. 

Here’s a breakdown by season of what to expect in the Grand Canyon. 

In the spring , temperatures are mild, ranging from the 50’s to the 70’s during the day, and it can get below freezing at night. Crowds are thinner than the summer, which is the most crowded time to visit, but the milder weather and spring break mean spring is still a popular time to visit. 

In the fall , the weather will be similar to spring, especially in October and November, which means it’s a very nice time to be at the Grand Canyon. Plus, there’s no spring break in the fall, which makes it a slightly less crowded time than the spring. September, after Labor Day, is a lovely time to take your trip. 

In the summer , temperatures are HOT, particularly below the rim, where it can be more than 20 degrees hotter than at the rim. It’s downright unpleasant at times, and it’s best to restrict your hiking below the rim so that you’re not out there climbing a couple thousand feet in the heat of the day, between 10 am and 4 pm. Summer is also the most popular time to visit, with throngs of people out on their classic summer road trip. Book accommodations early, and plan on waiting in line for the shuttles if you get there after 10 am. In July and August, it’s monsoon season in Arizona, which means afternoon showers and thunderstorms basically every day. 

In the winter , crowds are very, very thin. With the high elevation of the rim, it’s cold, and probably not a great time to be camping unless you have an RV. You also might encounter snow, which can be simultaneously gorgeous and annoying. Most of the trails below the rim become icy and require crampons to descend into the canyon, so this is not the time to visit if you want to do one of the amazing hikes below the rim – the South Kaibab Trail or the Bright Angel Trail. The upside of the winter is that you can drive Hermit’s Rest road between November and February (it’s closed to private vehicles the rest of the year, and requires taking the shuttle). 

Getting to Grand Canyon National Park

Phoenix and Las Vegas are the two best entry points to the Grand Canyon if you’re flying in from out of town. If the Grand Canyon is part of a broader Arizona road trip or a road trip through the Southwest, then you might be coming from Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park , both of which are a relatively easy journey. 

From Las Vegas

Las Vegas is, by far, the most convenient airport to fly into to get to the Grand Canyon. It takes just about four hours to drive from Las Vegas, and you’ll arrive through the west entrance of the park. If you’re flying in, plan on flying into McCarran International Airport , picking up your rental car, and heading east. 

From Phoenix (or Sedona)

Getting to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix will take you roughly the same amount of time as Vegas, and which route you take really depends on what else you’re going to be doing on your trip. On the way from Phoenix you’ll pass through Sedona , which is worth a stop for a day or two if you have the time. 

From Phoenix, it’s about four hours to the South Rim. It’s two hours from Sedona to the South Rim. 

That’s all we’ve got! I think we covered everything you need to know to visit the Grand Canyon. It’s a spectacular landscape, and we know you’re going to love experiencing it for yourself.

More Arizona + Utah Travel Guides

If you liked this guide, you’re going to love our other Arizona and Utah travel guides.

Phoenix : Plan a perfect weekend in Phoenix , and figure out where to stay in Phoenix.

The Grand Canyon : Planning a trip that includes the Grand Canyon? We’ve got you covered with a guide on exactly how to plan an amazing Grand Canyon itinerary and how to find the perfect place to stay .

Sedona : Plan the perfect weekend getaway to Sedona , and learn everything you need to know to go hiking in Sedona .

If you’re making your way into Utah , you’ll want to read our guides to:

• Zion ( 2 day itinerary and where to stay )
• Bryce Canyon (the best hikes and how to spend one day in Bryce Canyon )
• Moab ( a perfect itinerary , the best hikes in Arches , and the best places to stay and things to do )

Plus, our 10 day Utah National Parks road trip is a super detailed guide to exploring Utah, if you’ve got the time. Otherwise, save it for later.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Your post has given a good roadmap and I felt seeing the Canyon was overwhelming with all the different points. Thank you. My only question is what is a good time to start off day 1 and day 2? We will be staying in Williams for our trip in April so I wonder if leaving before sunrise is a good idea as it might get crowded later during the day.

Hey Samantha! The canyon definitely gets more crowded as the day goes on, and we found that we had a couple of the viewpoints completely to ourselves early in the morning! I’d recommend as early a start as you can muster (but it will be cold in the mornings, so pack layers!).

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Due to a waterline break, the Grand Canyon’s South Rim is under a Stage 4 water restriction, prohibiting overnight stays in the park. The park is still open to visitors, and the Squire Resort in Tusayan is fully operational. For updates, visit NPS Grand Canyon Conditions .

One-day Itineraries

Experience a whirlwind of enjoyment at the grand canyon.

Planning a one-day trip to the Grand Canyon? You can have a lot of fun at the Grand Canyon, even if you don’t have a lot of time. Walk the rim, ride the shuttle bus to the scenic overlooks, explore historic Desert View and more.

EXPLORE GRAND CANYON’S VISITOR CENTERS, MUSEUMS, AND HISTORIC LANDMARKS

Explore the array of visitor centers, museums, and historic structures dotting the Grand Canyon landscape, each offering a distinctive viewpoint on this extraordinary locale. Notable attractions encompass a fascinating 3-D map at the main National Park visitor center, the Yavapai Geology Museum, the captivating Kolb Brothers’ photography studio, and many other intriguing sites.

A DAY IN DESERT VIEW: UNCOVER ANCIENT WONDERS

Immerse yourself in the Desert View experience, where the iconic Native American-inspired watchtower, Tusayan Ruins, and a museum dedicated to the ancient Puebloan people await your exploration. Spend a day unraveling the mysteries of this captivating locale.

PAPILLON AIR TOURS: SOAR ABOVE GRAND CANYON

Embark on an extraordinary day of exploration with Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters. Since 1965, they have taken guests on daily tours, providing a unique aerial perspective of this remarkable natural wonder. With three exclusive landing sites on the canyon floor, their immersive experience is unparalleled, making it a journey you will remember.

RIM EXPLORATION MADE EASY: HOP ON THE SHUTTLE BUS

Embark on a seamless adventure with our complimentary shuttle buses navigating diverse routes, offering the flexibility to disembark at scenic overlooks, museums, and beyond. These buses grant access to numerous hiking trails and cycling routes and ensure a convenient and enjoyable exploration along the rim.

TRAVERSE THE TRAIL OF TIME: UNVEILING GRAND CANYON’S GEOLOGICAL TALE

Embark on a unique journey along the Trail of Time, a specially curated section of the rim trail extending from Yavapai Geology Museum to Verkamps Visitor Center. Immerse yourself in the canyon’s rich history and geology through trail markers symbolizing its evolution, rock samples from each layer, and a host of enlightening experiences.

PEDAL THROUGH PARADISE: EMBARK ON A BIKE TOUR

Discover the Grand Canyon’s beauty leisurely yet actively with our bike tours. It’s a delightful combination of sightseeing and exercise, allowing you to explore areas inaccessible to cars. Rent a bike or bring your own to pedal along the Greenway Trail and other designated bike paths, ensuring a unique and invigorating experience.

UNVEIL THE GRAND CANYON’S SECRETS: JOIN A RANGER-GUIDED TOUR OR PROGRAM

Immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of the Grand Canyon’s history, geology, and wildlife as shared by the experts and knowledgeable park rangers. Engage in specially curated programs designed for adults and kids, ensuring an enriching and educational experience.

EXPLORE THE GRAND CANYON ON FOOT: EMBARK ON A ONE-DAY HIKE

Whether you’re seeking scenic strolls or challenging treks, the Rim Trail, Bright Angel Trail, and South Kaibab Trail are ideal starting points for a one-day hike. For a more rigorous adventure, consider the Hermit Trail and Grandview Trail. Before hiking, familiarize yourself with essential hiking tips and smart practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable exploration.

CAPTURED BEAUTY: UNLEASH YOUR INNER PHOTOGRAPHER FROM DAWN TO DUSK

Embark on a visual journey at the Grand Canyon, where sunrise and sunset unveil breathtaking photo opportunities. However, the magic doesn’t end there. This natural wonder is a true photographer’s haven, whether you wield a professional-grade camera or simply snap selfies near the rim. Capture the essence of the Grand Canyon at every moment, from the first light of dawn to the serenity of dusk.

IGNITE YOUNG EXPLORERS: JOIN THE JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM

Enrich your children’s Grand Canyon experience with the Junior Ranger program – a perfect blend of fun and learning. Led by a genuine park ranger, your kids will embark on an educational adventure and receive a complimentary activity booklet at the Visitor Center. They’ll proudly earn a badge upon completion, symbolizing their newfound knowledge and connection to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.

Immerse yourself in amenity-rich accommodations near Grand Canyon National Park.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the park, where you’ll delve into the fascinating history that has shaped this extraordinary landscape.

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Home » North America » Grand Canyon

EPIC GRAND CANYON Itinerary! (2024)

Welcome to one of the world’s seven wonders. Where the valleys meet the sky, and where water has, over millennia, carved out the greatest canyon ever seen! Spending two days at the Grand Canyon could never do justice to the impact this behemoth has had on its local people.

However, if one or two days at the Grand Canyon is all you have, then it’s best to get in as many of the good bits as possible! In this Grand Canyon itinerary, we will try our best to fit in all of those bits, whether you’re spending one day in the Grand Canyon, or traveling to its outer reaches and towns of influence!

If nature and culture are your kinds of things, then here’s what to do at the Grand Canyon!

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Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon

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Grand Canyon vacations can give varied experiences, depending on the time of year. Summers can get up to a sweltering 30°C/86 °F, and winters down to a freezing 7°C/ 45°F. A weekend in the Grand Canyon can feature snow-covered peaks one week, and give you sunburn the next. Quite the turnaround! That’s why reckon it’s the best place to camp in spring in the US !

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The crowds of tourists follow the weather and thus can determine when’s best for you to enact your Grand Canyon itinerary. March through May, and September through November are seen as sweet spots for tourists, due to the fewer crowds but with some of the warmer weather!

June through August is the Grand Canyon’s peak season, what with the holiday season in full flow. Experiencing long summer days and with the park fully open for business, the canyon is a hum of activity!

Situated plum in the middle of Arizona, the Grand Canyon spans 4,926 km², taking up most of the state. So when you’re thinking about where to stay to visit the Grand Canyon , there’s actually a whole heap of different spots to consider. Panoramic pictures and social media have contributed to the notion that a visit to the Grand Canyon is made up of that one iconic view. How wrong this notion is!

Mather Point is just one of the many outdoor items a Grand Canyon itinerary can be made up of. As large as this iconic site is, so to is its need to host the five million tourists that all want their own exclusive trip of the Grand Canyon.

Traveling the historic Route 66 you’ll get to see the towns that make up the soul of the greater Grand Canyon area. From Williams to Flagstaff, and Tusayan in between, you’ll find hostels, hotels, and campsites are in abundance!

You can also stay in Las Vegas and day trip to the Canyon.

Best Airbnb in Grand Canyon – Cutest Home to pass through

This tiny home is exactly what you need coming through the grand canyon. There are so many cool things to say about this home, but one memory you won’t forget is how incredible star-gazing is staying here — minimal light pollution. The electricity is powered by solar panels, giving you the some-what of a camping experience, without the bugs and windy dirt that can be intense once you get to that elevation.

Best Budget Hotel in the Grand Canyon Area – Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn

Situated in Tusayan, 11km from the Grand Canyon National Park, the BWP Grand Canyon Squire Inn is a budgeteer’s dream.

Equipped to the teeth with facilities of necessity (cable, WiFi, laundry) and recreation (Pub, game room, bowling alley), the BWP is as convenient and high quality as those on a budget are going to find!

Best Luxury Hotel in the Grand Canyon Area – The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

The Grand boasts the convenience of being 10km from Mather Campground, 2.9km from the airport, and 12km from the Bright Angel Trail. It comes with an indoor pool, fitness center, and evening entertainment!

With the luxury of satellite TV, an appliance-filled kitchen, and guest wardrobes, the Grand is the best place to stay at the Grand Canyon!

Best Hostel in the Grand Canyon Area – Grand Canyon International Hostel (Flagstaff)

Not only is this the closest hostel to the Grand Canyon National Park, but it also is in the perfect spot to open up the rest of the greater Grand Canyon attractions.

One of the best in the country, the Grand Canyon International is a backpackers five-star equivalent.

Flagstaff is a great place to use as your base when exploring the Grand Canyon. You might want to check out our list of epic cabins in Flagstaff which all offer a unique stay in nature.

The Grand Canyon is huge! So big that you can spend an entire day just driving from the South Rim to the North Rim and back, no stopping! With this in mind, it’s worth mentioning that a well planned Grand Canyon itinerary is a necessity when considering vacationing there.

As much as a mule seems like an awesome way to get around, the buses are better, so make use of their free service! They run throughout the North and South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

From the Bright Angel Trail dropoff to trying to get onto the world-famous viewing platform, getting around your Grand Canyon itinerary is not as difficult as it sounds. Public transport is the best option in helping you reach your Grand Canyon itinerary goals!

However, should you be lucky enough to have your own wheels, make a stop at the Grand Canyon Village Visitors Centre and pick up a brochure or two regarding traveling the many routes the Grand Canyon has to offer!

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Mather Point | Grand Canyon Village Center | Kaibab Trail | Grand Canyon Village | North Rim Exploration | Hermit’s Rest Road Viewpoints

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is often a starting point for the majority of tourists and hikers alike. Anything that’s done in the reserve usually originates here. Thus, we suggest making use of its convenient location and hopefully good weather!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Mather Point

• Why it’s awesome: This is the main site of that famous panoramic of the Grand Canyon!
• Food nearby: Snacks and refreshments can be bought from the Visitors center when it opens at 8 am

Can you picture the light cresting over the rocks at one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World? Catch that early morning sunrise and the various colors it leaves on the red rocks of the Grand Canyon!

Think of that famous shot of the Grand Canyon on Mather Point! It’s a must when touring the Grand Canyon for the first time. Mather Point is one of the closest sites to the visitors center and thus one of the first opportunities you’ll have of viewing the canyon!

As your first stop of the day, you can expect to be up early if you want to catch the early morning rays cresting over the orange rocks of the canyon. Take a short walk, bypassing the then closed Visitors center, down to the point.

Other than not wanting you to miss the beautiful sunrise, we recommend an early start so as to also to beat the crowds and tour buses that will all converge on this location! The center opens at 8 am and due to it being the most well-known spot on the South Rim, it’s worth getting out of the way early on. Try to avoid souring your Grand Canyon points of interest because of tourists!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Grand Canyon Village Visitors Center

• Why it’s awesome: Every little bit of information you could want about covering the Grand Canyon is here
• Food nearby: Grab some breakfast at the Mather Point Cafe

The best place to continue your day after a brisk early morning viewing of the canyon! Opening at 8 am, the Grand Canyon Village Visitors center can give you all the relevant information and news you could ever need for your day to day exploration. From hikes to bus times, the visitor center has you set!

Try to get here on the opening of the doors so to start your day ahead of the crowds. It doesn’t take long for the tour buses and tourists to arrive, and for the center to become a hive of activity. This is the gateway to the South Rim , and thus is where everyone will meet and convene for their tours!

Depending on the time of year, you can either have it pleasantly busy or full to the brim, so make your plans for your travel to the Grand Canyon around whether you mind crowds of people or not!

Get all your relevant information pertaining to your Grand Canyon itinerary before you start your day. Familiarise yourself with the free shuttle bus systems, the Grand Canyon walking tours available, or take a look at the various park ranger programs for you to listen in on!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge Picnic

• Why it’s awesome: Gets you to see a different perspective of the Grand Canyon!
• Food nearby: Get set for a below-the-rim picnic!

Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon is never complete without some sort of outdoor adventure, and not going on a short hike or walk into the canyon itself is a missed opportunity. The adventure of descending into the gorge, surrounded by the orange rocks and the sounds of the “ Wild West ” is seriously worth it!

The Cedar Ridge is one of the first major points on the South Kaibab Trail. One and a half miles along the Kaibab, Cedar Point is a nice balance of slightly enduring yet manageable. Put it this way, it’s easy enough and short enough not to spend your whole day doing it and/or recovering from it!

The Cedar Ridge offers a “below the rim” view of the Grand Canyon. As some of the locals would say, you haven’t seen the canyon to its fullest until you’ve seen it from below the rim! Although you would have to hike much further to see the Grand Canyon from its base, Cedar Ridge is a good start!

Taking you about 3 hours to complete, you’ll get to see Ooh Aah Point, an appropriately named spot, if ever there was one. As well, it’ll give you the opportunity to have a moment with the canyon at the Cedar Ridge picnic site! A special moment to enjoy alone or with your family.

Insider Tip: You’ll find toilets during the walk, but there is no water along the trail. Use the Visitors center to stock up with water and desired snack for your below-the-rim picnic.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Grand Canyon Village

• Why it’s awesome: The Grand Canyon Village is full of museums, studios, and food!
• Food nearby: Grab a late lunch at The Arizona Room

After a morning full to the brim with physical activity, slow it down with a calm afternoon’s touring of the world-famous Grand Canyon Village. Learn about the history of the West, the railroad, and the Grand Canyon itself.

Start at the Visitors Center and pick up a self-guided walking tour brochure for an in-depth analysis of the canyon and village. This brochure will give the autonomy you so desire to see the village and its assets at your own pace.

Highlights include the endearing Yavapai Geology Museum with its stunning view of the South Rim and a topographical map of the Grand Canyon. As well, go see Kolb Studio, Lookout Studio, and Hopi House for the art enthusiasts! Here the locals of the Grand Canyon celebrate the art and culture of the West, with Native American and the Colonial Settler influence in tow.

Bright Angel Lodge and El Tovar Buckey O’Neill Cabin, two of the most famous lodgings of the village, are worth taking a look into. You’ll get a chance to see how the local communities have been influenced by the history of the Grand Canyon and its residence.

You’ll learn about the early development of the Village around the Santa Fe Railroad, and of the molding of the Canyon around the Colorado River. We have no doubt you’ll leave full of knowledge and appreciation for this wonderful site!

Insider Tip: The Grand Canyon plays host to the “Grand Canyon Celebration of Art”. Try time your Grand Canyon vacation around this time of year!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – North Rim Exploration

• Why it’s awesome: You get to see the Grand Canyon from the opposite end of the gorge
• Cost: Free Transport!
• Food Nearby: Have a seat at the quaint at Deli in the Pines

The North Rim is often glossed over when being considered a part of one’s Grand Canyon itinerary. This may be due to its positioning and how much of a roundabout way one has to take to get there. In any case, this can work in your favor!

If crowds of tourists are not your thing, and “iconic” is not something you are too worried about, then this may be the spot for you! Although less commercialized and developed, the North Rim has some seriously attractive proposals. And the allure of these proposals can really be summed up in two words: fewer tourists.

As the locals would say, “there is no ugly side to the Grand Canyon”, and there are some beautiful viewing points and hikes on offer here, such as the Bright Angel Point, Coconino Overlook and the North Kaibab Trail!

Grab a bike and ride the roads of the North Rim, or maybe think about camping under the stars at the Demotte or Jacob Lake Campground site. Here at the North Rim, you’ll be getting a more laid back, less congested side of the Grand Canyon. The mule rides are more often available too!

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Sunset at Hermit’s Rest Road Viewpoints

• Why it’s awesome: Catch the last rays of sun hitting the orange rocks as you’ve never seen before!
• Food nearby: Sundowners at the viewpoint, and try for some supper at the famous El Tovar

Close off your first day with the unforgettable, must-see view of the Grand Canyon at sunset! We can not emphasize it enough when we say you need to catch the last light of the day ending over the gorge! As the first stars coming out overhead, you’ll get to see a sunset and a starry night like never before. Pray for clear skies!

Make use of the reserve’s “park-and-ride” bus shuttle services and catch the bus that takes you along the Hermit’s Rest Road . Prepare for the best way to see Grand Canyon on tour!

As the sun begins to set over the horizon, you’ll stop at one of the many viewing points. With your sundowners in tow, and a good hour or two to spend, you can take in the breathtaking colors and sounds of the Grand Canyon at rest. Stay for that little bit longer and, as the crowds begin to disperse, enjoy the relative peace and quiet. It’s worth taking that moment, trust us!

We’d recommend the Monument Creek Vista viewpoint as it truly encapsulates the Grand Canyon attractions in all their glory! Especially if epic views, unique scenery, and being in nature are your kind of things. The shuttle will bring you home!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

National Geographic Visitor Center | Bearizona Wildlife Farm | Williams | Route 66 Zipline | Planes of Fame Air Museum

With our 2 day itinerary at the Grand Canyon, you’ll get to experience some of the greater Grand Canyon areas. From the gorges of Tusayan to Route 66 and Williams, we think its the best idea to get a cultural shot from the Old West!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – National Geographic Visitor Center, Tusayan

• Why it’s awesome: It’s an authentic National Geographic operations site! With genuine Native American exhibits!
• Cost: $19.69 for an IMAX ticket
• Food nearby: Get a hearty breakfast at the Explorer’s Cafe

Begin your day bright and early for your trip to the greater Grand Canyon area, and to Route 66. Catch one of the many inter-canyon bus shuttles that will lead you out of the park, to the small outpost of Tusayan!

Here you’ll find the reserve’s last bastion, where you can get anything and everything regarding preparation for visiting the Grand Canyon. You’ll have an opportunity to get all your passes, permits and tour items for the rest of your Grand Canyon Itinerary, should you need them. This without having to fight the hordes of tourists at the Village center!

You’ll also find the National Geographic Visitor center! What makes this place special is not only its wealth of knowledge and incite to the greater Grand Canyon area, nor its amazingly authentic exhibits and museums! No, rather it is the IMAX theatre it hosts, where Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets is shown on the hour, starting at 8:30 am.

You would be wise to spend a short time experiencing the Grand Canyon in IMAX. It’s truly awe-inspiring to soar above the Canyon and see it from the skies, from the plains, and the Colorado River below. And all this in the majesty of 3D!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Bearizona Wildlife Farm

• Why it’s awesome: Bears, Bison, Reindeer, and so much more!
• Cost: $25 Adult ticket
• Food nearby: Grab a late brunch or early lunch that Bearizona’s 6000 ft² restaurant, Canyonlands!

Welcome to Route 66! After catching an hour-long bus ride from Tusayan to Williams, taking in the breath-taking landscape of the Arizona plains and its forests, you’ll find yourself coming into Williams – the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”!

Your first stop is due east of Williams, 10 minutes outside of the town. Surrounded by beautiful pine trees, you can enter the farm just off the right of Route 66, and be met by an enormous “Bearizona” sign.

Bearizona is home to a multitude of wildlife! From the ever famous black bear to reindeer, arctic wolves, bison, wild pigs, and mountain goats, there’s plenty of variety. Oh, and did we mention the bears? Bears in trees, bears in bushes, bears a hair’s breadth from your car! We guess it’s called “Bearizona” for a reason!

But the wandering animals are not all this awesome farm has to offer. In its walking portion, Bearizona hosts a fowl show, a barn full of your favorite animals, and an enclosed area where you can see bobcats, otters and a seriously beautiful jaguar!

Bearizona is a must as you make your way through Route 66. From its stunning scenery and wildlife on show to its hosting rangers, your first experience of the greater Grand Canyon area will be a wholesome one. It’s that feel-good stop you need to kickstart your day!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Williams

• Why it’s awesome: The world-famous Route 66 and all it has to offer!
• Food nearby: Grab a snack and coffee at Brewed Awakenings Coffee Co., and receive some of that famous local hospitality!

After your “bears-capade”, you can now make your way back to the town of Williams. Welcome to the most authentic, traditional Route 66 town you’ll find! As single-road towns go, you won’t get a more accurate depiction than this.

By visiting the Wild West Junction, you’ll start your Williams tour by getting into character! Here you’ll experience that Wild West theme to its fullest, except it’s not so much a theme as it is the real thing! Take a walk into the saloon with its live re-enactments, or visit the famous Drovers Inn. It’s the Old West come alive!

Next, take a look at the awesome museum, Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station. Salvaged from an old service station, Pete was able to restore it into a sort of time capsule! Filled with some old treasures from the golden years of Route 66, this museum will take you back to the time of small-town communities and big dreams!

The Brewing and Wine companies of Williams are always worth a look-see, especially if experiencing the local beverages is your thing! Have a look into the open-air museum, or maybe make use of one of the iconic diners. Either way, always remember that the allure of Williams is not necessarily in its things to do, but rather in being there.

From Kaibab Lake to the world-famous “Gateway to the Grand Canyon” metal arch, Williams will give you the authentic oldtown experience you never thought you needed!

Insider Tip: Sometimes the town hosts a mock gunfight straight out of a western movie. Find out when this “high noon pistol draw” might be happening and be a part of it!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Route 66 Zipline, Williams

• Why it’s awesome: Get a very unique view of Route 66 and Grand Canyon Boulevard!
• Cost: $15 Solo Ticket
• Food nearby: Take an early supper at the iconic Cruisers Cafe 66 and experience some delicious diner food

You’ve spent a good few hours experiencing Route 66 at ground level, in all its glory. You’ve gone through the history of the Williams and its role on this famous road. You’ve tried its food, its drink, and its famous hospitality! Now, it’s time to experience it from a different point of view.

Make your way to the center of town, just alongside the famous railroad. There you’ll find it: the Route 66 Zipline tour! 110Ft. High, 700ft. Long, 30mph forward and backward, and with a twist at the end!

This zipline tour is designed to give you a new vantage point of Route 66 and its surrounding landscape. It will have you marking key locations you’ve been to, scanning the horizon for notable landmarks, and taking in the beauty and historic value of the town of Williams!

With your co-chair next to you and 15 minutes of free time, we’d recommend going tandem with someone who you’d want to experience the view with. For us, it’s one of the more appropriate ways to finish your time on Route 66. With the sun at your back, the Hollywood Boulevard beneath your feet, and the old Route 66 town laid out before you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Planes of Fame Air Museum

• Why it’s awesome: One of the most iconic Air museums around, filled with preserved history!
• Food nearby: Grab a hearty meal at The Grand Canyon Inn. The burgers are worth it!

Finally, we get to the end of our 2-day itinerary at the Grand Canyon! As you make your way back to the reserve, we don’t believe it would be worth you having come all this way without making a stop at Valle’s Planes of Fame Air Museum !

For a day filled with the old and traditional, why not finish with a last look at some of the most iconic and original planes that have ever flown our skies! It truly is an eye-opener for those of the aviation variety, as well as those who can’t get enough of vintage!

There are nearly 3 dozen vintage airplanes found at this museum, ranging from warplanes of yesteryear to the classical passenger planes straight out of the black-and-white movies! These include the founder’s (Ed Maloney) very own private airplane!

Within this huge hanger you’ll find history galore, and not just pertaining to the planes. The museum’s primary purpose is actually to preserve man’s history of flight. This includes the men and women who devoted their lives to flight and its advancements, famous and otherwise. Their stories are shared and commemorated here so as to not be forgotten!

Insider Tip: If you time it right, you can get to see one of their many airshows! This is when they showcase some of their planes in action! It’s worth a watch.

Grand Canyon International Hostel (Flagstaff)

• Free Breakfast

Ride a Mule | Grand Canyon Skywalk | Bright Angel Trail | River Rafting | Grand Canyon Railway

If you’re lucky enough to need a 3-day itinerary at the Grand Canyon, then we highly recommend you take a look into some of the options below. They will be worth your while!

Ride a Mule

• Can cost $140 and above
• Its highly sought after with a waiting list of over year!
• You’ll see the Grand Canyon on routes you wouldn’t normally get to travel

Starting at either the South or North Rim, ride your very own mule as you explore the Grand Canyon across its deepest ravines and narrow trails. Not only is it an experience in and of itself, but it also will grant you a Grand Canyon trip full to the brim with memories!

You may be asking yourself why would you want to put yourself through this? Well, not only will you have some outlandish and remarkable stories to tell your friends and family when you return home, but you’ll also be able to cover more trails than you ever could on foot!

Mules are endurance animals and great for the canyons narrow trails, allowing you to cover good ground on paths not suited for horses. You also get to take the strain off your own feet! But, don’t think it isn’t difficult!

Mule rides vary from Canyon Vista Rim tours to the Bright Angel Trail descent. Times can vary from two hours to four hours in length, as well as overnight options! Be wary though, bookings can go back to over a year in advance, so get in the queue now!

Insider Tip: The South Rim tours are the most popular due to convenience and location. Make use of this by traveling to the North Rim and doing your Mule Ride there instead!

Grand Canyon Skywalk

• One of the newest attractions of the Grand Canyon
• A marvel of engineering design!
• You get a 360-degree view of the Canyon, even directly beneath you

The world-famous Skywalk ! The Grand Canyon’s latest feature and a truly inspiring feat of engineering, standing at 4000 feet above the Colorado River. With its unbeatable 360 degrees view of the Grand Canyon, this marvel is a must for anyone planning an itinerary for the Grand Canyon!

Found on the West side of the Grand Canyon, the Skywalk is not actually a part of the Grand Canyon National Reserve. It is rather located on reservation land owned by the Hualapai Indian Tribe, sanctioned and blessed by the Native American leaders of the area.

By no means budget-friendly, this is still one of the most unique experiences you can have of the Grand Canyon. You are able to get a Legacy Gold Package Day Pass to the Grand Canyon West. This pass comes with a pass to enter the Skywalk, a meal, a visitation certificate, shuttle privileges throughout the West Canyon, and the opportunity to interact with the local Hualapai people.

Costing $30 million to build, the Skywalk has been built as a testament to the natural wonder and cultural significance the Grand Canyon holds in the hearts of its locals. Should you get the opportunity to go, be prepared to wait in some form of line due to its popularity!

Bright Angel Trail

• One of the most famous hikes at the Grand Canyon
• Explore some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area
• Walk the banks of the Colorado River

Begin its 4380 feet descent at the Grand Canyon Village, and make your way towards the Colorado River. Conjoined with the South Kaibab Trail , the Bright Angel Trail will take you to the base of the canyon, and run along the Colorado River. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy an unobstructed, awe-inspiring view of the Grand Canyon from below.

Being at least a 2-day hike, you can expect to camp! The Bright Angel Campground or the Garden Campground are both highly suitable stops. You’re going to need an Overnight Permit, issued by the Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Information center, to do this, however. You can get this at any one of the visitor’s centers!

Being able to experience a hike in the Grand Canyon is recommended to any first-timers, and the Bright Angel Trail is top of that list. Water is provided via the trans-canyon pipeline, and the paths are well maintained and monitored. This trail is challenging enough to be memorable, yet rewarding enough with all its sites, sounds, and experiences to warrant the effort!

River Rafting

• Get a chance to travel the Colorado River!
• $350 and up for a whole day
• Options for both the adventurer and those who want to take it slow

The Colorado River trip would be one of the highlights of your 3-day itinerary in the Grand Canyon, hands down! Imagine yourself clinging to a raft as you hurtle downstream, the river splashing in your face! Imagine yourself camping on the side of the river, stars overhead and the sound of said river rushing alongside!

There is no shortage when it comes to options for traversing the river. Sixteen companies offer services to take you downstream, and not all of them are high octane, adrenaline-pumping rides.

Grand Canyon Rafting offers you choice on whether you want to do the white water rafting or just take it slow on a motorized raft. With so many high quality, experienced companies having your back, you know you are going to get the experience you are after!

You can spend 3 days on the Grand Canyon river, or 19! You can choose to have a more nature-centered tour or a more social one. It is worth noting that trips can fill up quickly and bookings disappear in a flash. Make sure, as in most things to do with your Grand Canyon itinerary, that you are well organized and booked in advance!

Insider Tip: If a multi-day rafting experience isn’t your thing or maybe not in your budget, try the Hualapai Nation’s Grand Canyon West resort .

Grand Canyon Railway

• Iconic and authentic in design and experience
• Lots of choices in regards to how you’ll travel
• The views and experience are well worth the price

This is definitely one of the main attractions we’d recommend you visit in the Grand Canyon! Buy your tickets at the Williams Depot where you’ll get to choose which car you would like to ride in. Built in 1908, the depot will give you a small taste of what you’re in for!

Starting with The Pullman Class ($67), this is the standard and classic car, with its bench-style seats from circa 1923. Next tier is the 1950s “Coach” Class ($82), more streamlined, with big windows and air conditioning. First Class is next, sitting at $159, with you getting over-sized seats, enormous windows, bar service, and complimentary snacks!

The next 3 are part of the “luxury” suites. The Observation Dome ($189), Luxury Dome ($226), and Luxury Parlor ($226) all boast a beautiful vantage point of your journey. Spacious lounges, bar service, and tasty snacks are what’s in store for those fortunate enough to get a seat!

Whichever car you choose, you are going to experience what it was like to travel on the railroad circa the 1930s. It does not get more authentic than this, and although slightly pricey, we believe it is well worth the experience! When the whistle sounds and the train pulls out of the station, you’ll know you’ve gone back in time.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

With the excitement of traveling into the “Wild West” comes a necessity to be aware of the dangers being at the Grand Canyon can bring. It is a nature reserve after all and thus has many elements of the wilderness in tow.

A lot of hazards can be avoided by listening to the resident rangers! They are the professionals and your guides, so adhere to their every word and you should remain safe and sound.

Make sure to bring enough water and snacks whenever adventuring out into the Canyon. Water and food are a necessity in the heat and over long hiking trails!

Try staying within the safety railing so as to ensure that you or any children don’t take any unnecessary falls into the canyon.

Finally, don’t feed the animals! Not just because it’s bad for them, but the number of bites people receive from trying to interact with animals such as squirrels is more than you think! Just make sure you’re aware of your surroundings and alert to any possible dangers, and the Grand Canyon will remain a safe and enjoyable place!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Grand Canyon

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

The Grand Canyon is quite well situated to a few key landmarks, making day trips possible. Due to its location in Arizona, and being very close to the world-famous Route 66, you can choose to go east or west and you’d still be able to find some rather incredible places!

Here are some day trips from the Grand Canyon that can get you out of the reserve, but not out of Wild West!

Spend a day in Las Vegas, touring the city on an open-top bus! Make use of this tour, and give yourself an eye-opening experience of one of America’s most famous cities!

As you catch the early morning bus out for a day in Las Vegas, you’ll get to see all the beauty of Route 66 on your way there. Once you’ve arrived, hop on and off throughout the day as the bus takes you along the Vegas Strip!

This Segway tour is one of the most unique and fun tours we’ve seen as of late. Hop onto your very own Segway and explore Route 66’s Flagstaff!

From the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad to the Northern Arizona University, you’ll get to cover Flagstaff in its entirety! All the while receiving informative incite into the history of the town and its involvement with the greater Grand Canyon area!

Sedona Vortex Food Tour

The Sedona Vortex Food Tour is a culinary experts dream! Not only will you get to taste some of the best offerings of the region, but you’ll get to see the famous Red Rocks to boot! Food with a view!

You’ll learn about Sedona, its natural landmarks, its restaurants, things to do there and its many other hidden gems.

Take a trip to one of the oldest occupied villages in America, as you delve into the heart of the Hopi lands. Explore the Hopi Cultural Center, and experience a traditional Hopi meal!

Departing from Flagstaff, take a drive to the Hopi Nation and Reservation, visiting its mesas, the Indian Nation, and the many archaeological discoveries found at the Hopi Museum and Art Gallery!

Finish your trip off at the home of Walpi, the most original and spiritual home of the Hopi settlements, and meet its residence!

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

Traverse the famous twists and bends of Antelope Canyon, with its water-carved walls and its narrow channels.

Start your tour with a stunning view of the San Francisco Peaks, after climbing through the Oak Creek Canyon. You’ll then make your way into the Painted Desert o your way to the famous Horseshoe Bend overlooking the Colorado River!

Finish with an exciting tour of the slot canyon, and get a personal experience with its narrow walls and eroded sedimentation!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Grand Canyon itinerary.

How many days do you need in Grand Canyon?

Spending three or less days at the Grand Canyon could never do justice to the natural beauty and hiking trails this place offers. Having four full days to explore is the absolute minimum to really get to know the Canyon.

Is one day enough to explore Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon spans 4,926 km², so seeing everything in one day is simply impossible. There are however short hiking trails that offer beautfiful views that you can do in just one day.

What can you do in Grand Canyon?

Hiking, enjoying the scenic views, falling in love with nature, learn about the history of the Canyon and so much more. Camping and hiking the Canyon is the most popular thing to do though.

How should a Grand Canyon itinerary for families look like?

It’s important not to fill up your Grand Canyon itinerary too much so your kids won’t get overwhelmed. Be properly prepared for hot days, cold nights and achy feet. Have the route planned beforehand and bring plenty of water and snacks with you.

Some Last Remarks

The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s greatest and most majestic natural landmarks. To be able to spend a day there is an experience in itself. However, to really get a feel of what makes this place so beautiful, one would need to spend time exploring its many areas.

From its resident towns of Williams and Flagstaff, and Route 66, to the North and West Rims. From the valley bed and the Colorado River to the Skywalk in the Hualapai National Reserve, the Grand Canyon is so much more than just a good view.

It is hoped that we have done it justice and that this itinerary can suffice in some manner when trying to cover traveling to the Grand Canyon!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Colleen Kinsey

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Grand Canyon Road Trips, Itineraries, Vacation Ideas

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Grand Canyon Itinerary, Road Trip & Vacation Ideas

The canyon is a big place and Grand Canyon Guru’s self-guided itineraries will help you find the right adventure and plan all of the important details for your road trip. Whether you’re looking at a leisurely half-day tour on the South Rim, a multi-day backpack to Havasu Falls, a relaxing smooth water river tip, or an exhilarating weeklong Grand Circle Adventure, the Guru has the best tips and ideas for the ultimate Grand Canyon vacation. The guides below will help you find the most popular scenic drives, the best trails and recommendations for hotels, campgrounds and RV parks. Whatever type of Grand Canyon experience you’d like to have, we have an itinerary to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.  Read the guide below to learn more  about our self-guided itineraries.

If you're looking for fully guided day tours, vacation packages and small group adventure tours check out our Grand Canyon Reservations page to see our recommended trip package and tour options. If you want to discover all of the amazing parks and gateway towns near the Grand Canyon to help plan your own trip, check out our travel guide to nearby parks and/or our travel guide to cities near the Grand Canyon to get more information as well as recommendations for attractions and lodging. 

Grand Canyon Guru is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thanks.

Popular Self-Guided Itineraries and Road Trips

Popular Grand Canyon vacation itineraries will get you to all the of the canyon’s must-sees, no matter what part of Grand Canyon you decide to explore. By hitting the most popular destinations, you’ll be able to get the photos and have the experiences that you’ve been dreaming of. These self-guided itineraries are designed to fit your timeline and adventure level so that you can choose to take it easy or break a sweat. Grand Canyon offers so many popular destinations that it can be confusing but Grand Canyon Guru is here to help you make sense of it all and get out to the best of the best. 

Self-Guided - 1 Day Grand Canyon South Rim Itinerary

Grand Canyon’s South Rim is best experienced from the park’s scenic Desert View Drive (Hwy 64). Driving this 26-mile long route will give you access to some of the canyon’s most famous overlooks including the Desert View Watchtower, Grandview Point, Mather Point and Grand Canyon Village, with convenience of driving your own vehicle. There are multiple options for short hikes throughout this itinerary that will get you to even better viewpoints if you’re willing to put in a little work to get there. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Flagstaff, Williams, or Tusayan, AZ and will take you from Desert View to Grand Canyon Village.  Check out this itinerary and learn more about the Desert View Drive experience .

Grand Canyon Gems - ½ Day South Rim Itinerary

If you don’t have a lot of time to explore Grand Canyon, it is important that you find the most scenic overlooks, take the best photos, and see a Grand Canyon sunrise or sunset. By focusing all of your time on the South Rim, you’ll be able to take in the most popular of Grand Canyon’s destinations. A ½ day isn’t a lot of time, so it’s important that you arrive early and know where to go. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Flagstaff, Williams, or Tusayan, AZ and will take you to Mather Point, Yavapai Geology Museum and Grand Canyon Village. Check out this itinerary and learn more about the Grand Canyon Gems vacation .

Skywalk Adventure - ½ Day Grand Canyon West Itinerary

The Skywalk is a clear glass platform that extends out over Grand Canyon, giving you a breathtaking look straight down at the Colorado River thousands of feet below. Located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, the Skywalk is closer to Las Vegas than other Grand Canyon destinations, making this itinerary the perfect fit for those staying on the west side of the canyon. More than just the Skywalk, Grand Canyon West also offers helicopter rides, restaurants, cultural demonstrations, gift shops and a zip line, making it a great place to explore Grand Canyon for half a day. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Las Vegas, NV or Kingman, AZ and will take you to Grand Canyon West (the Skywalk).  Check out this itinerary and learn more about the Skywalk Adventure .

North Rim Scenic Vistas - 1 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

The North Rim is the much less visited side of Grand Canyon, but it includes some of the most captivating views of the canyon for those who are willing to go the distance to get there. Only open during the summer months, the North Rim’s scenic drive takes you 11 miles along a dirt road that includes multiple scenic overlooks (including Bright Angel Point and Cape Royal) before ending at Point Imperial. Bring food (and maybe even a bottle of wine) so you can spend a leisurely day exploring before taking in a world-famous Grand Canyon sunset. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Page, AZ or Kanab, UT and includes Bright Angel Point/North Rim Lodge, Cape Royal and Point Imperial.  Check out this itinerary and learn more about the North Rim Vistas trip .

South Rim Explorer - 2 Day Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

The South Rim is just too big to see it all if you don’t have enough time, so taking two days is a great way explore all that the canyon offers, from Desert View to Hermits Rest. This itinerary will let you drive, hike, and use the park’s free shuttle buses to see all of the best overlooks. With two days on the road you can take your time to slow down, relax, and even escape the crowds if you time it right. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Flagstaff, Williams, or Tusayan, AZ and will take you from Desert View to Hermits Rest.  Check out this itinerary and learn more about the South Rim Explorer vacation .

Rim to Rim Scenic Drive - 3 Day Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

Grand Canyon’s North Rim and South Rim are 10 miles apart as the California condor flies, but they’re a 5-hour drive apart if you’re motivated to see it all on a 3 day road trip. Knowing how to best use your time and the best route and stops to make along the way will help you enjoy this incredible trip of a lifetime. Going from Grand Canyon Village to Desert View, then out of the park and onto the land of the Navajo Nation, you will have multiple opportunities to take in views and explore on foot as well. A quick stop at Lee’s Ferry (Glen Canyon National Recreation Area) will let you put your hands into the water of the Colorado River and maybe even see a California condor. Then driving into the North Rim, you’ll take in the even higher elevation and more sweeping views of Grand Canyon to end your journey. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Flagstaff, Williams, or Tusayan, AZ and includes Grand Canyon Village, Desert View, the Navajo Nation, Lee’s Ferry, and the North Rim.  Check out this itinerary and learn more about the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim drive .

Private Southwest Tours

Bespoke Vacation Packages

Self-guided adventure vacation itineraries .

Adventure vacation itineraries are designed to guide you in exploring Grand Canyon, Havasu Canyon, and rafting the Colorado River with a professional outfitter. Each self-guided itinerary offers a unique experience, as well as the option to start your adventure from several different cities, including Phoenix and Flagstaff, AZ. If you will be spending your vacation in Arizona and Utah, these itineraries will help you plan your adventure or find a tour guide that offers the trip you want (and not the tour they want you to go on). Grand Canyon Guru offers you insider tips on how to make the most of your time and maximize your adventure.

Grand Explorer 3 Day Adventure Vacation - Grand Canyon, Rafting and Sedona Itinerary

The Grand Explorer is a great way to see the best Grand Canyon has to offer in only 3 days. Tusayan, AZ or the Grand Canyon Village (South Rim) are the best cities to start from, but Flagstaff, Williams, or Sedona will work as well. Once you're up and ready to explore, head to the South Rim and take in some scenic views and explore the area on foot before heading to Peach Springs, AZ for lodging that evening. After a good night's rest, enjoy a full day of exhilarating Grand Canyon whitewater rafting. Following a day on the Colorado River, head to Sedona to check out two of its most sought-after destinations: Red Rock and Slide Rock State Parks. After hiking through Sedona's Red Rocks, you can make your way to many other Grand Canyon or Southwest scenic destinations. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Colorado River rafting, and Sedona, AZ.  Check out this itinerary and learn more about the Grand Explorer Adventure .

Red Rock 4 Day Adventure Vacation - Grand Canyon, Rafting, Sedona and Wupatki Itinerary

Red Rock Adventure will take you to Grand Canyon’s most scenic and exciting destinations, allowing you to see a lot in only four days. Your trip starts at Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim where you’ll take a hike into the canyon to see the best views. Day two will have you on the water of the Colorado River as you take a one-day whitewater rafting trip with the Hualapai River Runners. Day three takes you across the scenic Arizona Deserts to explore the volcanic crater at Sunset Crater National Monument and the ancient ruins at Wupatki National Monument. Your last day will be spent exploring the red rocks of Sedona, AZ where you’ll hike and swim at two of its most popular destinations: Slide Rock and Red Rock State Parks. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Colorado River rafting, Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments, and Sedona, AZ.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Red Rock Adventure .

Hidden Canyons 5 Day Adventure Vacation - Grand Canyon and Havasu Falls Itinerary

Get below the Rim with this 5-day adventure. Start your trip exploring all that the south rim offers, either taking in scenic views from the South Rim or venturing out a hike that takes you into Grand Canyon. After a day of South Rim grandeur, you'll spend the next four days at Havasu Falls (with lodging in Peach Springs, AZ the night before your trip). There can be no question that Havasu Canyon is one of the most amazing destinations on earth. "Havasupai" means "people of the blue-green water," and it is their sacred home that you will be visiting on your journey. This backpacking adventure begins at Hualapai Hilltop, following a 10-mile trail through beautiful red rock canyons to an awe-inspiring camp below the Havasu Falls. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim and Havasu Falls.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Hidden Canyons Adventure .

Ultimate 6 Day Adventure Vacation - Grand Canyon, Rafting and Havasu Falls Itinerary

If you want to see it all in only 6 days, this is your adventure itinerary. You’ll have a day to explore the national park at Grand Canyon’s South Rim before heading to Peach Springs, AZ for lodging that evening. You’ll enjoy the thrill of rafting the Colorado River with a full day of Grand Canyon whitewater rafting with Hualapai River Runners. The next four days will reveal the exquisite beauty of Havasu Falls as you backpack into the canyon. These spectacular turquoise waterfalls are heralded by pristine travertine pools, making some of the world’s best swimming holes and most spectacular hikes. This itinerary will reveal why this desert utopia attracts people from around the globe. The self-guided Ultimate Adventure itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Colorado River rafting, and backpacking to Havasu Falls.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Ultimate Grand Canyon Adventure .

Kokopelli’s Trail 7 Day Adventure Vacation - Grand Canyon, Rafting, Havasu Falls and Sedona Itinerary

If the Ultimate Adventure is not enough, take one more day to explore Sedona's red rocks. Starting at Grand Canyon’s South Rim, you’ll have your choice of trails to explore below the rim and get your first taste of the adventure that Grand Canyon offers. After a good night's rest in Peach Springs, AZ, you’re sure to get wet during a full day Grand Canyon whitewater rafting adventure. Next, you’ll explore the depths of Havasu canyon on a four-day backpacking trip that will take you to the world-famous turquoise waterfalls of Havasu where you will can swim, hike, or relax. After exploring Havasu, you’ll finally head to Sedona to explore two of its most popular red rock destinations: Red Rock and Slide Rock State Parks. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Colorado River rafting, backpacking to Havasu Falls, and Sedona, AZ.   Check out this itinerary and learn more about the Kokopelli's Trail Adventure .

Desert Expedition 8 Day Adventure Vacation - Grand Canyon, Rafting, Havasu Falls, Sedona and Wupatki Itinerary

Explore all the Grand Canyon Area has to offer with the Desert Expedition. Start your 8-day journey at Grand Canyon’s South Rim where you will enjoy the famous scenic views and hike below the canyon’s rim. Next, you’ll head to Peach Springs, AZ where you will adventure out on a full day of Grand Canyon whitewater rafting. Spend the next four days at Havasu where you will swim, hike and explore the awe-inspiring waterfalls among the red rocks. After Havasu you'll also have a chance to explore Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments outside of Flagstaff as well as Sedona's world-famous red rocks. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Colorado River rafting, backpacking to Havasu Falls, Wupatki and Sunet Crater National Monuments, and Sedona, AZ.  Check out this itinerary to learn about the Desert Expedition Adventure .

Grand Circle Self-Guided Road Trip Itineraries

Grand Canyon Guru will help you plan your road trip beyond the Grand Canyon to see the best of the Southwest and Grand Circle’s many stunning destinations including: Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Lake Powell, Bryce Canyon National Park, Sedona, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and Monument Valley. Learn more about these  self-guided trips below.

Beyond Canyons 3 Day Road Trip - Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell and Zion Itinerary

This Grand Circle road trip is a great way to see the top Grand Canyon area destinations in only three days. Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village (South Rim) are the best places to start from, but Flagstaff, Williams, or Sedona will work as well. Once you're up and ready to explore, head out to the South Rim and take in the incredible scenic views or go on a short hike before heading to Lake Powell. After an evening in Page, AZ, head across Glen Canyon Dam to the unparalleled scenery of Southern Utah in Zion National Park. After exploring Zion’s beautiful red rock canyon, head back to Page for a good night's rest. On day three your southwest trip continues, with a tour of Antelope Canyon, one of the world's most famous and photogenic slot canyons. After exploring Antelope Canyon set out on short self-guided hike to Horseshoe Bend for one of the best views of the Colorado River anywhere. At the end of your trip, you’ll head back across the Navajo Nation’s land, en route to your next destination. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, Zion National Park, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Beyond Canyons Vacation .

Beyond Red Rocks 4 Day Road Trip - Grand Canyon, Zion, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell and Sedona Itinerary

This Grand Circle road trip offers everything the 3-day trip does, plus the red rocks of Sedona. You’ll start your trip at the South Rim of Grand Canyon where you’ll have the opportunity to take in some of the most famous views or explore the area on foot before heading to Lake Powell. You’ll spend the night in Page, AZ which is a great jumping off point for Zion National Park. On day two, you’ll cross Glen Canyon Dam and explore the rivers and canyons in Zion before heading back to Page. Next, you’ll head to Antelope Canyon, one of the most beautiful red rock slot canyons where you’ll take a guided tour with a Navajo Nation guide. After exploring Antelope Canyon you’ll set out on short self-guided hike to Horseshoe Bend for one of the most famous views of the Colorado River before heading to historic Flagstaff, AZ for the evening. After a good night's rest enjoy one more exciting day exploring among the red rocks of Sedona, AZ before heading home. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, Zion National Park, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Sedona.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Beyond Red Rocks Vacation .

Beyond Hoodos 5 Day Road Trip - Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon and Sedona Itinerary

Beyond Hoodoos is the best way to see the top Grand Canyon area destinations as well as Bryce Canyon. You’ll start your Grand Circle road trip at Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim where you can drive, take the free shuttle buses, or hike to take in the spectacular views before heading to Kanab, UT for the night. After breakfast in Kanab, you’ll spend the day in Zion National Park enjoying the unparalleled scenery of Southern Utah and the Virgin River. Day three of your southwest itinerary includes a day exploring the incredibly colorful Hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park. Day four will bring you from Kanab to beautiful Lake Powell to enjoy the wonders of canyon country with a Jeep ride to Antelope Canyon, one of the world's most famous slot canyons. After exploring Antelope Canyon with your Navajo guide, set out on short self-guided hike to Horseshoe Bend to get a selfie with the Colorado River. You’ll end the night in historic Flagstaff, AZ. Day five will include one last day of adventure while you explore the red rocks of Sedona, AZ before heading home. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Sedona.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Beyond Hoodos Vacation .

Beyond Monuments 6 Day Road Trip - Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon and Sedona Itinerary

This Grand Circle road trip is perfect for people who want to see all of the top Grand Canyon area destinations as well as Bryce Canyon and Monument Valley. Day one will start at Grand Canyon National Park where you’ll take in the view on the world-famous South Rim before heading to Kanab, UT. From Kanab, you’ll be a short drive to Zion National Park where you will spend day two exploring a very different type of canyon and maybe take a short hike up the Virgin River. From canyons to hoodoos, you’ll start day four at Bryce Canyon National Park before heading to Monument Valley, an archetype of the American West. A stop at Monument Valley Tribal Park will give you time to explore these ancient rock formations and take in the wild nature of the Southwest. Day five starts in Page, AZ where you will enjoy beautiful Lake Powell and the wonders of Antelope Canyon by taking a Jeep tour before exploring the scenic slot canyon on foot. After Antelope Canyon you’ll take a quick stop at Horseshoe Bend, one of the most famous views of Grand Canyon and the Colorado River, on your way to Flagstaff, AZ. Your final day of exploring will take you to the red rocks of Sedona, AZ where you’ll visit two of its most popular red rock destinations: Red Rock and Slide Rock State Parks. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Sedona.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Beyond Monuments Vacation .

Beyond Utah 7 Day Road Trip - Grand Canyon, Capitol Reef, Grand Staircase, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon and Sedona Itinerary

The Beyond Utah Grand Circle road trip will take you to the top Grand Canyon Area destinations as well as let you experience the staggering beauty of Utah’s Bryce Canyon and the Grand Staircase. Your trip begins with a day at the South Rim of Grand Canyon where you will take in the sights and get some photos of the largest canyon on Earth before heading to Kanab, UT. After an evening in Kanab, you’ll spend a day hiking in the red rocks of Zion National Park. Day three takes you to Bryce Canyon National Park’s world-famous hoodoo rock formations. From Bryce you'll spend the next day making your way along the Grand Staircase with a stop to hike Calf Creek Falls.  Continue on scenic Highway 12 the picturesque Boulder, UT for a good night’s rest. Day five will take you down the Burr Trail, an awesome but rarely used route to Lake Powell. Take Bull Frog Ferry across the lake and continue on to your hotel in Page, AZ. On day six enjoy beautiful Lake Powell and take a thrilling Jeep ride to Antelope Canyon, one of the world's most famous Slot Canyons. After exploring Antelope Canyon set out on short self-guided hike to Horseshoe Bend for one of the best views of the Colorado River anywhere before heading across the Navajo Indian Reservation to historic Flagstaff, AZ.  After a good night's rest enjoy one more exciting day exploring the red rocks of Sedona, AZ before heading home. This self-guided itinerary is best started from Tusayan, AZ or Grand Canyon Village and includes Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Sedona.  Check out this itinerary to learn more about the Beyond Utah Vacation .

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• Grand Canyon Itinerary: How to Spend 2-5 Days

Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon can be overwhelming, especially when you have limited time. We’ve put together the best grand canyon itinerary to help with that. With so many things to see and do, it can be difficult to decide on the best itinerary. However, with the right plan, you can make the most of your time at this natural wonder.

Whether you have 2, 3, 4, or 5 days to spend at the Grand Canyon, there are plenty of activities and sights to keep you entertained, from hiking and camping to scenic drives and helicopter tours.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive itinerary that covers the must-see attractions and activities at the Grand Canyon.

• Your Ultimate Grand Canyon Trip Planner
• 10 Best Grand Canyon South Rim Viewpoints

11 Fun Things to Do in Grand Canyon National Park

• Which is Best for Exploring Grand Canyon: North Rim vs South Rim

Planning your trip to Grand Canyon National Park

Where to stay in grand canyon national park:.

• Bright Angel Lodge And Cabins – ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor
• Maswik Lodge – ⇒ Read reviews on  Trip Advisor

Best Tours and Experiences in Grand Canyon National Park

• 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan – Experience an exhilarating helicopter journey from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim to the North Rim, offering panoramic vistas.
• Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views – Travel in an open-air Hummer, allowing unobstructed views while your guide provides insightful commentary.
• 3-Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour – Traverse scenic back roads in a comfortable 4WD safari vehicle, bypassing the congested south entrance gate.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Grand Canyon

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, it’s important to understand the natural wonder you’re about to experience. The Grand Canyon is a massive gorge carved by the Colorado River in northern Arizona. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States .

The canyon is approximately 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, including over 300 species of birds, 70 species of mammals, and 1,500 species of plants.

The Colorado River, which runs through the Grand Canyon, is a major reason for the canyon’s existence. The river has been carving the canyon for millions of years, exposing layers of rock that provide a glimpse into the Earth’s geological history.

The geology of the Grand Canyon is fascinating and complex. The rock layers exposed in the canyon range in age from 200 million to 2 billion years old. The oldest rocks are found at the bottom of the canyon, while the youngest rocks are found at the top. The different colors of the rock layers are due to variations in the minerals present in the rocks.

Planning Your Trip

Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. With so much to see and do, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your time.

Reservations

It’s important to make reservations ahead of time, especially during peak season. You can book your hotels, tours, and activities online or through a travel agent. Some popular activities, such as river rafting, helicopter tours, and hikes require advance booking.

The Grand Canyon is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and also Arizona has monsoon season from July to August, and winter can be cold and snowy. Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

The Grand Canyon can be hot, especially during the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen and a hat. Bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

The Grand Canyon is a popular destination, and it can get crowded during peak season. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can also explore the less popular areas of the park, such as the North Rim or the East Rim.

Grand Canyon Itinerary

Before you start planning your trip, decide on the length of your stay . A 2-5 day itinerary is perfect for exploring the Grand Canyon. You’ll have enough time to see the major attractions and enjoy some outdoor activities.

To make the most of your time, consider the following itinerary options:

• 2-day Itinerary: This itinerary is perfect if you’re short on time. You can see the viewpoints around the Grand Canyon Visitor Center (Mather Point to Yavapai Point), walk the Rim Trail to Hermit’s Rest, and do the scenic Desert View Drive.
• 3-day itinerary: With three days, you can add some hikes, like the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, or Ooh Ahh Point (if you didn’t already). You can also take a helicopter or 4×4 Jeep tour. And see the IMAX film in Tusayan.
• 4-day itinerary: Four days will allow you to add more or longer hikes, take part in Ranger programs, and drive to Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, about 2 hours 45 minutes away.
• 5-day itinerary: A fifth day will allow you add amazing once in a lifetime activities such as a mule ride into the canyon, a white water rafting trip, or a bike ride along Hermit Road.

Welcome to your first day in the Grand Canyon! Today, you’ll explore the South Rim, which is the most popular and accessible part of the park.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon is by hiking the Rim Trails. These trails offer stunning views of the canyon and are perfect for those who want to take it easy and enjoy a leisurely walk. The most popular Rim Trail is the South Rim Trail, which stretches for 13 miles along the rim of the canyon.

I like to start the day at Bright Angel Lodge. You can get on the shuttle there up to Maricopa Point and then get out and start your hike along the Rim Trail. You can get on and off the bus as you see fit for your fitness level. Hike or take the bus to all the viewpoints along the way, ending with Hermit’s Rest.

In the afternoon, start your walk at Mather Point, which is one of the most popular viewpoints in the park and offers panoramic views of the canyon. Along the way you’ll pass by several viewpoints and end up at Yavapai Point and the Yavapai Geology Museum. The sunset view along this route is quite amazing.

On your second day at the Grand Canyon, you can explore the eastern part of the South Rim by taking a scenic drive and visiting some of the best viewpoints along the way.

Desert View Drive

Desert View Drive is a 25-mile scenic route that runs from Grand Canyon Village to Desert View Watchtower. This drive offers some of the most spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. Here are some of the must-see stops on this drive:

• Grandview Point: This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the canyon and is a great spot for sunrise or sunset.
• Moran Point: Named after the famous landscape painter, Thomas Moran, this viewpoint offers stunning views of the Colorado River.
• Lipan Point: This viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the canyon and is a great spot for stargazing at night.
• Navajo Point: This viewpoint offers views of the Painted Desert and the Colorado River.

One of the highlights of Desert View Drive is the Desert View Watchtower. This 70-foot tower was designed by Mary Colter and offers panoramic views of the canyon from the top. Inside the tower, you can explore the murals and artifacts that depict the history and culture of the Native Americans who once lived in the area.

After exploring Desert View Drive, we recommend doing the Ooh Ahh Point hike. It’s easy on the way down, but pretty strenuous on the way back up – about 1.4 miles in total. Sunset view from there is incredible as well.

End your day at Grand Canyon Village for dinner and some stargazing. The Grand Canyon is one of the best places in the world for stargazing, and the park offers several ranger-led programs and events to help you learn more about the night sky.

On the third day of your Grand Canyon itinerary, you will explore the Bright Angel Trail. This is one of the most popular trails in the Grand Canyon, and for good reason. It offers breathtaking views of the canyon and is well maintained, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.

Bright Angel Trail

The Bright Angel Trail is a 12.5-mile round trip hike that starts at the South Rim and descends into the canyon. There are several places to turn around if you’re not up for a huge hike, and just want to see the sights. The trail is well marked and maintained, but it is steep and can be challenging for some hikers. It is important to be prepared for this hike by bringing plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.

As you hike down the trail, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the canyon. You will also pass by several rest stops and water stations, which are important for staying hydrated and taking breaks. The trail can be hiked in sections, so you can choose how far you want to go before turning around.

If you are an experienced hiker and want to challenge yourself, you can continue down to the Colorado River. This is a strenuous hike that requires careful planning and preparation, but it offers some of the most stunning views of the canyon.

Book a Tour

You can also take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon and I promise this will be the highlight of your trip. There’s no more amazing way to see the canyon. We went on a 45-minute flight with Papillon Helicopters.

A 4×4 Jeep tour at sunset is another tour you can book that will leave you stunned. This 3-hour off-road tour takes you along scenic back roads in a comfortable 4WD safari vehicle, avoiding the busy south entrance gate. Stop to admire the views from Yavapai Point, Pipe Creek Canyon, and Duck on a Rock Overlook, then time your arrival to watch the sunset from Grandview Point.

Day 4: Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyon

On your fourth day at the Grand Canyon, you can explore the area surrounding the canyon. Take a road trip to one of the many towns or attractions surrounding the Grand Canyon to get a fuller experience.

A must-see destination nearby is Page, Arizona, home to Lake Powell and the famous Horseshoe Bend. This area is perfect for water-based activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. You can also explore the nearby Antelope Canyon , a stunning slot canyon that is a photographer’s dream.

On your last day at the Grand Canyon, you can choose to explore other fun activities available in the area. Here are some suggestions:

Other Activities

• Helicopter Tour : Experience the Grand Canyon from a different perspective by taking a helicopter tour . You can choose from various packages that offer different routes and durations, but they all guarantee a breathtaking view of the canyon.
• Mule Ride : Take a mule ride down the canyon and explore the trails that are not accessible by foot. This guided tour is an excellent way to see the canyon up close and learn more about its history and geology.
• Imax Theater : If you want to learn more about the Grand Canyon and its formation, head to the Imax Theater located at the National Geographic Visitor Center. The theater features a 34-minute film that takes you on a journey through the canyon’s history and beauty.
• Biking Trails : If you have some energy left, you can explore some of the biking trails. The best trail to bike is Hermit Road, it is well maintained and has great views. There are places, like Bright Angel Bicycles , in the canyon to rent bicycles to make your experience easier.
• Shopping : If you want to take a break from the outdoor activities, you can head to the Grand Canyon Village and explore the shops and galleries. You can find souvenirs, Native American crafts, and artwork.

Practical Information

When planning your 2-5 day Grand Canyon itinerary, it is important to keep in mind some practical information to make your trip as smooth as possible.

National Park Passes and Entrance Fees

To enter the Grand Canyon National Park, you will need to purchase a park pass. An individual permit is $20 per person, and children 15 and younger are free. You can buy your park pass at the park entrance or at the Park & Ride lots in Tusayan, located a mile from the Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor Center .

South Rim Entrance and Hours of Operation

The South Rim Entrance is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, hours of operation for visitor centers, museums, and other facilities may vary depending on the season. It is recommended to check the park’s official website for up-to-date information on what is open and hours of operation.

Campsites and Reservations

If you plan on camping, there are several campsites available within the park. Mather Campground is located in Grand Canyon Village and is open year-round. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season (April to November). You can make reservations through recreation.gov.

Hikes and Trails

The South Rim Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the canyon. It is a paved trail that is approximately 13 miles long and runs from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermit’s Rest. There are also several other hiking trails available within the park, ranging from easy to strenuous. It is important to be prepared for your hike by bringing plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate gear.

Private Vehicle Restrictions

During peak season (April to November), private vehicles are not allowed on the park’s scenic drive. Instead, visitors can take the free shuttle bus, which runs regularly and stops at several viewpoints and trailheads. However, private vehicles are allowed on the scenic drive during the off-season (December to March).

Boat Rentals and Tours

If you are interested in exploring the Colorado River, there are several boat rental and tour companies available. Diamond Creek, Pearce Ferry, and Lees Ferry are popular launching points for river trips. It is important to note that some areas of the river are only accessible by permit.

Maps and Resources

To make the most of your trip, it is recommended to bring a map of the park and other resources such as guidebooks or brochures. The park’s official website also offers a wealth of information on hiking trails, camping, and other activities within the park.

Getting There

Driving to the Grand Canyon is the most popular option. It gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona, and it is easily accessible from several major cities in the region, including Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City.

If you are coming from Phoenix, take I-17 north to Flagstaff, then take US-180 northwest to the Grand Canyon. The drive takes about 3.5 hours. If you are coming from Las Vegas, take US-93 south to Kingman, then take I-40 east to Williams, and finally take AZ-64 north to the Grand Canyon. The drive takes about 4.5 hours.

Accommodation Options

When planning your Grand Canyon itinerary, one important consideration is where to stay overnight. Fortunately, there are a variety of options available to fit any budget or preference.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, El Tovar is a historic hotel located right on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It offers stunning views and upscale amenities, but keep in mind that it can be quite pricey.

Another option is Zion Lodge , located in nearby Zion National Park. This rustic lodge offers comfortable accommodations in a beautiful natural setting.

If you’re on a tighter budget, there are plenty of chain hotels in the area, such as the Holiday Inn, Best Western, and Motel 6. These hotels offer basic amenities and affordable rates.

Dining Options

When it comes to dining options at the Grand Canyon, there are plenty of choices available to suit all tastes and budgets. From casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, you’ll find something to satisfy your hunger after a long day of hiking.

Grand Canyon Village

The Grand Canyon Village area has the most dining options within the park. Here you’ll find a mix of casual and fine dining restaurants, cafes, and grab-and-go options. Some popular choices include:

• El Tovar Dining Room : This fine dining restaurant is located in the historic El Tovar Hotel and offers stunning views of the canyon while you dine. The menu features a mix of American and European cuisine, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Bright Angel Restaurant: This casual restaurant is located near the Bright Angel Lodge and offers a mix of American and Southwestern cuisine. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more.
• Arizona Room: This casual restaurant is located in the Bright Angel Lodge and offers a mix of American and Southwestern cuisine. The menu includes steaks, seafood, and vegetarian options.

Tusayan is a small town located just outside the park’s entrance. Here you’ll find a few dining options, including:

• Canyon Plaza Resort : This resort offers a restaurant and lounge with a mix of American and Southwestern cuisine. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more.
• We Cook Pizza and Pasta : This casual restaurant offers pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes.

Other Areas

There are a few other dining options located throughout the park, including:

• Desert View Trading Post : This grab-and-go option offers snacks, sandwiches, and drinks.
• Hermit’s Rest Snack Bar : This grab-and-go option offers snacks, sandwiches, and drinks.
• Phantom Ranch Canteen : This canteen is located at the bottom of the canyon and offers meals for overnight hikers. Reservations are required.

What are some recommended hiking trails for a 2-5 day Grand Canyon itinerary?

The Grand Canyon offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous. For a 2-5 day itinerary, some recommended trails are the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and North Kaibab Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the canyon and can be customized to fit your desired length and difficulty level.

What are some family-friendly activities to do at the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon is a great destination for families with children of all ages. Some family-friendly activities include hiking along the Rim Trail, visiting the Grand Canyon Village and its museums, taking a mule ride, and attending ranger-led programs.

Is 3 days enough time to fully experience the Grand Canyon?

While 3 days is enough time to see some of the highlights of the Grand Canyon, it may not be enough to fully experience everything the park has to offer. It is recommended to spend at least 4-5 days to explore the park in depth and engage in various activities.

What are some recommended stops on a 4-day Grand Canyon itinerary?

For a 4-day itinerary, some recommended stops include hiking the Bright Angel Trail, visiting the historic Phantom Ranch, exploring the Desert View Watchtower, and taking a scenic drive along the East Rim Drive.

What are some tips for planning a 5-day itinerary at the Grand Canyon?

When planning a 5-day itinerary, it is important to prioritize your must-see destinations and activities. Consider including longer hikes, such as the Rim-to-Rim Trail, and exploring some of the lesser-known areas of the park. Be sure to book accommodations in advance, as they can fill up quickly during peak season.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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• Travel Resources

4 Absolutely Epic Grand Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

Hands up if a Grand Canyon road trip is on your bucket list? Thought so. And, if it isn’t, it really should be. I’ve created four of the most memorable journeys you can go on as a Grand Canyon road trip – thank me later.

No matter how many times I visit, the Grand Canyon never fails to amaze me – I’m talking open-mouthed, eyes wide wonder. As far as USA bucket lists are concerned, it should be at the very top of yours.

But why stop there? Let’s throw in a few more brilliant destinations and make a road trip out of it. Vegas, Phoenix, Denver , and Boulder, to name a few.

Buckle up for the ride of your life…

Handy Tips for Planning Your Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary 

Key tips for planning your road trip to the grand canyon.

Outline your trip as well as you can beforehand. Read up on your route, find out what lies along its roads, and pinpoint your favourite sights and must-visit attractions. 

It’s all very well trying to cram in ten cities in 5 days, but I reckon you would be better off removing a few and enjoying a couple of the biggies for a bit longer. 

Decide on your accommodation early. Check out my guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon to help make it a breeze.

What to Pack for Your Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

Pack the travel gear essentials you will need for your escapades at the canyon, such as a comfortable pair of shoes – my favourites right now are the Tropicfeel Canyon Shoes . 

Don’t underestimate the need for suitable clothing, hiking poles , and a hydration pack – if you’re hiking, you need to stay comfortable, safe, and hydrated

Pack essential travel items, such as a roadside emergency kit, snacks, and your camera with a spare battery (trust me on this one).

Sunscreen and sunglasses, as well as a cap to protect you from the sun.

A universal adapter – once you start snapping photos (and boy, you will) your phone’s battery will run down very quickly.

If you’re lugging items around with you, make sure you’re wearing a suitable backpack – you can read about my favourites here .

Useful Resources 

• Skyscanner – the perfect tool in your arsenal for booking local flights in the US and international flights from abroad at the best price.
• Booking.com – the top website for booking hotels and accommodation, for the very best prices.

Getting Around 

Trust me on this one – the best way to travel on your epic Grand Canyon road trip is via a car. If you’re not planning to use your own car for this road trip, consider the following rental agencies:

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car
• National Car Rental

Renting a car is generally pretty cheap in this region of the US and will allow you to take your perfect trip at your own pace.

4 Grand Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

3-day las vegas to grand canyon road trip .

Ready for a kick-ass adventure? There’s one place synonymous with a Grand Canyon road trip… and that is Las Vegas, of course. It would’ve been rightfully sinful for this guide to start with anything else than a road trip from Sin City to the Canyon.

This Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip highlights several top attractions and side trips for the perfect 3-day road trip from Nevada to Arizona.

Route Summary 

Las Vegas >> Boulder City >> Kingman >> Williams >> Grand Canyon

Detailed Route Itinerary 

Las vegas to boulder city.

Las Vegas is where this wild adventure starts – and honestly, what a place to kick things off. 

From the famous Las Vegas Strip to the High Roller , it’s truly like no other city in the world. With some of the world’s best restaurants, sideshow attractions, and epic daytime parties — starting day one here is a surefire hit.

From Las Vegas, you’ll head through Henderson onwards to your first overnight destination, Boulder City. From here, opting for a tour, including a stop at the Hoover Dam , is something I’d highly recommend. 

You’ll have worked up quite the appetite by now, I’m sure. So, end the night with dinner from either the Southwest Diner or The Dillinger.

Suggested Stay: Best Western Hoover Dam Hotel

Boulder City to Williams

Starting the second day of this trip, you’ll depart from Boulder City and cross the border into Arizona along route 93. The state is an absolute gold mine (pun intended – sorry not sorry) of mining history. 

And one of the best pit stops to witness this is the oldest mining town in Arizona, Chloride. It’s the perfect spot to get some snapshots of the town’s quirky murals and roadside ‘junk’ art – quite a rude name IMHO.

From here, your route will take you to Kingman, another spot steeped in history. I recommend visiting Mohave Museum of History and Arts or the Route 66 Museum – or indulge in a pit stop at the Desert Diamond Distillery (if you hadn’t guessed, this is where I ended up).

The historic Route 66 leads out of Kingman to Williams. This is one of the closest towns to the canyon and where you’ll spend the second night of your trip.

Suggested Stay: Grand Canyon Railway Hotel

Williams to Grand Canyon

Ready for the grand finale? Day 3 is a shortie – it’s a simple drive from Williams towards the gateway to the Grand Canyon. And, if you couldn’t tell by the name, this is the perfect spot to start your canyon adventure. 

Early morning is the ideal time to head to the famous Bearizona Wildlife Park – it’s a drive-thru, so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of the AC.

After a morning in Williams, follow Route 64 through to Grand Canyon Junction. It’s a super little spot to get an early taste of the canyon. 

And after that? Well, continue up Route 64 directly to Grand Canyon Village. Tadah! You’ve arrived in style.

Suggested Stay: The Grand Canyon Hotel at The Grand Canyon

Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Road Trip Map 

2-Day Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip 

I’m going to play devil’s advocate and throw another option into the mix. After all, a road trip from Phoenix to Grand Canyon is an option too good to pass up. 

The entire city of Phoenix is, in essence, a resort-style paradise that can quickly fill up a few days by itself. But the trip from here to the Grand Canyon does offer up picturesque locations from the get-go.

From Camp Verde, through Coconino National Forest, to Kachina Village, it’s the scenic trip to end all trips. Now do you see why I said bring a spare camera battery? Exactly.

Phoenix >> Camp Verde >> Kachina Village >> Williams >> Grand Canyon 

Phoenix to Camp Verde

To kick off this epic road trip, your departure point is Phoenix. Route 17 will lead you out of the city on the way to Camp Verde. 

You’ll pass through Black Canyon City, which is a potential early pitstop. As you drive, a few notable snapshot spots are Sunset Point (this gets a huge YES from me) and the quaint little town of Cordes Lake.

From Cordes Lake, the Arizona Veterans Highway will lead you past Flower Pot and right to Camp Verde. 

Camp Verde is just beautiful. Here you can enjoy attractions such as the Out of Africa Wildlife Park or indulge in a Jeep tour and wine tasting – don’t drink two much though, day 2 brings more adventure.

Suggested Stay: Cliff Castle Casino Hotel

Camp Verde to Grand Canyon

Day 2 is a bit of a slog, but well worth it. I promise. 

The longest part of this road trip is the road from Camp Verde to the gateway to Williams, the Grand Canyon. Firstly, Route 17 takes you through the beautiful Coconino National Forest. Notable stops are Scenic View and Schnebly Hill Vista Overlook. 

Those few extra hours don’t seem too bad when the views are this damn good.

Then, you’ll reach Kachina Village. A part of greater Flagstaff, this scenic little village is the perfect rest stop to catch a bite to eat and breathe in the crisp forest air. From here, it’s a short drive to Williams.

Enjoy your final road trip moments outside the park and head to Grand Canyon Village to begin your next adventure.

Suggested Stay: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn

Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip Map 

2-Day Zion to Grand Canyon Road Trip 

What’s better than one national park? Answer: Two. Don’t say I don’t treat you.

I don’t like to play favourites, but this road trip might be my favourite option – you’re whisked straight from the stunning red cliffs of Zion National Park to the otherworldly views of Grand Canyon National Park . 

Zion National Park >> Colorado City >> Grand Canyon National Park  

Zion National Park to Colorado City

Start by spending a few days in Zion National Park – you’ll seriously regret not giving yourself longer. Once you‘ve ticked off a fair few things from your Zion bucket (skip on the bat bite though – if you know, you know), this is the starting point for option 3.

Route 9 takes you out of the park and crosses through the towns of Rockville – by the way, if you want a helicopter tour of Zion (who doesn’t?), you’ll drive past its take-off point – across the Virgin River to Hurricane. This is where you can opt to sky-dive above Zion or hike the historic Babylon trailhead.

Route 59 takes you out of Hurricane to Colorado City, right on the Utah and Arizona border. 

Before booking into your overnight accommodation, grab a sun-downer or two at the Edge of the World Brewery (I will never get over how incredible the beer is in this part of The States!).

Suggested Stay: Zion Glamping Adventures

Colorado City to Grand Canyon National Park

Hopefully you haven’t had too many drinks last night, as the second day of this unforgettable road trip from Zion to Grand Canyon will see you drive down Route 389. This route passes through the historic Kaibab Indian Reservation. 

A photo-op at the Pipe Spring National Monument is a must. Continuing on this route will lead to Fredonia, where you’ll turn down Route 89A.

Hold on to your camera for this part, as this route will take you straight down to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. In fact, it will take you down the Grand Canyon Highway along the North Kaibab Trail. 

Suggested Stay: Kaibab Lodge

Zion to Grand Canyon Road Trip Map 

3-Day Denver to Grand Canyon Road Trip 

I will never stop professing my love for the city of Denver , Colorado. It’s a prime destination on its own, but it is also an excellent kick-off point for an epic 3-day road trip to the Grand Canyon. 

If anything, this route will teach you that Mother nature truly is a show off, but I love her for it. 

The entire route features forested national parks set to the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Once you cross the border into Utah, the glorious roaming landscapes take centre stage… *opens Skyscanner and books my next flight*.

Denver >> Grand Junction >> Moab >> Tuba City >> Grand Canyon 

Denver to Grand Junction

Day 1 

When you depart from Denver on Route 70, the first thing that you’ll notice is the fantastic scenery. 

This is an iconic road in American travelling history, venturing past Pettingell Peak in Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, before winding past Mt Lincoln, and then next to the White River National Forest.

Route 70 also takes you through some fantastic rest-stop towns such as Glenwood Springs, Parachute, and De Beque. Oh, and did I mention the Colorado River runs along the entire route? It’s heart eyes all the way.

You’ll arrive at Grand Junction, which is where you’ll spend your first night. There’s loads to do here, including a visit to the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens and a vineyard or two (Whitewater Hill and Mesa Park being highlights).

Suggested Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Junction

Grand Junction to Tuba City

From Grand Junction, you’ll cross the Utah state border following Route 70 until you reach the Route 191 turnoff just outside Thompson Springs. 

The road here leads past Arches National Park , and soon you’ll arrive in Moab . This is the perfect place to stretch your legs (you’ll definitely need it by this point – especially if you’re the designated driver) and visit a few local hotspots. 

Once you’re ready to go, you’ll head through Spanish Valley along the 191. Have your camera ready so you can catch stunning shots of West Mountain and the famous Twin Peaks. 

Heading down Route 191, take the turnoff right onto Route 160, which leads to the small town, oddly named Tuba City. 

Suggested Stay: Navajo Land Hotel

Tuba City to Grand Canyon National Park

After getting in some quality rest and relaxation, the drive from Tuba City along Highway 89 is fairly chilled out and will lead you to the Route 64 turnoff. 

This is a very special route and is more popularly known as Desert View Drive. It offers some of the best canyon views, especially if you’re looking for a sunrise or sunset spot at the Grand Canyon.

Then snap some buzzworthy photos at the Little Colorado River Gorge Overlook, situated on a route leading directly to a true crown jewel — The Desert View Watchtower. Follow this road to take you right into the Grand Canyon Village.

Suggested Stay: Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel

Denver to Grand Canyon Road Trip Map 

Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary – Map 

Grand Canyon Road Trips: Read Next

• The Best Things to do in the Grand Canyon  
• Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon
• The Ultimate Grand Canyon Itinerary
• Beautiful Hikes in the Grand Canyon
• Cool Things to do in Arizona
• Where to Catch Stunning Views of the Grand Canyon

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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7 Grand Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

• August 5, 2022

Piling into the car and heading out on a road trip is a rite of passage for every traveler, whether you’re a family of four or a group of besties looking for your next adventure. With offbeat attractions and iconic vistas in every state, there’s no shortage of places to visit across the country, but there’s one spot that tops many peoples’ road trip bucket lists—the Grand Canyon.

Whether you make the Grand Canyon the centerpiece of your adventure or stop for a short visit en route to another destination, the Grand Canyon is a can’t-miss stop for any Southwest road trip.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve outlined some of the most common Grand Canyon road trip itineraries from other nearby locations. But before we jump in, let’s take a closer look at how to plan a road trip itinerary.

Whether the Grand Canyon is a quick stop en route to your final destination or the centerpiece of your road trip, it can be easily included in a number of popular road trip routes that pass through the Southwest. Keep reading to find sample road trip itineraries featuring the Grand Canyon, such as:

• Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park
• California to the Grand Canyon
• Denver to the Grand Canyon
• New Mexico to the Grand Canyon
• Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

GRAND CANYON TIP: No matter which route you take, the South Rim is the most easily accessible Grand Canyon destination for roadtrippers. The quality of the roads leading to the West Rim and its proximity to Las Vegas makes this spot ideal for group tours, and while the North Rim National Park is a great choice for Grand Canyon veterans and those seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path alternative to the South Rim, it’s only open from May till October.

1. Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

Las Vegas is a popular point of origin for a Grand Canyon road trip. You can reach each of the four rims by car, and there are numerous places to stop and explore along the way, including the Hoover Dam, Route 66, and towns like Flagstaff and Sedona on the eastern edge.

Route Summary

Las Vegas → Springs Preserve → Boulder City →  Hoover Dam & Lake Mead → Grand Canyon West → Route 66: Kingman and Seligman, AZ → Williams, AZ → Tusayan → South Rim National Park → Return to Las Vegas or continue east → Grand Canyon East and Page, AZ → Flagstaff, Jerome, and Sedona → Montezuma Castle → Phoenix

2. Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park

There are two other National Parks within a proverbial stone’s throw of the Grand Canyon that Southwest roadtrippers often add to their itineraries: Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.

With some other state parks and national monuments along the way, these three Southwest hotspots are ideally situated for a convenient road trip loop.

Las Vegas → Grand Canyon South Rim National Park → Grand Canyon North Rim National Park → Grand Canyon East and Page, AZ → Kodachrome Basin State Park & Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument → Bryce Canyon National Park → Zion National Park → Valley of Fire State Park → Las Vegas

3. California to the Grand Canyon

Begin this road trip by following the palm trees along the sandy beaches of San Diego as you head east toward Yuma, AZ – the sunniest city in the world (according to the Guinness Book of World Records ).

Continue 185 miles east from Yuma to Glendale and Phoenix, where you can explore the botanical gardens and climb Camelback mountain.

ROAD TRIP TIP: If you’re looking for an ideal halfway point to break up your trip, Phoenix is a good choice. The city has lots to offer, including ample accommodation, restaurants, and entertainment choices.

Next, head north 115 miles to Sedona, known for its world-class hiking and biking trails, art galleries, awe-inspiring nighttime stargazing, and the famous Red Rock Scenic Byway.

From Sedona, continue north to Flagstaff —your last stop before arriving at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

DISTANCE: 601 miles APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 10 hours 30 minutes

4. Denver to the Grand Canyon

Start your Denver-Grand Canyon road trip at the base of 14,000 foot mountains, and end your journey at the 277-mile long, 1-mile deep Grand Canyon.

It may not be strictly on the way, but with over 350 miles of trails and some truly epic scenery, Rocky Mountain National Park is a can’t-miss stop if you’ve never experienced this majestic mountain range first hand. It’s only 68 miles—about an hour and a half—outside of Denver, so it’s not a significant detour, and it’s well worth the drive.

From Rocky Mountain National Park, head 200 miles southwest to Glenwood Springs, CO , for a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring.

Your next stop, about 350 miles away, is Mesa Verde National Park . Mesa Verde is a great place to stop for a day or two, with over 5,000 archeological sites to explore and numerous hiking trails for all skill levels.

Your next stop is the Grand Canyon South Rim , 290 miles southwest of Mesa Verde.

On your way back to Denver, head east from Mesa Verde for a stop at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve to check out the tallest sand dune in North America.

DISTANCE: 893 miles APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 16 hours

5. New Mexico to the Grand Canyon

Kick off your New Mexico-Grand Canyon road trip at Carlsbad Caverns National Park . Explore more than 199 limestone caves, including the famous Big Room—it’s as large as six football fields.

From Carlsbad Caverns, head 185 miles northwest to White Sands National Monument . Check out the sparkling white sand dunes and the world’s largest gypsum field, and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even hike or sled down the sandy slopes.

ROAD TRIP TIP: No visit to White Sands is complete without a stop at the world’s largest pistachio in nearby Alamogordo, NM.

From White Sands, head north to Albuquerque or Santa Fe (or both, if you have the time). Albuquerque is on a more direct route to the Grand Canyon, but Santa Fe’s unique culture and reputation as an artistic hotspot make it well worth the short detour. Either town is a great place to stop for the night before continuing on your way.

Head 325 miles east to Flagstaff, AZ —your last stop before reaching the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.

DISTANCE: 895 miles APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 14 hours 45 minutes

6. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon

If you’re looking for a shorter road trip, Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is a great choice. Start your journey the state capital: check out the botanical gardens, climb Camelback mountain , and explore historic Glendale (about 9 miles from downtown Phoenix).

Head 116 miles north to Sedona . Get physical and see the area’s iconic red rock formations on one of Sedona’s many hiking and biking trails, tour Arizona’s wine country , and check out the famous Red Rock Scenic Byway .

ROAD TRIP TIP:   If you have time to spend the night, Sedona is well-known for its dark skies and fantastic stargazing opportunities.

From Sedona, travel a short 30 miles to Flagstaff , then onto nearby Williams, AZ , where you can fly over the Southwest desert on a zipline adventure, or continue your journey to the South Rim on the Grand Canyon Railway .

DISTANCE: 250 miles APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 4 hours 50 minutes

7. Route 66

Kickstart your Route 66 adventure in Grants, NM , about 80 miles west of Albuquerque. Spend some time checking out the trading posts in the area—they are responsible for 70% of authentic Native American artwork sold internationally.

From New Mexico, Route 66 follows I-40. Head 135 miles west to Petrified Forest National Park to spot fossils older than 200 million years, see the painted desert badlands, and check out some archeological sites, then continue 60 miles west to Winslow —a quintessential southwest town—and Homolovi State Park to tour ancient ruins and set up camp overnight.

Continue heading west to Flagstaff , but make sure to stop at the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark on your way. It’s not quite the Grand Canyon, but this massive crater is as deep as a 60 storey building and as wide as 20 football fields.

From Flagstaff, continue to Williams, AZ to check out the zipline adventure or hop aboard the Grand Canyon Railway and enjoy a leisurely trip through the desert—until your train coach gets held up by bandits, that is.

After you visit the Grand Canyon, finish your Route 66 road trip at Kingman, AZ . This iconic Route 66 stop is home to lots of restaurants, and it’s a great place to stock up on groceries and other road trip essentials before heading home or continuing west to Las Vegas.

DISTANCE: 640 miles APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME: 10 hours 45 minutes

BONUS: 8 more places to stop near the Grand Canyon

If you’re looking to add a little extra adventure to your Grand Canyon road trip or simply make the most of your visit to the Southwest, these eight spots are all within driving distance of the South Rim.

• Historic Cameron Trading Post at the junction of AZ64 and US89. Great spot for a bathroom break or breakfast—try the famous Navajo taco. Distance from South Rim: 43 miles.
• Moenkopi Dinosaur Tracks: Located just west of Tuba City, AZ, see footsteps from a three-toed dinosaur at one of the largest sites of its kind in the world. Distance from South Rim: 62 miles.
• Navajo Code Talkers’ Exhibit: Learn about the Navajo Code Talkers—a group of soldiers in WWII who used their native language to communicate coded messages. Distance from South Rim: 68 miles.
• Page, AZ: Located near the east rim of the Grand Canyon, Page is a great homebase if you’re hoping to visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, as well as Glen Canyon, Lake Powell, and Rainbow Bridge. If you’re looking for some hiking, the Page Rim View Trail is a 10 mile circuit around Manson Mesa, with views of Lake Powell and the annual springtime wildflower bloom. Distance from South Rim: 119 miles.
• Grand Staircase-Escalante National Park: This 2-million acre National Park offers tons of hiking, unpaved roads, and numerous canyons to explore. It’s not usually as crowded as nearby Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. Distance from South Rim: 146 miles.
• Monument Valley: Your best option for exploring Monument Valley is to jump on a guided tour. The only access is by 17 mile dirt road, and while private vehicles are allowed, the practice is discouraged—particularly for rental cars. Don’t miss Merrick Butte and the Mittens. Distance from South Rim: 160 miles.
• Valley of the Gods: Similar landscape to Monument Valley, but with less tourist traffic. Distance from South Rim: 196 miles.
• Peek-A-Boo And Spooky Slot Canyons: Traverse several sections of challenging rock scrambles. Be sure to check out Spooky Gulch—one of the narrowest slot canyons you’ll find, with some spots only 10 inches wide. Distance from South Rim: 345 miles.

Whether you’re planning an adventure with your friends or your next family vacation, a road trip to the Grand Canyon should be at the top of your list. The Grand Canyon is a great destination for road trippers travelling from:

• Other Utah National Parks (such as Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park)

The Ultimate Grand Canyon Road Trip Guide

Get more tips for your Grand Canyon road trip in our comprehensive guide:

Itineraries

• 7 Popular Grand Canyon Road Trip Routes
• Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park

Tips & Road Trip Hacks

• How To Plan a Road Trip

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Don't miss the 16th Annual Grand Canyon Celebration of Art! CoA provides a vibrant experience for visitors, a venue for artists inspired by the canyon, and a successful fundraiser to benefit a dedicated art venue at the park. The event takes place September 7-15 at the South Rim.

The 16th Annual Celebration of Art Online Auction is live now through September 9.

Bid on breathtaking original paintings, all framed and crafted by this year’s talented artists!

• Experience Grand Canyon

Rim to Rim Backpacking

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with a Grand Canyon Rim to Rim trip! Join our expert guides to learn about the incredible diversity of the canyon, from lush boreal forests on the North Rim to cactus-filled deserts at the bottom. It's a bucket list item that guarantees an unforgettable experience.

May, September, October

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trip Length: 7 Days
• Cost: $1,700 - $1,800
• Group size: 9

Trip Highlights:

• Explore Grand Canyon geology, natural history, and flora and fauna with expert guides
• Learn about the tribal communities that call the canyon home
• Discover the importance of water management and how changing climate affects this desert ecosystem
• Experience the awe of hiking and sleeping below the rim, with dark skies at night and unforgettable views along the trail each day
• Logistics and transportation between the North Rim and South Rim provided

What's included

Price for the class includes:

Expert and educated instructors 

Comprehensive gear list

Food and menu planning ideas

Receive a comprehensive 60-day workout schedule from GCCFI, with mobility, strength, and cardio exercises

Expedition First Aid kits

Group water filter

Satellite phone

Backcountry permits for backpacking into Grand Canyon

What's not included

You are responsible for:

All of your backpacking and hiking equipment

Transportation to and from the canyon

Hotel lodging in the park before or after your trip

Guide gratuity (industry recommendation 15-20% of trip cost,  read this article to receive more guidance )

Please note that itinerary details are subject to change. Specific trails and distances traveled may be adjusted due to weather, trail maintenance or closures, or other factors outside our control. We will communicate any adjustments to the itinerary details during orientation.

Meet your Grand Canyon experts

Melissa Giovanni

Melissa Giovanni has been exploring the southwest for over 20 years, considers herself a true desert lizard, and loves the heat! She first visited Grand Canyon during her undergraduate geology field camp at the University of Arizona, where she ultimately earned her B.S. in geology. Melissa then moved to UCLA for her Ph.D., also in geology. While her doctoral studies focused on the geological evolution of the Peruvian Andes, she discovered her passion for teaching and while still a graduate student, led her very first field trip to Grand Canyon. During a decade of teaching geology at two different universities, Melissa was able to develop her field teaching skills in locales all around Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. Currently a professor at the College of Southern Nevada, she teaches both environmental science and geology. She has been invited to speak at public seminars and for private groups all around the Grand Canyon region.

Since joining the Field Institute in 2016, Melissa's love for the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River, public lands, and conservation continues to grow exponentially. She comes out to hike the canyon as much as possible - her favorite spots are, well, everywhere she has been so far. When at home in Las Vegas, she can be found climbing and hiking in Red Rock Canyon, training as a competitive Masters swimmer, playing guitar, and serving as a Board member for the Southern Nevada Conservancy.

John Begay is a dedicated Diné instructor with three years of experience at the Field Institute. Holding education in Geology and Climate Science from Northern Arizona University, John has also been guiding at the Grand Canyon for six years. He is one of the few Indigenous locals who not only shares the rich history of the Grand Canyon but also provides an authentic perspective on Indigenous heritage. Through his thoughtfully curated hikes, John invites clients to experience the canyon through a unique lens, emphasizing both geological wonders and Native American history.

Melanie Miles

Melanie Miles, originally a native of England, was a teenager when she first visited the Grand Canyon and immediately fell in love with its landscape, geology, and natural & cultural history. From her home base of Prescott, AZ, she has more than 30 years of experience as a teacher and naturalist. Melanie leads groups throughout the world, teaching natural history, earth science, climbing, environmental education, and backcountry skills.

Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff

Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff was born in Arizona. Growing up in primeval desert, she became comfortable with things that crawl, sting, bite, and gnaw, which served her well when she started working with adolescents. While attending Northern Arizona University, she spent much of her free time exploring Grand Canyon. After graduation she led backpacking trips, taught cross-country skiing, drove a tour bus, and otherwise participated in outdoor education and recreation. Slim considers herself a lifelong learner, and employs her time researching Canyon history, anthropology, geology, and natural history. Her writing has appeared in the Grand Canyon anthology On Foot, and in High Country News Writers on the Range.

Additional notes

Recent comparable backpacking experience is a prerequisite for all rim-to-rim backpacking programs

Age Restrictions: Participants must be 17+ years older for this backpacking program 

Cancellation Policy

Please notify our office as soon as possible should you need to cancel your registration. If you cancel or leave a trip for any reason:

• 60+ days of program start date: full refund, minus a $100 administrative fee will be issued
• 59 - 45 days prior start date: 50% refund will be issued
• Less than 45 days to start date, or once trip has begun: we will retain your entire program fee with no exceptions.

Reserved spots are non-transferable to different programs. However, you may substitute members of your party, specific to the trip date with GCCFI approval, with no penalty, up to 30 days prior to departure date.

GCCFI reserves the right to cancel all, or a portion, of a trip for circumstance beyond our control. Circumstances might include, but are not limited to—public land closures, road closures, weather events, fires, or other natural events. Refunds are not offered in these situations. A full trip credit will be issued, minus any non-refundable expenses occurred by GCCFI if the program is cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control. GCCFI staff will work to change itinerary to another trail or move hiking locations to a safer area.

We reserve the right to cancel any trip if sign-up is inadequate to make the trip economically feasible for us to operate. In this event, we will give a full refund of the trip price.

GCCFI is not responsible for: air tickets, visa fees if applicable, gear, medical expenses, clothing, and any expenses occurred while preparing for this trip.

We HIGHLY encourage the purchase of trip insurance to help offset any costs incurred if cancellation occurs

Testimonials

The Zelkovic Family

“Our day with the Field Institute exceeded all our expectations and we came away with a great respect for the canyon and for the work of the Conservancy. It was such a wonderful experience from beginning to end and hope we can return in the not so distant future to participate in one of your multi-day programs.”

The Jankowskis

“Our family’s experience was nothing short of amazing! Slim (our guide) provided a perspective we would have never been able to get on our own and we learned so much. Her passion for the canyon and what she does came through too, which made our time something we’ll never forget!”

“The guides were awesome – so educational and patient!!! Encouraging & helpful in every way. Such an amazing first visit to the canyon – Life changing to have experienced the GC up close & personal… Thank you so much!”

Joe Sweeney

“I've brought many school groups to the Field Institute and the quality of instruction provides them with an understanding of Indigenous cultures, diverse ecology, and geologic history. Students leave with a stronger sense of self-confidence, an intimate connection to nature, and memories that will last a lifetime.”

“Top to bottom, the Field Institute exceeded all of my expectations .... they ensured we packed wisely for our trip and saved me from lugging around 5 lbs. of junk I didn't need. Overall, it's packed with value that I don't think commercial outfitters would provide and delivered a deeply rich experience.”

The #1 Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree National Park Itinerary

W hen it comes to exploring the best natural beauty on the Southwest Coast, there is plenty to uncover from The Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree National Park.

The iconic Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a mere 361.2 miles from Joshua Tree National Park, which is famous for its rock formations and unique Joshua tree population.

It takes about 5.5 hours to drive between the two parks, crossing state borders between Arizona and California , so it makes sense you’re going to want to stop along the way and make a national park road trip of it.

We’d recommend you plan at least 10-14 days to do a road trip from The Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree, to really make the most of the sites in this region.

In this guide, we share our highlights of these two iconic national parks, and share some ideas for what to see on the way from the Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree.

1. Stop 1: Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

Stop 2: horseshoe bend, stop 3: williams, stop 4: flagstaff, stop 5: sedona, stop 6: seligman, stop 7: kingman, stop 8: mojave national preserve, stop 9: lake havasu city, stop 10: joshua tree national park, how to extend this grand canyon to joshua tree road trip, tips for road tripping in an rv, yavapai lodge, pirate cove resort, twentynine palms rv resort, the grand canyon to joshua tree national park itinerary.

As mentioned, the distance between The Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree is quite a long one, so we recommend breaking it up and seeing some other popular sites in the region on the way.

Above is a map of where we visited on our Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree road trip.

We stopped in Flagstaff, Sedona, Kingman, Pirate Cove, and finally Joshua Tree.

There were other places we could have stopped, which I’ll mention in more detail below.

Before we dive into the stops between The Grand Canon and Joshua Tree, let’s quickly talk about why you shouldn’t rush off from the Big GC.

Most people visit The Grand Canyon for the West Area, where you will find the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk.

However, there are some other sites in the national park that are worth exploring.

For example, in The Grand Canyon South Rim , there is a lovely trail called the Bright Angel Trail, which is what we did before setting off on our road trip.

It was lovely to visit the Grand Canyon in the winter – everything was slower and the later sunrise and early sunset times meant we could be more easeful. 

Hiking did prove to be difficult as all trails going down into the canyon were covered in ice and snow.

We managed a little hour adventure down the Bright Angel Trail moving at a slow pace up against the canyon wall to ensure we were safe and protected.

It was great fun and once again the girls enthusiasm to take on the challenge along with their responsibility with it amazed me.

There’s something about the quiet repetitiveness of walking. It has an uncanny ability to harden yet soften you at the same time.

It hardens your physical body, your stamina and your resolve, yet it opens up a space for you to live more gently.

To contemplate and marvel.

It’s about simplifying, removing all distractions and disconnecting from things that matter.

All that matters is the scrunching of the gravel underneath your feet, the quiet rustle of the breeze, the awe inspiring natural surroundings and the funny conversations you can have with your children.

There’s no need to put off time with them for other demands. You can listen, learn more about them and of course answer all their curious questions as best you can.

As Savannah said to me, “”I love hearing the sound of walking over the trail.”

I love how she recognizes the tranquility and value of that already.

The South Rim Trail was another easy one to walk and enjoy the gorgeous canyon views.

We took advantage of the two scenic drives along the South Rim for stunning views and sunsets.

Do not miss the Desert View Drive and the Desert View Watchtower.

The views there were my favorite with the pink and reddish rocks and the bright green Colorado River snaking through the canyon.

We even had a rainbow appear!

We loved all the Elk lazing about in the snow covered forest on our last day when the snow was really coming down and we had to head out.

The deer sure didn’t care and weren’t going anywhere.

Read our guide to the North Rim, Grand Canyon , Things to do in the Grand Canyon with kids (and without too!) and how to enjoy the Grand Canyon in the winter.

Horseshoe Bend is a bit of a detour from route to take from The Grand Canyon to Joshua Tree, but it’s only about an hour’s drive North and well worth it.

Located close to the border with Utah, Horseshoe Bend is a natural wonder that defies simple description.

This iconic scene was created by a horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River, which carved into the sandstone and made picturesque scene.

There is a hike to Horseshoe Bend, which we don’t recommend in the winter, as there is an edge of the 1,000-foot cliff! We share more tips in our complete guide to visiting Horseshoe Bend, Arizona .

Located just 54 miles South of The Grand Canyon is the small town of Williams, which is a great stop for lunch or a coffee. It takes about an hour to drive there from The Grand Canyon.

You may have already stopped in Williams to take the Grand Canyon Railway to the park, but if not, be sure to stop off here on the way back.

It’s famous for its quirky Route 66 attractions, from classic Americana-style boutique stores and diners, to Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum.

From Williams, travel 33 miles to Flagstaff in Arizona (35 minutes of driving) where you can spend a couple of days exploring all the sites.

Flagstaff is a city surrounded by nature. It’s where you will find San Francisco Peaks and the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort.

It’s also a great place to go stargazing as it’s a certified dark-skies city. Who knows, you may even spot a UFO!

No trip to Arizona is complete without visiting Sedona in Arizona. It’s famous for its vortex sites, which are healing energy pockets

From Flagstaff, Sedona is a 45 minute drive (29 miles) and can easily be seen in a day or two.

Aside from the vortex sites, Sedona is also full of red sandstone formations and winding rivers. It’s a desert paradise with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

Sedona is one of my favorite places in the USA. We spent five days there and enjoyed hiking to spectacular viewpoints and soaking in those red rock views.

Read our travel tips for Sedona: Don’t miss the thrilling Broken Arrow pink jeep tour and Verde Canyon Railroad experience. Here are the best things to do in Sedona with kids , and a guide to the Sedona vortex hikes

You’ll want to turn back on yourself a bit to head to Seligman, a 109 mile journey from Sedona (about 2 hours driving).

This is a unique place in that it’s a census-designated place (in other words, it’s a ghost town), on the northern border of Yavapai County.

What makes Seligman unique is the quirky gift shops, which are bursting with bric-a-brac items and Route 66 memorabilia.

From Seligman, head towards Kingman, which is about 72 miles from Seligman and takes just over 1 hour to drive.

Kingman is another tiny town on Route 66 and is where you will find the Route 66 Museum, set inside the Powerhouse Visitors Center.

Check out the Locomotive Park and the Kingman Railroad Museum to learn about the town’s railroad history.

Take a detour up to Hackberry General Store, a museum along the famous Route 66 featuring rustic, nostalgic items from the 1970s.

The Mojave National Preserve is about 1.5 hours drive from Kingman (83 miles) and is well worth a stop.

The Mojave National Preserve is a sprawling preserve that is made up of the towering sand dunes of the Kelso Dunes and ancient rock formations in the Clark Mountains – the geological diversity of the region is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Beyond its natural wonders, the Mojave Desert boasts a vibrant history, with evidence of ancient human presence evident in petroglyphs left behind by indigenous tribes.

We stayed at Pirate Cove Resort while we explored Lake Havasu City and Mojave National Preserve.

Drive South to Lake Havasu City, a 72 mile journey that takes about 1.5 hour to drive from Mojave National Preserve.

The city is renowned for the iconic London Bridge, which was transported and painstakingly reconstructed here, creating a unique juxtaposition of Old World charm against the rugged desert backdrop.

Beyond this architectural marvel, Lake Havasu City has tons of outdoor activities to occupy yourself with, from leisurely beachcombing to adrenaline-pumping water sports.

The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, and there is always a bar with live music, plenty of art galleries with regular events, bustling local markets, and more, making it a worthwhile destination to spend a few days.

After a two night break at Pirate Cove Resort on the border of Arizona and California we headed to Joshua Tree National Park, a 2 hour drive from Lake Havasu City (149 miles).

Just like we fell in love with the Saguaro Cactus in Tucson , we fell in love with the Joshua trees here.

What gorgeous trees that can be seen throughout the National Park amongst the outcropping of rocks. The scenery is unique and spectacular.

We enjoyed a few short hikes: the Hidden Valley Trail, where cattle rustlers used to hide their stolen cattle, and the Barton Damn.

The sunset from Key Views was out of this world. I am so glad we decided at last minute to turn back form the really long Pinto Basin Drive to go here instead.

Following your gut takes you to your heart’s happiness.

Here is our guide to visiting Joshua Tree National Park with kids .

If you have more time at your disposal and want to explore more national parks and nature sites, then you could extend your trip by the following ways:

• Before you visit The Grand Canyon, add a stop at Bryce Canyon National Park and Antelope Canyon . Located North of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon is famous for its pink and red rocky cliffs and towering spires. It’s one of our favorite national parks in the USA.
• Also North of the Grand Canyon is Zion National Park , which is famous for it’s red mountain peaks, adventurous hikes, and hiking the Narrows (river through the narrow canyon)
• Head towards San Diego and stop off at Coachella Valley on the way.
• When you reach Kingman, you could make a detour up to Las Vegas to see The Valley of Fire , Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , and of course, Death Valley National Park , the hottest place on earth! It’s a great spot to spend a day or two. We’d definitely recommend Death Valley and this area for a family spring vacation .
• If you can help it, don’t leave your slides out to your RV during a snowstorm. As we were accessing Goldie while we were staying in the Yavapai Lodge, we had put our slides out and kept them out. What a hassle sweeping off all the snow that had gathered on top of them when it was time to leave. We couldn’t close them until it was all off.
• Don’t stay in an RV park in extreme weather. It’s just not worth the risk of a potential pipe burst in the travel trailer. Once we saw the temperatures were going to dip into the teens and as low as 5F, we knew it was time to leave the Grand Canyon. We know Goldie can handle a low of 23 but we didn’t want to risk going lower and her breaking. We’d then be screwed without a home and a ruined America Unplugged RV trip . So we bailed out of there three days earlier.
• I don’t like leaving the van to stay in a hotel, but if I do, get one with free parking.
• California fuel is expensive!! As soon as we crossed the border from Arizona to California the fuel went from $2.40 to $4.40. We put the car in reverse to fill her up in Arizona! That’s an insane price difference. The crowds have also returned. There are more people in California than my entire country of Australia, so you bet we’re noticing it.
• Get your own food from grocery stores and pack a picnic. There are usually picnic areas with picnic tables in most of these stops – it’s a great way to save money.
• If you have kids, be sure to take them on the Range Programs. The girls embraced the Junior Ranger programs in the Grand Canyon and the Joshua Tree National Park . I love how this program engages kids to the experience they have with nature. Through it they learn all about the flora and fauna, but more importantly how to value national parks and why they should.

Where To Stay Between The Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree

Below are where we stayed when we visited The Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree.

We jumped out of Goldie for three nights to experience Yavapai Lodge . We wanted to see if it was a good option for you when you visit the Grand Canyon! Guess what? It is.

Even though I missed Goldie, I did like our stay at Yavapai Lodge. It’s a basic hotel room but the rooms were clean and comfortable – you won’t be in them much – and the service was excellent.

We really enjoyed the Yavapai Tavern in the main lobby area and ate there a couple of  nights and watched the Super Bowl. You can sit by the fire and use their lobby Wi-Fi.

They don’t have it in the rooms because Grand Canyon – go out and explore it.

It’s also centrally located between the Village and the Visitor Center. You could walk (or bike) to either (maybe a mile each way), but there is a shuttle stop here.

It’s also right next to the biggest general store in the park.

Pirates Cove Resort is in the middle of the desert on the Colorado River. It’s spectacular scenery and perfect for those who love off-roading, atv adventures, camping and boating.

Pirates Cove is set up for summer fun with its outdoor adventures and river beach. Sadly, it was too cold for us to really enjoy it and it was very quiet.

Although we left on the day an event was starting for the weekend that was going to attract 1,200 people!!

This RV resort is massive. Our camp site was isolated and two miles away from the main area where the restaurants are. It was so pretty and peaceful.

I loved watching the sunrise over the river early each morning. It was fantastic to stay by the Colorado River after seeing the masterpiece it carved up in the Grand Canyon.

The Colorado River is the border between Arizona and Colorado. It’s also the time zone change from Mountain to Pacific. I loved rising early and having an early sunrise and sunset.

Twentynine Palms is a nice RV resort with cottages just outside the Joshua Tree National Park.

There are loads of amenities including a really warm indoor pool, sauna and fitness center.

Final Thoughts

As we were watching the spectacular sunset in Joshua Tree National Park, I watched my girls soak it up and play at the same time.

I”m so thankful they have the opportunity to be with nature in this way. They won’t realize yet the calming influence it has on their life.

I hope they forever understand how nature can bring them so much joy and peace and how easy it is to access it within the often utter confusion of life.

I’m grateful I get to spend this time with them and show them the sites between The Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree.

Nature is helping to turn them into fierce warriors wrapped in a gentle softness.

You may like these posts to help you plan your trip in these USA regions:

• 2 Week Itinerary in the Southwest USA
• 4 Week Itinerary in the Southwest USA
• 14 Epic Adventures in the American Southwest Not To Miss On Your USA Travels
• 10 Day Itinerary for Southern California
• 30 INCREDIBLE Places to Visit in California
• 10 Road Trip Ideas from Los Angeles
• Best road trips in the USA.